The Rab Firewall Jacket utilizes a breathable new Pertex Shield fabric that is both waterproof and windproof, and is therefore designed for active year-round mountain use.

I tested this jacket winter climbing in Glencoe on Stob Coire nan Lochan in early December, in heavy snow and typical Scottish whiteout conditions. By using an innovative new venting system the Firewall Jacket offers complete protection in wet environments, whilst the stretch fabric and highly breathable design provides high levels of comfort when active.

New Petex Shield+ Fabric with stretch – essentially this is a fusion of technically advanced face fabrics with a breathable waterproof PU film laminate. The result of which means that Pertex Shield+ offers high levels of wind and water protection with excellent breathability for fast moving, weight-conscious, outdoor athletes.

Innovative new venting system – this jacket offers full venting YKK AquaGuard Escape Artist pit zips. These are essentially extra long ventilation zips to vent core heat during periods of intense activity. The length of the zips means that you can take your arms completely out of the jacket. The loose sleeves can then be retained under rucksack straps. Anyone who has tried to remove a layer whilst climbing and stuff it into their bag will welcome this feature!

Completely waterproof – this is obtained not only through the fabric but also a 2-way YKK AquaGuard front zip with dual internal storm flap system, 2 YKK AquaGuard zipped A-line chest pockets with rain drain, and 1 YKK AquaGuard zipped large Napoleon pocket with rain drain. These small details make a huge difference when it’s blowing a hoolie and you want to stay dry.

Added Features – the jacket has a helmet compatible hood with a wired peak and lined collar, reflective trim, anti-snag Velcro adjustable cuffs, and a hem draw cord with cord retainers. It also offers a regular fit to comfortably allow multiple layers underneath.

The Firewall Jacket is a light-weight, weather-proof jacket designed for year-round active mountain use. The new breathable Pertex Shield+ fabric is both water and wind proof, offering complete protection from the environment. The regular fit meant that I could comfortably wear layers underneath.

The best endorsement I can give is that I honestly didn’t even notice that I was wearing it whilst climbing – the fabric stretched enough that my body was always covered, the jacket was breathable so I wasn’t sweating (even at the crux), I stayed dry, and the wind didn’t cut through me. The Rab Firewall Jacket will be a staple part of my kit in the hills this winter.