Rab Mens Microlight Alpine Jacket Black/Graphene

This is the 2nd microlight alpine jacket i have had. I have always struggled with Rab sizing (and in fact all down jacket sizing really) i seem to sit between M and L - M too small, L bit too baggy at the back. I read a bit about this jacket online and saw that its not meant to be a tailored fit, its designed for layers underneath. I previously had a M which was great when on the move, but static it seemed to just lose all the heat and i was cold ! After reading a bit it seemed that it was too tight and this meant the baffles couldnt 'puff up' and trap heat, so as a result it wasnt working properly and i was cold ! I sized up after realising thst it was designed for layers and sizing up would allow this plus the jacket to fully puff….. and what a massive ... MoreThis is the 2nd microlight alpine jacket i have had. I have always struggled with Rab sizing (and in fact all down jacket sizing really) i seem to sit between M and L - M too small, L bit too baggy at the back. I read a bit about this jacket online and saw that its not meant to be a tailored fit, its designed for layers underneath. I previously had a M which was great when on the move, but static it seemed to just lose all the heat and i was cold ! After reading a bit it seemed that it was too tight and this meant the baffles couldnt 'puff up' and trap heat, so as a result it wasnt working properly and i was cold ! I sized up after realising thst it was designed for layers and sizing up would allow this plus the jacket to fully puff….. and what a massive difference this has made !! It's a thermal bomb now !! 10° + i only need a t-shirt underneath, 10° - 7° just a sweater, 7° and below t-shirt and sweater and im toasty - and this is just when bimbling around town. On a proper walk i'd say just a t-shirt underneath and i'd be toasty - but im still yet to fully test this ! Great jacket - sizing up has made a HUGE difference !

Excellent fit and feel

It is hard to find the perfect down jacket. I know because I bought 3 or 4 different ones before settling on this one. I am a big Outdoor Research guy and my go-to option in this price range was the Helium. I really liked the features and tougher material on that jacket but the fit was just so odd for me. The medium fit perfect from the torso up but the waist was squeezing me when zipped and was very short. The large was gigantic on me. Tried some Mountain Hardwear - medium fit too loose and boxy and the large was a trash sack on me.Then I got to this Rab! The cut and fit of these is so well thought out. I actually could not decide between the medium or large because they both fit decently and would both work in different situations (layers under or over). I ... MoreIt is hard to find the perfect down jacket. I know because I bought 3 or 4 different ones before settling on this one. I am a big Outdoor Research guy and my go-to option in this price range was the Helium. I really liked the features and tougher material on that jacket but the fit was just so odd for me. The medium fit perfect from the torso up but the waist was squeezing me when zipped and was very short. The large was gigantic on me. Tried some Mountain Hardwear - medium fit too loose and boxy and the large was a trash sack on me.Then I got to this Rab! The cut and fit of these is so well thought out. I actually could not decide between the medium or large because they both fit decently and would both work in different situations (layers under or over). I settled on the medium and it is just perfect. It is every-so slightly tight in the armpit/shoulder area which is further motivation to lose the excess 15 pounds I've been carrying on me for the last couple of years. The length is what makes this stand out for me. It fits snug in the torso but also has a slight tail that is sure to keep your waist and belly covered when reaching or bending over. I also love the stitching layout for the neck area when it is zipped all the way.As far as performance goes, I have taken it out for a couple of hikes and a couple of bike rides in drizzly/misting conditions at around 40 degrees. It is no surprise that it is plenty warm for 40 degree weather, but it also stands up well to the wet and even moving quickly on a bike on an open road the wind doesn't make it through to the skin at all. About 80% of the jacket has shed the moisture and only a few spots where water hung on soaked through, but I certainly never felt like the insulation was losing any of its performance.The stuff sack is a little weird when everything else on the market can stuff into a pocket, but I actually really like it because the shape it stuffs into is nicer than the usual pocket-shaped thing. I just keep it in the chest pocket so its out of the way of my hands and it isn't even noticeable because the stuff sack material is so light and soft.My final note is the feel of the jacket. Compared to the other brands I have tried, I would say this has an extra level of "plushness" to it. The outer and inner material is just really soft and less stiff or rigid than some down jackets.

