Rab Vs Mountain Hardwear (The Definitive Guide)

By Unlock Wilderness

19th June 2023

Are you on a never-ending search for the perfect down jacket to keep you warm during the harsh winter months? Look no further as we pit two industry heavyweights against each other in this epic showdown. In one corner, we have Rab - known for their high-quality materials and expertise in insulation technology. And in the other corner, we have Mountain Hardwear - boasting innovative design and cutting-edge features.

So, who will reign supreme in the ultimate battle of Rab vs Mountain Hardwear? Read on as we break down the key similarities and differences between these two down jacket giants.

Comparison

Brand Overview

Design & Features

Comfort & Fit

Value & Durability

Men's Heavyweight Down Jackets

Men's Lightweight Down Jackets

Women's Down Parkas

Women's Lightweight Down Jackets

Insulated Pants

Final Verdict

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Rab Vs Mountain Hardwear

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Brand Overview

When it comes to outdoor gear, two brands that have been capturing people's attention are Rab and Mountain Hardwear. Let's dive into a brief history of each brand and what they bring to the table in terms of down jackets.

Rab, a UK-based company, was founded back in the 1980s by Rab Carrington, who was a mountaineer himself. The brand became renowned for its high-quality down products that were both practical and fashionable. Because of its high-quality products, Rab gained a reputation as one of the most trustworthy outdoor gear brands worldwide. Rab now offers a wide range of outdoor clothing and equipment suitable for different activities, including mountaineering, hiking, and camping.

Mountain Hardwear, on the other hand, was established in California in 1993 by a group of outdoor enthusiasts. It started with the aim of developing sturdy, high-performance outdoor equipment. Mountain Hardwear quickly gained recognition from outdoor enthusiasts for their innovative products, and they became a popular choice for mountaineers and hikers. Mountain Hardwear's product lineup consists of a variety of outdoor clothing and equipment, including down jackets, tents, sleeping bags, and backpacks.

Now let's talk about down jackets. Both Rab and Mountain Hardwear offer high-quality down jackets, which are perfect for outdoor activities in cold weather. Rab's down jackets are known for their excellent fill power and durability. They use ethically sourced down, and their jackets come in a range of colors and designs. Mountain Hardwear jackets are also known for their performance and durability. They use their patented Ghost Whisperer fabric, which is incredibly lightweight and robust. Their jackets also come in a wide variety of designs and colors.

In conclusion, Rab and Mountain Hardwear are both renowned for their exceptional products, and their down jackets are no exception. While Rab is known for its innovative and stylish designs, Mountain Hardwear is recognized for its performance and durability. Ultimately, the choice between the two will be down to personal preference, but both brands offer high-quality jackets that will serve you well during your outdoor adventures.

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Design and Features

Now that we've explored the differences in brand history and pricing between Rab and Mountain Hardwear, let's dive into the design and features of their respective down jackets.

Firstly, insulation type and weight are important considerations when choosing a down jacket. Rab uses hydrophobic down in many of their jackets, which is treated to repel water and retain its loft in wet conditions. Mountain Hardwear also offers hydrophobic down in some of their jackets, but they also have jackets with synthetic insulation for those who want a down-like feel but want to avoid animal products.

In terms of weight, Rab often prioritizes warmth over packability. This means that their jackets may be slightly heavier than comparable options from Mountain Hardwear. However, this also means that Rab jackets are often warmer, making them a great option for those who live in colder climates or enjoy activities like ice climbing.

When it comes to water-resistant coatings, both brands offer some level of protection against moisture. Mountain Hardwear uses technology such as Dry.Q Elite, which is a breathable waterproof membrane that is designed to keep the wearer dry even in wet conditions. Rab also uses waterproof coatings on some of their jackets, such as Pertex Shield, which is a breathable and waterproof fabric that is often used in outdoor gear.

Finally, hood and pocket design are key elements of a down jacket's functionality. Mountain Hardwear offers jackets with a variety of hood options, from helmet-compatible hoods for climbers to simple, adjustable hoods for everyday wear. Rab also offers a range of hood designs depending on the specific jacket, from fixed hoods to detachable and adjustable options.

