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The North Face Apex Bionic Jacket

Men's Clothing > Jackets & VestsRated: ***** by 219 reviews. Also available for: Women, Boys

O2GearShop.com (Fall 2009)

For windy, cold weather activities, this coveted soft shell keeps you warm and windchill-free beneath its windproof exterior and comfortable fleece backer. A hem cinch-cord allows you to adjust for a precise fit, and dual zip hand pockets and left Napoleon chest pocket provide ample space to stash essentials. Whether worn as an exterior shell, or a standalone jacket, this jacket's ideal for mild aerobic activities in challenging, inclement weather.For windy, cold weather activities, this coveted soft shell keeps you warm and windchill-free beneath its windproof exterior and comfortable fleece backer. A hem cinch-cord allows you to adjust for a precise fit, and dual zip hand pockets and left Napoleon chest pocket provide ample space to stash essentials. Whether worn as an exterior shell, or a standalone jacket, this jacket's ideal for mild aerobic activities in challenging, inclement weather.

Features:

  • *Zinc Grey colorway, Indian Clay Red zips
  • Color in parentheses refers to the lining color
  • Fabric 90D X 90D 10.3 oz/yd2 polyester plain-weave Apex ClimateBlock with DWR
  • Fleece backer
  • Hem cinch-cord
  • Left Napoleon chest pocket
  • Length from Center Back 28 in.
  • Standard fit
  • TNF™ Apex ClimateBlock fabric wind permeability rated at 0 CFM
  • Two zippered hand pockets
  • Velcro® adjustable cuffs

Rocky Mountain Trail

"If it's cold, and it's time to drop the clutch, this is the jacket. Water-resistant, breathable, strechy and ready to rock." -Cedar Wright, The North Face Athlete, Rock Climber For windy, cold weather activities, The North Face Men's Apex Bionic Jacket is a coveted soft shell to keep you warm and windchill-free beneath its windproof exterior and comfortable fleece backer. A hem cinch-cord allows you to adjust for a precise fit, and dual zip hand pockets and left Napoleon chest pocket provide ample space to stash essentials. Whether worn as an exterior shell, or a standalone jacket, this jacket's ideal for mild aerobic activities in challenging, inclement weather. TNF Apex ClimateBlock Fabric: Apex ClimateBlock is the most protective Apex fabric. Virtually waterproof and windproof, the fabric also maintains a comfortable level of breathability. Apex ClimateBlock is ideal for trekking, skiing, and snowshoeing in challenging, inclement weather conditions. Wind Resistance: 0 CFM Usage: Mild levles of aerobic activity (hiking, skiing, snowboarding) or for use in more severe winter conditions.

Features:

  • Apex Climate Block fabric wind permeability rated at 0 CFM
  • Hem cinch-cord
  • Standard fit
  • Two hand pockets
  • Velcro® adjustable cuffs

USOutdoor.com

Step outside and let this stylish men’s outerwear jacket go to work. Tough winds are no match for the Apex ClimateBlock fabric wind permeability rated at 0CFM. With a plethora of colors to choose from this classic North Face Apex Bionic jacket’s signature stretch material has an abrasion and water resistant face and comfortable soft brushed interior making it perfect for cold weather aerobic activity.

Be prepared for all day use.

Features:

  • Apex ClimateBlock fabric wind permeability rated at 0 CFM
  • Apex™: A technology breakthrough - The North Face signature stretch material has an abrasion- and water- resistant face and a comfortable soft-brushed interior.
  • Fabric - 90D x 90D 10.3 oz/yd² polyester plain weave Apex ClimateBlock with DWR
  • Hem cinchcord
  • Standard fit
  • Two hand pockets
  • Velcro® adjustable cuffs

Oregon Mountain Community

The North Face Apex Bionic Jacket is perfect for windy, cold weather activities, this coveted soft shell keeps you warm and windchill-free beneath its windproof exterior and comfortable fleece backer. A hem cinch-cord allows you to adjust for a precise fit, and dual zip hand pockets and left Napoleon chest pocket provide ample space to stash essentials. Whether worn as an exterior shell, or a standalone jacket, this jacket's ideal for mild aerobic activities in challenging, inclement weather.

