3/31/26

Patagonia vs. Rab - Which one?

These two jackets are top choices when it comes to puffer jackets, and there's not a whole lot that's different between the two of them. There really isn't even one that's better than the other objectively. But I have one that I like better, and I'm going to tell you all about them. I'm starting with Patagonia because I really like this jacket. It feels like the kind of jacket you can buy, wear for 10 years, and never worry about. And if it ever did need repairs, Patagonia designs their stuff with repairability in mind. Also, Patagonia has a reputation for building "bomb-proof" clothing and for caring a little bit more about the environment and the impact that their clothes have on it, which is kind of nice peace of mind. Even though this jacket comes at a premium, there's one more thing the Patagonia is better at than the Rab, and that is packability. It packs down to this clever little breast pocket inside the jacket, and I think that's just a nice touch. I'll be honest, I'm a little bit partial towards Patagonia because I just love everything of theirs I've ever bought. That's why it's weird that I like the Rab better. Although the Rab does the best in wet weather thanks to its fancy hydrophobic coating, it doesn't even have a stuff sack or a clever pocket for it to pack into. I mean, I literally have to pack it into its hood. And it has a left-handed zipper, which is annoying because most of my jackets are right-handed zippers, and I'm an American, so we do things on the right side over here. But all those things are nitpicks. And even though the Patagonia is a better jacket overall, there is one silly reason why I wear the Rab a lot more. And it's because everyone owns something from Patagonia. And whenever I wear something from Rab or a lesser known brand, I feel like I'm more in the know, or cooler, or wearing something that's just less popular makes me more legit. I don't know. It's really weird. But I wear this jacket a lot more and I like it more. I think literally just because of that. And saying that out loud makes me kind of feel uncomfortable, but it's the truth. So, if you're like me and you want the very best jacket, get the Patagonia down sweater. But if you're like me and you want to feel cool, get the Rab Microlight Alpine. If you like this video, check out my channel. And if you want to come along, subscribe. But either way, I'm stoked you're here. And I'll see you next time. (talking to dog) And now we get to go. Are you excited?

Previous

Hiking shoes vs. Trail runners - Which one?

Next

Outdoor Research Foray 3L Rain Jacket - Short Review