British outdoor brand Rab (owned by Equip Outdoor Technologies Ltd.) are launching the next generation of the Microlight – the down jacket that has become essential kit for mountain people globally. The updated collection arrives with a fresh look, refined technology, and a new focus on reparability, while introducing a waterproof iteration. The range will be available to consumers in Autumn/Winter 2026.

The Microlight has earned its place in the packs of climbers, mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts for its lightweight versatility and reliable warmth. For AW26, Rab have reimagined this staple piece while staying true to what makes it work: packable design, year-round functionality, and easy layering.

Rab’s new AW26 Microlight Alpine Hoody

At the heart of the update is the new Microlight Alpine Hoody featuring Pertex® Quantum with NetPlus® – a technical fabric made from post-consumer recycled fishing nets. The NetPlus® integration represents a significant material commitment: Rab have incorporated 363,931 metres of Pertex® NetPlus® fabric across their products, repurposing 22,315 kilograms of fishing nets from ocean waste. The supply chain is fully traceable from ocean to finished garment, with 100% post-consumer recycled content throughout.

The Microlight Alpine Hoody’s warmth is delivered by 700FP hydrophobic recycled down with Grangers finish. Zoned micro and nano baffle construction optimizes down loft and heat retention, while thoughtful details like an adjustable hood with wired peak, articulated sleeves, and an integrated pack-away pocket with clip-in loop make it genuinely versatile for year-round mountain use.

The line extends across the Microlight Jacket and Microlight Vest, offering options in both the men’s and women’s collections in a variety of colourways.

The limited-edition AW26 Microlight X Hoody

For alpinists and those tackling fast-moving ascents, Rab introduce the limited-edition Microlight X Hoody. This ultralight variant features 800FP Grangers Down Defend® goose down paired with lightweight Pertex® Quantum fabric, delivering an exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio. Built for technical pursuits where every gram matters, it brings the Microlight’s versatility to high-output mountain objectives.

Lightweight and breathable – the new AW26 Microlighter Pullover Hoody

Alongside the core Microlight updates, Rab introduce the Microlighter Pullover Hoody for those who need insulation that works during high-output activities. Featuring TXdown® recycled down-infused sheet insulation, it offers better breathability when the intensity changes – ideal for fastpacking, climbing, and pursuits where you’re constantly moving. Like the Microlight Alpine, it uses Pertex® Quantum with NetPlus® fabric and includes practical features like a close-fitting hood, integrated storage pocket with clip-in loops, and articulated sleeves.

Waterproof insulation – the AW26 Microlight Shield Jacket

Perhaps the most anticipated development is the arrival of the Microlight Shield Jacket – the waterproof iteration of Rab’s legend. The jacket combines a 2-layer Pertex® Shield waterproof outer with 700FP recycled down, allowing mountain users to leave the shell behind on cold, wet hikes and winter adventures. It maintains the Microlight’s signature features – zoned baffle construction, articulated sleeves, packability – while adding genuine waterproof protection.

The Rab Autumn/Winter 2026 collection will be available to consumers from September 2026 onwards.