Rab Switch Insulated Vest

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The Switch Insulated Vest is a lightweight, hybrid vest for fast-paced mountain sports. It features an insulated front and breathable grid fleece back for wind protection and breathability. The vest has a YKK® centre zip, hand warmer pockets, and chest pockets.

Mountain Equipment says: 

A hybrid vest with an insulated front and low profile grid fleece back for fast moving mountain sports.

Highly breathable and fast drying Octayarn Warpknit insulation is combined with our 20D RS shell fabric in the front of the body for wind resistance. Pontetorto® Tecnostretch fleece panels in the back and sides minimise bulk and dry fast after a strenuous ascent.

Our Verdict

The Mountain Equipment Switch Insulated Vest is a versatile, lightweight option for fast-moving mountain sports. This hybrid vest features an insulated front and a low-profile grid fleece back, offering protection from the wind whilst remaining highly breathable. 

The front of the vest utilises highly breathable and fast-drying Octayarn Warpknit insulation combined with a 20D RS shell fabric for wind resistance; this shell fabric has also been treated with a DWR coating to shrug off light rain. The back and sides incorporate Pontetorto® Tecnostretch fleece panels, which minimise bulk, promote impressive breathability and dry quickly after intense activities.

The vest has a YKK® centre front zip, two zipped hand warmer pockets, and two Napoleon chest pockets for convenience. The elastane-bound hem and double-layer collar enhance comfort and fit, while flatlocked seams provide next-to-skin comfort. The vest packs into a hand pocket with twin karabiner carry loops, making it easy to transport and ensuring you can always have it on hand when needed.

With an active fit and weighing between 215g to 244g depending on size, the Switch Insulated Vest is constructed from sustainable materials, including a 100% polyamide outer blend of recycled polyester for the lining and inserts.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• Lightweight 20D RS Nylon outer fabric is wind resistant, with mechanical stretch and FC free DWR
• Octayarn Warp-knit lining for exceptional insulation, breathability and comfort
• bluesign® approved Pontetorto® Tecnostretch 187 fleece [arms, shoulders and side panels]
• Flatlocked seams for next-to-skin comfort
• YKK® centre front zip
• 2 zipped hand warmer pockets and 2 Napoleon chest pockets
• Elastane bound hem and double layer collar
• Packs into hand pocket with twin karabiner carry loops

Specifications

• Small weighs: 215g
• Medium weighs: 221g
• Large weighs: 239g
• XLarge weighs: 244g
• Active fit

Material & Construction

• 100% Polyamide outer; 52% Recycled Polyester,
• 48% Polyester lining
• Inserts: 92% Recycled Polyester, 8% Elastane

Help & advice:

• Recycled Content in Outdoor Gear
• Why is ‘PFC Free’ Important?
• What is Bluesign?
• All About Synthetic Insulation