Raide Launches New Ultralight DryLoft Down Gear
The Colorado-based outdoor brand introduces two new down garments featuring high-fill insulation and tapeless zippers.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Hiking
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Raide has released the UL DryLoft Down Jacket and UL DryLoft Down Pullover, designed for ultralight performance. These new pieces utilize premium insulation and advanced zipper technology to reduce overall bulk and weight.
Why it matters
As outdoor enthusiasts seek to reduce pack weight, these garments provide high-loft thermal protection using advanced materials. The design focuses on efficiency and weight savings for hikers and backcountry users.
The new line features 1,000-fill expeDRY Allied Down and starts at $499 for the pullover, with the jacket retailing for $549. The collection offers various color options, providing three choices for men and two for women.
The players
Raide
A Colorado-based outdoor brand that specializes in the design and manufacturing of high-performance gear for backcountry users.
The details
The gear employs body-mapped baffles that concentrate fill at the core to maximize warmth while reducing bulk in the arms. Additionally, the incorporation of YKK AiryString technology allows teeth to be stitched directly onto the fabric, removing the need for traditional, heavier zipper tape.
Timeline
The Raide UL DryLoft Down Jacket was officially released on October 26, 2026.
Culture Shift
The adoption of the YKK AiryString tapeless zipper reflects a broader industry movement toward eliminating excess materials in high-performance outdoor apparel. This trend underscores a shift toward minimalist design where every gram is accounted for in technical gear manufacturing.
Consumers looking to update their technical layering systems can now choose between the pullover or jacket models based on their specific weight and accessibility needs. These products require careful consideration of their specialized construction when planning for long-term field maintenance.
The takeaway
When shopping for ultralight gear, prioritize items that use body-mapped insulation to ensure your core remains warm without adding unnecessary bulk. Always check the specific weight specifications if you are attempting to optimize your base pack weight for long-distance hikes.
Further reading
For more on the latest trends in trail equipment and apparel, explore our Hiking section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Gear Patrol.
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