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 Rab Vapour Rise Smock
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Rab Vapour Rise Smock
More about Rab
Average Rating: 5 out of 5
No. of Reviews: 7
RRP: £90
Year: 2003

Description: Pertex shell with micro-fleece lining

 REVIEWS
 
1 to 7 of 7 reviews, to post a review you need to be a member - Join now. 
David Cordner 
Posted: 25/06/07
'SIMPLY GREAT'
Strengths:
Warm when wet
No need for base layer
Really comfortable
Very Light
Weaknesses:
Snug fit is great but if you do want to wear a base layer, I'd suggest trying a size bigger than normal.
Overall:
I love this bit of kit. I am sweaty on the hills and I have tried all types of different layering systems and materials. This is definitly the one for me!
 
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Shaun Edwards 
Posted: 09/02/07
'FANTASTIC - THE ONE ITEM THAT ALWAYS GETS WORN OR TAKEN'
Strengths:
Its light weight, has the right level on insulation - not too warm or cold and has great breathability and venting.
I've got the smock which also has a built in hood which is handy as I don't always carry a hat.
Weaknesses:
Quite pricey for what it is. I got mine for £55 in the Cotswold sale which makes it a steal.
I do miss the small chest pocket from the old version as
it was just the right size for a compass!
SIZING - I had to get a large, I'm normally medium - so try it on before buying
Overall:
I had the previous version of this which went on the round the world trip. It has a nice level of insulation and is very breathable. It also does a pretty good job of keeping the water off. When it does get wet it tries very quickly.

The newer version has lots of improvements.
Better fitting collar - the old one was flappy - also has an integral hood.
Two large mesh side pockets which also act as great ventilation.
Wider cuff with velcro - the old one was just elastic and a bit tight.
 
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Overall Rating
 
87%
 
Stephen Burrows 
Posted: 16/08/06
'EXCELLENT - GREAT PIECE OF KIT'
Strengths:
Very comfortable, great active fit, just windproof enough to keep you warm, but not hot enough to overheat you. I wear mine next to my skin in summer and with a base layer in winter, it performs well both ways.
Weaknesses:
None really.
Overall:
Great piece of kit for climbing or walking. I've had mine for 2 years, using it most weekends and it still looks new.
 
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JocK mcallister 1 
Posted: 25/05/06
'LOVE IT!'
Strengths:
Lightweight,
Very breathable,
warm,
cool,
water resistant,
quick drying,
Weaknesses:
Rab sizing a wee bit funny as usual.
Overall:
Very good, virutually sticks to me all year.
 
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Crazy old Ben 
Posted: 16/03/06
'MY NEW BEST FRIEND! (FULL LENGTH ZIP VERSION)'
Strengths:
Wired peak on the hood with exellent peripheral vision
Extremely light
Very warm
Pockets double as vents (very effective)
The micro fleece lining feels very comfortable
Water resistant!
Weaknesses:
This jacket doesn't come with weaknesses
Overall:
After a lot of looking around for a suitable softshell this stood out. It has the zip away hood, ventilation and the thermal capacity.
I couldnt find another jacket with all of those specs and good ratings to go with them.
I recently had 40min walk with strong winds and sleety snow to go with it (4˚C), i was both warm and dry
The value is well worth the money but I bought mine in a sale :D
 
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Richard Hilliard 
Posted: 30/03/05
'Great, I use it all year round for virtually everything!'
Strengths:
Windproof and very water resistant. The pertex outer works really well. Even when the jacket wets out it dries very quickly.
Weaknesses:
Maybe a couple of handwarmer pockets wouldn't go a miss but its a minor detail.
Overall:
This jacket I take on all outings, whether its used as a base layer in the winter or a 'just-in-case' jacket in the summer, I don't know what I'd do without it! In the summer it wicks very well and is great for when the wind is just a little too chilling. It can be vented very effectively through the use of the double zips and chest pocket. For the winter it can be worn next to the skin, the microfleece lining is very comfortable.

I recently cycled home (about 30 mins)in driving rain and was very impressed. After having it for over a year the DWR finish definitely needs replacing, however the jacket performed remarkably well, I didn't get wet and it dried very quickly, once out of the rain of course!

Overall if it ever wears out, I hopr that rab continue to make a version of it, as i would definitley make another purchase.
 
Performance
 
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Value
 
80%
Overall Rating
 
93%
 
Alun Bull 
Posted: 30/09/05
'THE BUSINESS.'
Strengths:
Exremely comfortable top that dries incredibly quickly, even after swimming in it!
Weaknesses:
None that I can think of and I'm fussy.
Overall:
I highly recommend this top for skiing and mountain biking. The hood fits a treat under helmets for both these sports and seems then to add the warmth of another layer of clothing.
 
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 MY REVIEW
 
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