Features:

  • Color in parentheses refers to the lining color
  • Fleece backer
  • Hem cinch-cord
  • Left Napoleon chest pocket
  • Standard fit
  • TNF™ Apex ClimateBlock fabric wind permeability rated at 0 CFM
  • Two zippered hand pockets
  • Velcro® adjustable cuffs

Rock/Creek Outfitters

The Apex Bionic Jacket by The North Face is a versatile and widely popular softshell jacket constructed with ClimateBlock, a waterproof, windproof fabric that is also incredibly breathable. The Apex Bionic allows you the freedom of movement with its athletic cut and stretch material, and with a wind resistance level of 0 CFM, it will protect you from some of the more severe winter conditions.
Perfect for wearing in challenging, inclement weather conditions where you are performing highly aerobic activities, such as: skiing, trekking, snowshoeing or climbing

Features:

  • Apex climateBlock fabric wind permeability rated at 0 CFM
  • Fleece backer
  • Hem cinchcord
  • Left napoleon chest pocket
  • Standard fit
  • Two zippered hand pockets
  • Velcro adjustable cuffs

Altrec

Take on blustery days and turbulent trails in this fully windproof Apex Bionic Jacket from The North Face. Excellent as outerwear or as an insulator beneath a waterproof shell, the Apex Bionic Jacket features The North Face's exclusive Apex ClimateBlock fabric, a technical polyester fleece rated at 0 CFM for absolute windproof protection. Velcro adjustable cuffs and a convenient hem cinchcord help seal out drafts.

Features:

  • Hem cinchcord and Velcro adjustable cuffs help seal in thermal warmth
  • Warm and windproof 90-denier x 90-denier 10.3-oz. Apex ClimateBlock fabric made from 100% polyester and treated with a DWR finish
  • Weight 23.6 oz. (669 g.)
  • Zippered hand pockets with slightly slanted openings

Paragon Sports

For windy and cold weather activities, this coveted soft shell keeps you warm and wind-chill free beneath its windproof exterior and comfortable fleece backer.

Features:

  • A hem cinch cord allows you to adjust for a precise fit, and its dual zippered hand pockets and left Napoleon chest pocket provide ample space to stash essentials
  • Apex ClimateBlock fabric wind permeability rated at 0 CFM
  • Fleece backer; Hem cinch cord
  • Left Napoleon chest pocket; Two zippered hand pockets
  • Standard fit; Velcro adjustable cuffs
  • Whether worn as an exterior shell, or as a standalone jacket, this jacket's ideal for mild aerobic activities in challenging, inclement weather

Mountain Gear

Simple and extremely versatile, The North Face's Apex Bionic Jacket is a do-anything softshell that's worn everywhere for everything from climbing to down-town socializing. Apex Climateblock fabric provides wind protection while a soft fleece backer coupled with the relaxed, standard fit makes layering with athletic wear or casual attire easy. F09 Specifications based on size Large.

Features:

  • Finished with a soft fleece backer
  • Slide into the most protective softshell material The North Face offers; Apex ClimateBlock fabric is 100% windproof, highly water resistant and effortlessly breathableR hand pockets
  • Velcro adjustable cuffs and hem cinchcord

FogDog Sports

The men's Apex(tm) Bionic Jacket features completely windproof Apex(tm) ClimateBlock fabric with a Durable Water Repellent finish and soft, brushed lining. Adjustable cuffs and a drawcord hem provide a snug fit to keep out the elements. Zippered hand pockets and left chest pocket offer convenient storage.

Features:

  • Adjustable cuffs with VELCRO® brand closures
  • Apex™ ClimateBlock has an abrasion- and water-resistant face and a comfortable soft-brushed interior
  • Apex™ ClimateBlock; 100% polyester plain weave with DWR
  • Completely windproof -- wind permeability rated at 0 CFM
  • Hem cinchcord
  • Imported
  • Two hand pockets
  • Zippered left chest pocket

Backcountry.com

Zip into The North Face Apex Bionic Jacket and get better, stronger, and faster. Thanks to the fleece-backed windproof shell fabric, this jacket keeps you dry and warm on your earthly adventures. The four-way stretch moves with your body so you can hike up the mountain comfortably, and the DWR coating sheds light rain or snow to help you stay dry. When you're really working hard to get some miles under your feet, the Apex Bionic’s breathable weave helps dump excess body heat.


