Review: Rab Men's Khroma Diffuse Kit

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Rab has been on the forefront of making high end mountaineering and skiing apparel for the past few years, but it's taken a while for the UK-based brand to truly gain popularity on this side of the pond. Their new men's Khroma Diffuse GTX jacket and pants might well change that, with an excellent combination of features and fit that will make most any resort and backcountry skier happy.

The Khroma Diffuse GTX jacket has all the features you would expect of a high-end ski jacket. It isn’t the softest jacket in the Rab line, with that distinct slight Gore-Tex crinkle to it, but it’s easy to move in and very lightweight. Gore-Tex likes to keep their exact numbers secret, but the common wisdom is all their membranes are at least 28K waterproof so this thing is definitely going to keep you dry. It also has a proper-sized (but unfortunately non-removable) powder skirt, adjustable hem & hood, and huge airy underarm vents. There are plenty of chest and hand pockets as well as a ski pass pocket.

The matching pants are also very solid, featuring the same Gore-Tex construction with the highlight feature being the best beacon pocket we tested this year. It’s a great size (not too big) and the placement doesn’t get in the way when you're touring or skiing. There are also two zippered hand pockets plus belt loops and a velcro-adjustable waist. The kick patches are very large and sturdy and the ankle zippers allow you to get these on over your boots if you have to. In all these feel like a long-lasting and super functional pair of pants–plenty burly for the resort but light enough for long days of touring in.

Who are the Rab Khroma Diffuse Jacket and Pants for?

Realistically, more people should buy Rab apparel. This is a great kit and we love the way it looks, loose but not gangster-fit baggy. The construction feels top notch, and we trust it can withstand daily resort skiing with no problem. It’s light enough and breathable enough for touring and feels tough enough for some backcountry snowmobiling.

Fit Guide:

The Khroma Diffuse Jacket and Pants already have a slightly relaxed fit, so you won’t look like a resort dad even if you go true to size. However, for a true baggy fit, size up 1-2 sizes. Use those belt loops for your Capeesh belt and you’ll be golden.