Rab Zenith waterproof jacket review

The mountain heritage of the Rab brand shines through in this waterproof jacket that will see you right for all active outdoor use.

The carefully thought-through features of this jacket will work across a range of outdoor uses.

The long, easy-access front pockets are designed to function with a climbing harness, but also work with a bike pack.

They also do double duty as vents, if you need them for cooling down.

Long pit zips can be opened right up on warm days and fully sealed in exposed conditions.

The hood is very versatile, designed to go over a climbing helmet, with a wired peak and offering a wide range of adjustment.

When not in use, it packs down efficiently enough not to be noticed.

Longer than a dedicated riding jacket, the drawcords can be pulled in for a sealed fit.

The Gore-Tex Paclite Plus material is a 2.5-layer construction with a smooth, durable handle that's comfortable enough to wear against the skin and light in weight.

Rab Zenith waterproof jacket performance

It can be hard to get the fit of cross-functional jackets right, as what works for walking and climbing can result in a style that's too long and bulky for cycling.

Rab, however, has managed it. Anyone looking for one jacket that does everything won’t find too many compromises here.

The cut is long enough to be fully protective when walking, yet it's neat enough that there isn’t too much length through the front to be restrictive when on the bike.

The freedom of movement through the shoulders that has been allowed for climbing without pulling the body of the jacket around translates into the same on the bike.

If I was being picky, I’d point out that the sleeves pull up slightly at full extension on the bars, but not enough to be uncomfortable.

I chose to wear the hood under a helmet and the range of adjustment, including the wired peak, made it very easy to get the right fit without restricting movement or peripheral vision.

I set the collar less high for riding and pulled everything in to hide behind it on wet and windy days, appreciating the range of adjustment.

I've been riding in this jacket across a wide range of wet conditions, from the perma-mist on a Scottish mountain to milder (12-14℃) temperatures but driving sideways rain.

It has never disappointed in terms of comfort.

The breathability of the material is probably the best I’ve used. Even though the jacket can be further ventilated with pit zips and through the front pockets, I've never had to use them.

It beads well, doesn’t wet out and after a brisk shake to get excess water off, dries fast too.

The Zenith is a higher-budget item, but for a fully-featured Gore-Tex jacket that's versatile enough to wear across a wide range of active use, it pays off in terms of practical versatility.

Rab Zenith waterproof jacket bottom line

In summary, an excellent all-rounder that really does do it all, and it's worth noting that Rab offers a wash and DWR reproof service to maintain the waterproof and breathable performance.