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A heavy-duty waterproof shell built for prolonged bad weather and technical mountain use.
Rab says:
Highly technical shell offering guides and dedicated alpinists the unflinching protection and reassurance they need to operate all day in tough conditions. With 3-layer Pertex® Shield and ascent-specific features, it's made for weather-beaten climbs.
Our Verdict
At 575g (UK 12), the Firewall Guide Jacket is a substantial shell, but that weight comes with 40D 3-layer Pertex Shield construction, a 20,000mm hydrostatic head, and a much more protective feature set. This is the jacket I’d reach for if I expected to spend most of the day in persistent rain, rather than carrying it for changeable conditions.
I’m 6ft 1in and found the Large fitted well, with enough room for bulkier winter layers. The hood adjustment is particularly good, including an externally adjustable face cinch, which I always prefer.
Four external pockets, two internal pockets and fully venting pit zips make the extra weight easier to justify. I also like the RECCO reflector: a small built-in reflector that search and rescue teams can easily detect, which, like the rest of the jacket’s construction, is confidence-inspiring.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Features
- 3-layer Pertex® Shield for ultimate durability on technical ascents
- Integrated RECCO® reflector, a passive transponder searchable to professional rescuers in the event of avalanche or outdoor emergency
- Ascent helmet-compatible 3-point hood with concealed internal cord locks and single-handed adjustment for ease of use
- Stiffened and flexible polymer peak for increased weather protection
- 4 external pockets (2 x chest / 2 x hand) using YKK® AquaGuard® zips
- Internal mesh stuff pocket and internal zipped security pocket
- 2-way fully venting pit zips using YKK® AquaGuard® zips and haptic pullers
- 2-way YKK® VISLON® AquaGuard® centre front zip with lower snap fastener and fleece-lined chin guard for comfort
- Sleeve articulation for freedom of movement and arm lift
- Extended, shaped cuffs with hook-and-loop adjustment for fit with gloves or mitts
- Dual-sided rear hem adjustment with single-handed adjustment
Specifications
- XSmall (UK 08) weighs: 523g
- Small (UK 10) weighs: 545g
- Medium (UK 12) weighs:575 g
- Large (UK 14) weighs: 596g
- Fit: Regular
- Centre back length: (Size 10) 73cm
- HH: 20,000mm
- MVTR: 20,000 g/m2/24hrs
Material & Construction
- 40D Pertex® Shield 3-Layer construction waterproof technology with fluorocarbon-free DWR (148g/m²)
- 100% Polyamide Laminated Woven Jacket Womens
Help & advice:
- About Rab
- Rab Sustainability and Responsibility
- Choosing a Shell Jacket
- Why is 'PFC Free' Important?
- MVTR and Breathability Explained
- What is Hydrostatic Head?
- What is Fabric Denier?
- Time-Saver Guide to Choosing a Waterproof Jacket
- Time-Saver Guide to PFC Free
- What is PERTEX Shield?
- Pertex Shield Technology Explained
- Rab New Pertex Shield Waterproof Range