Excellent warm jacket

I'm very impressed by the RAB Microlight Alpine jacket.I looked at many lightweight down jackets from other (more expensive) outdoor brands, but living in a wetter/windier area of Australia, I opted for RAB's offering which has a heavier face fabric and Nikwax-treated down, which the other jackets did not have. This means the RAB jacket is slightly heavier than others, but offers much better weather resistance, which was more important for me.Its warmth-to-weight ratio is excellent and the fit is great, I'm a medium and can comfortably layer under for extra warmth or fit a shell/rain jacket over as required.Delivery and service from Dwights Outdoors was excellent and I would not hesitate to purchase from them again.

Excellent, lightweight, warm jacket

I recently bought a second one of these jackets in a different colour, having owned one of the previous editions for several years (which is still going strong!). The jacket is so lightweight I hardly notice I’m wearing it. Keeps me nice and warm when moving on cold days. Good as an outer layer when stationary on cool days in spring/autumn but I would opt for a warmer jacket when not moving in proper winter conditions. I’ve found the water resistance to be ok, but the outer fabric soon starts to wet out in anything more than a brief light shower. Despite using hydrophobic down, I’d be hesitant to risk letting it get too wet. Easily fits under a shell jacket if cut with room to layer, but may struggle with slimmer fitting pieces. Good wind resistance with a hood that ... MoreI recently bought a second one of these jackets in a different colour, having owned one of the previous editions for several years (which is still going strong!). The jacket is so lightweight I hardly notice I’m wearing it. Keeps me nice and warm when moving on cold days. Good as an outer layer when stationary on cool days in spring/autumn but I would opt for a warmer jacket when not moving in proper winter conditions. I’ve found the water resistance to be ok, but the outer fabric soon starts to wet out in anything more than a brief light shower. Despite using hydrophobic down, I’d be hesitant to risk letting it get too wet. Easily fits under a shell jacket if cut with room to layer, but may struggle with slimmer fitting pieces. Good wind resistance with a hood that can be cinched down, though with the previous jacket I own I’ve found that the little rubber thingy’s that lock the elastic cord struggle to hold in a strong wind, causing the hood to un-cinch. Have not been able to test that yet with my new jacket.

Fantastic company

Bought a RAB microlight Alpine Jacket in Dark Ink and Marmalade. A very expensive jacket so I did shop around to find the best bargain in the Black Friday sales and Allweathers were the most competitive price by a long shot. Because I hadn't heard of the company before, I referred to Trust Pilot to see other people's thoughts and experiences and saw that the company had a 5* review so I took the chance and ordered the coat from them. I had a problem at checkout so I contacted customer service and they responded back to me within the hour. They were extremely helpful and I was able to complete the order for the item that I wanted. Their fantastic communication continued throughout the sale and they posted my package out the next day. My package was with me within a ... MoreBought a RAB microlight Alpine Jacket in Dark Ink and Marmalade. A very expensive jacket so I did shop around to find the best bargain in the Black Friday sales and Allweathers were the most competitive price by a long shot. Because I hadn't heard of the company before, I referred to Trust Pilot to see other people's thoughts and experiences and saw that the company had a 5* review so I took the chance and ordered the coat from them. I had a problem at checkout so I contacted customer service and they responded back to me within the hour. They were extremely helpful and I was able to complete the order for the item that I wanted. Their fantastic communication continued throughout the sale and they posted my package out the next day. My package was with me within a couple of days. The coat that I purchased was in fantastic condition and was well packaged. Would recommend using this company! Thank you.

Nice. 4 stars.

