Rab size guide: how to choose your jacket

To choose your Rab jacket size, start with your body measurements, check the model's fit, and verify the sizing with the layers you plan to use. The size you wear in another brand can be a guide, but it is no substitute for these checks.

This guide focuses on jackets and upper-body garments for men and women. It will help you interpret the charts and decide what to check if you are between two sizes.

How to measure yourself before buying

Use a flexible tape measure, without pulling it tight, over underwear or a thin layer. Ask for help to measure your arm: doing it alone makes it easier for you to change your posture.

• Chest: measure around the chest just below the armpits, keeping the tape horizontal.
• Waist: measure the circumference at the top of the hip, following Rab's reference point.
• Arm: measure from the center of the back, over the shoulder and the slightly bent elbow, to the wrist crease.
• Hip: in the women's chart, measure the circumference of the widest area.

The charts show body measurements in centimeters. They are not the width of a laid-flat jacket or its outer circumference. Also, do not measure your chest over a down jacket to look for your body size.

Rab men's size chart: jackets and tops

Source: official Rab men's guide, accessed September 30, 2026. Size availability depends on the model.

Rab women's size chart: jackets and tops

Source: official Rab women's guide, accessed September 30, 2026. The international nomenclature of the European chart is reproduced here. If the product page or label shows UK numbering, check the conversion for that specific item before buying.

For example, a women's M has a reference of 94 cm for the chest and 100 cm for the hips. These are two different checks: getting it right on the chest does not guarantee that the hem will close comfortably. The figures are sizing references, not exact fit intervals.

Slim, Regular, Relaxed and Expedition: what the fit means

Rab distinguishes four fit families. Slim follows the body more closely; Regular offers an intermediate looseness; Relaxed leaves more space; and Expedition allows for layers and expedition gear. These are pattern categories, not equivalent sizes. Check the declared fit on the model's product page.

A larger jacket is not necessarily poorly sized. The important thing is that the space serves your activity. If you need to go up several sizes to feel comfortable and the sleeves end up being excessively long, it is worth considering a different fit.

Should I size up to wear layers?

Do not do it automatically. Rab explains that jackets intended for more demanding conditions may incorporate more room for mid-layers. The useful test is to put on the actual combination you will be wearing in the mountains.

• Waterproof: try it on over the intended mid-layer and move your arms as if using poles. Check shoulders, armpits, and neck.
• Down jacket: verify that you can close it and move without significant tension in the chest or obvious compression of the filling.
• Insulation for stops: if you are going to wear it over other garments, test that exact combination.

To plan your kit, check out our Rab mountain layering system guide. Choosing how you will dress first makes it easier to decide on the fit of each garment later.

What to do if you are between two sizes

If, for example, your chest is 105 cm, you will fall between the men's M and L references. The chart is not enough to decide: waist, shoulders, arm length, fit, and layers also matter.

As a practical Mountain Group criterion, compare both options with the intended use. Rule out the one that restricts movement or pulls when closed. Then check that the other one does not leave excess fabric that gets in the way. Choosing the larger size by habit can move the problem to the sleeves, the collar, or the hem.

The fit test before wearing your new jacket

1. Zip it up completely. Breathe normally and check that there is no uncomfortable tension.
2. Raise and extend your arms forward. Observe if the cuffs retract too much or the hem rises more than you find comfortable.
3. Flex your elbows and cross your arms over your chest. This is a simple way to detect restrictions in the back and shoulders.
4. Add your usual layers. Repeat the movements; a jacket might fit well with a t-shirt and turn out to be too tight with a liner.
5. Try on your backpack. Check the neck, armpits, and the fabric under the straps and hip belt.

Frequently asked questions about Rab sizes

Does Rab fit small?

It is not advisable to apply that rule to the entire brand. Compare your measurements with the chart and check the garment's fit and function.

Can I choose only by my height and weight?

These are indicative data, but they do not describe body distribution. Two people with the same height and weight may need different fits in the chest, shoulders, or hips.

Is the same letter the same for men and women?

No. The charts and patterns are different. Select the chart corresponding to the garment you are buying.

Is the size in the photo a sufficient reference?

Not by itself. Even if a product description indicates the model's height and size, it is still necessary to compare your own measurements and the intended use.

We help you choose your size

If you are still in doubt, contact Mountain Group indicating the model and version, your chest, waist, and arm measurements—and hip when applicable—, the layers you will use, and where you notice the fit issue. With that information, we can guide your choice with more criteria than simply looking at a usual size.

To choose the model as well, you can consult which Rab down jacket to choose, Microlight Alpine versus Electron Pro, and Downpour Mountain versus Firewall Mountain.

Charts and fit categories: Rab. Testing tips: Mountain Group. Official images from our Rab archive: AW26 catalog and SS26 campaign; cover by Rab / Anders Vestergaard. Always check the product page for your specific version.