Rab Stretch Neo Jacket
The Stretch Neo Jacket has been discontinued. If you're looking for something new, check out the best soft shell jackets for 2025.
Marketed as a waterproof hard shell-softshell hybrid, this jacket failed to keep the rain off two hours into a showery hike in the Alps. I'm not convinced by NeoShell as a fabric and I certainly would not recommend this as an outer layer for wet weather.
Pros
- Very breathable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not waterproof when advertised as such
- Not durable at all
I bought this jacket as quite a sweaty person and was sold on the breath ability whilst still being waterproof thing. However, I find that the jacket soaks through quickly, even in light rain. Water does not bead on the outside, and my base layer was wet through after a wet weather hike in Scotland. It is certainly not a fully breathable, fully waterproof jacket and I would not recommend it for UK weather.
it is not very durable either. On a hike in gale force gusts in Scotland, I could feel rain hitting me through the jacket. Also if you brush past a bramble you risk it ripping, the fabric is very flimsy.
That said, the jacket may be useful as a showerproof layer in an environment where you are not expecting too much rain, but wish to have a shell jacket. I am also going to give the jacket a shot as a lightweight outer layer whilst ski touring because the breathability is fantastic. It is also a very light jacket and easy to have in the bottom of a rucksack as a spare on a summer's day.
The pockets are also good because they are the perfect size for a map and, with the zips close to the middle and pockets extending towards your sides, easy to access. The hood fits over a helmet but otherwise, even though it can be adjusted, is still a little bit enormous and will fall over your eyes.
This jacket is a jack of all trades, a master of none. If you want a soft shell, buy a soft shell that is designed to be a soft shell. If you want a waterproof, go for the good old Goretex or paramo. There is plenty else out there. Don't compromise by buying this jacket because you will waste money!
This is the first jacket I have tried with the new Polartec NEOSHELL fabric. I was very impressed with this new fabric and this jacket from Rab.
Pros
- NeoShell fabric
- Waterproof
- very breathable
Cons
- No hand warming pockets
This jacket is bomb proof! The new Neo fabric from Polartec is as good as advertised... very breathable and yet water/windproof. I used this jacket in Nepal at Everest base camp and absolutely loved it.
Here's my full video review:
Source: tested or reviewed it for the manufacturer (returned)
Price Paid: $365
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Specs
Men's | |
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Price |
Historic Range: $199.97-$399.95 Reviewers Paid: $365.00 |
Women's | |
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Price |
Historic Range: $118.98-$399.95 |