Two popular outdoor gear brands for jackets, pants, backpacks, and other equipment are Jack Wolfskin and RAB.
Both companies are known for making durable and functional products.
For example, Jack Wolfskin is known for its quality jackets made from water-resistant and breathable fabrics. RAB is renowned for its technical mountain gear designed for extreme conditions. They both also offer base layers and fleeces favored by climbers and hikers.
In this article, we’ll compare some of the key aspects of Jack Wolfskin and RAB, such as their approach to fabrics, features, prices, and intended uses, to help you decide which brand might be a better fit for your needs.
Let’s begin!
Contents:
1. Jack Wolfskin Outdoor Gear
History of the Brand
Jack Wolfskin official website
You have probably come across Jack Wolfskin, particularly if you are located in Europe. This German company was established in 1981 in Frankfurt by Ulrich Dausien and has been headquartered in Idstein, Germany since 1997.
Over time, Jack Wolfskin has evolved into one of the leading outdoor brands in Germany, offering a diverse range of products and gaining popularity across various European countries. Currently, the brand provides a wide selection of gear for different outdoor pursuits, such as apparel, footwear, backpacks, sleeping bags, tents, etc.
Jack Wolfskin has long been committed to sustainability, environmental conservation, and social accountability, aligning with the values upheld by numerous other outdoor apparel and equipment brands. This dedication is evident in the company’s products, making it a prime example of a responsible enterprise.
Both those seeking high-quality casual clothing and those in need of exceptional outdoor equipment are drawn to the company’s style and performance.
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Materials, Fabrics, and Production Process
Jack Wolfskin, a brand with a strong environmental focus, incorporates recycled polyester into its outdoor products to minimize its environmental footprint.
The company also utilizes a range of natural and synthetic materials for insulation, such as Natural RDS-certified Down, PrimaLoft (synthetic), Microguard (synthetic), and Fibercloud (synthetic).
In terms of fabric technologies, Jack Wolfskin employs Texapore, a windproof, breathable, and waterproof fabric that is also water-resistant and snow-friendly, in its jackets and sports garments. Texapore comes in various build options and protection levels for different activities’ requirements.
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Where is Jack Wolfskin’s outdoor gear made?
Products from Jack Wolfskin are manufactured in both European and Asian facilities. Their production sites are spread across Asia, with locations in China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, South Korea, and other countries. In Europe, they have a presence in Slovenia, Germany, Turkey, and Italy. The raw materials utilized by Jack Wolfskin are sourced from Europe, the USA, and Asia. (source)
Recommended Products
Jack Wolfskin Troposphere Men’s Insulated Jacket
Image: jack-wolfskin.com
Check it out at Jack-Wolfskin.com
The Jack Wolfskin Troposphere is a timeless and essential yet exceptionally practical and flexible insulated hardshell jacket.
It uses a Texapore Pro fabric renowned for its high windproof, waterproof, and breathable properties, safeguarding against the elements while facilitating the release of excess heat and moisture, enhancing freedom of movement.
This jacket is equipped with PrimaLoft Black Rise fill, a moisture-resistant recycled synthetic fiber insulation that ensures warmth in cold weather. Featuring three exterior pockets and one interior pocket, it provides secure storage for small items.
Additionally, it utilizes recycled materials, underscoring Jack Wolfskin’s commitment to environmental sustainability in production. Designed with advanced materials and insulated construction, the Troposphere is tailored for dynamic outdoor use in cold and wet conditions.
Jack Wolfskin Highland Trail 50+5 Women’s Trekking Pack
Image: jack-wolfskin.com
Check it out at Jack-Wolfskin.com
The Highland Trail 50+5 Backpack is specifically crafted for women, providing a comfortable fit and features tailored for women. With a capacity of 50+5 liters, it offers ample storage for extended trips.
The backpack has a height-adjustable X-Transition back system that delivers good comfort, and effective ventilation and enhances load distribution for effortless carrying of heavy loads. It enables versatile packing and access to gear through dual access to the main compartment from both the top and front zipper.
Also, the lid pocket has an extended zipper for easy access to items. A generously sized elasticated mesh pocket on the front is ideal for storing your jacket. The waist belt includes a pocket for holding a water bottle, and the pack is designed to accommodate a hydration bladder.
Made from recycled materials, it is engineered for sustainability as a PFC-free and bluesign-certified trekking backpack.
Prices
Many Jack Wolfskin products are affordable. This brand has a lot of options for budget-conscious consumers to incorporate into their outdoor equipment assortment.
However, Jack Wolfskin is not always low-cost, with their jackets ranging from $60 to $500, packs from $50 to $400, and footwear from $60 to $230.
Are Jack Wolfskin products worth the price?
Their gear, in our opinion, justifies the initial investment. If you want excellent gear with a good quality-to-price ratio, you can rely on Jack Wolfskin. They’re known for using premium materials and the latest technologies.
Must read: 9 High-End, Expensive Hiking Brands for Clothing and Footwear
2. RAB Outdoor Gear
History of the Brand
RAB official website
RAB‘s origins can be traced back to 1981, when Rab Carrington, a Scottish climber, established the brand in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England, under his own name.
Inspired by his passion for nature, climbing, and adventure, Rab Carrington gained recognition as a prominent mountaineer among outdoor enthusiasts. While stuck in Buenos Aires in 1973 during a UK strike and lacking equipment, he learned to craft high-quality sleeping bags with the guidance of his friend, Hector Vieytes.