PeterGlenn

The North Face Apex Bionic Jacket is one of The North Face's most popular softshell jackets because it delivers what you need for outdoor adventure: gear that moves with you and keeps you comfortable, even when the wind starts howling.

Features:

  • Adjustable cuffs for a customized fit.
  • Comfortable, stretchy, standard fit.
  • Fleece backer is warm and soft.
  • Hem cinchcord keeps wind out of the jacket.
  • Left chest pocket and two hand pockets.
  • Made with Apex Soft Shell fabric with enhanced windproof features.

Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)

The popular Apex Bionic has the most protection of The North Face® soft shell jackets. 100% windproof and water-resistant, this versatile jacket's a stretchy alternative to hard shell outerwear. Ideal for trekking, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and other high-aerobic activities in cool/cold weather.

Features:

  • Adjustable Velcro® cuffs
  • Hem cinch cord
  • One Napoleon chest pocket
  • Soft fleece lining for thermal warmth, moisture wicking, and comfort
  • Two hand pockets
  • Wind permeability rated at 0 CFM
  • Windproof polyester with water-repellent finish

SummitHut.com

The most versatile jacket in the Apex soft shell collection, the North Face Apex Bionic Jacket provides four way stretch, excellent breathability, water resistance and good thermal capability. Constructed with Apex Weatherblock fabric, it is perfect for aerobic activities in cool, damp conditions.

Features:

  • ***This product available for shipping in the United States only***
  • Apex Universal Weatherblock fabric wind permeability rated at 5 CFM
  • Hem cinchcord
  • Standard fit
  • Two hand pockets
  • Velcro adjustable cuffs

Zappos.com

Standard fit.
Apex Universal Weatherblock fabric wind permeability rated at 5 CFM.
Two hand pockets.
Hook-and-loop adjustable cuffs.
Hem cinchcord.
Fabric: 90D 10.4 oz./yd² ripstop face Apex Universal Weatherblock with high-loft fleece back.
Center Back measurement: 28.
Weight: 24.7 oz. (700g).
Product measurements were taken using size MD. Please note that measurements may vary by size.


Massey's Outfitters

Apex ClimateBlock fabric wind permeability rated at 0 CFM
Fabric: 90D X 90D 10.3 oz/yd2 polyester plain-weave Apex ClimateBlock with
DWR
Fleece backer
Hem cinchcord
Left Napoleon chest pocket
Length from Center Back: 28 in.
Our most versatile and widely worn soft shell with enhanced windproof features
to complement a stretchy, comfortable fit.
Standard fit
Two hand pockets
Velcro® adjustable cuffs


Appalachain Outdoors

This jacket from The North Face is perfect for those windy and cold weather activities. This soft shell keeps you warm and windchill-free beneath its windproof exterior and comfortable fleece backer.


Moosejaw

No description provided.

Back Length:28 in.
Core Venting:No
Country of Origin:China
Dwr:Yes
External Pockets:3
Fabric:90D x 90D 10.3 oz/yd2 polyester plain weave Apex ClimateBlock with DWR
Hood:None
Length from center back:28 in.
Lining:Soft-brushed fleece
Material:Apex ClimateBlock
Materials:Apex ClimateBlock - plain weave polyester
Pockets:2 Hand, 1 Napoleon
Primary Use:Hike/Backpacking
Recommended Use:Hiking, climbing, biking, spring skiing, casual
Removable Hood:No
Ventilation:Highly breathable fabric
Warranty:Lifetime
Waterproof Material:N/A
Weather Conditions:Wind
Weight:24.7 oz (837 grams)
Windproof:Yes
Zip-in Compatibility:No

View other products from The North Face classified in Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests.

View all products from The North Face.
View other products classified in Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests.

Sometimes, we can't be sure that the product is the same across the stores that offer its, so you may find the same product listed more then once on GearBuyer.com, we these list highly similar products below.

