Rab

Rab is a British brand renowned for its high-quality outdoor apparel and equipment, specifically designed for climbing and mountaineering. Founded in 1981 by Scottish climber Rab Carrington, the company has its roots deeply embedded in the personal experiences and adventures of its founder.

History & Founding Rab Carrington's journey into the world of outdoor equipment began somewhat serendipitously. During an expedition to Patagonia in 1973, he found himself stranded without his gear due to a dock strike that prevented his equipment from being shipped from Liverpool. This mishap led him to spend six months in Argentina, where he learned the craft of making sleeping bags. Upon his return to the UK, he settled in Sheffield, drawn by its proximity to the Peak District, and started hand-stitching and selling sleeping bags from his attic. The demand for his quality sleeping bags grew, prompting the establishment of the Rab brand and the expansion of production to a factory in Sheffield.

Product Range Rab's product line has evolved over the years to include not only sleeping bags but also insulated jackets, waterproof jackets, base layers, and tents. The brand is particularly noted for its down jackets and expedition wear, which are designed with cold weather and challenging environments in mind. Rab utilizes European goose and duck down, which is certified to the Responsible Down Standard, ensuring ethical sourcing and animal welfare. Additionally, a fluorocarbon-free water repellence treatment is applied to the down used in their clothing and sleeping bags to reduce water saturation and maintain insulation performance.

Innovation & Sustainability Innovation is at the heart of Rab's philosophy. The brand continually seeks to improve and refine its products, ensuring they meet the needs of climbers and mountaineers. Rab's commitment to sustainability is evident in their efforts to produce durable gear that withstands the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacement and minimizing environmental impact. They are also working towards making their sustainability claims more accessible and transparent through Material Facts tables for every product.

Community & Culture Rab is more than just a brand; it's a community of mountain enthusiasts and adventurers. They foster this spirit through initiatives like The Mountain People Podcast, which shares inspiring stories from athletes and mountain lovers worldwide. The Rab Lab is another platform where the brand demystifies the technology behind their gear, helping customers understand the science that keeps them protected in the outdoors.

Legacy & Future Since Rab Carrington's retirement in 2007, the company has continued to uphold his legacy of quality and innovation. Now a subsidiary of Equip Outdoor Technologies, Rab remains a leading name in the outdoor industry, driven by a passion for the mountains and a commitment to equipping adventurers with gear that enables them to face the elements with confidence.

In summary, Rab stands as a testament to the spirit of adventure, the pursuit of quality, and the importance of sustainability in the outdoor industry. It's a brand that has grown from one man's problem-solving in the mountains to a globally recognized name, synonymous with reliability and performance in the most demanding conditions.