If you’re looking for a great waterproof jacket, you can’t go wrong with the Rab Kinetic Alpine Jacket. We’ll compare this jacket to the Rab Kinetic Alpine 2.0, Arc’teryx Beta LT Jacket, and the Arc’teryx Ultra Waterproof Jacket. Ultimately, we’ll recommend one over the other. Read on for our full review of each. And, remember: there are pros and cons to all three of these jackets.
Rab Kinetic Alpine Jacket
The lightweight design of the Rab Kinetic Alpine Jacket is a major plus. At just 180 grams in size L, this jacket can be packed in the back pocket of your backpack. It also weighs less than an apple, which is a significant benefit for those looking to hike long distances. While a few bells and zips are nice, they are not necessary for a jacket of this size. Instead, the jacket is designed for ease of use.
The Rab Kinetic 2.0 jacket has the same Proflex fabric used in the Kinetic Alpine. However, the men’s version lacks the chest pocket, reinforcing, and under-the-helmet hood. It is also 1.6 inches shorter in the center back than the women’s model. Still, it is $50 less expensive than the Kinetic Alpine, and it comes without a hood or chest pocket.
Despite its modest price tag, the Rab Kinetic Alpine jacket is extremely durable. Its stretchy and breathable Proflex fabric is highly resistant to tears and abrasions. While the Rab Kinetic 2.0 is less durable than some other jackets, it still offers superior protection against wind and rain. Despite its lightweight and affordable price tag, you won’t find a jacket better made than this. If you are considering purchasing a Rab Kinetic Alpine jacket, you’ll want to consider our expert reviewer’s recommendations.
The Rab Kinetic Alpine 2.0 jacket is lightweight, weighing just 370 grams. It is also a lot more breathable than many competitors. Its high-quality fabrics will not show any signs of wear, even after heavy use. However, the lack of pit zips isn’t a dealbreaker. Rab uses 3L recycled polyester knit face fabric and woven stretch polyamide for the jacket, making it an excellent choice for those seeking lightweight protection.
Rab Kinetic Alpine 2.0
The Rab Kinetic Alpine jacket might be a perfect choice if you are a lover of soft and hard shells. Designed with the comfort of soft shells in mind, this jacket is perfect for use in changeable weather. It’s made of Rab’s Proflex fabric. This lightweight jacket is fully waterproof and breathable and will keep you warm and dry even when the temperature drops. If you’re looking for a jacket that can withstand all types of weather, the Kinetic 2.0 may be the best choice.
Unlike its predecessor, the Rab Kinetic Alpine 2.0 features Proflex fabric, a stretchy waterproof fabric. It also feels like a softshell, but it breathes better and wicks away sweat when working hard. It also features a storm flap with a hood to increase wind protection. Rab’s waterproofing is good, but you shouldn’t expect the same performance from this jacket.
The Rab Kinetic features a lightweight, streamlined jacket with a helmet-compatible hood with a stiffened peak. It has a YKK aquaguard center front zip and a concealed zipped security pocket. The set also has adjustable cuffs and a waistband with velcro closures. This makes the jacket extremely easy to put on and take off, and its versatile design is a great choice for shoulder-season hiking, skiing, or even just around town.
While the hood of the Kinetic 2.0 is a little smaller than the Plus version, it’s still more versatile than its predecessor and can be easily packed away in a backpack. It’s not particularly special, though, and lacks a reversible pocket and integrated stuff sack. That said, it’s tough enough to handle a variety of outdoor activities. However, the hood and zipped inside pocket are two main reasons it’s worth the extra money.
Rab Kinetic Ultra Waterproof Jacket
The Rab Kinetic Ultra Waterproof Alpine Jacket is a lightweight multi-day expedition jacket crafted from a water-resistant shell. It is designed for climbers, mountaineers, and hikers. This jacket is available in short and tall sizes, with the tall version offering a longer inseam. It is rated for cold and wet weather, which is great news for anyone going on a long trip.