The North Face Apex Hoodie JacketThe North Face Apex Hoodie Jacket$128.95 - $149.00
The North Face Apex Bionic Triclimate JacketThe North Face Apex Bionic Triclimate Jacket$228.95 - $229.00
The North Face Apex Bionic Thermal JacketThe North Face Apex Bionic Thermal Jacket$173.00 - $183.00
The North Face Apex Bionic VestThe North Face Apex Bionic Vest$68.97 - $99.00

Sometimes brands make complementary products for the opposite gender that coordinate with this product, we also try to show these products below.

The North Face Apex Bionic JacketThe North Face Apex Bionic Jacket - Women's$64.47 - $129.99
The North Face Apex Bionic JacketThe North Face Apex Bionic Jacket - Boys$74.19 - $99.00
The North Face Bionic JacketThe North Face Bionic Jacket - Girl's$64.32 - $99.00
The North Face Apex Bionic HoodieThe North Face Apex Bionic Hoodie - Women's$148.95 - $149.00

These are products that have been indicated being comparable to this product:

The North Face Base Camp DuffelThe North Face Base Camp Duffel
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The North Face Chunky Knit VisorThe North Face Chunky Knit Visor
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The North Face Denali GloveThe North Face Denali Glove
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The North Face Horizon Convertible Pant - RegularThe North Face Horizon Convertible Pant - Regular
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$55.00
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Option Availability:

Use this chart to find which retailer offers this product in the size, color or other options that you desire. Click on the price to purchase.

ColorSize
SmallMediumLargeExtra LargeExtra Extra Large
Bittersweet Brown
Bittersweet Brown
128.95129.00108.95128.95129.00128.95129.00129.00 
Phantom Red
Phantom Red
128.95128.95128.95128.952 More...128.95128.952 More...128.95128.952 More...128.95128.95
Bittersweet
Bittersweet
128.95128.952 More...128.95128.953 More...128.95128.953 More...128.95128.992 More...128.95128.992 More...
Bittersweet Brown / Bittersweet Brown
Bittersweet Brown / Bittersweet Brown
123.00128.95129.00123.00128.95129.00123.00128.95123.00128.95128.95
Brown
Brown
 99.99129.00129.00129.00 
Ignition Orange / Pumice
Ignition Orange / Pumice
 123.00123.00123.00 
Yam Orange
Yam Orange
108.95129.00129.00122.50129.00129.00129.00129.00129.00
New Taupe Green
New Taupe Green
108.95128.952 More...108.95128.953 More...108.95128.954 More...108.95128.955 More...108.95128.953 More...
New Taupe
New Taupe
128.95129.00128.95129.00128.95128.95129.00128.95128.95129.00128.95
English Green
English Green
 123.00   
Deep Water Blue / Deep Water blue (Asphalt Grey)
Deep Water Blue / Deep Water blue (Asphalt Grey)
129.00129.00129.00129.00129.00
Deepwater Blue
Deepwater Blue
129.00129.00128.99129.00128.99129.00129.00129.00129.00128.99
Deep Water Blue
Deep Water Blue
108.95128.95129.00108.95123.00129.00108.95123.00129.00108.95123.00129.00108.95129.00
Deep Water Blue/ Deep Water Blue
Deep Water Blue/ Deep Water Blue
128.95128.95128.95128.95129.00128.95128.95129.00128.95128.95129.00128.95128.95129.00
Deep-Water-45L
Deep-Water-45L
 128.97128.97128.97128.97
Asphalt
Asphalt
123.00128.952 More...123.00128.952 More...123.00128.952 More...123.00128.952 More...123.00128.95128.95
Asphalt /Black / Black
Asphalt /Black / Black
129.00129.00129.00129.00129.00129.00129.00129.00129.00129.00
Asphalt Grey
Asphalt Grey
129.00128.99129.00128.99129.00128.99129.00128.99129.00
Asphalt Grey / Black
Asphalt Grey / Black
108.95128.952 More...108.95128.953 More...108.95128.952 More...108.95128.953 More...108.95128.95129.00
Black
Black
108.95123.0012 More...108.95123.0013 More...108.95123.0014 More...108.95123.0015 More...108.95123.0012 More...
Moonlight Ivory
Moonlight Ivory
128.95128.952 More...123.00128.952 More...123.00128.954 More...123.00128.953 More...128.95129.00129.00
Moonlight Ivory / Wick Grey
Moonlight Ivory / Wick Grey
129.00128.99129.00128.99129.00128.99129.00128.99129.00
Moonlight-Ivory
Moonlight-Ivory
128.97128.97128.97128.97 
Pumice Grey
Pumice Grey
129.00129.00129.00129.00129.00129.00129.00
Asphalt-Grey-0C6 128.97128.97128.97128.97
Cardinal / Asphalt
Cardinal / Asphalt
129.00    
Cardinal Red / Asphalt Grey
Cardinal Red / Asphalt Grey
   123.00 
Deep Water Blue / Asphalt Grey129.00129.00129.00129.00129.00
New Taupe Green / Asphalt Grey129.00129.00129.00129.00129.00
TNF Red
TNF Red
128.95128.95129.00128.95128.99129.00128.95128.952 More...128.95128.99128.95128.99
TNF-Red
TNF-Red
128.95128.953 More...128.95128.954 More...128.95128.954 More...128.95128.954 More...128.95128.952 More...