It's s nice jacket eh. Looooooong arms, as others have said they may need to be taken up (Twin Needle - the folks that were the Macpac repair department back in the day will do it, but they're always busy as so expect it to take a few weeks)More boxy cut than my Macpac icefall, and warmer too, but it is a narrow baffle jacket and they aren't as warm as large baffles in general.The hood is the best hood of any jacket I have ever worn, truly spectacular.Decent down hydrophobic down, pertex shell, acceptable build quality, comfortable cut, reasonable weight, outstanding hood. For an entry level technical down jacket (as opposed to a Kathmandu general everyday jacket, or super lightweight highloft technical jacket) it gets the job done for a reasonable price and ... MoreIt's s nice jacket eh. Looooooong arms, as others have said they may need to be taken up (Twin Needle - the folks that were the Macpac repair department back in the day will do it, but they're always busy as so expect it to take a few weeks)More boxy cut than my Macpac icefall, and warmer too, but it is a narrow baffle jacket and they aren't as warm as large baffles in general.The hood is the best hood of any jacket I have ever worn, truly spectacular.Decent down hydrophobic down, pertex shell, acceptable build quality, comfortable cut, reasonable weight, outstanding hood. For an entry level technical down jacket (as opposed to a Kathmandu general everyday jacket, or super lightweight highloft technical jacket) it gets the job done for a reasonable price and unless you're going really cold places or need to trim absolutely every last gram (which you really in all probability you don't - even if you have fallen down the ultralight rabbithole and lost all perspective of what actually survives more than a couple of trips in the NZ backcountry) then it's pretty hard to go wrong with one of these.4 stars - sleeves one baffle shorter would get 5 and Dwights are always great to deal with.

Purchased for cold weather fat tire biking

I purchased this jacket for winter fat tire biking season ( I haven't used it yet due to lack of cold weather and snow). Fit is athletic, with some room to layer underneath. 5'11, 175 lbs, 42'' chest and large fits perfectly for my intended purpose. If you are looking for a roomier fit for casual wear, I would shop a different brand. I like that it sits a bit longer in back than in front (as all bike jerseys and jackets should) to cover you when on the bike, as well as plenty of arm length. Lightweight and easily packed down and stowed in a bike frame bag when not needed. I suspect it will be as durable as most down jackets and will not wear it when riding technical trail in brush or woods where it would likely get snagged, but bring it along for warmup and cool ... MoreI purchased this jacket for winter fat tire biking season ( I haven't used it yet due to lack of cold weather and snow). Fit is athletic, with some room to layer underneath. 5'11, 175 lbs, 42'' chest and large fits perfectly for my intended purpose. If you are looking for a roomier fit for casual wear, I would shop a different brand. I like that it sits a bit longer in back than in front (as all bike jerseys and jackets should) to cover you when on the bike, as well as plenty of arm length. Lightweight and easily packed down and stowed in a bike frame bag when not needed. I suspect it will be as durable as most down jackets and will not wear it when riding technical trail in brush or woods where it would likely get snagged, but bring it along for warmup and cool down periods as well as on the commute to the trail. I would only recommend some reflective elements to make it a perfect winter fat tire bike jacket.

