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The North Face Apex Bionic Vest

Men's Clothing > Jackets & VestsRated: ***** by 41 reviews.

Mountain Gear

Go sleeveless in the vest version of an all-time favorite in the Apex Bionic Vest from The North Face. Simplicity and functionality set this vest apart, and its enhanced windproof features and stretchy, comfortable fit makes it a go-to layering garment for cool weekday morning runs and long weekends on mountain trails. Specifications based on size Large.

Features:

  • Backed with a fleece layer for added comfort and breathability
  • Prevent snow and cool breezes from entering underneath with a hem cinchcord
  • Slide into the most protective softshell material The North Face offers; Apex ClimateBlock fabric is 100% windproof, highly water resistant and effortlessly breathable
  • Stow small trail items or warm your hands in the 2 hand pockets

USOutdoor.com

Four-way stretch, excellent breathability, water resistance and good thermal capability all come together in a stylish vest. The North Face Apex Bionic is constructed with Apex Weatherblock fabric, a technology breakthrough - The North Face signature stretch material with an abrasion- and water- resistant face and a comfortable soft-brushed interior. The North Face calls this vest bionic for a reason.

The North Face Apex Bionic Vest features Apex ClimateBlock fabric wind permeability rated at 0 CFM and Apex technology.

Features:

  • 90D x 90D 10.3 oz/yd2 polyester plain weave Apex ClimateBlock FABRIC: with DWR
  • Apex Weatherblock fabric wind permeability rated at 5 CFM
  • Hem cinchcord
  • Standard Fit
  • Two hand pockets

Zappos.com

Stand up tall against the wind and rest assured knowing that you won't feel the bite in the ‘Men's Apex Bionic Vest' by The North Face.
Standard fit.
Front zip closure with bottom hem cinch cord.
Fleece backed for additional comfort and warmth.
Two zip front hand pockets.
The North Face logo detail along the front.
Features Apex ClimateBlock fabric wind permeability rated at 0 CFM.
Fabric: 90D 351 g/m2 (10.4 oz/yd2) plain weave polyester Apex ClimateBlock.
Weight: 550g. (16.2 oz.)
Length from Center Back: 28
Machine wash warm, tumble dry low.
Product measurements were taken using size MD. Please note that measurements may vary by size.


Backcountry.com Outlet

Layer The North Face Men's Apex Bionic Vest under your shell for extra core warmth, or enjoy it as a top layer on warmer days. The wind and water-resistant softshell material keeps you warm as you blast down the ski hill or hike through the woods. The Apex Bionic Vest vents out your heat as you work up a sweat, and the two front pockets keep your hands warm if you're just enjoying a stroll through the neighborhood.

This description was also provided by: Backcountry.com


REI

Welcome to the sleeveless version of the coveted Apex Bionic jacket from The North Face. It offers windproof protection for your core.

  • Apex™ Universal soft-shell fabric offers stretch for increased freedom of movement, plus abrasion resistance and great breathability; microfleece backing adds warmth
  • Durable Water Repellent finish fends off light rain and snow
  • Windflap backs front zipper; chin guard protects against zipper abrasion
  • Features 2 hand pockets and hem drawcord
  • Standard fit allows some layers underneath; droptail hem extends coverage in back


Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)

Totally windproof and virtually waterproof, the versatile Apex Bionic Vest from The North Face® is a stretchy soft shell that's ideal for trekking, snowshoeing, skiing, and other aerobic activities in milder, yet challenging weather.

Features:

  • Hem cinchcord
  • Soft fleece lining for thermal warmth, moisture wicking, and comfort
  • Standard fit
  • Two hand pockets
  • Wind permeability rated at 0 CFM
  • Windproof polyester with water-repellent finish

Altrec

The Apex Bionic Jacket features Apex ClimateBlock fabric wind permeability rated at 0 CFM.

Features:

  • Apex ClimateBlock fabric wind permeability rated at 0 CFM
  • Fabric: 90D x 90D 10.3 oz/yd2 polyester plain weave Apex ClimateBlock with DWR
  • Hem cinchcord"
  • Sleeveless version of the widely popular jacket, with windproof protection and warmth in milder, yet challenging, conditions.
  • Standard fit
  • Two hand pockets

The North Face

A sleeveless version of the widely-coveted soft shell jacket, this soft shell vest delivers lightweight, windproof, breathable protection from breezy, cool weather. Well, protection for your torso at least. Your arms, core, and legs are another story. Fleece backer feels soft against skin.

Features:

  • Standard fit
  • TNF™ Apex ClimateBlock fabric wind permeability rated at 0 CFM (100% windproof fabric)

O2GearShop.com (Fall 2009)

A sleeveless version of the widely-coveted jacket, this soft shell vest delivers lightweight, water-resistant, breathable protection against cold-weather. Well, protection for your torso at least. Your arms and legs are another story.

