[Closed] Rab Spark Jacket ?

I've got the non climbing version with a smaller hood, same material though and virtually identical. Just used it for a months ski mountaineering and so far it is looking pretty positive. The fit is very good, the slight stretch means it is super comfortable, to the point you don't know it is on. To be honest I can't fault it. No sign of wear from sac or from ski abrasions. Very breathable and warmer than you would imagine.

Long term I don't know however I have had several superlight waterproofs and they have all lasted far longer than expected. They generally go on specific small areas which means a bit of duct tape on the inside gets a bit more life from them.

Hi Kormoran - Good to hear, thanks. It does seem very thin but claims to be 100% windproof. I really like the fit for cycling and strech of the material.

Take a look at sportpursuit. I just bought an arcteryx alpha fl for £175 which is only a little more than that

Yes it is very windproof, it is a strange experience to put on in a gale, you don't think it will do a lot but it is very effective. I think the fit helps a lot, absolutely no flapping or baggyness. I generally have it over a primaloft type jacket and it feels like it is part of it.

Not used it on a bike but agree it would be good - long back and sleeves

Ms Kormoran has a Patagonia in a virtually identical material of similar weight and thinks pretty much the same.

Previous jackets have generally gone under the waist belt area but never the shoulders. One went on the neck at the base of the hood, and one around a pocket. All small areas easily patched though. I am generally using them for ski mountaineering and backpacking. To be honest I can't remember the last time I wore anything heavier - I gave my last gore tex pro jacket away as it just didn't get used

great fit. feels great. has lasted a long time.

but the fabric wets out quickly in heavy scottish rain. even reproofing has not made perfect.

It does seem very thin but claims to be 100% windproof.

Pertex Shield+ uses a PU membrane, and has taped seams, like most waterproofs. Anything with such a membrane is completely windproof and in practice as waterproof as anything else out there. Only thing that will make you get wet is (other than the obvious ingress through the openings at the head and sleeves) condensation when you are working hard or if the membrane gets damaged. Lightweight materials won't last forever on a biking jacket due to pack abrasion and crashes, but this is as good as any. Certainly not the most breathable membrane waterproof on the market, but for biking (nothing waterproof is really breathable enough when you are working hard) I'd say go for it if you like the cut etc and the price is right. Rab make great stuff, generally.