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A highly technical mid-layer that balances wind resistance, breathability and mobility for climbing and cold-weather mountain use.
Rab says:
The ultimate fleece hoody for winter climbers, with body-mapped fabrics that offer warmth, wind resistance and wicking where you need it. With a highly breathable PrimaLoft® Evolve lining and added protection from Pertex® Quantum Air overlays.
Our Verdict
The Rab Ascendor Summit Hoody combines wind-resistant Pertex Quantum Air panels across the core, shoulders and upper arms with softer, gridded Thermic fleece elsewhere to regulate heat and manage moisture effectively. At 333g (Medium), it sits in the middle of the warmth-to-weight range for active insulation, offering reliable protection without bulk. The slim fit feels athletic but not restrictive, and the stretch panels ensure freedom of movement when reaching or scrambling. The hood works neatly under a helmet, and thumb loops help seal out draughts.
During high-output climbs, the long front zip provides useful ventilation, while the body-mapped fabrics help prevent overheating. Wind protection across exposed areas is excellent for a fleece, making it well-suited to alpine layering systems. The build quality is superb, with flatlocked seams and durable overlays that feel ready for regular mountain use. For cold, high-intensity mountain days, this is one of the most capable and well-tailored fleece mid-layers currently available.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Features
- Body mapped fabric positioning to better regulate body temperature optimal positioned for wind resistance
- 20D Pertex® Quantum Air lined with soft brushed fleece backer over upper torso, shoulders and upper arms
- Soft gridded fleece under helmet hood with Pertex® Quantum Air overlays on side of ears and chin
- YKK® VISLON® centre front zip
- 1 YKK® zipped chest pocket
- Elasticated binding at the cuffs and hem for fit and comfort
- Lightweight integrated thumb loops
- Flatlocked seams throughout for improved comfort
- Dropped hem improves warmth on lower back
Specifications
- Small weighs: 325g
- Medium weighs: 333g
- Large weighs: 353g
- XLarge weighs: 373g
- Fit: Slim
- Centre back length (Size M): 70.5cm /27.7 inch
Material & Construction
- Thermic™ G Soft Fleece Fabric with Gridded Backer (235gsm)
- 20D Pertex® Quantum Air with fluorocarbon-free DWR (50gsm [2cfm])
- PrimaLoft® Evolve Active Insulation (75gsm)
- Main Body: 96% Polyester (Recycled fibres) 4% Elastane, Panels 100% Polyamide with Polyurethane coating Lining
- 58% Polyester (Recycled fibres) 42% Polyester
