The Inferno Shield Hoodie, as the name suggests, cooks up an inferno of heat and is perfect for all activities in cold and wet conditions. The jacket has been designed to cope with cold and wet conditions and has a load of practical features to make it perfectly capable of dealing with the wear and tear of the outdoor environment.
Rab have used their own Pyrotec 100% recycled synthetic fibre to provide insulation in the harshest environments. Pyrotec has a multi-denier construction that resists compression yet packs down easily. The fibres themselves are hydrophobic, so they absorb very little water and dry out exceptionally quickly. The Inferno Shield uses different weights of fabric to maximise warmth, breathability and practicality; the main body uses 80g/m² and the sleeves and hood use 60g/m². To protect the insulation from the elements Rab have used Pertex Shield; this breathable microporous waterproof coating combines wind and water protection whilst reducing condensation build up to keep you dry and comfortable in the worst of the weather.
The main zip is a YKK AquaGuard zip that is highly water resistant and runs smoothly even in freezing condition and is backed up dual insulated baffles to prevent cold spots. The hand warmer pockets also feature the YKK Aquaguard zips; none of the pockets are completely waterproof, so if you have items that must be kept dry (mobile phone or GPS) protect them with a waterproof case or bag. An internal zipped map pocket completes the storage capabilities and is also perfect for storing water bottles to stop them freezing.
Rab have used their superb hood design for the fully helmet compatible fixed hood. The hood may be able to accommodate a mountaineering helmet but it adjusts to fit your head comfortably and features a flexible polymer peak to stop it flapping around your face. I really like the Rab hood design, it works with all headgear without being too big and baggy.
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Pertex Shield 2 layer waterproof and taped outer fabric
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100% nylon ripstop lining
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100% recycled polyester Pyrotec insulation - 80g/m² body, 60g/m² arms/hood
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Helmet compatible hood with flexible polymer peak and Velcro tab roll down feature
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2 way YKK Aquaguard main zip with dual insulated internal baffle
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2 YKK Aquaguard zipped hand warmer pockets
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1 large map sized internal zipped pocket
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Velcro cuff adjustment
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Hem drawcord
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Reflective trim
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Regular fit
Care and maintenance
To keep your outdoor clothing and equipment in tip top condition and performing to its maximum we recommend the use of Nikwax products. We have been using Nikwax products since day one (26th March 1986) and have found them to be totally reliable, dependable and effective. Today’s Nikwax treatments contain environmentally friendly elastic water-repellent polymers that bond to fabric fibres, leaving the spaces between open and breathable. These stretchy polymers are able to stretch and move with the fabric so they stay put for longer and work better.
Nikwax treatments will not change the look or feel of the fabric and they are all water based, environmentally safe, non-flammable and contain no nasty Fluorocarbons. Nikwax products can be used to clean, re-proof and revitalise all your outdoor technical clothing and equipment.
Waterproof breathable clothing has a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish applied to the face fabric during the manufacturing process. The DWR forces water to bead up and roll off the surface therefore preventing the fabric from absorbing moisture. If the outside of your jacket is soaked in a layer of cold water, the warm damp air within can’t escape and will condense on the inside. This makes the jacket feel cold clammy and can make you think that it’s leaking. The DWR finish is not permanent and needs to be maintained and revitalised to optimise performance.
This three layer waterproof jacket should be cleaned regularly with Nikwax Tech Wash; I wash my jacket about once a month, or more often if it gets really filthy. Regular washing with Tech Wash will maintain the DWR for longer and remove salts and oils that can contaminate the fabric, and it will keep your lovely jacket clean and smelling fresh. Washing can be done in a machine according to the manufacturers care guidelines (on the internal label). First clean out any detergent and conditioner residue from the machine dispenser and then add the required amount of Tech Wash and away you go. Hand washing is also suitable but be sure to rinse the garment well.
When you notice that rain/water is no longer beading up and rolling off it’s time to re-proof. Nikwax TX Direct will re-instate a long lasting DWR to completely rejuvenate your jacket. Re-proofing can also be done in the machine once a garment has been washed. Just add the TX-Direct and use the same programme you used for washing. You can also use the spray-on product on a damp garment that has just been washed.
You wouldn’t buy a Ferrari and never have it serviced, so make sure you regularly wash and re-proof your quality kit.