If you’re searching for a mountain jacket that can handle the harshest alpine environments, the Rab Latok Mountain Gore-Tex Pro stands out as one of the most capable, durable, and dependable shells available today. Built for serious mountaineers, winter climbers, and adventurers tackling extreme weather, this jacket combines cutting-edge materials, exceptional construction quality, and an athlete-tested design to deliver uncompromising performance in the world’s toughest conditions.
In this detailed review, we’ll explore every aspect of the Rab Latok Mountain Gore-Tex Pro — from its technical features and fit to its real-world performance, comfort, durability, and value. Whether you’re heading to the Scottish Highlands in winter, tackling the Alps, or planning a Himalayan expedition, this jacket could be your most important piece of kit.
Overview of the Rab Latok Mountain Gore-Tex Pro
Rab has a long-standing reputation for producing high-performance outdoor gear, and the Latok Mountain Gore-Tex Pro sits at the very top of their hardshell range. It’s designed for extreme mountain use, with no compromises in protection, breathability, or durability.
Constructed entirely from Gore-Tex Pro Most Breathable, the jacket is engineered for sustained use in tough, wet, and windy conditions while still allowing moisture from perspiration to escape. The Latok Mountain is a specialist garment for mountaineers who demand total reliability when weather conditions can shift from challenging to brutal in minutes.
Key Features
- Gore-Tex Pro Most Breathable Fabric – Delivers exceptional waterproof protection while offering the best possible breathability in Gore-Tex’s professional range.
- Three-layer Construction – Provides rugged durability without unnecessary bulk.
- Helmet-Compatible Hood – Fully adjustable with a wired peak for visibility in storms.
- YKK AquaGuard® Zips – Waterproof zips throughout, including pit zips for ventilation.
- Two Napoleon Pockets – Positioned high for harness compatibility.
- Large Internal Mesh Pocket – Ideal for stashing gloves or a map.
- Adjustable Hem and Cuffs – Seals out wind and snow.
- Articulated Fit – Allows freedom of movement during technical climbing.
- Weight – Approximately 550g (size medium).
Fit and Comfort
The Rab Latok Mountain Gore-Tex Pro is designed with an athletic, technical fit that sits close enough to the body to minimise excess fabric but still leaves room for a midlayer or even a lightweight insulated jacket underneath. The articulated sleeves and underarm gussets allow for full arm mobility — crucial for climbing and scrambling.
The jacket’s length is generous enough to provide good lower back coverage when reaching above your head or bending forward. The drop hem and adjustable drawcord also help keep the elements out. Despite being made from a robust 80D+ face fabric, the Latok Mountain feels surprisingly supple and flexible, rather than stiff or restrictive.
Performance in Harsh Conditions
Where this jacket truly shines is in extreme alpine and winter mountain environments. The Gore-Tex Pro Most Breathable fabric not only keeps out wind, snow, and rain but also ensures that you don’t overheat during periods of high exertion. Even when working hard on a steep ascent, moisture escapes efficiently, reducing the risk of chilling when you stop.
The storm-proof hood is one of the best on the market — large enough to fit over a climbing helmet but with excellent adjustability for use without one. The wired brim keeps rain and snow off your face, and the high collar zips up to your nose, sealing you off from spindrift and biting winds.
The Napoleon chest pockets are smartly positioned above harness level, making them accessible even when wearing a climbing harness or rucksack hip belt. The waterproof YKK AquaGuard® zips are smooth-running and durable, with glove-friendly pullers.
In heavy snow, driving rain, and gale-force winds, the Latok Mountain performs flawlessly, keeping you completely dry and comfortable.
Ventilation and Temperature Control
While the Gore-Tex Pro fabric is inherently breathable, Rab also includes pit zips to give you quick, adjustable ventilation. This is especially important when transitioning from a cold, windy ridge to a sheltered, steep climb where body heat can build quickly.
The pit zips are large, two-way, and easy to operate with gloves. Combined with the adjustable hem and cuffs, this allows you to fine-tune airflow without sacrificing weather protection.
Durability
The Latok Mountain is built for longevity in hostile environments. The outer fabric is a tough, abrasion-resistant 80D+ nylon, capable of withstanding scrapes against rock, ice, and gear. All seams are fully taped, and the zips and drawcords are of expedition-grade quality.
This isn’t a jacket that will wear out after a single season. With proper care, it can last for many years of serious mountain use — making it an investment rather than a disposable purchase.
Weight and Packability
At around 550g, the Latok Mountain Gore-Tex Pro is not the lightest alpine shell on the market, but that’s because it prioritises durability and protection over ultralight minimalism. It packs down reasonably well for its category, fitting into the top of a rucksack or clipping to the outside via a carabiner loop.
For multi-day expeditions or alpine routes where every gram matters, there are lighter options — but few that can match the Latok’s all-round performance in harsh weather.
Who Is the Rab Latok Mountain Gore-Tex Pro For?
This is a jacket designed for serious mountaineers, alpinists, and winter climbers. If you regularly venture into exposed, high-altitude environments where weather conditions can become dangerous, the Latok Mountain provides the protection and reliability you need.
It’s ideal for:
- Alpine climbing
- Scottish winter mountaineering
- Ice climbing
- Multi-day high-altitude expeditions
- Year-round mountain leaders and guides
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding weather protection
- Excellent breathability for a hardshell
- Rugged, durable construction
- Helmet-compatible, storm-proof hood
- Harness-friendly pocket placement
- Long lifespan with proper care
Cons:
- Heavier than minimalist shells
- Not the cheapest option
- Overkill for mild-weather hiking
Value for Money
With a premium price tag, the Rab Latok Mountain Gore-Tex Pro is an investment. However, given its expedition-grade performance, durability, and versatility, it represents excellent value for those who need its capabilities. This is not a jacket for occasional countryside walks — it’s a professional tool for serious mountain athletes.
Final Verdict
The Rab Latok Mountain Gore-Tex Pro is one of the most capable and dependable alpine shells available today. It excels in extreme weather, offers outstanding durability, and is designed with the needs of serious mountaineers in mind. If you need a jacket that you can trust with your life in the mountains, the Latok Mountain should be high on your list.
