Royal Robbins wins 2026 Red Dot Award for innovative product design
The Expedition III Shirt was recognized for combining chemical-free mosquito protection with performance-focused design.
BERKELEY, Calif. (July 7, 2026) – Today, Royal Robbins is proud to announce that its Expedition III Shirt, featuring the brand's proprietary Mosquito Protection Technology (MPT), has been named a winner of the 2026 Red Dot Award for innovative product design.
Established in 1955, the Red Dot Awards are one of the most prestigious and internationally recognized design honors in the world. It recognizes excellence in design innovation across three core disciplines: Product Design, Brands & Communication Design, and Design Concept.
The Expedition III Shirt utilizes an ultralight, proprietary fabric that pairs the brand's Mosquito Protection Technology™ (MPT) with UPF 40+ sun protection. Unlike traditional bug-repellent apparel that relies on chemical treatments, MPT uses an engineered, tight weave fabric to create a robust barrier against mosquitoes — one that won't wash or wear away over time. Crafted from 100% recycled poly ripstop, the shirt is moisture-wicking, quick-drying, wrinkle- and stain-resistant, and weighs just 4.5 oz, making it as packable as it is protective. An adjustable fold-up collar and cuffs allow wearers to fine-tune coverage as conditions change, while two zip-secured chest pockets round out the shirt's adventure-ready design.
"MPT solves one of the most persistent frustrations in the outdoors — mosquitoes! We did this without resorting to toxic chemicals and repellents that can harm both people and the environment," said Erik Burbank, Brand President of Royal Robbins. "Seeing this innovation recognized by Red Dot is a meaningful milestone for the brand and for the small but mighty team behind it."
This recognition builds on MPT's growing list of accolades, including being named toPopular Science's Greatest Innovations of 2024,TIME's Best Inventions of 2025, and the inauguralCNN Underscored Innovation Award earlier this year.
The Expedition III Shirt will be featured for one year in Red Dot's special museum exhibition in Essen, Germany, with official awards presented at Red Dot's ceremony on Tuesday, July 7, at the Aalto Theatre in Essen. For more information, visit Red Dot'swebsite.
The men's and women'sMPT line spans a range of products across the Expedition, Amp Lite, Salathe, and Wilder styles, all delivering effective, long-lasting protection from mosquitoes without the use of chemical repellents. For more information, please visit royalrobbins.com.
About Royal Robbins
Born in Yosemite, the brand was founded in 1968 by world-renowned climbers and adventurers Royal and Liz Robbins. Royal Robbins is a leading designer, manufacturer, and retailer of versatile, durable, and stylish apparel for the next generation of adventurers. The brand maintains a commitment to environmental and social responsibility by prioritizing natural fibers and maintaining carbon neutrality in Scope 1 and 2 emissions. Royal Robbins gear can be found in outdoor and specialty retail partners throughout the world. We believe nature and adventure are good for the soul. To learn more, please visit royalrobbins.com.