Features:

  • Avg Weight 550 g (16.2 oz)
  • Fabric 90D 351 g/m² (10.4 oz/yd²) plain weave polyester TNF™ Apex ClimateBlock
  • Fleece backer
  • Hem cinch-cord
  • Length from Center Back 28 in.
  • Standard fit
  • TNF™ Apex ClimateBlock fabric wind permeability rated at 0 CFM
  • Two hand pockets

This description was also provided by: O2GearShop.com (Fall 2008)


TetonVillageSports.com

This layering piece offers The North Face Apex ClimateBlock fabric, which is great for keeping the core warm during any outdoor activity. I would recommend the Bionic Vest for skate skiing and any other aerobic winter sport you can think of.


Paragon Sports

A sleeveless version of the widely-coveted jacket, this soft shell vest delivers lightweight, water-resistant, breathable protection against cold-weather.

Features:

  • Apex ClimateBlock fabric wind permeability rated at 0 CFM
  • Fleece backer
  • Hem cinch cord
  • Standard fit
  • Two hand pockets

Moosejaw

No description provided.

Average weight:16 ounces
Avg Weight:550 g (16.2 oz)
Back length:27 inches
Core Venting:No
Country Of Origin:China
Fabric:90D 351 g/m² (10.4 oz/yd²) plain weave polyester TNF™ Apex ClimateBlock
Gender:Men's
Hood:No
Length from Center Back:28 in.
Lining:Polyester fleece
Material:Polyester plain weave, Apex ClimateBlock, DWR
Pockets:2 Hand pockets
Primary Use:Hike/Backpacking
Recommended Use:Aerobic alpine, layering, biking, running, feeling like the Six Million Dollar Man
Removable Hood:No
Shell fabric:59% Polyester/35% nylon/6% spandex
Ventilation:No
Warranty:Lifetime
Waterproof Material:N/A
Weather Conditions:Wind
Weight:550g (16.2 oz)
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 Bionic JacketThe North Face Apex Bionic Jacket$99.99 - $129.00
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

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 - Boys$74.19 - $99.00
The North Face Apex Bionic JacketThe North Face Apex Bionic Jacket - Women's$64.47 - $129.99
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 BambeanieThe North Face Bambeanie
Men's Clothing > Headwear
$20.00
The North Face Windstopper Hybrid JacketThe North Face Windstopper Hybrid Jacket
Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests
$134.95 - $135.00
The North Face Windwall VestThe North Face Windwall Vest
Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests
$47.37 - $79.00

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 LargeN/A
Bittersweet Brown/ Bittersweet Brown
Bittersweet Brown/ Bittersweet Brown
98.9599.00 99.00  
Bittersweet Brown
Bittersweet Brown
98.9599.0098.9599.0098.9599.0098.9599.00  
Bittersweet Brown / Bittersweet Brown
Bittersweet Brown / Bittersweet Brown
99.0099.00 99.00  
Bittersweet Brown / Bittersweet Brown (Bittersweet Brown)
Bittersweet Brown / Bittersweet Brown (Bittersweet Brown)
99.0099.0099.0099.0099.00 
Brown
Brown
99.0099.00    
Deep Blue
Deep Blue
98.9598.952 More...98.9598.9599.0068.9798.953 More...98.9598.952 More...98.9598.9599.00 
Deep Water Blue
Deep Water Blue
99.0099.0099.0099.0099.0099.0099.00  
Deep Water Blue / Deep Water Blue
Deep Water Blue / Deep Water Blue
 99.00 99.00 69.27
Asphalt Grey
Asphalt Grey
98.9598.954 More...98.9598.955 More...98.9598.955 More...98.9598.954 More...98.9598.9599.00 
Asphalt Grey (Black) (Asphalt Grey)
Asphalt Grey (Black) (Asphalt Grey)
99.0099.0099.0099.0099.0099.0099.0099.0099.00 
Black
Black
98.9598.956 More...98.9598.958 More...74.9998.959 More...74.9998.959 More...98.9598.952 More... 
Black (Black)
Black (Black)
99.0099.0099.0099.0099.00 
Deepwater / Asphalt99.0099.0099.0099.00  

Legend

  •     - O2GearShop.com (Fall 2009)
  •     - USOutdoor.com
  •     - Zappos.com
  •     - The North Face
  •     - Mountain Gear
  •     - Backcountry.com
  •     - Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)
  •     - Moosejaw
  •     - REI
  •     - Backcountry.com Outlet
  •     - O2GearShop.com (Fall 2008)
  •     - TetonVillageSports.com
  •     - Paragon Sports
  •     - Altrec

The North Face Apex Bionic Vest Reviews Summary:

RatingNumber
of Reviews
*****25
****6
***2
**0
*0
To see how this product compares to others view Men's Jacket Reviews.