When it comes to pockets, both brands offer jackets with multiple options for storage, including interior and exterior pockets. However, Rab often prioritizes warmth over pocket design, meaning that some of their jackets may not have as many pockets as comparable options from Mountain Hardwear.

Overall, both Rab and Mountain Hardwear offer high-quality down jackets with a range of design and feature options. It is important to consider your individual needs and priorities when choosing between these two brands.

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Comfort and Fit

When it comes to choosing a down jacket, comfort and fit are absolutely key. After all, you want a jacket that not only keeps you warm and dry, but also feels good to wear, right?

Now, when it comes to Rab and Mountain Hardwear, both brands have a lot to offer in terms of both fit and comfort. However, there are some subtle differences worth noting.

Let's start with the fit. Both Rab and Mountain Hardwear offer a range of different jackets, from slim-fitting styles for climbers to looser, more relaxed options for everyday wear. In general, though, we've found that Rab jackets tend to run a little slimmer than Mountain Hardwear jackets do. So if you're someone who likes a more fitted silhouette, Rab might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a looser fit, Mountain Hardwear might be a better option.

Of course, fit is about more than just whether a jacket is tight or loose. It's also about how the jacket feels on your body and how well it moves with you. In this regard, both brands have a lot to offer. Rab jackets are known for their ergonomic designs, which are built to move with your body as you climb or hike. Mountain Hardwear jackets, on the other hand, are often praised for their overall comfort, with soft materials that feel great against the skin.

When it comes to warmth, both brands are top-notch. Rab jackets are known for their high-quality down insulation, which is both lightweight and incredibly warm. Mountain Hardwear jackets, meanwhile, often feature a range of cutting-edge technologies that help to retain heat, such as waterproof and windproof fabrics.

So, which brand is right for you when it comes to comfort and fit? Ultimately, the answer will depend on your personal preferences. We recommend trying on jackets from both brands to get a sense of how they feel and fit on your body. After all, when it comes to down jackets, the right fit makes all the difference.

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Value and Durability

When it comes to outdoor gear, we all want products that will last a long time and provide excellent value for our money. That's why in this section, we're going to take a closer look at the value and durability of Rab and Mountain Hardwear jackets.

First off, let's talk about price. Both brands are known for producing high-quality jackets, but Mountain Hardwear tends to have a slightly lower price point than Rab. That being said, it's important to note that Rab jackets are often made with higher-end materials and technology, so the price difference may be warranted.

Now, let's move on to durability. We all know that outdoor gear takes a beating and needs to be able to withstand the elements. Both Rab and Mountain Hardwear jackets are designed to be durable and long-lasting, but Rab has a reputation for producing jackets that can stand up to the toughest outdoor conditions.

When it comes to warranty and return policies, both brands offer solid options. Mountain Hardwear offers a lifetime warranty for its products, which is tough to beat. Rab also offers a warranty, but it's not quite as long. However, Rab has an excellent customer service team that is known for taking care of its customers and ensuring that they are happy with their purchase.

So, which brand offers the best value and durability? It really depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a jacket that will last a lifetime and don't mind spending a bit more, Rab is the way to go. But if you're looking for a high-quality jacket that won't break the bank, Mountain Hardwear is an excellent option.

In the end, both brands offer excellent options for outdoor enthusiasts who demand quality, durability, and value. No matter which brand you choose, you can be sure that you'll be getting a jacket that will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable no matter where your adventures take you.

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Rab Vs Mountain Hardwear Men's Heavyweight Down Jackets

Rab vs Mountain Hardwear – which brand offers the best men's heavyweight down jackets? Let's compare the Neutrino Pro Down Jacket from Rab and the Phantom™ Parka from Mountain Hardwear to find out.

