Jack RABit Jacket System

  • Prize
    Winner in Sportswear Design / Outdoor Sports
  • University
    University of Oregon
  • Lead Designer
    Madeline Watkins
  • Professor Credit
    Carly Mick
  • Design Status
    Prototype
  • Project Link

Description
Designed for the relentless pace of multi-day speed records, this all-in-one jacket system streamlines the traditional layering system. By fusing a shell, vest, and base layer into a single 258g garment, it eliminates bulk and redundancy. The core features a layering of Climashield Apex and Argon 67 nylon, specifically mapped to the chest to retain heat even when soaked by sweat or precipitation. In contrast, the back and strap zones utilize a low-profile Alpha Direct 4004, maximizing breathability where your pack normally traps heat. The system’s true time-saver is the deployable shell. Stowed in a pocket on the base layer beneath the pack, the shell can be pulled over both the athlete and their pack in seconds, without the user ever needing to break stride. Its unique design adapts to varying pack volumes and external gear attachments, while the 10D ripstop nylon provides a defense against the elements. Whether you’re fleeing a lightning storm at 14,000 feet or pushing through a multi-day endurance endeavor, this system delivers the versatility of a traditional layering system with the streamlined efficiency of a single garment designed for speed and functionality.

Innovation
The innovation of this jacket lies in the consolidation of the 3 standard layers for fastpacking into 1, eliminating redundancy, resulting in a reduction of weight and energy expenditure. This utilizes body-mapping with the pack to target the specific needs of a fastpacker. While the core is reinforced for heat retention, the zones in direct contact with a backpack feature a minimalist, high-wicking textile. This targeted material selection prevents the clammy moisture buildup common under backpacks in high-output activities. The system introduces an integrated shell that is easily deployed. The base layer has a pocket on the lower back, which houses an ultralight shell that can be accessed and donned / doffed without removing the backpack. This design accounts for varying gear volumes by featuring an aperture that fits over the pack, while a two-inch buffer around the perimeter prevents precipitation from seeping between the athlete and their pack. Contrast stitching is used as a visual cue, allowing for orientation of the shell during transitions.This eliminates the need to stop, providing a critical safety advantage when racing against a summit lightning storm or chasing an FKT.

Product Detail
This high-performance jacket system is designed to ensure athletes remain warm even when saturated by sweat or precipitation, while also maximizing the warmth to weight ratio. The core construction is a layer system designed for maximum loft and resilience to the elements. A layer of Climashield Apex 2.5 is sandwiched between two layers of Argon 67 nylon. Unlike traditional down, Climashield’s continuous filament of synthetic fibers maintains their structure and heat-trapping ability even when wet. The Argon 67 shell features a tight, wind-resistant weave that blocks external moisture while remaining breathable enough to prevent internal vapor buildup. For the high-output areas, the system utilizes Polartec Alpha Direct 4004. This hydrophobic, open-knit structure has lifted polyester fibers that dry rapidly and provide warmth without added weight or bulk. Completing the system is a deployable shell made from 10D ultralight ripstop nylon with a polyurethane coating. This serves as a buffer against wind and rain yet remains packable to minimize weight. Together, these materials create a zoned garment that handles the unpredictable conditions of endurance mountain sports.

Specification
Designed for safety in high-alpine environments, the system features a vibrant red-pink shell. This high-visibility hue provides essential contrast against gray rock, snow, and alpine terrain, ensuring the user remains easily locatable by rescue teams or partners in volatile conditions. Additional colorways would include other high-contrast shell colors for different seasons and environments.
Designed for the minimalist, the total weight is 258g (without ultralight zippers). This represents a significant 124g weight reduction compared to traditional layering combinations of an ultralight shell, vest, and base layer. While the initial prototype is approximately a women’s size small, the design is fully scalable for a comprehensive range of men’s and women’s sizing.



  • FIT Seal

FIT Sport Design Awards 2026
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.