Kate from our Bristol Store, recently had the chance to test the Rab Cirrus Alpine Flex Jacket, a Do It All Synthetic Insulated Jacket
Recently, I was lucky enough to be given a Rab Cirrus Flex to test. Rab’s Cirrus Flex aims to be the go-to synthetic jacket for year-round adventures – light, breathable, and warm enough to see you through anything from breezy summer summits to crisp autumn evenings.
I already own and love my Microlight Alpine Jacket (The Cirrus Jackets Down filled cousion), and I was curious to see how the Cirrus Flex stacks up in comparison. I used this jacket throughout the summer and into the colder autumn months, and was very impressed.
Im 5’6’’ and pretty consistently a size 12 or a medium. I got the Cirrus Flex in a 12 and found that it fitted perfectly both on its own and over a fleece. The stretchy panels that run down the sides are intended to help with breathability and reduce bulk. However, I found that they also helped improve the overall fit of the jacket. Initially, I found that when I raised my arms, the jacket would move with them, but once I tightened the drawcord, the issue resolved.
I found the length of the sleeves to be perfect, but I do have somewhat short arms, so if you are on the taller end of the spectrum, do be aware of this. I had enough room for both my shoulders and hips, even with a few layers underneath, something I often struggle with in other women’s insulated jackets.
Rab describes the jacket as “the ultimate year-round synthetic insulation” and “versatile enough to accompany you on any mountain adventure, either as an outer in the warmer months or as an insulating layer when the temperatures drop” The jacket utilises high-lofting PrimaLoft® Silver RISE insulation and larger baffles that allow the insulation to loft more and retain more heat, creating a very warm and yet packable jacket.
The outer fabric is a lightweight 20D Pertex quantum fabric that allows the insulation to loft fully and trap more heat. The hood sits close and tight around the face, allowing it to be worn under a helmet without being restrictive. Additionally, the articulated sleeves allow for easy movement, especially when combined with the stretchy side panels.
I’ve used this jacket on a variety of trips throughout the year, but it truly excelled on a short overnight backpacking trip to Dartmoor, where its small pack size-to-weight ratio was handy. I was initially apprehensive about taking a ligherweight synthetic jacket as opposed to my beloved microlight (my usual pick for chilly backpacking trips).
Still, I found the Cirrus Flex to be more than warm enough and will continue using it until the weather gets properly cold. The main reason I was so keen to test the Cirrus Flex was for its superior performance when wet compared to down-insulated jackets. I spend a lot of my time in either a kayak or a canoe, and have always been hesitant to wear my microlight for fear of getting it wet.
However, I wore this jacket in a variety of damp and windy conditions, including a particularly windy day on the coast, and I stayed warm and dry. It was also my jacket of choice for climbing. The jacket sits comfortably under a harness and helmet and does not impede movement.
As for weaknesses with the jacket, I struggle to find any real or substantial issues. Whilst the style of hood is not necessarily my favourite, it fits well and serves its purpose.
If you’re after a lightweight, breathable, and packable insulation piece that performs in mixed conditions, the Rab Cirrus Flex is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for active adventures and changeable climates. For deep winter warmth or extreme wind protection, you might want to layer it up – but as a versatile, go-anywhere midlayer, it’s hard to beat, and I’ll be keeping it in my backpack as an emergency layer this autumn and winter.
Want to check out the Rab Cirrus Flex for yourself? Check the links below
