There Are Pandas, and Then There Are Pandas.
And this isn't either of them! The Pandas we're talking about here, are watches, not bears. And what got me thinking about them (again) was a link posted this morning by @cm.rook who pointed a few of us to the very attractive (and not terribly priced) Yema "Rallygraph" Panda which, in it's most traditional arrangement, looks like the one on the left, but can also be had in the version on the right: The model on the left is a true Panda, while the model on the right is called a reverse Panda. The reason for that distinction is clear--Panda bears, only come in the first arrangement. Now at this point, everyone should be thinking about the most well-know Panda, The Rolex Panda, which is actually a Daytona, and among Rolex Daytonas, the most famous of which is the Paul Newman Daytona, which was famous first, because it was Paul's, and second because it sold at auction for $17.8 million (US Dollars). The story of that auction is well-known so I'll only...
Nov 8, 2019
We are ecstatic to announce our first collaboration with Rab, probably best known for their high-end performance waterproof and down jackets. We've been working with them since the early days of our Ultralight Community here, with tremendous community response based on the high quality, excellent fit, top-end materials and focused design.
Rab came out with the Kinetic Plus last year, quickly winning numerous awards, accolades and top reviews. Check out the Editors' Choice Award for Backpacker Magazine: https://www.backpacker.com/gear/rab-kinetic-plus-jacket
If you're looking for a superb waterproof shell, but are looking for something comfortable and subtle in appearance, this is it. This rain jacket is very unlike most rain jackets you've tried - it is not shiny, loud, or stiff. It's breathability is at the highest end of what's possible for a rain jacket. it's quiet when you walk, subtle in looks, and super stretchy. It moves with you, rather than either restricting you or being too bulky. This jacket excels spring/summer/fall with it's focus on breathability, slim fit and minimalist feature set, yet it can be used all year round.
While we love the Kinetic Plus, we worked with Rab to come up with a more minimalist version for our Massdrop members. What we've changed:
1) Removed the hand pockets, and replaced with a hidden zippered chest pocket. This saves weight and makes it pack down smaller, but perhaps more importantly is that it increases breathability. Every pocket means there is a double layer of fabric, which inhibits breathability. Also, hand pockets can be difficult to access when wearing a backpack or harness. Handily, the jacket packs into the chest pocket for easy carry.
2) Removed the velcro wrist closures. Again, saves weight and space, but also slightly increases breathability while removing a complexity we don't feel is necessary with a stretch shell.
3) New colorway of all-black for men and women, and the slate/salmon for men. Delivery Time: Right now, we're conservatively expecting an April 2018 delivery for this, which is perfect time for it's intended use. We're working to get that delivery date moved up meaningfully and I'll periodically update you all throughout the production process.
A note on fit: Rab clothing is known for their athletic cut, with slightly longer torso and arms for unrestrained motion. This jacket is particularly slim, which works because the fabric is so danged stretchy. However, it is not designed for layering over much clothing. It should fit over a light to mid-weight baselayer, and that's about it. If you're looking for something to layer over a puffy jacket or just prefer a more relaxed fit, please size up.
From Rab: "Our Slim Fit garments are designed to be worn closer to the body or over layers such as base-layers and light mid-layers. Close fitting for maximum performance when moving dynamically." https://rab.equipment/us/kinetic-plus-jacket