Rab Microlight Alpine jacket

Great jacket, colour on internet doesn't quite match real life colour (light khaki) more of a light green than khaki but I'm still happy with it to replace my old one which I had for about 8 yrs. Seems a lot lighter than my old one but that's probably the progress with materials.One thing about the packaging, it wasn't very good, just in one brown paper bag, nothing else to protect the jacket from damage.Delivery wise DPD were pretty rubbish, I was given a 2 hour delivery window, we were looking out for the parcel, 5 minutes after the delivery window passed I got a message saying I wasnt in so they would deliver to a collection point the next day - I most certainly was in and we live in a cul de sac with a gravel road so we know if a van goes past and it didn't. 5 ... MoreGreat jacket, colour on internet doesn't quite match real life colour (light khaki) more of a light green than khaki but I'm still happy with it to replace my old one which I had for about 8 yrs. Seems a lot lighter than my old one but that's probably the progress with materials.One thing about the packaging, it wasn't very good, just in one brown paper bag, nothing else to protect the jacket from damage.Delivery wise DPD were pretty rubbish, I was given a 2 hour delivery window, we were looking out for the parcel, 5 minutes after the delivery window passed I got a message saying I wasnt in so they would deliver to a collection point the next day - I most certainly was in and we live in a cul de sac with a gravel road so we know if a van goes past and it didn't. 5 mins later got another text text that the parcel was now ready for collection at at the nearest collection point 2 miles away. I think the driver wanted to knock off early that day.So, to summarise, can't fault the jacket 10/10 - packaging was poor 4/10 - DPD were rubbish - a generous 1/10

Sizing of "SLIM" Cubit vs "REGULAR" Electron

Rab's commitment to superior quality, responsibly sourced products is admirable, and I would love to start building a Rab collection of jackets! I wear a men's size small, but it is difficulty to build a collection when sizing is a bit of a guessing game. For instance, my Electron Pro (awesome material and build, genius cuffs) is labeled as "REGULAR" fit and my newly purchased Cubit (innovative, comfy) is "SLIM", and yet, in comparing the widths of the torso at sleeves and hem, the Electron Pro is 19.5" and 19" and the Cubit is 21" and 20". So either the labeling on the website or the dimensions should be switched! I think, given that the Cubit is using the stretchy material, it should be "SLIM" with the smaller dimensions, and the Electron Pro, given its ... MoreRab's commitment to superior quality, responsibly sourced products is admirable, and I would love to start building a Rab collection of jackets! I wear a men's size small, but it is difficulty to build a collection when sizing is a bit of a guessing game. For instance, my Electron Pro (awesome material and build, genius cuffs) is labeled as "REGULAR" fit and my newly purchased Cubit (innovative, comfy) is "SLIM", and yet, in comparing the widths of the torso at sleeves and hem, the Electron Pro is 19.5" and 19" and the Cubit is 21" and 20". So either the labeling on the website or the dimensions should be switched! I think, given that the Cubit is using the stretchy material, it should be "SLIM" with the smaller dimensions, and the Electron Pro, given its active-driven winter application, should be "REGULAR" but with the wider dimensions. And just another impression, the cuffs of the Cubit should be like the Electron's - that would really rock!!

Utterly disappointed

I was very excited about purchasing the microlight alpine jacket. It took me a month of research to finally chose what I thought was the best jacket for me and the mild weather here in Victoria BC Canada. Man was i disappointed !This jacket is definitely not windproof. It does not keep you warm during colder winter temperatures. Victoria BC Canada this winter was anywhere from -2 to 5 degrees. And the alpine microlight jacket did not keep me warm or protect me from the wind as it clearly states in its description.I am a veteran and a recent amputee. I don’t have a lot of money so I saved and purchased what I thought was the best brand and jacket for me. Unfortunately I was wrong and since I wore the jacket I was unable to return it.Maybe I got a faulty jacket or ... MoreI was very excited about purchasing the microlight alpine jacket. It took me a month of research to finally chose what I thought was the best jacket for me and the mild weather here in Victoria BC Canada. Man was i disappointed !This jacket is definitely not windproof. It does not keep you warm during colder winter temperatures. Victoria BC Canada this winter was anywhere from -2 to 5 degrees. And the alpine microlight jacket did not keep me warm or protect me from the wind as it clearly states in its description.I am a veteran and a recent amputee. I don’t have a lot of money so I saved and purchased what I thought was the best brand and jacket for me. Unfortunately I was wrong and since I wore the jacket I was unable to return it.Maybe I got a faulty jacket or this particular one slipped through the cracks during quality control. But either way I now have a jacket I cannot use until late spring early summer.