Warmth Comparison: Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket VS Mont-bell Alpine Light Down Parka

Bump

Ken,

I have owned the Alpine light but did not like the lack of hem draw cord on the version I had so I did not keep it for long, I know someone who has the Rab piece and the short baffles make it seem less lofty, the Montbell piece definitley looked warmer. I could be wrong though.

Cheers,

Stephen

Stephen

Was the lack of the hem draw cord your only dislike of the jacket, or did you have others?

KJ

Hi Ken,

That was the only thing, I think newer versions might have it.
It really is a great insulating piece.

Newer versions have the drawcord. The Alpine LIght parka is a great piece. Super warm, fluffy, durable, and makes a great and comfy bp'ing pillow. :)

I have the MB Alpine light and had the same questions as you before hand. Since buying mine i have had the chance to also have a good look at the RAB.

From what i can see the higher loft and larger baffling on the MB make it a warmer jacket.

Will Rietveld give the Montbell Alpine Light Parka Highly Recommended rating (highest their is here at BPL) and the Rab Microlight a above average (a much lower rating).

Granted most of these were back in 2008/2009 but not much about these two jackets have changed since then.

My vote is with Will. The Montbell Alpine Light continues to get the highest ratings across its category.

Sounds confusing. I'd just stay home to be sure I was nice and warm the whole time.

FeetFirst

Something stinks about that idea. I'd cool it there son…You're building a bad trail.

KJ

I have the newer version of the Alpine Light Parka, I was so impressed w/ it, bought my wife one :) For the weight, it's an extremely warm jacket- it has wonderful loft, the hood works great and has nice slash pockets for you hands. Montbell listened to the critique of it's first iteration and added a waist cord, they also lengthened the jacket slightly. It's also cut so that you can easily add a mid-layer underneath.

Mike

Thanks for the info. Seems like the Mont-bell is really the way to go even though it's heavier. Seems a bit nicer too. I'm guessing their material would hold up better.

KJ