Rab New Pertex Shield Waterproof Range
Aug 06, 2026
Rab Pertex Shield Waterproof Range
Rab's range of waterproof jackets are designed to deflect heavy rain and breathe on the ascent, keeping you dry and comfortable on the summit. For over four decades they've been developing innovative waterproof technologies and fine-tuning shell jackets to ensure they’re packable, breathable, and able to withstand the toughest mountain environments. Tested against relentless drizzle and howling storms, so you can depend on them for protection at the critical moment. To learn more about Pertex Shield fabric, see our page Pertex Shield Technology Explained.
Phantom Range
2.5 Layer Pertex Shield
he Phantom Mountain 2.5L Jacket feels like a more practical evolution of Rab’s ultralight waterproofs. At 227g (men's medium), it remains highly packable, but the move to a 30D Pertex Shield Diamond Fuse fabric gives it a more reassuring feel than many stripped-back emergency shells. It still packs down small enough to disappear into a rucksack, yet feels better suited to regular mountain use under pack straps.
The regular fit layers comfortably over a light fleece or midlayer without becoming restrictive, and the articulated sleeves move well when using poles or scrambling. I also like that Rab has included proper hand pockets and a more structured hood rather than chasing the absolute lowest possible weight.
Breathability is respectable for a lightweight 2.5-layer shell, though sustained steep efforts in humid conditions will still lead to some moisture build-up. For fast hiking, backpacking, and mountain days where low weight matters but reliable weather protection remains essential, this strikes a well-judged balance.
Fabric: 30D Pertex® Shield 2.5-Layer construction with Diamond Fuse and fluorocarbon free DWR (73gsm).
Hydrostatic Head: 20,000mm
MVTR: 20,000 g/m2/24hrs
Weight: 227g (Men's Medium)
Downpour Mountain 2.5L Jackets
2.5 Layer Pertex Shield
The Rab Downpour Mountain 2.5l Jacket keeps things simple but functional, with enough technical details to make it versatile across mountain days. It feels light at 375g (men's medium) but substantial enough for serious use. The Pertex Shield fabric breathes better than I expected and sheds sustained rain well. Articulated sleeves and a generous cut in the shoulders allow for whole movement without pulling when reaching or scrambling.
The hood is easy to adjust with gloves, and the peak holds its shape in the wind. I was glad to see pit vents included this time—something I’ve missed on previous Downpour models. The pockets sit high enough to clear a hipbelt, a detail that makes a difference when carrying a rucksack, ideal for multi-day trips.
Main Fabric: 40D Pertex® Shield 2.5 Layer construction waterproof technology with fluorocarbon-free DWR (97gsm)
Hydrostatic Head: 20,000mm
MVTR: 20,000 g/m2/24hrs
Weight: 375g (Men's Medium)
Firewall 3L Range
3 Layer Pertex Shield
The updated Rab Firewall 3L Jacket feels like it’s been built for serious days out. At 478g for a Medium, it’s not chasing ultralight status. The 40D Pertex Shield fabric is robust and fully waterproof, with breathability that keeps pace on steep climbs or under a heavy pack. The finish is soft enough to wear comfortably for hours, and the new tweaks to fit and articulation are subtle but appreciated.
The hood is one of the better ones I’ve used lately: plenty of adjustment, a solid peak that doesn’t flap, and it moves with your head. Pit zips offer proper airflow when things heat up, and the pockets are well-placed and generously sized. I’d reapply the DWR occasionally, but that’s expected for any shell seeing regular use.
Main Fabric: 40D Pertex® Shield 3 Layer construction waterproof technology with fluorocarbon-free DWR (148gsm)
Hydrostatic Head: 20,000mm/MVTR
Breathability: 20,000 g/m2/24hr
Weight: 478g (Men's Medium Jacket)
Firewall Mountain 3L Range
3 Layer Pertex Shield
A dependable mountain shell that’s built to take a battering, made for wet, cold, and high places where you need your kit to work hard.
The updated Rab Firewall Mountain 3L Jacket is a solid performer in prolonged foul weather. At 521g for a men's medium, it’s on the heavier side for a waterproof shell, but it earns its keep with durable construction and a well-thought-out feature set. The Pertex Shield 3-layer fabric offers trustworthy waterproofing and doesn’t feel plasticky against the skin, even during long stints on the move.
The helmet-compatible hood adjusts easily, and the peak holds its shape well in the wind. The pit zips are generous, helping dump heat fast without unzipping the front. I found the articulated sleeves and overall cut comfortable, with room for layers underneath without feeling oversized.
Main Fabric: 40D Pertex® Shield 3 Layer construction waterproof technology with fluorocarbon-free DWR (133gsm)
Hydrostatic Head: 20,000mm/MVTR
Breathability: 20,000 g/m2/24hrs
Weight: 521g (Men's Medium Jacket)
When you need the lightness and packability of our Downpour range with a mountain-ready feature set, this protective waterproof jacket strikes the perfect balance. Designed with hardwearing, 2.5-layer Pertex® Shield, it gives you the confidence to tackle treks, scrambles, and steep terrain, knowing you’re equipped for any challenge. With pack-compatible pockets and a generous, adjustable hood, it's a staple for all-mountain adventure.