Legend

  •     - Rocky Mountain Trail
  •     - SummitHut.com
  •     - USOutdoor.com
  •     - Massey's Outfitters
  •     - Backcountry.com
  •     - Zappos.com
  •     - PeterGlenn
  •     - Mountain Gear
  •     - Appalachain Outdoors
  •     - Oregon Mountain Community
  •     - Rock/Creek Outfitters
  •     - Moosejaw
  •     - FogDog Sports
  •     - Paragon Sports
  •     - O2GearShop.com (Fall 2009)
  •     - Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)
  •     - Altrec

The North Face Apex Bionic Jacket Reviews Summary:

RatingNumber
of Reviews
*****182
****29
***3
**2
*1
To see how this product compares to others view Men's Jacket Reviews.

Positive Reviews:

Good jacket if you know what it's meant for.

Rating:****

I'm male, 5'10" tall, 150-155 lbs, athletic build. Bought a new 2009 model.

(I didn't buy it at Backcountry.com (I can't because I'm outside the US), but the reviews on this site helped me a lot.)

I haven't used it much because I just got it posted to me, but it seems fantastic for day-to-day wear. There are huge discrepancies on sizing that I want to help clear up, along with some factual information that I hope to address.

When worn, my jacket goes halfway down the fly/zipper of my jeans. The jacket is not too long, nor too short. Buy a medium if you're between 5'8" and 6' tall, and 145-170 lbs. If you're 6' tall, you may want a large, as the jacket would show your stomach if you raised your arms towards the sky.

Sleeves are slightly too long. When my arms are at my sides, the sleeve goes down to my knuckles. It doesn't bother me at all though, so I won't even use the velcro adjustments for regular wear.

The jacket fits well. It's not an athletic cut, so it doesn't fit really close. However, it's not supposed to be an athletic cut. The material is thin enough that you don't look bulky when you wear it, and it doesn't look like there's too much excess space under the jacket. If you wear any type of long sleeve t-shirt, jumper ("sweatshirt", hoodie), or knit (sweater) underneath, it'll fit well.

Inside the jacket, the back and other areas is lined with a thin fleece/microfleece material, while the chest area is covered with a soft synthetic fleece-like mesh/net. If you stick your hands into the 2 hand pockets, you can feel this mesh material. You can also see your hands if you look inside your jacket. This mesh material inside the jacket extends from the bottom of the jacket, right up to the shoulder, so the pockets can actually fit a lot of stuff (as long as it fits through the opening of the pocket). For example, you could fit a long flashlight inside the hand-pocket, a rolled-up document, etc. For the photographers, you could even fit a monopod (collapsed) if you wish! There's also a chest pocket which leads to a mesh material.

