What is the Nebula Pro?
You'd be forgiven for thinking the Nebula looks like a down jacket. It looks, feels and performs extremely similarly, however, the main difference is the Nebula features a fully synthetic insulation, making it a brilliant jacket for our typically wet and cold UK mountain conditions.
What is it made of?
Insulation: Starting with what gives the Nebula its warmth, Rab use their completely synthetic and fully recycled Cirrus HL (high loft) insulation to ensure warmth in almost all conditions. Down is still the lightest and warmest insulation available, however, it can't deal with wet conditions, rendering it almost useless if the heavens open and you're stuck without a shell. The Nebula Pro, on the other hand, will retain around 90% of its warmth, even when soaking wet, making it a far more versatile option for those who are after a do-it-all jacket for cold, damp conditions. This latest variant of Cirrus feels more like down than ever before; it lofts similarly and has that 'light and fluffy' feel. As well as this, it's fully recycled, so not only are you getting a fantastic jacket but one with environmental credentials to match.
You'll notice that the fabric looks flatter in places — this is because Rab have used their Stratus sheet insulation in areas which are prone to moisture and abrasion (such as the shoulders). Sheet insulation maintains its warmth even better in wet conditions and is more durable when compacted, i.e. when wearing a rucksack.
Fabrics: Surrounding the insulation is a fully recycled Pertex Quantum Pro ripstop outer fabric which slides under additional layers easily and feels far softer than the previous Nebula, yet somehow doesn't compromise on durability. Not only does this feel far better, but exudes a quality feel that reassures you that you're wearing a meticulously engineered piece of UK-designed kit. If you choose to use the Nebula as an outer layer, the Pertex Quantum Pro outer fabric is water and wind-resistant, providing an adequate amount of protection for general mountainous conditions. The fabric used on the inner of the jacket is a lighter, softer yet still fully recycled Atmos fabric.
What are the features?
As always, the feature list is long with the Nebula and includes some essential additions to make life in the hills or town that much more enjoyable. A helmet-compatible hood allows you to slip a climbing helmet underneath comfortably, yet includes all the various adjustment points to cinch the hood down when you're not wearing a helmet. Part elasticated cuffs with velcro adjustment points easily fit gloves or mitts underneath, while an internal security pocket stores essential items such as a phone, keys or change; two zipped hand pockets offer additional storage. Lastly, a two-way YKK main zip can be unzipped from the lower or upper of the Nebula, meaning it will fit over a climbing harness when belaying.
How does it fit?
As an insulating layer, it is designed to be a close, snug fit, yet features enough room to layer up underneath on the particularly chilly days. The Nebula Pro uses Rab's 'Regular Fit' so this means you'll have a bit of wiggle room, so it'll easily fit an extra layer or two on underneath.
Where does it fit in the layering system?
It works perfectly well as a standalone jacket on those crisp, dry, freezing days or as a cosy casual jacket. It's probably a little too warm to wear as a midlayer here in the UK, but you can pop a shell over the top if the weather dictates. Layering is not a precise science and there is no one perfect system that will suit every person, situation or the weather conditions. Some of us feel the cold, others, like me, get hot very quickly, but for more advice on using layers please check out this video.
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Recycled inner and outer fabrics
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New High Loft Cirrus insulation (recycled)
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Two hand pockets
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One internal security pocket
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Stratus insulation in high-wear areas
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Helmet-compatible hood
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Two-way main zip
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Wind & water-resistant (not waterproof)