Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket - Sahara
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Product Information
Full details
The Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket is designed for adventurers seeking lightweight, packable warmth and weather protection in dynamic alpine environments. Its key strength lies in its 700-Fill Nikwax hydrophobic down, offering reliable insulation even in damp conditions. While highly effective for its intended use, users should note that its 'microlight' design prioritizes packability and may not offer the same extreme cold protection as heavier expedition jackets.
All features
| Age Group | adult |
|---|---|
| Colour | Beige |
| Gender | Female |
| Material | Nylon |
| Brand | Rab |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
Is this jacket fully waterproof?
No, the Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket is not fully waterproof. It features a Pertex Quantum fabric with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish and Nikwax-treated hydrophobic down, which provides excellent water resistance and maintains warmth in damp conditions or light precipitation. For heavy, sustained rain, we recommend wearing a waterproof hardshell over it.
Can I wear this jacket in very cold winter conditions?
This jacket provides excellent warmth for its weight, suitable for year-round use in varying temperatures, particularly for active pursuits. While it's great for cool to cold conditions, for extreme arctic temperatures or static use in very low temperatures, you might require a heavier expedition-style down jacket or need to layer extensively underneath.
How should I store the jacket when not in use?
To maintain the down's loft and insulating properties, store your jacket uncompressed in a dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid keeping it compressed in its stuff sack for extended periods, as this can damage the down and reduce its effectiveness over time.
What is 'hydrophobic down'?
Hydrophobic down is natural down that has been treated with a water-repellent finish, in this case, Nikwax. This treatment helps the down resist moisture, absorb less water, and retain its loft and insulating power even when exposed to damp conditions, unlike untreated down which can clump and lose effectiveness when wet.
Is the jacket breathable?
Yes, the Pertex Quantum fabric is designed to be hyper-breathable, allowing moisture vapor to escape, which helps regulate your body temperature during active use and prevents you from feeling clammy.
What activities is this jacket best suited for?
The Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket is highly versatile and ideal for activities such as Climbing, General Use, and Hill Walking. Its lightweight and packable nature, combined with effective warmth and weather resistance, make it perfect for dynamic outdoor adventures.
How heavy is the jacket?
The jacket weighs approximately 413g for a Size 10, with a centre back length of 69cm for the same size.
Is the jacket made from recycled materials?
Yes, the outer fabric is 100% Recycled Polyamide with DWR, and the insulation is Recycled 700-Fill Down with Nikwax, making it an environmentally conscious choice.
Troubleshooting
Jacket feels less warm or flat.
This often means the down has lost its loft. Try tumble drying on low heat with a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls. This helps break up clumps and redistribute the down, restoring its insulating properties. Ensure the jacket is completely dry before storing.
Water is no longer beading on the fabric surface.
The Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish may need re-activating or re-applying. First, wash the jacket as per care instructions. If water still soaks in, you can apply a spray-on or wash-in DWR re-proofer suitable for technical fabrics (e.g., Nikwax TX.Direct).
Zipper is snagging or difficult to move.
Check for any fabric caught in the zipper teeth. Gently pull the fabric away and try moving the slider. If the zipper is stiff, apply a small amount of zipper lubricant or graphite pencil lead to the teeth to help it glide smoothly.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio for active use
- Maintains loft and insulating warmth in damp conditions due to Nikwax-treated down
- Highly packable and lightweight for easy transport and minimal pack space
- Provides reliable windproof protection and water resistance
- Offers good mobility with strategically placed baffling for comfort during activity
- Constructed with recycled materials, offering an environmentally conscious choice
Cons
- Not fully waterproof; designed for water resistance, not heavy, sustained rain
- While warm, it may not be sufficient as a standalone outer layer in extreme, static cold conditions
- Down insulation requires specific care and washing procedures to maintain its integrity
- Down feathers can occasionally escape through the fabric over time
Setup: Simply unzip and put on! The adjustable hood and hem allow you to customize the fit for maximum warmth retention. Internally elasticated cuffs provide a snug fit around your wrists to seal out drafts. Compatibility: Designed with a regular fit, this jacket is easily layerable. It can be worn comfortably over a base layer and a mid-fleece, or under a waterproof shell for complete protection in heavy rain. The zoned micro and nano baffling are engineered to work with your body's movement, making it highly compatible with active use. Care: To maintain the performance of your Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket, particularly its hydrophobic down and DWR finish: 1. Close all zippers before washing. 2. Wash ideally with a down-specific cleaner (e.g., Nikwax Down Wash Direct). 3. Machine wash cold on a delicate cycle. 4. Tumble dry on low heat with dryer balls to restore loft. This process can take several hours. 5. Do not bleach, iron, or dry clean. 6. Store uncompressed in a dry place to maintain loft and extend the life of the down.