I think the purpose of the netted material is to increase circulation when you open them up. From reading reviews here and elsewhere, the jacket is great at blocking wind, but isn't very breathable. This is probably because there's some form of laminate layer covering the outer Apex material. You can get laminates that are more breathable than others (eg: Gore-tex), but generally speaking, laminates aren't as breathable as regular fleeces, or most softshells that don't have a laminate. Anyway, if you feel hot, you can cool down by unzipping all 3 pockets. That will let out the "condensation" built up inside the jacket. However, then you may get cold because the cold can now enter the jacket. That's the catch with this jacket. This jacket may be more wind resistant than Windstopper, but Windstopper exists because even for a laminate material, it's breathable. You can either get this jacket with more wind blockage with less breathability, or less wind blockage with more breathability. You decide.

Some jackets use Windstopper laminated to a better outer material, so it's still more breathable than this jacket. However, they're over $200.

If you know you're going to be really active, I think it's better to buy another jacket with a more athletic trim. These jackets should fit closer to the body if you need the breathability. This jacket fits close, but it's still "standard cut."

In terms of weight, this jacket is like a Polartec 200 fleece based on the feel of the jacket. If it's not windy, it'll keep you as warm as a Polartec 200 fleece. If it IS windy, it'll keep you far warmer.

Hope I was helpful.

zeitgeisty2420425 at Backcountry.com on 09/16/2008

Nice all-around soft shell

Rating:*****

I've had the NFABJ for about a month now. I do a combination hike/jog of about 4 miles every day with our "girls" (dogs) and have used this in all conditions under 40 degrees. First - Fit: the sleeves have ample length and the sizes (large in my case) leave enough room for layering when needed. I'm about 6' 175 and have comfortably had 3 light layers under this in single digits. Second - Warmth: the jacket is great blocking wind and has a light fleece lining. Emphasis on light. For casual wear its probably great down to about 45. Below 40 or so you should start adding light layers beneath ( ie., more than a T-shirt). In that I use this jacket for a somewhat aerobic activity It is very warm for use above 40 degrees and from 30-45 I'm usually half-zipped with the pockets open for some added ventilation. Third - Rain: I've been out a few times in a steady rain for an hour in this jacket and been very happy with the water rolling off. No, it is not a hard shell and does not have a hood, but while I've generated a lot of perspiration within the jacket (which breaths), I've not noted any water coming through. Summary - nice soft shell that can be counted on for wind cover, an outer layer of warmth, and good water "resist." A good buy at list price, and a great buy on sale.

TedO at Backcountry.com on 01/20/2009

Apex Bionic is popular..for a reason

Rating:*****

First of all, a disclaimer: I have the hooded version which BC doesn't sell or I would have bought it here. Having said that, the jacket I have is essentially the same except for the hood. Say what you will about TNF products, but the fit and finish of this jacket holds up to any of the more expensive brands out there. I have many pieces of outdoor wear in a variety of exotic high-tech fabrics....the "Apex climate block" of the Bionic is similar to the more expensive Polartec Powershield as far as wind resistance, water resistance and breathability. Where it beats Polartec is in looks....Apex Climate block does not wrinkle as badly as Powershield when stuffed in a suitcase or duffle bag. Feature-wise there is nothing remarkable about the Bionic...but sometimes simplicity is better, and it does the job of providing a durable weather resistant medium warmth softshell for outdoor pursuits. My first test was a football game where the temp was in the low 40's and a 5-10mph wind....with just a long sleeve t-shirt underneath I was fine. Next was a bow hunting trip with temps in the upper 30's-low 40's with a 10-15mph wind and again I was fine with an icebreaker baselayer underneath. When a product meets or exceeds expectations...5 stars is a must.

jbm_13 at Backcountry.com
Rating:*****
Excellent buy - I just moved from Southern CA to Boston. I was looking for a jacket that was water/snow resistant and at the same time looked nice enough to wear to work. The Apex Bionic jacket is awesome with respect to my expectations. It looks very crisp and fits very well. I'm 6'0, chest 40'' and quite fit -- the M size fits me perfectly. It looks very athletic without making it too trendy for work wear (I bought the black). It leaves me with enough room to wear another fleece layer underneath. I wore it last week when it was very windy and it does a remarkable job of keeping you warm. I've always been a huge fan of North Face. My firewall backpack has been with me for 7 years, travelled in many flights, trains (in India) and buses. It still looks great and still, not a blemish!! The cost might look a little steep...but consider it as a long-term investment and I also bet that you'll get some compliments! I think it is perfect by itself for 30-40F...you'll definitely need another layer underneath it. My only complaint is that they could've had armpit vents...it can get a little stuffy on a humid day...but if you leave it unzipped, it should be fine.
Vivek at Zappos.com on 10/26/2008

