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FEATURES
Pertex Shield Plus with a 3-layer construction is the main fabric in the Rab Firewall. It offers excellent waterproofness and breathability, and feels soft and comfortable and relatively lightweight. You get three chest-mounted pockets, which are all OS map-sized. The hood has a wired peak and there are pit zips too. The niggle is that the fabric is less durable, thinner and softer than others for wild weather. 4/5
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FIT
The men’s sizes are S-XL and the women’s 8-16. The body is about 5cm longer than the shorter jackets we looked at so it covered my rear better than others. The cut is slightly closer than some on the sleeves, which is good; and better still if you raise your arms the sleeves and hem of the jacket don’t ride up. The hood fits exceptionally well and moves effortlessly with the head. 5/5
COMFORT
The use of 3-layer Pertex Shield Plus makes this very comfortable as the material is soft, flexible and lightweight. It does buckle more easily than heavier fabrics though so in strong winter winds it will feel a bit chilly. Also it is less durable than higher-priced Rab jackets so it needs to be respected. But overall a very comfortable option for lighter conditions. 4/5
IN USE
For mild weather the Rab Firewall is an exceptional jacket and at 503g it is light enough to stash in a rucksack. The three main pockets are all OS map-sized and easily accessed while wearing a rucksack. The hood allows very clear vision as it moves so well and has a great wired peak. If needed you can vent the sleeves with long zips. Others feel more durable and protective in wild weather, though – and that is my main concern. 4/5
VALUE
Good value for what you get, but higher-priced jackets have benefits around that extra durability to withstand tough conditions. RRP £200. 4/5
VERDICT
The Rab Firewall is an excellent jacket for milder hill and mountain days but others are more robust for tougher conditions. 4/5