Both jackets are designed for cold weather conditions and are made from lightweight, durable materials. The Neutrino Pro from Rab features 800FP European Goose Down insulation, providing extreme warmth even in sub-zero temperatures. It also has a 100% recycled Pertex® Quantum Pro outer jacket that protects against wind and weather conditions. The new anatomically engineered twisted arm baffles improve arm pre-curve, allowing complete freedom of movement, which is perfect for climbers.

On the other hand, the Phantom™ Parka from Mountain Hardwear features 800-fill RDS®-certified down insulation with box-wall constructed baffles that eliminate cold spots. It also has an Ultralight Pertex® 20D Diamond Fuse ripstop shell fabric with DWR finish that provides top-notch durability and protection against wind and weather conditions. The Phantom™ Parka is perfect for alpine and rock climbing, and it has a helmet-compatible insulated hood with drawcord adjustment, which can be helpful for climbers.

Both brands offer high-quality options for men's heavyweight down jackets, but there are some differences worth considering. Rab is a British brand, while Mountain Hardwear is based in the USA. The Neutrino Pro is a long-standing favorite of mountaineers, while the Phantom™ Parka is designed for light-and-fast alpine pushes. The Neutrino Pro has a regular fit, while the Phantom™ Parka has an athletic fit. Both jackets are similarly priced and come with a lifetime warranty.

Ultimately, the choice between Rab and Mountain Hardwear will come down to personal preference. If you're looking for a heavyweight down jacket that's perfect for winter climbing, the Rab Neutrino Pro Down Jacket is a great option. But if you're looking for a jacket that's perfect for alpine and rock climbing, the Mountain Hardwear Phantom™ Parka is worth considering.

Neutrino Pro Down Jacket by Rab, conquer extreme winter conditions with ease.

Neutrino Pro Down Jacket by Rab

SHOP Check price on rab.equipment

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Conquer extreme winter conditions with ease.

What makes it special? Don't let the jacket's lightweight and packable design fool you – it's ultra-warm and built to handle the demands of vertical adventures. What sets the Neutrino Pro apart is its 800FP European Goose Down insulation that provides extreme insulation even in sub-zero temperatures. The Pertex® Quantum Pro outer jacket is 100% recycled, wind and weather-resistant, ensuring that you're protected from the elements during blizzards, snow, and spindrift. The anatomically engineered twisted arm baffles improve arm pre-curve, allowing complete freedom of movement, making it the perfect choice for climbers. In addition, the jacket is fully adjustable, helmet compatible, and has a two-way YKK® VISLON® front zip for ease of use with a harness. The shoulders and upper sleeve have Ripstop reinforcements for added durability, and the cuffs are adjustable for an optimum fit when wearing gloves. The Rab Neutrino Pro Down Jacket is not only functional but stylish as well with a Regular fit that is sure to appeal to men of all sizes. It is an ideal heavyweight down jacket for tackling 4000m peaks and alpine summits and has been a beloved option for mountaineers for the last twenty years.

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Phantom™ Parka by Mountain Hardwear, stay warm and comfortable in bone-chilling temps.

Phantom™ Parka by Mountain Hardwear

SHOP Check price on mountainhardwear.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Stay Warm And Comfortable In Bone-Chilling Temps.

What makes it special? This jacket is everything you need to stay warm and comfortable in bone-chilling temps. One of the standout features of this parka is its 800-fill, RDS®-certified down insulation. This high-lofting down provides exceptional warmth, making it perfect for belays, bivies, and other cold-weather activities. And since it's RDS®-certified, you can be sure that the down was ethically sourced and tracked from the source to the final product. The Phantom™ Parka also features a range of other great features, such as box-wall constructed baffles that eliminate cold spots, a helmet-compatible insulated hood with drawcord adjustment, two-way center front zipper, interior zippered chest pocket, and two harness-compatible zippered hand pockets. And with a drawcord at the hem, you can adjust the fit to your liking.

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Rab Vs Mountain Hardwear Men's Lightweight Down Jackets

If you're in the market for a men's lightweight down jacket, Rab and Mountain Hardwear offer some of the best options on the market. Let's take a closer look at the Microlight Alpine Down Jacket from Rab and the Ghost Whisperer/2™ Jacket from Mountain Hardwear to see how they stack up.