These skills motivated Rab Carrington to create Rab. The company prides itself on being “by climbers for climbers” and has produced a range of products that have become iconic in the mountaineering and climbing communities.
In 2001, Rab formed a partnership with Polartec, whose materials continue to be utilized in Rab’s gear.
Since 2003, Equip Outdoor Technologies Ltd has owned Rab, upholding the brand’s ethos and designing renowned jackets like the Microlight Alpine, positioning the brand as one of Europe’s leading providers of specialized outdoor apparel and gear.
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Materials, Fabrics, and Production Process
Rab consistently endeavors to shift towards environmentally friendly production methods, including ethically sourcing materials and utilizing PFC-free water-repellent treatments. This commitment is evident in the use of recycled materials and the dedication to creating long-lasting products.
The brand primarily utilizes polyester and nylon, with a greater emphasis on the latter in their gear. Waterproof outerwear is crucial for winter, and Rab utilizes various fabric technologies such as Gore-Tex, Pertex Shield, Proflex, and Pertex Shield+, to ensure dryness in all weather conditions.
Despite their shared goal of protection, these technologies differ in terms of breathability, wind resistance, and other factors. Rab offers waterproof fabrics in three constructions (2, 2.5, and 3 layers) based on their intended use.
For breathability, the brand employs Hydrophilic and Microporous technologies, both serving as moisture-wicking solutions.
As for insulation, Rab provides a wide range of natural down and synthetic insulated jackets and sleeping bags. The natural down is responsibly sourced and there is a considerable part of recycled fabrics.
While natural down is highly effective, synthetic insulation, particularly Stratus and Cirrus, is also extensively utilized by Rab. Pyrotec synthetic insulation is used in sleeping bags, and PrimaLoft is commonly found in Rab’s gloves.
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Where is RAB outdoor gear made?
Rab’s products are made partly in the UK, where the company is headquartered, and the rest in Asia, mainly in China.
Recommended Products
RAB Men’s Microlight Alpine Down Jacket
Image: rab.equipment
Check it out at rab.equipment
The Microlight Alpine represents a lightweight winter jacket filled with 700 fill-power hydrophobic down, offering warmth and water resistance in cold, wet conditions.
Its Pertex Quantum shell technology ensures durability against the elements and provides breathability, making it suitable for various activities.
This jacket features two hand pockets and a chest pocket, with the former being harness-compatible. Available in men’s and women’s sizes, the Microlight Alpine is highly compressible for convenient transport.
RAB Aeon 35L Daypack
Image: rab.equipment
Check it out at rab.equipment
The Aeon 35L Daypack is a versatile backpack designed for a range of mountain activities. It features the Air Contour X carry system, providing a secure fit and robust support for heavy loads, ensuring stability on challenging terrain.
The semi-rigid, vacuum-formed back panel promotes airflow and conforms to the user’s body shape. With an adjustable back length and forward pull hip belt, as well as a wrap-around stretch yoke, it offers a personalized and comfortable fit.
Boasting a 35-liter capacity, it is well-suited for camping and hiking and includes practical features such as TipGripper walking pole attachments, a walking axe loop, and easily accessible stretch pockets for gear storage.
Also, the zippered hip belt pockets are suitable for storing small essentials. Crafted from 50% recycled nylon fabric, this daypack also comes with a rain cover for protection in all weather conditions.
Prices
Rab is not an inexpensive name, yet it does not rank among the priciest we have encountered. It’s in the mid-to-high price range.
The brand’s outerwear starts at approximately $80 (for windbreakers and lighter models) and can reach up to $850 (for down coats and technical designs). The backpacks range from about $60 to $250 based on the style, while the other equipment and accessories vary.
Are RAB products worth the price?
We think, Yes, they’re worth it! But, of course, the answer varies depending on your product expectations. Rab is recognized for creating durable, high-quality designs. Their insulation is among the best.
Read also: 8 Best Sustainable Outdoor Clothing Brands: Our Top Picks
3. Which is Better? Jack Wolfskin or RAB?
Jack Wolfskin and RAB are both great, depending on what you need! Here are a few things to consider that will make your choice easier:
Quality: Both brands make high-quality, durable outdoor products. We’d choose RAB for insulation. Be it winter down jackets or sleeping bags, the British brand has a long experience in insulating for cold alpine environments. It also has very positive reviews in this sector.
Design and Style: Jack Wolfskin tends to have a more traditional, rugged outdoor style. RAB designs can be a bit more technical and minimalist. But both have just the essential lines without unnecessary elements.
Features: RAB focuses more on lightweight, breathable fabrics and performance features for activities like hiking and climbing. Jack Wolfskin offers more casual and lifestyle pieces in addition to technical gear.
Price: On average, RAB is slightly more expensive than Jack Wolfskin.
Warranty: Both offer good warranties, but RAB’s lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects on most products is very attractive.
In the end, we think Jack Wolfskin is better if you prefer more casual outdoor gear. You can also save some money. RAB’s performance-focused items, on the other hand, make it a good choice for serious mountain enthusiasts.
What do you think? Let us know in the comments.
Read next: 11 European Brands for Outdoor Enthusiasts: Our Top Picks