Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket – Extremely Lightweight

Kate Agathon

The Rab Microlight Alpine down jacket is the lightest down hoody that I have ever used.

Constructed from recycled 700-fill down, the Rab Microlight Alpine down jacket is warm and offers a flattering (not boxy!) fit.

Women’s Microlight Alpine Down Jacket

While some of the gear heads I know have been fans of the European-based Rab for years, I’ve only recently gotten acquainted with the brand. Known primarily for its climbing and mountaineering gear, Rab’s initial focus was on insulation products, but has since expanded into other areas of outdoor gear since its founding in 1981.

Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket Review

Two unique features are the hood and that it comes with its own stuff sack.

The stiffened peak on the hood is flexible- I’ve had several down hoodies over the years, and this is the first one with a wire brim to help protect my face from rain.

Meanwhile, the stuff sack is a departure from other down jackets I’ve previously owned that can be stuffed into their own interior pocket. As a casual hiker, I’m a little puzzled as to why this accessory exists.

For example, when I’m hiking, I usually just reach into my backpack or even an outside stow pocket to grab my insulating layer. It’s mildly annoying to have to take it out of the stuff sack. Also, I prefer stuffing it into its own pocket because the stuff sack is yet another item to keep track of.

That being said, the Rab Microlight Alpine down jacket does stuff down into a compact size that is easy to pack.

I recently wore the Rab Microlight Alpine down jacket for a fall hike in Summit County. I needed it in the cold morning, had to take it off during late morning and early afternoon, and then it provided just the right amount of warmth in the early evening when we went out to eat. It did just fine and provided what I needed- warmth, lightweight packability.

However, please note that for this initial review, I have not yet had the opportunity to test it in variable conditions (rain, wind, or snow). Apparently, the hydrophobic down and the DWR treatment are what contribute to the Rab Microlight Alpine down jacket’s appeal and uniqueness among other down jackets (no one likes wet down).

Because I haven’t had a chance to use it in variable conditions yet, I cannot attest to its performance compared to other jackets. I’m definitely curious to see how it withstands super cold or wet conditions, though.

So far, I would say that the Rab Microlight Alpine down jacket is a good all-around jacket. The only things that I would add are an interior pocket and some of the same soft tricot lining (used on the inside of the collar) inside of the front pockets (which could be a tad deeper) for warmth.

Color is as important to me as function.

As far as color options are concerned, way to go Rab! Thank you for offering an entire rainbow of colors to select, instead of the muted colors that are dominating apparel this season.

Admittedly, the Rab Microlight Alpine down women’s jacket caught my attention because of its vibrant Ascent Red color. I’m a red fanatic, and am constantly on the search for, what I deem, “the perfect red”. A red that isn’t too pink, too orange, or has too many blue undertones. A deep, vibrant red- a red I have spent years searching for.

In the past, when “the perfect red” did seem available, it was always offered for men, but not women (we usually got some pastel offered instead). Therefore, I was absolutely thrilled to see the Rab Microlight Alpine down jacket available in Ascent Red (i.e. “the perfect red”) this season.

Key features:

• Hydrophobic down retains warmth when exposed to light moisture

• DWR further protects down from excess moisture for maximum warmth

• Hand pockets are accessible when wearing a harness for convenience

• Zippered front chest pocket to stow away keys and chapstick

• Adjustable hood seals out the elements and keeps heat from escaping

• Jacket easily packs into stuff sack when not in use

• Slim fit keeps a low profile and layers easily beneath a shell

• Pull cord along bottom to adjust fit

The final word? Rab Microlight Alpine down jacket lives up to its name for being extremely light weight. This down jacket hoody is great for fall, looks good, and will take you from a hike to the local brewery with ease.