Rab Kinetic 2.0 Review

We spent weeks in this jacket across multiple mountain ranges to assess its fit, comfort, and performance. We climbed athletic rock routes in cool spring conditions and backpacked through afternoon thunderstorms to see how it would hold up. We also tested it thoroughly in our at-home shower tests to collect in-depth data on its waterproofing. The Kinetic 2.0 is a well-rounded jacket that boasts excellent breathability when considering what it delivers for weather protection.

Performance Comparison

Weather Protection

We weighed weather protection at 30% of the total score for every softshell jacket we tested. On the Kinetic 2.0, we tested this metric in a couple of ways. First, we wore it for several weeks in the field, using it on everything from multi-day backpacking trips to rock climbing afternoons. Second, we stood under a shower for a full minute to asses the water protection it delivered. At the one-minute mark, we measured the surface area of any wet spots that appeared on the layer we wore underneath. We also sized up how long it took to dry. How? We soaked a one-foot by one-foot section of the Kinetic and then set about drying it with a hair dryer on the no-heat setting. We then took careful note of the time required to return the soaked section to its dry state. Finally, we looked at the jacket's heat retention by measuring the time it took for a water bottle filled with boiling water to dip below 170 degrees Fahrenheit while tucked inside the Kinetic 2.0. After all tests were complete, this softshell came in at the top of the lineup for weather protection.

Rab's Proflex fabric is very water resistant, has taped seams, and keeps water out for a much longer time than most of the lineup, although the fabric wets out quicker than a hardshell with a 3-layer waterproof fabric such as Gore-Tex. Adjustable cuff closures seal out cold drafts around wrists and allow for gloves. The Kinetic is also equipped with a hood featuring a stretchy elastic gasket that gives it an extra effective seal and a single-point rear adjustment — this is an improvement over the Kinetic 1.0, which only featured a small velcro tab for adjusting the hood sizing. This hood is designed to be used underneath a helmet, which is less ideal for weather protection, especially considering this garment focuses on water resistance. Overall, this is the Kinetic 2.0's strongest metric and should be heavily considered if you're seeking a softshell that offers decent protection from the elements.

Breathability

Breathability is one of the most significant reasons to wear a softshell over other types of jackets, so we gave this metric 30% of the total score of the Kinetic 2.0. We tested this metric firstly by spending weeks in the field enjoying high-output activities and taking detailed notes on breathability along the way. To be more objective, we then performed a 45-minute cardio circuit with each layer, after which we measured the surface area of the underlayer's sweat spots. When considering the Kinetic's weather resistance, it scored well in this metric.

We have long joked about hardshell jackets being advertised as “waterproof/breathable” because, in reality, you can typically only choose one. Not so with the Rab Kinetic 2.0. While the water resistance offered by the Proflex is not of the same level as what you might get out of a dedicated hardshell, the breathability that you get is quite good. It helps that this jacket is thin and unlined, so moisture can more easily pass through the fabric's membrane. Worn over a light baselayer, even during aerobic activity, we did not overheat.

The light texturing inside the jacket provides softness such that during exercise, you don't get the clammy feeling that often accompanies a hardshell outer layer. Some users have complained about the lack of pit zips, which are quite a common feature on hardshell jackets to provide an escape for heat and perspiration. However, we found that the Kinetic 2.0 breathed well enough on its own. If unzipping the front zipper by several inches did not do the trick to dump heat, then we were probably moving too fast for a softshell jacket to keep up anyway, and a lighter-weight layer like a windshirt might be more appropriate.

Mobility

We gave mobility 25% of the total score of the Kinetic 2.0. We examined each softshell's mobility by spending several weeks in the field, noting any restriction in movement or excess fabric bunching. We also performed the exact same movements in each jacket, specifically noting where tightness was experienced and how much waistline lift there was. This jacket did very well in this metric.

One of the things that always makes true hardshell jackets feel clumsy and uncomfortable is their diminished mobility. Even when they are supposedly stretch-woven, it still feels like you have to make sure the sizing allows for freedom of movement since you probably won't gain much from the stretch of the fabric alone. That is what makes the Rab Kinetic 2.0 so appealing. You get the benefit of waterproof fabric but don't have to give up the flexibility that a softshell offers. We could not tell the difference in mobility between a similar midweight softshell jacket and this one when it came to running, jumping, hiking, climbing, reaching, or stretching.

Weight

We gave weight 10% of the total score of the Kinetic 2.0. We simply weighed each option and compared our findings. This jacket came in towards the top, meaning it weighed less than most — darn impressive, given its excellent performance otherwise.

With a verified weight of 11.05 ounces in a men's size medium, the Rab Kinetic 2.0 offers excellent performance for its weight. Sure, there are jackets that we have reviewed here that shave several ounces off, but for its weather protection alone, we cannot argue with the fact that Rab has made a top-tier hybrid jacket at a previously unheard-of weight.

Versatility

We gave versatility 5% of the total score of the Kinetic 2.0. We tested this metric by examining the variety of potential uses of each softshell and also trying to layer under or over each option. This model scored fairly well in this metric.

Considering the Rab Kinetic 2.0 is like getting two jackets in one, with one offering excellent wet weather protection and the other giving you top-notch mobility and breathability for high-output activities, we feel like this is quite a versatile jacket. It didn't offer as much breathability as some other options, making it less ideal for warm-weather activities, but it delivered well in all other metrics for a standout final package.

Should You Buy the Rab Kinetic 2.0?

We feel that this jacket is not just good, but a great value. You get a softshell jacket with better water resistance than the competition. For the price, we heartily recommend it. Hybrid products can often leave us wanting, and sacrifices are made to give more attention to one aspect of the combination than the other. But once in a blue moon, something like the Rab Kinetic 2.0 comes along and delivers on both promises, being both water resistant and breathable.

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