A great outer and mid layer

Rating:*****
I first bought this jacket in Fall 2007 in advance of the Minnesota winter. I was attracted to it by it's excellent fit, it's wind-proofing and to it's moderate water proofing. It has not let me down. It folds neatly into a daypack for temporary relief from unexpected showers as an outer layer. It excels however in windy conditions either as an outer layer up to about 30 mph but also as a mid layer when the gales are howling. Excellent thermal properties allows it to be used as a midlayer whilst skiing, or even as an outer layer on the milder days in SE Minnesota. I am not as keen on the colors for 08/09 so I am buying up two more for the year ahead. On a note of caution, it is an excellent fit for the slim / average build. If above average build, it might be worth trying it on first. That withstanding, I am happy to get this my fullest endorsement.
Matthew at Altrec on 04/12/2008
Rating:*****
I bought this jacket--not from Zappos' but from local athletic store as spur of the moment Christmas present for my son-in-law---he travels every week as project manager and works in some COLD places...he hates bulky jackets... Right now he is at a steel mill outside Chicago and my daughter tells me he loves this jacket--- It was a good fit for him--loose enough through the body that he could wear a fleece or sweater under it for warmth but still hugged the body for warmth-- Arms were not too long and the length came down over the hips so that wind would not go up his back... Lightweight but windstopper makes it very warm and so far the snow/misty rain he has been in has not come through... Have both shoes from Zappos before so know how great the service is--just wanted to enter another approval of the jacket--looking for one for my son this time...
Anonymous at Zappos.com on 01/23/2008

It's Bad

Rating:*****
I am honestly, a cheapskate, so when I saw this jacket on sale back in 2004, I bought it because it looked cool. I got lots of compliments on it. I lost the jacket a couple months later and immediately bought another at full price, which is completely out of character for me. The jacket is TOTALLY WINDPROOF. Since I first bought the jacket, a waist cord was added to keep drafts from coming up from underneath; they also added straps on the cuffs to keep drafts from coming up the sleeves. The jacket wicks water great, but is not meant to keep you dry in a downpour. Wind doesn't stand a chance when you're downhill skiing...it's TOTALLY WINDPROOF. This jacket is great almost everywhere; around town or on the slopes. You need at least 2, maybe 3. By the way, a friend eventually found my lost jacket and I started collecting them ever since.
Bo at Altrec on 10/03/2009

Very nice jacket.

Rating:*****
The North Face Apex Bionic Jacket is a very nice jacket. I haven't really had much of a chance to use it so I can't say much about its actual performance. I can say that it is very well made with great attention to detail. My only complaint is that to get a chest size that fit me I had to order one size up so my sleeve and the bottom hem are a little long. Do yourself a favor and actually measure your chest, arms, etc and use the chart to see what size you are going to need. I can live with the extra length because I will use it mountain biking sometimes and the extra length in the sleeves will be a plus. Altrec's price on the blue one that I got was great and shipping was fast.
Anonymous at Altrec on 09/30/2009

I am Ape over the Apex Bionic Jacket

Rating:*****

Let me start off saying my wife and I both bought these, partly because of a great sale price, but we really like them a lot!
I like The North Face, but the last couple of years have gotten away from them because I was afraid they had gotten away from the core business of outdoors. We live in the midwest and you never know what the temp is going to be. We just went on a 3 day hiking camping trip in the ozarks, I had my icebreaker layers on and this jacket, temps from 20 to 40 degrees, felt comfortable the entire time. Glad I bought the jacket, look forward to many years of use. I also have the Mountain Hardwear Monkeyman jacket, great for a base layer under this jacket for really cold days.

