British outdoor brand Rab has announced the launch of a pilot Rab Rental program which will be available to their UK customers from 4th March. Rab say they are committed to enabling access to the outdoors for all, by offering a convenient rental service that shrinks the price tag for quality outdoor gear, meanwhile reducing single-use purchases. Consumers will be able to rent premium technical outdoor kit that provides outstanding performance, comfort, and protection without committing to a full-price buy.
As part of their global sustainability goals, Rab continues to seek ways to maximise gear life and reduce waste. By renting fit-for-purpose outdoor clothing and equipment for expeditions, trips, or events, aspiring and accomplished hikers, climbers, and mountaineers minimise the use of items that risk gathering dust, or ending up in landfill prematurely. The program will also allow customers the opportunity to test out gear before committing to buy. If successful, Rab has plans to expand this service, offering convenient drop off locations and growing the program to other territories including the USA.
Available through the Rab website, Rab Rental provides a wide range of Rab and Lowe Alpine products, including expedition and mountaineering sleeping bags, tents and bivis, trekking and hiking packs, waterproof shells, and insulated jackets. Offering an extremely flexible service that fits individual needs and multiple outdoor activities, kit can be hired for between 3 and 21 days.
To ensure that every rental item keeps up with Rab’s high gear standards, Rab Rental will be managed by the Rab Service Centre. The expert in-house service team will professionally clean, reproof, and repair returned gear as necessary, to ensure it delivers long-lasting performance for every customer, whether it’s the first or the last rental. At the end of its rental life, the products will be assessed and either cleaned, serviced, and upcycled, or stripped for parts, recycling remaining materials where possible.
Matt Clarke, Head of Customer Experience at Equip, explains: “Rab Rental makes it easier for more people to enjoy the outdoors with the best outdoor apparel and equipment. We have designed a process that makes it as easy as possible for anyone to choose the kit they need. At the same time, we’re offering an opportunity to try before you buy, while extending the lifecycle of our gear and reducing the need to buy new every time.”
Rab Rental will be available at https://rab.equipment/uk/rab-rental.