RAB vs North Face (Outdoor Gear Comparison)

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RAB and The North Face have been making jackets, backpacks, and sleeping bags for decades, protecting explorers in every kind of weather.

While the brands share some similarities, they also have key differences that can make one a better fit for your needs than the other.

Today, we’ll compare RAB and The North Face to help you decide which brand to consider for your next piece of outdoor clothing or equipment.

We’ll look at their materials, main products, prices, intended uses, and more.

By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which is your best option. Let’s begin!

Key Points:

RAB was founded in 1981 in Sheffield, England. The brand is dedicated to producing gear “by climbers for climbers”.
RAB is committed to environmentally friendly production methods.
RAB uses polyester and nylon, Gore-Tex and Pertex fabric technologies for waterproof/breathable outerwear, and natural down and synthetic insulation.
The RAB Microlight Alpine jacket is an iconic product.
RAB makes its products in the UK and Asia.
The North Face is an American brand founded in 1966. It’s known for both its high-performance outdoor gear and its fashionable clothing.
The North Face is also focused on eco-friendly production.
The North Face uses polyester and nylon, Gore-Tex, DryVent, and FUTURELIGHT fabric technologies, and natural down and synthetic insulation.
The North Face’s McMurdo parka, Nuptse jacket, and Borealis backpack are iconic products.
The North Face makes its products mostly in Asia, with some collections made in the USA.
Prices are similar.
Decision: RAB focuses more on technical climbing and mountaineering gear, while The North Face caters to a wider range of outdoor activities and also focuses on fashion pieces.

1. RAB Outdoor Gear

History of the Brand

RAB official website

RAB‘s origins can be traced back to 1981, when Rab Carrington, a Scottish mountaineer, established the brand in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England, using his own name.

Due to a UK strike in 1973, Rab Carrington, stranded in Buenos Aires without equipment, learned to craft high-quality sleeping bags with the guidance of his friend, Hector Vieytes. These skills motivated him to create Rab, a company dedicated to producing gear “by climbers for climbers.”

The brand has since developed iconic products for mountaineers and climbers. In 2001, Rab partnered with Polartec, whose materials continue to be integral to Rab gear.

Since 2003, Equip Outdoor Technologies Ltd has owned Rab, upholding the brand’s ethos and designing renowned jackets like the Microlight Alpine, solidifying Rab’s position as one of Europe’s leading providers of specialized outdoor wear.

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Materials, Fabrics, and Production Process

Every year, Rab diligently strives to shift towards environmentally friendly production methods, including ethically acquiring materials and utilizing PFC-free water-repellent treatments.

This commitment is further evidenced by the incorporation of recycled materials and the dedication to creating durable products.

The brand predominantly utilizes polyester and nylon as primary materials, with a greater emphasis on the latter in their gear. Waterproof outerwear is indispensable in the winter season, and Rab leverages various fabric technologies to ensure dryness in any weather condition.

These technologies encompass Gore-Tex, recognized as a top waterproof fabric, along with Pertex Shield, Proflex, and Pertex Shield+, each offering distinct performance attributes.

Rab’s waterproof fabrics are offered in three different constructions – 2, 2.5, and 3 layers – tailored to their specific purposes.

As for breathability, the company uses Hydrophilic and Microporous technologies, both being very effective as moisture-wicking solutions.

Regarding insulation, Rab presents a diverse range of natural down and synthetic insulated jackets and sleeping bags. The natural down is responsibly sourced, and over the years, the brand has used more and more recycled fabrics and recycled down insulation.

While natural down is an exceptional insulator, it possesses certain drawbacks, like losing its insulator properties when wet, leading to the widespread use of synthetic insulation. In this regard, Rab predominantly relies on Stratus synthetic insulation and Cirrus for its synthetic-insulated sleeping bags and jackets.

Some jackets are also insulated with Pyrotec synthetic insulation, while PrimaLoft is commonly utilized in Rab’s gloves.

Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket | Masters of Insulation

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Where is RAB outdoor gear made?

Rab’s gear is made partly in the UK, where the company is based, and the rest in Asian countries, mainly in China.

Recommended Products

RAB Men’s Microlight Alpine Down Jacket

RAB Mens Microlight Alpine Down Jacket
Image: rab.equipment
Check it out at rab.equipment

The Microlight Alpine is a lightweight winter jacket equipped with 700 fill-power hydrophobic down, offering warmth and water resistance in wet conditions. Its Pertex Quantum shell technology enhances durability and breathability, catering to various activities.

The jacket has a chest pocket and two hand pockets, with the latter being harness-compatible. Available in men’s and women’s sizes, the Microlight Alpine is highly compressible for convenient portability.

RAB Aeon 35L Daypack

RAB Aeon 35L Daypack
Image: rab.equipment
Check it out at rab.equipment

The RAB Aeon 35L Daypack is functional for different mountain expeditions. Featuring the Air Contour X carry system, it offers a secure fit and optimal support for heavy loads, increasing stability on challenging terrain.

The semi-rigid back panel lets air flow and conforms to the user’s body shape. With an adjustable back length and forward pull hip belt, along with a wrap-around stretch yoke, it delivers a personalized and comfortable fit.

With a 35-liter capacity, it’s great for camping and hiking, featuring TipGripper walking pole attachments, a walking axe loop, and practical stretch pockets.

Its zippered hip belt pockets offer accessible storage for small essentials, while the bag is crafted from 50% recycled nylon fabric and includes a rain cover for all-weather use.

Prices

Rab is not a budget-friendly name, but it’s not among the priciest we’ve seen. It’s among the mid-to-high-end outdoor brands.

The brand’s coats start at approximately $80 (for windbreakers and lighter options) and can reach up to $850 (for down jackets and technical styles).

The backpacks are priced in the range of $60 to $250 based on the design. The remaining gear and accessories have significant variability.

Are RAB products worth the price?

In our opinion, RAB is definitely worth it! The brand creates some of the most durable and high-quality gear. Their jackets’ and sleeping bags’ insulation is among the best in the market. But it also depends on what you’re looking for in a product.