First off, the Microlight Alpine Down Jacket from Rab is a classic lightweight down jacket that has been updated with 100% recycled fabric and down insulation. It features a combination of zoned micro and nano baffles for increased core warmth without adding weight or bulk. The Pertex Quantum ripstop outer is soft and packable, and the jacket has three harness-compatible pockets and a down-filled hood with a stiffened peak.

On the other hand, the Ghost Whisperer/2™ Jacket from Mountain Hardwear is a sustainable reimagining of the brand's best-selling ultralight down jacket. It uses completely recycled face and trim fabrics, as well as responsibly sourced, RDS-certified down insulation. The ripstop fabric is ultra-lightweight, and the jacket features two zippered hand pockets, elastic binding on cuffs, and a drawcord hem adjustment.

Both jackets have their strengths, but they cater to slightly different needs. The Microlight Alpine Down Jacket from Rab is a great all-purpose jacket that is perfect for everyday wear as well as outdoor activities like hiking and climbing. It's durable and has practical features like the harness-compatible pockets, making it great for more technical pursuits.

The Ghost Whisperer/2™ Jacket from Mountain Hardwear, on the other hand, is a great eco-conscious option that is perfect for outdoor activities like backpacking, hiking, and climbing. It's super lightweight and highly packable, making it ideal for longer trips where space is at a premium.

Ultimately, the choice between Rab and Mountain Hardwear comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the wearer. Both brands offer high-quality options that are well-suited to a range of activities, so it's worth considering which features are most important to you before making a decision.

Microlight Alpine Down Jacket by Rab, eco-friendly, lightweight warmth for any adventure.

Microlight Alpine Down Jacket by Rab

SHOP Check price on rab.equipment

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Eco-friendly, lightweight warmth for any adventure.

What makes it special? With a combination of zoned micro and nano baffles and 100% recycled, 700FP, hydrophobic down insulation, this lightweight jacket is the go-to system for rapid warmth when temperatures drop. The Pertex Quantum ripstop outer is not only durable and resistant to tears and abrasions, but it's also soft and packable. This makes it easy to fold and stow away in a backpack or carry-on luggage. With its 30D recycled Pertex Quantum ripstop outer and 100% recycled, hydrophobic down insulation, the Microlight Alpine Jacket shines as an eco-friendly choice for those who love the outdoors and want to tread lightly on the planet. This jacket is designed with both function and style in mind. With its down-filled hood, stiffened peak, and three harness-compatible pockets, you can take it with you on any adventure without sacrificing your essentials. Plus, it comes with an easy-carry stuff sack that allows you to bring it with you wherever you go.

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Ghost Whisperer/2™ Jacket by Mountain Hardwear, ultralight warmth that's sustainable and stylish.

Ghost Whisperer/2™ Jacket by Mountain Hardwear

SHOP Check price on mountainhardwear.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Ultralight warmth that's sustainable and stylish.

What makes it special? This jacket is the sustainable reimagining of the brand's best-selling ultralight down jacket and it does not disappoint. The Ghost Whisperer/2™ has a completely recycled face and trim fabrics and features responsibly sourced, RDS-certified down insulation. Not only will you feel warm and comfy in this jacket, but you can also feel good knowing that you're doing your part to keep the planet awesome. This jacket is perfect for a wide range of activities, including superlight backcountry, alpine climbing, rock climbing, backpacking, and hiking. It's also great for casual wear and travel. The ultra-lightweight ripstop fabric makes it easy to pack and take with you wherever you go. The down insulation is 800-fill RDS-certified, meaning it meets animal welfare requirements and is tracked from the source to the final product. The first baffle at both cuffs is filled with synthetic insulation to prevent cuffs from wetting out. The two zippered hand pockets provide ample space for storing your essentials. The highly packable design stuffs into its own hand pocket with an internal carabiner clip loop. Elastic binding on cuffs keeps the warmth in, and the drawcord hem adjustment ensures a perfect fit.

