For real humans reading this, we're sorry for the disruption to your visit and hope you understand that this is just part of our stringent security protocols to keep our site and our customers safe from bad actors (we're looking at you Keanu). Show For real robots reading this, we're sorry that we had to block you. Please do not get overly upset and take over the world. The Moosejaw IT Nerds If you'd like to provide feedback on this page, please contact Moosejaw Customer Service. Please include the as a reference so that we may aid you more easily. Thanks. Perfect for casual and urban outings where cold wind or light rain might be expected Credit: The North Face
51 OVERALL RANKED
Our VerdictBoth casual and athletically inspired, The North Face Apex Bionic Hoodie is a great jacket that is a perfect option for mostly urban outings. While it is heavier and bulkier than more technical layers, it is an excellent option for those seeking weather protection on cold and windy commutes, featuring a large hood and deep pockets. Because of its additional weather protection, the fabric feels stiffer and bulkier than we would hope for in a mountain-ready jacket, but for those looking for an inexpensive model that will provide an escape from the elements, this is a good choice. Compare to Similar Products
Show full specification detailsHide full specification details Our Analysis and Test ResultsThe Apex Bionic is attractive and warm, ideal for urban outings and casual undertakings. It's not a technical layer, but not everything has to be, and this long-standing jacket is popular for a reason. Performance ComparisonCold days at the beach are another perfect place to take the Bionic Hoodie for a walk Credit: Ryan Huetter Weather ProtectionWeather protection is one of the metrics we feel that Apex Bionic shines. It is warm and does a great job of keeping you comfortable. The fabric used in this jacket is a proprietary wind-blocking shell with a tight exterior weave to keep the icy gusts from getting inside. It's treated with a DWR water-resistant coating so that even if you forget your umbrella, you can still make it to your destination without getting soaked to the bone. A large hood provides extra coverage and is adjustable to get a tight seal on the coldest of days. Two zippered handwarmer pockets let you get your hands out of the wind. We do wish the cuffs had an adjustment to seal tighter around the wrist. Water-resistance testing with the Bionic 2. Credit: Ryan Huetter BreathabilityBreathability was not one of the strong suits of this jacket. It is the heaviest jacket in our review due to the thickness of the wind-blocking fabric and the fleece backing. Because of this, we did not find the Bionic to do very well at allowing perspiration to pass through, although we can forgive that based on the intended application of this jacket. Nice and soft fleece makes this a comfortable interior lining. Credit: Ryan Huetter This is not the softshell that you would choose to go on a strenuous hike, climb a mountain, or go ski touring. It is designed for much lower-key activity, so while it doesn't score particularly well in breathability, don't let that deter you if you are looking for a primarily in-town layer. Cuffs are not adjustable but provide decent coverage Credit: Ryan Huetter MobilityAs we mentioned above, the bulkiness of the fabric used on the Apex takes away from its breathability and also affects its mobility. Wearing this jacket feels fairly stiff and cumbersome, even when worn over a very light inner layer. This has to do with the lack of stretch on the outer layer and the boxy cut. It looks great, but when you go to make athletic moves, the jacket feels constricting. Again, the caveat is that we are looking at this jacket through the lens of athletic mountain sports. For those who need a jacket for walks and light day hikes, this softshell has an adequate amount of mobility. The hood adjustments are a bit wonky and difficult to use one handed, scrunching up tightly around the face. Credit: Ryan Huetter WeightThis is not a light jacket by any metric. The Bionic Hoodie tips the scales at 27.4 ounces — almost four times the weight of the lightest jacket in our review. But let's look at why it is so heavy and why that might not matter to you. This coat has a thick inner fleece lining that really increases the weight. Add in the burly windproof fabric and a generously cut hood, and you end up with a pretty heavy jacket. Here, that weight means extra weather protection, and if you don't plan on carrying it with you in a backpack, then the weight and bulk penalty probably won't make a difference. The North Face Bionic 2 is among the heaviest of our tested jackets. Credit: Ryan Huetter VersatilityWe have sung the praises of this jacket when it comes to offering great weather protection, comfort, and warmth. Unfortunately, those attributes make it a heavy and bulky outer layer that does not do well in athletic activities, limiting its versatility to casual outings. Relaxing on the patio during a chilly spring day? A great place for the Apex Bionic to shine. Credit: Ryan Huetter ValueThis softshell jacket provides a decent value, especially for its weather protection. For the right casual user, it's a solid purchase. ConclusionThe North Face Apex Bionic Hoodie is stylish and a good option for those who require weather protection and comfort but don't plan on needing to use it for vigorous outdoor sports. — Ryan Huetter Is The North Face Apex Bionic jacket warm?Weather protection is one of the metrics we feel that Apex Bionic shines. It is warm and does a great job of keeping you comfortable. The fabric used in this jacket is a proprietary wind-blocking shell with a tight exterior weave to keep the icy gusts from getting inside.
Is The North Face Apex Bionic jacket waterproof?Description. The Men's Apex Bionic Jacket is water-repellent, windproof, breathable, stretchable, and ready for adventure. For windy, cold-weather activities, this versatile shell is an easy choice.
What does Apex Bionic mean?An Apex Bionic is made of a special type of material called the Apex ClimateBlock, which is a heavier soft-shell type of fabric. Another important piece of information is that the soft-shell material that is used actually has a special rating, in other words, it is rated 0 CFM which allows for better air permeability.
What does apex mean for North Face?What is it? The North Face Apex technology combines a tightly woven, abrasion-phobic shell for protection with a soft-brushed inner lining for performance and comfort. The North Face Apex products are treated with a Durable Water Resistant finish which will keep you dry during light showers.
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