Wired for Adventure has selected the Rab Phantom waterproof shell as the top lightweight jacket for July 2025, citing its minimalist design and reliable weather protection as ideal for men seeking high-performance gear for summer outdoor adventures. Designed specifically for activities such as multi-day treks and trail running, the Phantom jacket provides wind and water resistance in an ultra-lightweight, easily packable form.
Weighing just 116 grams in a size medium, the Phantom stands out for its use of 7D Pertex Shield fabric, which offers a hydrostatic head rating of 20,000 mm and a breathability score of 20,000 g/m²/24h. This allows for exceptional weather protection while maintaining airflow, even during high-intensity activities. The jacket’s design includes an elasticated hood that conveniently rolls into itself to form a compact stuff sack. Additional features such as a full-length zip, pre-curved elbows, and reflective details all contribute to its performance without adding unnecessary weight.
The Phantom’s minimalist construction is key to its appeal. It omits external pockets and bulky adjustment systems, offering only what’s needed for essential weather coverage. This makes it perfect as an emergency layer that can be stowed away with ease and deployed only when conditions demand it. However, users should note that the jacket is intended more for occasional protection rather than for withstanding prolonged or abrasive use.
Outdoor gear reviewers have consistently praised the Phantom’s performance. BASE Magazine described the fabric as nearly weightless in the hand, yet sufficiently protective until faced with heavy, sustained rain, where it may begin to leak slightly through the zipper. Similarly, Gear Patrol referred to it as “the best insurance you can buy”—a shell so light and unobtrusive that you forget it’s there until bad weather hits. Treksumo echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the Phantom’s ability to blend into your pack until it’s needed most.
This combination of compactness and functional weatherproofing is what earned the Rab Phantom top honors for July 2025. It meets the demands of ultralight backpackers, trail runners, and minimalist adventurers who need dependable gear that won’t weigh them down. The jacket is especially valuable for those traveling in unpredictable weather where space and weight are at a premium. Though priced at £175, it is considered well worth the investment by those who prioritize high-performance gear with minimal bulk.
The Rab Phantom jacket represents the intersection of innovation and simplicity, offering essential protection in a design that champions efficiency and utility. With strong endorsements from both Wired for Adventure and other trusted outdoor review platforms, it has firmly secured its place as the essential lightweight shell for summer 2025.
