Gore-Tex Innovation Transforms a Beloved Down Jacket
Outdoor brand Rab has unveiled a significant upgrade to one of its most popular products, the Microlight down jacket. The new Microlight Windstopper version, reviewed in early November 2025, incorporates cutting-edge technology from Gore-Tex Labs, promising to elevate an already classic piece of kit to new heights of versatility for British adventurers.
What Makes the Windstopper Version Different?
The core premise of this new launch is straightforward yet ingenious. Rab has taken the beloved features of the standard Microlight jacket—its lightweight construction, exceptional breathability, and practical design—and fused them with Gore-Tex's renowned Windstopper fabric. This technology is engineered to create a barrier that completely blocks wind from penetrating the jacket, a game-changer for exposed hill walks or windswept coastal paths, like a blustery Norfolk beach where the coat was tested.
It is crucial to note that this is not a waterproof jacket; the Windstopper technology is specifically aimed at those who need superior wind protection without the need for full waterproofing. Despite the added technological layer, the jacket remains remarkably close to the original in feel. It is slightly thicker, but the difference in weight is negligible when worn, placing it firmly in the versatile lightweight down jacket category rather than a bulky winter puffer.
Performance in Typical British Conditions
The jacket's performance has been put to the test in a range of conditions typical of a UK autumn. It provides ample warmth down to a sharp frost, with an inner fabric that comfortably accommodates a mid-layer for extra cold days. Impressively, it also maintains the breathability of the original, preventing overheating during brisk dog walks on unseasonably warm days.
The integration of Windstopper technology means the jacket does more of the work to keep you warm. This allows you to wear a thinner base layer, potentially just a T-shirt, while still feeling protected from the elements. The practical layout from the original Microlight is retained, featuring two hand pockets and a chest pocket. Rab describes one of the hand pockets as an "integrated storage solution," which in practice is a slightly larger pocket with an integrated strap for clipping items.
One minor point of contention is the hood. It is generously sized to fit over a climbing helmet, which is excellent for its intended alpine use but can feel overly large for everyday walking. The stiffened peak is useful, and it stays secure when the main zip is fully done up, though this can create a somewhat enclosed look.
Is the Upgrade Worth the Investment?
The pricing structure clearly reflects the added technology. The Men's Microlight Alpine Down Jacket, the base for this new model, costs £210. The new Windstopper version comes in at £270, representing a £60 premium for the Gore-Tex technology. For those familiar with Gore-Tex's pricing, this nearly 30% increase is not unusual. With Black Friday sales on the horizon, potential buyers might find this premium reduced.
For anyone who frequently finds themselves in exposed, windy locations, the consensus is that the Windstopper version is a brilliant and worthwhile evolution. It retains all the practicality and versatility that made the original Microlight a best-seller while adding a formidable layer of wind protection, making it an even more capable companion for the unpredictable British weather.