The waterproofing in the Kinetic Alpine Jacket is decent, but it’s not waterproof enough to use during extended hikes in heavy downpours. It would also wet out faster than comparable options. That said, it’s a great jacket for active pursuits. The athletic fit and cozy feel make it an ideal jacket for active pursuits. You can even add a hood to keep warm if you prefer.
The stretch-resistant Proflex fabric used in the Rab Kinetic Alpine 2.0 Jacket offers excellent freedom of movement. It’s more stretchy than other softshell jackets and is waterproof. It is also perfect for cold-weather activities like ice climbing, snowshoeing, and ski touring. It also features a breathable membrane and has a slim, athletic fit. One major drawback is that it tends to get wet faster than conventional hardshell options. The Rab Kinetic Alpine 2.0 Waterproof Jacket is unsuitable for low-output activities like swimming or surfing.
The Kinetic Alpine’s hood is helmet compatible and has a laminated peak. The front zipper is backed by a storm flap and is YKK Aquaguard. Twin side pockets feature a zipped inside pocket. It is waterproof and breathable. It also has a full-length zipper and is compatible with helmets. The jacket weighs around PS20 more than the Plus model, so it is worth the extra money.
Arc’teryx Beta LT Jacket
The GORE-TEX outer shell provides the protection you need for mountain weather. Its versatility is a benefit, and it works for many activities. The Beta Series has a wide range of apparel to suit a variety of outdoor pursuits. This jacket is one of the best examples of this. This all-around mountain apparel can handle the elements, so it’s the perfect choice for your next outdoor adventure.
The beta lt is a two-layer waterproof jacket made of lightweight polyester fabric with a Gore-Tex Pro lining. The jacket was originally made with heavier fabric, which was less durable and didn’t perform as well in wet weather, but the lighter version is more lightweight and packs smaller. The difference in price between the two jackets makes it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who don’t need the waterproof properties of a full-length shell.
This jacket is well-designed and offers great breathability and durability. It is also lightweight, which means you’ll be able to wear it as a standalone or layer it with another jacket. However, you’ll pay a premium for its versatility. However, its versatility will keep you warm and dry when the weather turns ugly. You’ll be glad you did – and we are so grateful we decided to buy this jacket!
The Beta LT is lightweight but also surprisingly warm. It is made from a 40D Gore-Tex Pro, making it one of the most versatile and durable jackets on the market. It also lacks pit zips for ventilation, but it has more than enough features to make it a great choice for many outdoor activities. In general, the Beta LT is a good value for the price.
Arc’teryx Helium AscentShell Jacket
The Arc’teryx Helium AscendShell Jacket is a lightweight mountaineering jacket with a few noteworthy features. It is made with a lightweight Helium fabric and combines this with the breathable AscentShell (TM) system for breathability and durability. Other notable features include low-bulk fabric, a snug fit, and an ergonomic, breathable design. For speedy alpine adventure, this jacket is ideal.
The North Face is known for building robust, functional outerwear, and the Helium AscentShell Jacket is no exception. It’s Summit L5 combines a Spectra-infused shell with a Futurelight membrane. The jacket features a 2-way front zipper, internal mesh dump pockets, and seam-free shoulder patches. Its high-end technology makes it one of the best choices for alpine climbers.
The lightweight design of this jacket is one of its most impressive features. It has a slim fit and is made from N40r GORE-TEX(r) fabric, the most breathable fabric on the market. However, this thin-and-light jacket sacrifices durability and water tightness for ease of use. A more durable jacket is the North Face Venture 2, which is a little bit heavier and a bit less breathable.
The Helium AscentShell Jacket is one of the few rain-protective jackets on the market. It has a 3-layer Gore-Tex Pro fabric and is breathable. This material also allows warmth to escape while keeping you dry. It is also lightweight, at 120 grams, and features a waterproof hood. This rain jacket is also available in three different colors. While the Helium AscendShell Jacket is black and khaki, many other colors will complement your hiking style.
