You’ve got to have a vest in your gear closet. And, if given the choice, that vest should be a down one. But not just any down vest — something with super powers, like the Rab Microlight Down Vest.
Rab Microlight Down Vest Features:
- Pertex Microlight outer fabric
- 100% nylon ripstop inner liner
- 750 fill power European Goose Down
- Rab fluorocarbon-free Nikwax Hydrophobic Down treatment
- Mini stitch-through baffle construction
- YKK zippers
- Internal insulated zip baffle with soft chin guard
- Chest pocket also acts as a stuff sack
- Hem drawcord
- Athletic fit
- Weight: 11 oz
- MSRP: $165
I’m down with this vest
Keeping your core warm is essential. The proper base layers, mid layers and outer layers all work in concert to maintain warmth and expel moisture at the same time. That is always a careful balance that each of us determines based on the type of activity and our personal preferences. Some people are naturally hot while others are naturally cold, but I think we can all agree that keeping the core warm is a common goal.
With that in mind, the Rab Microlight Down Vest is built to keep your core warm and cozy. 750 fill power is really a sweet spot for overall comfort without breaking the bank. And, because it is a vest, it also delivers extra breathability and unrestricted movement — since it’s sleeveless.
Primarily, I’ve used this vest for resort skiing. It fits perfectly over a nice base layer, like the Jotnaar Uller Yak Wool, and slides nicely under the Patagonia Untracked Jacket. Yes, your arms will be a little chilly on the lift ride, but once skiing again, it’s a great combo. All zippers are easily manipulated with excellent pulls and durable YKK hardware.
Excellent zipper pulls and it stuffs into the chest pocket (13 oz. Nutella for size reference).
Most companies have their own flavor of water-resistant down. Rab has chosen to go with 750 fill power down that’s been treated with a Nikwax hydrophobic treatment. The results are great with loft being retained when wet and improved dry times.
I appreciate the generously-sized hand pockets for stuffing items, like my phone and wallet. And, believe it or not, they are perfect for keeping your digits warm. In that regard, they are quite cozy.
Note: For reference, I’m 5’11” and 170 lbs — normal build — and the medium fits perfectly.
The Good
- Water-resistant down stays warm when wet
- Excellent athletic fit
- Great mid-layer
- Down has stayed put for even warmth
- Quality pulls that are easy-to-use
- Built-in stuff sack
The Bad
- That reverse zipper thing for us Americans
The Bottom Line: Rab Microlight Vest
I heart vests. I wear them all the time on the slopes and in the backcountry. They offer core warmth without the bulk and can pack down next to nothing. The Rab Microlight Down Vest crushes it for all that — plus it’s got water-resistant down. Simply put, Rab makes great products and you’ll be hard-pressed to find something as nice as this vest for the money.
Buy Now: Available at CampSaver.com
