Rab Xenon 2.0 Review

The Rab Xenon 2.0features some of the latest and greatest in "green" apparel manufacturing. It is insulated with 100% post-consumer recycled materials, meaning no raw materials were needed to create the lofty warmth it offers. Another notable feature is that the durable water repellent coating is fluorocarbon free. Not only is this a jacket consumers can feel good about buying, but it is also a highly functional insulating layer that competes with many models in our review.

Performance Comparison

Warmth

The Xenon 2.0 is a lightweight option that provides a great deal of warmth, especially when you consider how lightweight it is. When we paired it with a base layer and a fleece mid-layer, we could be out and about in below-freezing temperatures without much issue. If you plan to be sedentary for long stretches of time in sub-freezing temps, you'll likely want something bulkier, which can provide more warmth.

Weight and Compressibility

With our size medium weighing in at 12.4 ounces, we wouldn't call it ultralight; however, unless you are a serious ounce counter, the Xenon is plenty light enough for just about any adventure. It compresses down to about the size of an acorn squash and stuffs into its own pocket. It has a sewn-on clip-in loop which makes it convenient to clip to the back of a harness or to the outside of a backpack.

Comfort

The Xenon 2.0 has an athletic fit. It has room in the shoulders and a slight taper through the waist. The wrist cuffs are elasticized, which makes it easy to pull on and off over other layers. The fit is large enough to accommodate a thin base and mid-layer but isn't overly roomy. Conversely, this jacket layers underneath a hardshell quite well.

Our biggest complaint is the lack of stretch. For the most part, the cut of the jacket makes it comfortable to move around in but when moving your arms overhead, the shoulders start to feel pretty tight.

Weather Resistance

We typically don't expect much weather resistance from lightweight insulation layers. The Xenon 2.0 offers good wind resistance and is adequate for cold, blustery days.

The biggest advantage of synthetic insulation over down is its ability to keep insulating even when wet. That being said, standing around in a soggy jacket is not ideal or recommended. The outer shell provides some water resistance but won't keep you dry in a full-on deluge. If the precipitation really starts coming down, you'll want to throw on a proper hardshell over this layer.

Breathability

While the Xenon 2.0 keeps out the wind, it also traps in moisture given off from perspiration. Our testers found the breathability of this jacket to be lacking. When we tested it while hiking and backpacking for extended periods of time, it left us damp and sweaty.

Value

While it's not the highest-performing jacket we tested, it's a decent choice. It also sells for less than most of the options that outperformed it. Unless breathability is your absolute highest priority, the Xenon 2.0 is a worthy purchase.

Conclusion