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Rab Vs Mountain Hardwear Women's Down Parkas

When it comes to choosing between Rab and Mountain Hardwear for Women's Down Parkas, it really depends on your needs. The Rab Deep Cover Down Parka is an eco-friendly option that offers a great warmth-to-weight ratio, while the Mountain Hardwear Phantom™ Parka is fantastic for extreme alpine environments.

If you're looking for a parka that's sustainable and lightweight, then the Rab Deep Cover Down Parka is a great choice. It's made from 100% recycled fabric and down, and boasts a recycled Pertex® Quantum outer with a fluorocarbon-free DWR finish. The cuffs have a stretch fleece lining for a seamless fit, and the parka has a 700FP European Goose Down with Nikwax Fluorocarbon-Free Hydrophobic Finish, making it incredibly warm for its weight.

On the other hand, if you're in need of a parka that can withstand extreme alpine environments, then the Mountain Hardwear Phantom™ Parka is for you. It features an ultralight Pertex® 20D Diamond Fuse ripstop shell fabric with a DWR finish, and boasts 800-fill RDS®-certified down insulation. The box-wall constructed baffles eliminate cold spots, and the helmet compatible insulated hood with drawcord adjustment provides warmth and protection.

Ultimately, both brands offer quality women's down parkas that serve different needs. If sustainability and lightweight warmth are your top priorities, then choose Rab. If extreme alpine environments are your focus, then go for Mountain Hardwear. Both options are superbly crafted and built to last, so you can't go wrong with either choice.

Deep Cover Down Parka by Rab, sustainable warmth for every winter day.

Deep Cover Down Parka by Rab

SHOP Check price on rab.equipment

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Sustainable warmth for every winter day.

What makes it special? Made with 100% recycled fabric and down, this parka is a must-have for any woman's winter wardrobe. What sets the Deep Cover Down Parka apart from other options on the market is its incredible warmth-to-weight ratio. Filled with 700FP, 100% recycled down, this parka is surprisingly lightweight but still offers incomparable warmth. And with a recycled Pertex® Quantum outer and fluorocarbon-free DWR finish, you can feel good knowing you're making a sustainable choice. In addition to being eco-friendly, this parka is also incredibly practical. It has an insulated detachable hood with a removable faux-fur trim, perfect for keeping warm on frosty walks. The cuffs have a stretch fleece lining for a seamless fit with gloves, sealing in heat on freezing winter days. And with a tough, two-way YKK® Metaluxe front zip and an internal storm flap for added protection, you can keep the elements out and the warmth in.

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Phantom™ Parka by Mountain Hardwear, brave the coldest of conditions with ease.

Phantom™ Parka by Mountain Hardwear

SHOP Check price on mountainhardwear.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Brave the coldest of conditions with ease.

What makes it special? The Phantom™ Parka is made from ultralight Pertex® 20D Diamond Fuse ripstop shell fabric with a DWR finish. This makes it incredibly durable, so you don't have to worry about the jacket becoming damaged during your climb. Additionally, the jacket is insulated with 800-fill RDS®-certified down insulation, which is Certified by Control Union. This means that the down is ethically sourced and that you can be sure that it will keep you warm in the coldest of temperatures. One of the best features of this down parka is the box-wall constructed baffles, which eliminate cold spots. This means that the jacket will provide insulation from the top of your head all the way down to your hips. The helmet compatible insulated hood with drawcord adjustment is another great feature, as it allows you to adjust the hood so that it fits perfectly. The two-way center front zipper allows for easy access, while the interior zippered chest pocket and the two harness compatible zippered hand pockets provide plenty of storage space. The drawcord at the hem ensures that you can adjust the fit to your liking.

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Rab Vs Mountain Hardwear Women's Lightweight Down Jackets

So, you're in the market for a new lightweight down jacket and trying to decide between Rab and Mountain Hardwear? Let's take a closer look at what each brand has to offer.

