Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket - Black - 16

Rab’s best-selling down jacket includes a hood for exploring the alpine’s quick-changing weather c...

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Outdoor ActionRab Women's Microlight Alpine Down Jacket: : :, Colour: Black Size 16 - Outdoor Action
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Product Information

Full details

The Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket is an essential piece of outdoor gear designed for adventurers who need lightweight, packable warmth for year-round activities. It excels in providing reliable insulation in a variety of conditions, thanks to its hydrophobic down and windproof fabric, though it's important to remember its primary water resistance is DWR, not full waterproofing.

All features

Age Groupadult
ColourBlack
GenderFemale
MaterialPolyester
Dress Size UK16
Model Part NumberQDB-13
BrandRab

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Is this jacket fully waterproof?

No, the Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket is water-resistant, not fully waterproof. It features a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish and Nikwax-treated hydrophobic down to handle light rain and damp conditions, but it is not designed for heavy or prolonged downpours. For full waterproofing, you would need to wear a hardshell jacket over it.

How warm is the jacket? What temperature is it good for?

The jacket uses 700-fill power recycled down, providing excellent warmth for its weight. It's designed for year-round warmth in varying conditions. Its exact warmth depends on factors like your activity level, base layers, and individual metabolism. While specific temperature ratings are not provided, it's generally suitable for cool to cold weather as an outer layer, or as a mid-layer in colder conditions.

Can I layer other clothes with this jacket?

Yes, the jacket has a regular fit which allows for easy layering. You can comfortably wear a base layer and a thin to medium fleece underneath for added warmth. You can also wear a waterproof shell jacket over it for protection in wet conditions.

How should I store my jacket when not in use?

To maintain the down's loft and performance, store your jacket uncompressed in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving it compressed in its stuff sack for extended periods, as this can damage the down and reduce its insulating properties over time.

What does 'hydrophobic down' mean?

Hydrophobic down means the down feathers have been treated with a water-repellent coating, like Nikwax in this case. This treatment helps the down resist absorbing moisture, maintain its loft, and continue to provide warmth even when exposed to damp or humid conditions, performing better than untreated down when wet.

Is this jacket breathable?

Yes, the Pertex Quantum fabric used in the jacket is known for being highly breathable, allowing moisture vapor to escape from inside the jacket. This helps to regulate your body temperature and prevent you from feeling clammy during active use.

Troubleshooting

Jacket feels less warm or flat.

The down may have clumped or lost loft due to moisture or compression. Follow drying instructions (tumble dry on low with dryer balls) to restore loft. Ensure it's fully dry after washing.

Water is no longer beading on the fabric surface.

The DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish has worn off. Wash the jacket with a DWR-restoring product or apply a spray-on DWR treatment suitable for outdoor garments.

Small tears or punctures in the fabric.

For minor damage, use a self-adhesive fabric repair patch designed for technical outdoor gear to prevent down leakage. For larger tears, professional repair is recommended.

Zipper snags or doesn't move smoothly.

Check for fabric caught in the zipper. Clean the zipper teeth with a small brush and apply a zipper lubricant. Avoid forcing the zipper to prevent damage.

Unpleasant odor from the jacket.

This often indicates mildew or trapped moisture. Wash the jacket thoroughly with a down-specific cleaner and ensure it is completely, meticulously dried with dryer balls.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio due to 700-fill hydrophobic down.
  • Highly packable and lightweight, ideal for travel and backcountry use.
  • Hydrophobic down maintains loft and warmth in damp environments.
  • Windproof and breathable Pertex Quantum fabric enhances comfort.
  • Versatile for various activities like climbing, hiking, and general use.
  • Made with recycled materials for reduced environmental impact.

Cons

  • Not fully waterproof; relies on DWR and hydrophobic down for water resistance.
  • Pertex Quantum fabric, while durable for its weight, may be prone to snagging in very rugged terrain.
  • Might not provide sufficient warmth for extreme cold conditions without additional layers.
  • Info needed: Specific temperature rating or comfort range is not provided.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Setup

Simply put on the jacket over your desired base and mid-layers. Adjust the hood cinches for a snug fit around your head and use the hem drawcord to seal in warmth at your waist. Ensure the main zipper is fully engaged for maximum thermal efficiency. The elasticated cuffs will naturally conform to your wrists.

Compatibility

The regular fit of the Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket makes it highly compatible with various layering systems:

  • Underneath: It can be worn over thin base layers and light to medium fleece jackets.
  • Over the top: A hardshell or waterproof jacket can be easily worn over the Microlight Alpine Jacket for full protection in heavy rain or snow, creating a versatile and warm system.

Care

Proper care is crucial to maintain the performance and longevity of your down jacket.

  1. Washing: Machine wash cold on a gentle cycle with a specialized down cleaner (e.g., Nikwax Down Wash Direct). Avoid conventional detergents as they can strip the down's natural oils and hydrophobic treatment.
  2. Drying: Tumble dry on low heat with several clean tennis balls or dryer balls. This helps to break up clumps of down and restore its loft. Drying can take several hours, and the jacket must be completely dry to prevent mildew.
  3. Storage: Store your jacket uncompressed in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it in its stuff sack for prolonged periods, as this can compress the down and reduce its loft over time.
  4. Repairs: For small tears, use a fabric repair patch designed for outdoor gear. For larger damage or professional cleaning, consider contacting a specialized outdoor gear repair service.
  5. DWR Reapplication: Over time, the DWR finish may wear off. You can reapply a spray-on or wash-in DWR treatment specifically designed for outdoor fabrics to restore water repellency.

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