The Rab Expedition 8000 Suit is confidently the warmest suit in existence. It is designed for the coldest areas this earth has to offer, whether that's summiting Kangchenjunga or visiting Polar regions.
Starting with the most important aspect of the suit (the insulation), Rab hand stuff a whopping 778g of the highest quality 850 fill power goose down into baffles which are also stitched by hand here in the UK. This down is then treated with a Fluorocarbon-free DWR (durable water repellent) coating to allow the down to retain more warmth when wet. Each expedition suit is hand stitched and stuffed in Rab's own factory, meaning the attention to detail and accuracy of the garments are second to none (see video below).
Surrounding all of this toasty insulation is a Pertex Endurance fabric; this outer fabric is completely windproof, water resistant and highly breathable. It's one of the lightest, most reliable and durable fabrics available and is commonly used throughout insulated garments as it provides a lightweight barrier which also packs up to a small size. This fabric is also stitched incredibly densely, trapping more warm air inside and decreasing the liklihood of the down escaping over time. A lighter weight 20D Pertex Quantum is used on the inner to save weight and increase breathability.
There's no doubt that this is a big, bulky piece, it simply has to be. Rab have equipped the Expedition Suit with knee, elbow and back articulation to allow a greater freedom of movement. It also makes the suit far more comfortable to get along with during extended use. An extended length zip is placed on the upper half of the suit to allow toilet access and to let heat out in warmer areas; this is also two way and can be unzipped either from the bottom or the top. Further zips are placed on the outer of both legs to vent the suit or for ease of stepping in and out.
Pockets wise you're given three outer pockets and two internal pockets - we would always recommend popping phones and other electricals in the inner pocket (where the warm air is). Oversized cuffs allow bulky mitts to be placed under the sleeves, while a helmet compatible hood doesn't make you choose between warmth and safety.
Our Expedition Showroom here in Hereford is the best place to speak to our experienced sales team. We would always advise with specialist expedition gear that you pay us a visit beforehand to determine size, items and quantities. Alternatively, we will always do our best over the phone if you are a distance away (01432 263 335).
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Pertex Endurance outer fabric
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Pertex Quantum lining
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850FP R.D.S Certified European Goose Down, Hydrophobically treated with Nikwax Fluorocarbon-free DWR
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Boxwall construction
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Helmet compatible hood with wired peak
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Front zip protection flap
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Extended zip for toilet use, two way zip
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3 outer pockets, 2 inner
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Knee, elbow and back articulation
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Internal adjustable support braces
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Reflective prints
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Mitt compatible features
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Made and filled in Derbyshire