Starting with Rab, the Microlight Alpine Down Jacket is an excellent option for those looking for a jacket that excels both as a technical mountain layer and as an everyday jacket. It's made with 100% recycled fabric and down, making it an eco-friendly choice, and features body-mapped baffles for warmth without restricting movement. It's also highly packable, making it a great choice for backpackers and hikers. Overall, if you want a versatile jacket with a focus on sustainability, Rab might be the brand for you.

Turning to Mountain Hardwear, the Ghost Whisperer/2™ Hoody is a standout option for those looking for a jacket that's both lightweight and sustainable. With completely recycled face and trim fabric and responsibly sourced, RDS-certified down insulation, this jacket is a great choice for eco-conscious consumers. It's also functional, with ultra-lightweight ripstop fabric and elastic binding on the hood and cuffs to seal in warmth. Plus, it's highly packable, making it a favorite among backpackers. If you prioritize sustainability and function, Mountain Hardwear might be the brand for you.

Ultimately, both Rab and Mountain Hardwear offer excellent lightweight down jacket options for women. It really comes down to what features are most important to you – if you're looking for versatility and a focus on sustainability, Rab might be the way to go. But if you want a jacket that's both lightweight and eco-friendly, Mountain Hardwear could be the brand for you. No matter which brand you choose, you're sure to get a high-quality jacket that will serve you well on your outdoor adventures.

Microlight Alpine Down Jacket by Rab, packable, versatile, and sustainable down jacket for women.

Microlight Alpine Down Jacket by Rab

SHOP Check price on rab.equipment

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Packable, versatile, and sustainable down jacket for women.

What makes it special? Not only is the jacket made from 100% recycled fabric and down, but it also features body-mapped baffles for excellent core warmth without any restriction in movement. And with its elasticated cuffs, adjustable hood, and drawcord adjustable hem, you can customize the fit to your liking. One of the standout features of this jacket is its low weight and packability. It's the perfect layer to bring on a backpacking trip when you need to save space and weight in your pack. And with its stylish design, the Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket can also be worn as an everyday jacket. It stands out with its attention to sustainability and eco-friendliness.

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Ghost Whisperer/2™ Hoody by Mountain Hardwear, sustainable warmth for all your adventures.

Ghost Whisperer/2™ Hoody by Mountain Hardwear

SHOP Check price on mountainhardwear.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Sustainable warmth for all your adventures.

What makes it special? This sustainable reimagining of their best-selling ultralight down hoody is perfect for a variety of activities, from backpacking and hiking to casual travel and camping. What sets this hoody apart is its commitment to sustainability. It uses completely recycled face and trim fabric, ensuring that your purchase won't contribute to further waste in the world. Additionally, the responsibly sourced, RDS-certified down insulation provides all the warmth you need without harming animals. But the Ghost Whisperer/2™ Hoody isn't just environmentally-friendly – it's also functional. The ultra-lightweight ripstop fabric ensures durability without weighing you down, while the elastic binding on the hood and cuffs seals in warmth for those chilly days. And when it's time to pack up and go, the highly packable design stuffs easily into its own hand pocket with internal carabiner clip loop.

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Rab Vs Mountain Hardwear Insulated Pants

Looking for the perfect insulated pants can be a challenging task, especially when you're considering two highly-regarded brands such as Rab and Mountain Hardwear. Both brands offer excellent insulated pants, but how do they compare?

Let's start with Rab. The Rab Photon Insulated Pants are specifically designed for cold, high-altitude mountain and polar environments. They're built to keep you warm and dry, with efficient PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation to regulate your temperature and Pertex® Quantum outer to fend off the elements. Plus, they're highly durable thanks to reinforced Pertex® Shield panels at high-friction zones. The pants also come with full-length side zips, making them easier to put on over boots and adjust during activity spikes. Overall, the Rab Photon Insulated Pants are an excellent choice for those looking for pants specifically tailored for colder climates.

