Review: RAB Cirrus Ultra Hooded Jacket

My new favourite jacket.

Feature type Review

Read time 4 min read

Published Jan 21, 2025

Author Sam Firth

Sam Firth Sam is an outdoor, sports and lifestyle photographer based in Devon. He feels most at home outdoors whether that’s on a bike, on foot or on a rock face.

OUR VERDICT

My new favourite jacket. Warm, packable and full of features!

Features PrimaLoft® ThermoPlume®+ Insulation with hidden TILT lining technology for additional warmth; Pertex® Quantum outer 2-way lightweight; YKK® VISLON® centre front zip; Packs away into its own pocket; Helmet compatible hood
Weight 548g/19.3oz (Size M)

Pros

  • Great warmth to weight ratio
  • Packs away easily into its pocket
  • Plenty of pockets
  • Good sustainability credentials

Cons

  • None so far!

WHAT I’M LOOKING FOR

Living in the UK I’m always on the hunt for warm, synthetically-filled jackets for their thermal properties when wet. I particularly get excited when a jacket like the Cirrus Ultra comes along that features some interesting new technologies and is packed full of features.

When it comes to features, like most people, I look for an insulated jacket with a good warmth-to-weight ratio. I don’t want something that’s too bulky as I like to be able to use it as part of a layering system; so it needs to fit comfortably under a waterproof jacket, whilst being able to also fit layers underneath. Additional features I look for are a nice selection of pockets, the ability to pack it away into a pocket or stuff sack and also a nice big cosy hood.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

When this jacket was announced I was really excited to test it out. It’s packed with really interesting technology and boasted great warmth to weight ratio due to the new PrimaLoft® ThermoPlume®+ Insulation which is designed to closely mimic down in its lofting properties.

When it comes to fit I went for a medium (my normal size). I definitely could have gone for a small which would have provided a more snug fit. However I wanted something I could use as part of a layering system, with the ability to wear a few layers underneath if it got really cold.

Straight away I was impressed by all the features of the jacket – from the abundance of pockets, the two-way zip, the stash pocket, the highly adjustable helmet compatible hood…the list goes on.

THE TEST

It’s fair to say I was impressed by the Cirrus Ultra from the moment I got it and was really looking forward to getting out and testing it.

Apart from a few local walks the first big test of the jacket was a cold wet trip to the Lake District. Throughout the 4 days I was in the Lakes I barely took this jacket off. It was warm, comfortable and even held up well during some of the wetter days. I was really impressed by how warm it actually was for its weight; this could be down to the PrimaLoft® ThermoPlume®+ insulation and the TILT lining. TILT (Thermo Ionic Lining Technology) essentially reflects body heat back towards the wearer, which keeps you warmer for longer.

While the Cirrus Ultra isn’t waterproof (and doesn’t intend to be) the Pertex Quantum outer with DWR coating did a great job of repelling the odd shower and even if the jacket does get wet, the synthetic insulation will still perform well unlike a lot of down jackets. Whilst technically the jacket does fine in the wet, I’d always make sure to put a waterproof layer over the top in the heavier rain and due to the jacket not being super bulky, a waterproof layer fits well over the top.

One feature I found myself really appreciating was the two-way zip as it allowed me to open the jacket from the bottom to provide some airflow if I was getting a bit warm. If I did get too warm the Cirrus Ultra was easy to pack away into a backpack due to the fact you could stash it away into its own pocket.

Overall as I’m sure you can gather, I have been really impressed with this jacket and can see myself wearing it a lot going forward. There’s no wonder it won Outdoor Clothing Winner – The OIA Winter Award (2024).

WHO IS THIS ITEM FOR?

As previously mentioned I’ve become a big fan of this jacket and it’s quickly become a go-to for anytime I need a warm outer layer. One of the reasons I like it so much is due to its versatility and the fact it lends itself well to a lot of outdoor activities, from a day out in the mountains or a countryside walk to belaying someone whilst climbing. Therefore I’d recommend this jacket to anyone looking for a warm, highly versatile jacket that’s ideal for the cold wet winters here in the UK.

WHAT STANDS OUT?

Packed with Features

The Cirrus Ultra is packed with useful features

Great Warmth-to-Weight Ratio

The jacket is warm whilst not being heavy and bulky

Quality

In typical RAB fashion this jacket is really well made and feels like it’s built to last

Sustainability

The Cirrus Ultra is made out of predominantly recycled materials

VALUE FOR MONEY

At £230 the Cirrus Ultra isn’t a ‘cheap’ jacket but comparing it to other jackets at a similar price such as the Montane Icarus (£200) I definitely think it’s worth the money for how well it performs and with all the features and technology it’s packed with.

BASE BOTTOM LINE

Overall I’ve been really impressed with the Cirrus Ultra and it’s become a go-to anytime I’m heading out in the cold; whether that’s a day in the hills or just heading into town. Its great warmth-to-weight ratio, impressive feature set and ability to handle wet conditions make it a solid choice for anyone in need of a versatile insulated jacket for the colder months.

Looking to keep yourself warm and cosy on the hill?

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