Rab Infinity Jacket Review

Every once in awhile, a piece of gear comes along that really stands head and shoulders above the rest. Whether it addresses some lacking functionality not found in similar products, or just does what it’s supposed to do really, really, really well. The Rab Infinity fits into the latter category, being an incredibly light, extremely warm jacket that’s at home on everything from winter rock climbing outings to all-day alpine endeavors.

Our local winter crag gets sun much of the day, but some of the routes start to get shade around 2pm. Inevitably, we get caught squeezing in one more pitch when the sun ducks around the corner. It’s amazing how fast the air temperature drops, but thankfully the Infinity has been keeping me snug as bug in a rug, while my partner has to suffer through climbing and cleaning the last pitch in the shade.

The shell is Pertex Quantum, which is light but durable, and offers some weather resistance as well. The down is 850 fill, which is about the highest quality insulation out there, offering unparalleled warmth. Unlike some so-called climbing specific jackets, the hood on this one comfortably fits over helmet, making it easy to fully retreat into the warmth it provides. The cut is a little shorter than you’ll find on many insulating jackets, meaning you can throw it on while wearing a harness and it wont get in the way of climbing, belaying, etc. Styling it around town it might feel a bit strange, as it doesn’t come down as far as what you might be used to, but in the field it performs like it should.

Despite being a rather large puffy, it packs down very small thanks to the Pertex fabric and the high quality down. On my ice climbing missions this winter, it’s been a trusty companion, offering the perfect warmth-to-weight ratio, and I never think twice about throwing it into my pack. In fact, just last week, I was belaying at the base of a fantastic ice route, looking out on the winter landscape, thinking that people who complain about being cold ice climbing should get an Infinity, and they might just change their mind.

Retail is $299.95. For full tech specs, visit the Rab website.

Disclaimer: This product was provided to SplitterChoss.com for the purpose of reviewing. Don’t worry, though, our integrity can’t be bought!