On the other hand, Mountain Hardwear's Compressor™ Pant is an excellent choice for those seeking lightweight and highly compressible insulated pants. These versatile pants are designed to handle extreme conditions, thanks to Thermal.Q™ Elite insulation that can banish the cold and moisture. The pants come with reinforced seat and knees for extra durability in high abrasion zones. Full side-zippered legs allow for ventilation and quick changes, making them an excellent choice for backcountry and alpine climbing. Overall, the Compressor™ Pant is a great option for those looking for insulated pants that are flexible, lightweight and versatile.

Ultimately, when considering Rab Vs Mountain Hardwear insulated pants, it comes down to personal preferences and the environment where you plan to use the pants most. If you need durable pants for polar environments, Rab's Photon Insulated Pants are a fantastic choice. For those looking for lightweight and versatile insulated pants for alpine climbing or backcountry adventures, the Compressor™ Pant by Mountain Hardwear is an excellent choice to make. With both brands offering a range of options to suit different needs, you're sure to find a pair of insulated pants that work for you.

Photon Insulated Pants by Rab, stay warm and dry in extreme environments.

Photon Insulated Pants by Rab

SHOP Check price on rab.equipment

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Stay warm and dry in extreme environments.

What makes it special? These pants are designed to keep you warm and dry in cold, high-altitude mountain and polar environments- exactly what you need for extreme outdoor activities. The PrimaLoft® Gold Insulation used in the pants provide high warmth-to-weight ratio along with great breathability to ensure consistent comfort during activity spikes. The Pertex® Quantum outer is both lightweight and supple, fending off the elements for maximum protection. Added durability comes from reinforced Pertex® Shield panels at high-friction zones such as the seat, knee, and inner leg. What's great about these pants is that they're highly efficient even when damp- perfect for those moments where unpredictable weather hits. They're also easy to compress into the supplied stuff sack, so you don't have to worry about them taking up too much space in your backpack. The full-length side zips along with insulated baffles allow you to pull them on over boots and regulate your temperature as per the conditions outside. The Rab Photon Insulated Pants are not just functional but also come with numerous features such as two YKK® zipped hand-warmer pockets, flat front waistband, elasticated rear waistband, and brace compatible loops among others. Additionally, the large reflective logo helps to enhance the visibility in low-light conditions.

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Compressor™ Pant by Mountain Hardwear, climb higher and warmer.

Compressor™ Pant by Mountain Hardwear

SHOP Check price on mountainhardwear.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Climb higher and warmer.

What makes it special? This backcountry pant is not only lightweight and highly compressible, but it's also equipped with Thermal.Q™ Elite insulation to keep you warm and dry no matter the weather conditions. When it comes to durability, the Compressor™ Pant has you covered. The reinforced seat and knees protect against abrasion, so you can feel confident that your gear will last season after season. And for added convenience, the full side-zippered legs allow for ventilation and easy changes on the go. In a head-to-head comparison with Rab's insulated pants, the Compressor™ Pant stands out for its impeccable construction and attention to detail. The adjustable elastic waist and attached webbing belt ensure a comfortable and secure fit, while the reinforced high abrasion zones give you peace of mind during those challenging climbs.

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Final Verdict

In conclusion, the choice between Rab and Mountain Hardwear down jackets ultimately boils down to personal preference and specific needs. Both brands are well-respected and offer high-quality products that will keep you warm and comfortable in even the harshest winter conditions.

If you're looking for top-notch insulation and durability, Rab down jackets are an excellent choice. Their use of ethically sourced down and innovative materials like Pertex Quantum Infinity Weave sets them apart from other brands.

Mountain Hardwear, on the other hand, has a reputation for creating stylish and functional garments that are perfect for outdoor activities. Their exclusive Ghost Whisperer fabric is the thinnest, lightest, and most compressible material on the market, making it a great choice for those seeking a sleek and minimalist design.

Ultimately, whether you opt for a Rab or Mountain Hardwear down jacket, you can be sure that you're investing in a reliable and high-quality piece of clothing that will keep you warm, comfortable, and stylish for years to come. So go ahead and choose the one that speaks to you, and enjoy winter to the fullest!

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