M. Miller at Backcountry.com on 01/31/2008

Apex

Rating:****

This Apex is a good buy, great quality as expected of NorthFace apparel. Super light, essentially water and wind-proof. Great for xcountry and outdoor activities involving a ton of movement, especially during adverse conditions like snow & wind. The adjustable waist & wrists allow for a good weather seal, or loosen it up if you want it to breathe. Nice feature.

I personally use mine as a very comfortable and lightweight building-to-building jacket when it is nasty outside. While it protects very well from the elements, it's not bulky or overly-insulated, so you can wear it indoors without overheating by simply unzipping it. Not optimal for stationary outdoor activity under 32F; I wore it ice fishing and froze - but that's not its intended function. Great layering jacket though. Just FYI.

IslandInTheSnow at Backcountry.com on 03/03/2008

Negative Reviews:

armpit too tight - otherwise great

Rating:**

Regrettably, I'll be returning my medium-size Apex Bionic today. The jacket is absolutely perfect for me --- except, for some reason, the armpit area is way too tight and contstricting. I Don't think it would ever stretch out enough. I would not be able to wear a sweater or anything under it. I'm a chesty 5'7", 177 lbs, 16 neck and 32 arm. I don't know what the North Face designer was thinking. I'm afraid a size large would have arms way too long. I guess I'll have to try one on at a store first. It's too bad. I had gotten a discontinued model for almost half price. The customer service person thinks the newest models are cut the same as mine.
Oh well.....

karlkunkel2234158 at Backcountry.com on 06/02/2008

Good for scooter rides

Rating:**

Pros:
The jacket is wind-proof, and the build is good quality.
The jacket holds off rain for a while.
It is reasonably warm as well.

Cons:
The jacket holds off rain only for a short while.
It holds all moisture inside. Well, some might leak off the seams.

I would not recommend this for any physical activity. I just use it for riding my scooter on a cool day.

das2644437 at Backcountry.com on 09/29/2009

Quick Sale!

Rating:*

This jacket was $65 two days ago...in ALL colors. i added it to my cart. just wasn't sure of my size. now it's $109. apparently it was a sale price. oh well. sour grapes? yes! i'm on my way to REI to pay full retail. thanks!

BARGAIN finder at Backcountry.com on 08/16/2009

Neutral Reviews:

It's alright

Rating:***
This jacket does what it says very well. It blocks out almost all wind, and it is also quite waterproof. You will be dry unless water trickles down the neck or the sleeves. For the most part, this jacket works quite well for what it is said to do.

However, there are still a few shortcomings to this jacket. First, is the fact that this jacket isn't very comfortable. It's a little stiff, and the material on the inside isn't exactly the softest thing in the world. Second, is the fact that this jacket isn't all that warm when you're standing. It's actually still relatively chilly in comparison with the other jackets.

That being said though, if you take this jacket and you're doing an activity, such as say, biking, you will be warm. The jacket is windproof, which also means it traps heat very well. In other words, so long as your body is generating heat, you will be warm. Otherwise, you will be cold.

If you combine this jacket with a pull over or a fleece, then this jacket is actually quite warm, and will get you through 40 degree days any day. I suspect that it will also get you through 20-30 degree days as well, as wind chill is practically unheard of with this jacket.

It's a great jacket. The build quality is good. It does what it is advertised to do well. Note that I believe the reason this jacket is cheaper than its competitors, is because this jacket is missing a lining.
PenTrik at Rock/Creek Outfitters on 10/26/2009

Fair for the price

Rating:***

Nothing wrong with the jacket, nothing special about it either. The arms are longer, and the fit is looser than a super athletic cut. If you have broad shoulders this jacket is you. My room mate has 42'' shoulders and a 29'' waist. This jacket works great for him.

It is too light for any serious wind, and it has limits on warmth too. I cut mine with a ski edge carrying it in less than 4 days.

Fine for around town, not up to technical wear.

tour at Backcountry.com on 06/02/2009

Works but...

Rating:***

I thought the fabric was a little stiff. It kind of gets in its own way. It will keep you warm, but I prefer my TNF Zot.

Ben Preston at Backcountry.com on 07/23/2008