Welcome to the Rab Lab | Gear Advice & Expertise

Welcome to the Rab Lab.

Over the four decades that have passed since our founder hand-stitched his first sleeping bag, weā€™ve learned a thing or two about crafting high-performing gear for mountain environments.Ā 

Want to learn how waterproofs work? What the difference is between down and synthetic insulation? How to choose a sleeping bag? The best way to wash and repair your gear?Ā 

The Rab Lab is your go-to place for gear advice and tech expertise. Itā€™s where you can discover the science behind the seams, learn how to pick the right kit for your next trip, and explore our aftercare tips to keep it in action for many adventures to come.Ā 

Rab Lab categories:

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The power of PrimaLoftĀ®.

From active sheet insulation that responds to your output to loose fill insulation that mimics the structure of down, we use a variety of types of PrimaLoftĀ® synthetic insulation in our gear.Ā 

Introducing TILT technology.

Our award-winning TILT (Thermo Ionic Lining Technology) was born from a desire to significantly improve heat retention in our insulated jackets and sleeping bags.

A person traversing a snow covered mountain in a Rab down jacket.
How to choose a down jacket.

Our down jackets are crafted to keep you warm, whatever the elements throw at you. This guide is here to help you choose the best insulation for your adventure.

How to choose a synthetic jacket.

Jackets insulated with synthetic materials are lightweight, breathable, and fast-drying. Explore our guide to help you find the right synthetic jacket for your next adventure.

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How to choose a waterproof jacket.

While it can be useful to know How Waterproof Jackets Work, in this waterproof jacket buying guide weā€™re sticking to the basics.

Helping you navigate your way to finding the best waterproof jacket for you.Ā 

What is Hydrostatic Head?

Find out more about hydrostatic head, water pressure, and how we measure waterproofness of our fabrics.

Breathability in waterproofs explained.

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What is GORE-TEX?

Discover the ins and outs of the GORE-TEX Product Technologies we use in our GORE-TEX Jackets and Pants.Ā 

How to choose a GORE-TEX jacket.

We use GORE-TEX product technology in a range of our waterproof and windproof jackets. In this guide weā€™ll help you decide which GORE-TEX jacket is right for you.

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A woman camping in her sleeping bag after bike-packing.
How to choose a sleeping bag.

The right sleeping bag can make or break an adventure. Explore our guide to help you decide on the best sleeping bag for your next trip.Ā 

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Four people ski touring across snow in the mountains.
How to choose a backpack.

Most adventures begin with packing a backpack, but with so many options, how do you know which pack to choose? Explore this guide to help you decide on which backpack is right for you.

How to care for your clothing and equipment.

Maintaining your kit is essential to keep it in top condition and extend its life.
Our handy tips and how-to tutorials will help you learn how to repair, restore, and refresh your clothing and equipment, and keep it performing at its best.Ā