Rab Makalu Gore-Tex Jacket

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The Makalu Gore-Tex is a sturdy, weatherproof shell that is perfect for year-round use. It is made with Gore-Tex’s new ePE membrane, which is lighter and more compact than traditional Gore-Tex. The Makalu is also made from a three-layer, hard-wearing 75D Polyamide.

Mountain Equipment says: 

A highly protective GORE-TEX jacket for hiking and mountaineering with a lighter environmental footprint.

The Makalu is a versatile waterproof mountain shell with bluesign® approved GORE-TEX 75D fabric throughout and an FC free DWR that ensures reliable performance with less environmental impact. It’s the ideal balance of waterproof protection, durability and weight for year round use.

Our Verdict

The Makalu Gore-Tex is a sturdy shell that can withstand all types of weather, including wind and rain. It is designed for year-round use, but it is most commonly used in the winter.

The Makalu is made with Gore-Tex’s new “ePE” membrane, which, according to Gore-Tex, “maintains the high standards of waterproofing and breathability” of their standard version but is lighter and more compact. In my experience, the ePE membrane is softer, thinner, and less crinkly than traditional Gore-Tex. Additionally, the membrane is free of ePTFEs and PFCs, chemicals that have been deemed persistent and, in many cases, damaging to the environment.

The Makalu is made from a three-layer, hard-wearing 75D Polyamide, so you can be a bit rough with this jacket. It is perfect for scrambling over rocks and will not show any wear when used with a heavy backpack.

The helmet-compatible hood can be adjusted at three points: two face adjustment points and one around the crown. All of the adjustments are easy to use, even with gloves on. The hand pockets and two-way zipper work well with a climbing harness, and the articulated arms prevent the jacket from riding up when you stretch and reach while climbing or scrambling.

The Makalu has four pockets: two hand-warming pockets (which work well with a harness), a Napoleon chest pocket (which is generously sized), and an internal pocket for secure storage. The Makalu also has easy-to-reach pit zips.
The Makalu is a “mountain fit,” so it only extends to the belt line. I am six feet tall and of average build. I tested the medium jacket, which fit well and accommodated a fleece and a “puffy” underneath without feeling restricted.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• New GORE-TEX with ePE membrane and FC free DWR
• 3-Layer construction with 75D face fabric for durability
• Mountain HC Hood is fully adjustable
• Alpine fit with articulated and pre-shaped sleeves
• 2 large pockets with YKK® WR zips
• Napoleon chest pocket with YKK® WR zip
• 2-way YKK® moulded Aquaguard® centre front zip
• 2-way YKK® WR underarm pit zips
• Adjustable laminated cuffs and dual tether hem drawcords
• Laminated and laser cut inner pocket with YKK® zip

Specifications

• Small weighs: 501g
• Medium weighs: 521g
• Large weighs: 544g
• XLarge weighs: 568g
• Hydrostatic Head: 28,000mm
• Breathabiltiy: RET <9

Material & Construction

• Fabric: 75D – 251g / 7.4oz
• Content: 100% Recycled Polyamide shell, ePE membrane

Help & advice:

• Time-Saver Guide to PFC Free
• Time-Saver Guide to Choosing a Waterproof Jacket
• Recycled Content in Outdoor Gear
• What is Bluesign?
• Choosing a Waterproof Jacket
• MVTR Breathability
• Hydrostatic Head
• GORE-TEX Overview
• GORE-TEX Explained