Imagine this: you’re all set for an amazing outdoor adventure, the sun is shining, and then BAM! Dark clouds roll in, and the rain starts pouring down. You don’t want a soggy mess to ruin your fun, right? That’s where a good rain jacket comes in, and for many, North Face is the go-to brand. But with so many different North Face rain jackets out there, how do you pick the one that’s perfect for you? It can feel like a confusing maze trying to figure out which jacket will keep you dry without making you overheat.
Choosing the right North Face rain jacket can be tricky. You want something that’s waterproof, but also breathable. You need it to be durable enough for your hikes, but also comfortable enough for everyday wear. Maybe you’re wondering about the differences between Gore-Tex and other waterproof materials, or perhaps you’re just overwhelmed by all the different styles and features. We get it! That’s why we’ve put together this guide.
By reading on, you’ll learn exactly what to look for in a North Face rain jacket. We’ll break down the key features, explain the different technologies, and help you understand which jacket best fits your needs and budget. Get ready to say goodbye to rain-day worries and hello to staying dry and comfortable on all your future explorations!
Our Top 5 North Face Rain Jacket Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 North Face Rain Jacket Detailed Reviews
1. THE NORTH FACE Men’s Antora Waterproof Jacket (Standard & Big Size)
Rating: 9.3/10
When the weather throws a curveball, the THE NORTH FACE Men’s Antora Waterproof Jacket is your trusty sidekick. This jacket is built to handle anything from sudden downpours to chilly winds, making it a go-to for any adventure, big or small. It’s designed for both everyday wear and serious outdoor action.
What We Like:
- It’s truly waterproof and breathable, keeping you dry and comfortable even in a storm thanks to its DryVent 2L fabric and DWR finish.
- The jacket is made with recycled materials, so you can feel good about your choice for the planet.
- An adjustable 3-piece hood offers extra protection from the elements.
- Handy zip pockets keep your essentials safe and within easy reach.
- It comes in a standard fit and is also available in big sizes (2X-5X), ensuring a good fit for many.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s versatile, some users might prefer more pocket options for carrying a wider range of items.
- The “standard fit” might be a little too close for those who prefer a very loose, relaxed feel.
This jacket offers a great balance of protection and style. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing reliable rain gear.
2. THE NORTH FACE Women’s Antora Waterproof Jacket (Standard & Big Size)
Rating: 9.1/10
Conquer any weather with the THE NORTH FACE Women’s Antora Waterproof Jacket. This jacket is designed for both everyday adventures and serious outdoor exploration, keeping you dry and comfortable no matter what the sky throws at you. It’s a reliable choice for staying protected from wind and rain.
What We Like:
- This jacket is waterproof and breathable, so you stay dry inside and out.
- It’s made from recycled fabric, which is good for the planet.
- The DryVent 2L tech shell offers excellent protection from rain and wind.
- It has a DWR finish that repels water, making rain bead right off.
- The standard fit is comfortable and allows for easy movement.
- Plus sizes are available, so more people can enjoy this jacket.
- The adjustable 3-piece hood gives you extra protection when needed.
- Alpine-style zip hand pockets keep your essentials safe and close by.
- This jacket is part of The North Face’s sustainable collection.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “standard fit” might be a bit too straight for some people’s liking.
- While it offers good protection, it might not be warm enough for very cold temperatures on its own.
The North Face Antora Jacket is a fantastic option for anyone needing a dependable rain jacket. Its blend of protection, comfort, and sustainability makes it a smart buy for all your outdoor pursuits.
3. THE NORTH FACE Men’s Venture 2 Waterproof Hooded Rain Jacket
Rating: 8.9/10
Conquer any downpour with the THE NORTH FACE Men’s Venture 2 Waterproof Hooded Rain Jacket. This jacket is your reliable partner for both rugged trails and city streets, offering top-notch protection from the rain and wind. It’s designed to keep you dry and comfortable, no matter what the weather throws at you. Plus, it packs down small, making it easy to carry anywhere.
What We Like:
- It’s always ready for rain! The DryVent 2.5L fabric is waterproof, breathable, and seam-sealed.
- The jacket feels great against your skin and helps keep the weather out with its water-repellent finish.
- You can get fresh air quickly with the pit-zip vents, which are super handy when you start to warm up.
- The hood, cuffs, and hem can all be adjusted to give you the perfect fit and coverage.
- It’s made with sustainable materials, which is a big plus for the planet.
- The standard fit is comfortable and allows for easy movement.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has a standard fit, some might prefer a more tailored look.
- The “TNF Black” color might show dirt more easily on very muddy hikes.
This jacket is a fantastic choice for anyone who needs reliable rain protection. You’ll be ready for adventure, rain or shine.
4. THE NORTH FACE Women’s Antora Rain Parka
Rating: 8.6/10
When the weather turns, you need a jacket that can keep up. The THE NORTH FACE Women’s Antora Rain Parka is designed to do just that. It’s a classic year-round rain jacket that’s built to handle tough storms but also looks great for everyday wear. This jacket uses waterproof, breathable, and seam-sealed recycled fabric, making it a smart choice for the environment too.
What We Like:
- The DryVent 2L performance tech shell with a non-PFC DWR finish keeps you completely dry. It’s waterproof, windproof, and breathable, so you won’t feel sticky inside.
- The standard fit is flattering and allows for easy movement, whether you’re hiking or just running errands. It feels comfortable and not too tight.
- The adjustable 3-piece hood offers great protection from rain and wind. It can be tightened to fit your head perfectly.
- Alpine-style zip hand pockets are super handy for storing your phone, keys, or snacks. Everything stays secure and within reach.
- This jacket is made with at least 75% recycled or responsibly sourced materials, which is awesome for the planet.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the standard fit is generally good, some users might prefer a more tailored or a looser fit depending on their body type and layering preferences.
- The jacket’s hood, while adjustable, might be a bit bulky for some users when not in use, depending on the specific fit.
This Antora Rain Parka is a fantastic option for anyone needing reliable protection from the elements without sacrificing style or sustainability. It’s a jacket you can count on for all your adventures.
5. Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake II Rain Jacket
Rating: 8.9/10
The Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake II Rain Jacket in Black/City Grey, size Large, is your go-to shield against unpredictable weather. It’s built tough with waterproof nylon that laughs off rain, whether it’s a light sprinkle or a serious downpour.
What We Like:
- This jacket is totally waterproof. It keeps you dry in any kind of rain.
- It’s super easy to pack! It folds up small into its own pocket, so you can take it anywhere.
- The hood hides in the collar. You can pull it out fast when you need it.
- It has useful pockets with zippers to keep your stuff safe.
- The cuffs are elastic, and the hem adjusts. This seals out wind and rain.
- Columbia makes quality gear. This jacket is made to last for many years.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for rain, it doesn’t offer much warmth. You might need another layer underneath when it’s cold.
- The color options could be a bit more varied beyond the classic Black/City Grey.
This jacket is a smart choice for anyone who needs reliable rain protection. It’s a durable and practical piece for your outdoor adventures.
The North Face Rain Jacket Buying Guide
When you need to stay dry, a good rain jacket is a lifesaver. The North Face makes some of the best. This guide will help you pick the perfect one.
1. Key Features to Look For
What makes a North Face rain jacket great? Here are the important things to check.
Waterproofness
This is the most important feature. Look for jackets with waterproof and breathable membranes. This keeps rain out but lets sweat escape. You won’t feel sticky inside.
Breathability
Even on a rainy day, you can get hot. Breathable jackets let air flow. This helps you stay comfortable. Look for jackets with pit zips. These are zippers under your arms. You can open them to let in more air.
Durability
A good rain jacket lasts a long time. Strong fabrics and good stitching mean it won’t rip easily. This is important if you hike or camp a lot.
Fit and Comfort
The jacket should fit well. It shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. You need to be able to move your arms freely. Look for adjustable hoods and cuffs. These let you customize the fit.
Pockets
Pockets are useful for storing your phone, keys, or snacks. Make sure they are in a good spot and easy to reach. Some pockets are waterproof to protect your belongings.
2. Important Materials
North Face uses special materials to make their jackets.
GORE-TEX
This is a popular waterproof and breathable fabric. Many North Face jackets use GORE-TEX. It’s known for its high quality.
DryVent™
This is The North Face’s own waterproof and breathable technology. It works very well and is often found on their more affordable jackets.
Nylon and Polyester
These are common fabrics used for the outer shell. They are strong and resist water. Some jackets have a soft lining for added comfort.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a jacket better, and some make it worse.
Seam Sealing
All the seams on a waterproof jacket should be sealed. This stops water from getting through the tiny holes made by sewing. Jackets with fully taped seams are the best.
Zipper Quality
Water-resistant zippers are a big plus. They help keep water out. Zippers should also be strong and easy to use.
Adjustability
Jackets with adjustable hoods, cuffs, and hems give you a better fit. This helps seal out wind and rain. It makes the jacket more versatile.
Lining
A soft lining can make the jacket more comfortable to wear. It can also add a little warmth. However, some people prefer a simple shell without a lining for maximum breathability.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Who uses these jackets and for what?
Everyday Wear
Many people wear North Face rain jackets for daily activities. They are great for walking to work, running errands, or just being out and about when it’s raining.
Hiking and Camping
For outdoor adventures, a reliable rain jacket is essential. Hikers and campers need jackets that can handle tough weather. They also need them to be lightweight and packable.
Travel
A good rain jacket is a must-have for travelers. It keeps you dry and can be layered over other clothes. It’s easy to pack and doesn’t take up much space.
Active Sports
People who enjoy activities like running, cycling, or skiing in wet weather often choose North Face rain jackets. Breathability is key for these activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are North Face rain jackets worth the money?
A: Yes, they are often worth it. They are made with good materials and last a long time. They keep you dry and comfortable.
Q: How do I clean my North Face rain jacket?
A: Always check the care label. Generally, you can machine wash it with mild detergent on a gentle cycle. Do not use fabric softener. Tumble dry on low heat or air dry.
Q: What is the difference between a rain jacket and a waterproof jacket?
A: A rain jacket is designed to keep you dry from rain. A waterproof jacket is also designed to keep water out, but it might be for more extreme conditions. Most North Face rain jackets are waterproof and breathable.
Q: Can I wear a North Face rain jacket in cold weather?
A: Yes, you can. You can layer a North Face rain jacket over warm clothes like a fleece or down jacket. This makes it a good outer layer for colder, wet weather.
Q: How do I know if a jacket is truly waterproof?
A: Look for descriptions that mention waterproof membranes like GORE-TEX or DryVent™. Also, check if the seams are taped. This means they are sealed to prevent leaks.
Q: Are North Face jackets good for hiking?
A: Yes, many North Face rain jackets are excellent for hiking. They are lightweight, durable, and breathable, which is important for long hikes.
Q: Do I need pit zips?
A: Pit zips are very helpful for breathability. They let you vent out extra heat when you’re active. They are not always necessary but are a great feature to have.
Q: How long do North Face rain jackets typically last?
A: With proper care, a North Face rain jacket can last many years. They are built to be durable.
Q: What does “breathable” mean for a jacket?
A: Breathable means the jacket lets moisture vapor (like sweat) escape from the inside. This keeps you from getting too hot and sticky.
Q: Where can I buy North Face rain jackets?
A: You can buy them at The North Face stores, their website, and many outdoor gear retailers like REI, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Amazon.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.