Positive Reviews:

Great vest for winter sports enthusiast

Rating:*****

This vest is great for people who are active outdoors in the winter. I bought it to play ultimate frisbee in the rain / snow this winter --> I like my arms free if possible so this vest seemed like a good choice. It is GREAT vs the wind so it keeps your core toasty even on those days where the wind is whistling all around you. I happened to have it as a mid-layer when I went sking w/ my son. It turned out that he had forgotten his ski jacket, so he wore mine and I wore an old coat w/ a broken zipper (which was just flapping open) and the vest underneath. While I won't say I was exactly roasting chestnuts underneath, I was doing okay even though the outside temp was in the mid-twenties. I couldn't have made it through the evening w/o this vest.

A couple notes, the vest is not very stretchy so the fit is important. I normally wear a large shirt, but the medium vest fits snugly (maybe slightly tight when zipped). Its not exactly a fashion statement, but functionally is a fantastic and versatile piece to have in your closet.

If you play outdoors in the winter, you'll never regret buying this vest.

TG at Backcountry.com on 01/13/2009

Great Heat Regulator

Rating:*****

I took it and climbed Mt. Adam's in Washington to help me regulate my heat output while summiting. It worked great and kept that vicious wind at that altitude off my core. I also glissaded with it as my shell, granted it was mostly ice and no snow, wouldn't be ideal if there was a good powder on the glacier. I really don't have a single complaint, it has performed great since then to. I even took a good spill down a rock quarry out in eastern Oregon and it didn't tear or scuff even though the fall scuffed my by body up real nicely where the apex vest wasn't covering me up... ha-ha. Great product, definitely going to put this as a regular in my quiver of gear to pull from!!!

lku3239028 at Backcountry.com Outlet on 09/24/2009

Awesome Mid-layer

Rating:*****

No matter what I'm doing outside, my arms are usually the last to get cold - and the first to get all funky. I swear by vests when it comes to mid-layer protection. I usually stay away from The North Face, but I was impressed by the fit, material, and windblocking features of this vest. I got it on sale, so I'm not sure it would be worth the 100 dollars, but if you're looking for a windproof layer under a wool or simple fleece, this is a great option. The smooth surface reduces friction, the high pockets are great for backpacking, and the collar goes nice and high. Great choice.

Dmont at Backcountry.com Outlet on 02/11/2008

"I heart it :)"

Rating:*****
I absolutely heart this vest! I ordered it in June for my trip to Alaska in July and it came ASAP and it worked out PERFECT for the trip! I could layer it with anything! I'm a tiny girl but I got the Men's small and its not huge on me and i can still fit a sweatshirt or a sweater comfortably under it! I wear it all the time :) Its so great!! i swear you have the best stuff moosejaw!! YAY!! Everyone needs one of these!
April at Moosejaw on 11/06/2008

"excellent vest"

Rating:*****
I have used a vest from another brand for years and it was always great. Since I bought this one last year in Kathmandu I haven't wore the old one. I'm coaching a lot of teams during night time in the Netherlands and I have this with me every single time. I also use it to play golf, when I go skiing or snowboarding etc. Great thing, buy it.
Bela at Moosejaw on 03/30/2009

I wear this everywhere

Rating:*****
From fall to spring I have this vest on almost constantly. Anything 15F and over, I wear a sweatshirt under it and it's perfect. When it's less than 0F, I put a jacket over it. I wear it inside in cool buildings, as a spring jacket, ski jacket, and just about anything else. In short, I wear it everywhere and very rarely do I need anything else.
Anonymous at Altrec on 12/08/2007

"Classy looking vest."

Rating:*****
I own this vest and I absolutely love it. I love the look and feel of the Apex material. I own the Apex jacket and had to get this vest. Wear it with a T-shirt or wear it with a long sleeved shirt underneath. You will be surprised how warm it it. It has a great look to it.
Jason at Moosejaw on 04/01/2009

Nice

Rating:*****

A great vest, I have taken several spills on rails and boxes and there are no tears or wear spots visible. Remarkable how well it blocks wind. If you have an athletic build, size down if you want it form fitting. I am 6'3", 46" chest, 34" waist and the medium fits comfortably over medium weight base layers.

Blonde_Afro at Backcountry.com Outlet on 03/22/2007

"Can't complain"

Rating:*****
This vest is sweet! I wear it under a jacket and it's done a great job keeping the wind out completely. The only drawback is that my core is so warm that the rest of my body feels colder than usual, guess I need some more North Face gear to solve this though.
Aaron at Moosejaw on 02/05/2008

The perfect mid-layer!

Rating:*****
Every other mid-layer I used was too hot or too cold. This is perfect! The lack of arms and insulation are key. Works great without a shell when it's warm and sunny too, since it breaks the wind so well.
Anonymous at Altrec on 04/16/2009

Neutral Reviews:

Apex: wind / Nadir: breathability

Rating:***
While the NF Apex vest scores points for affordability & wind resistance, its extremely poor breathability and lack of stretch severely limit its use for much more than casual around-town use.
I bought one in hopes that it would provide core warmth over a powerstretch layer while trail running, snowshoing & hiking in 30-50 degree weather.
The bottom line: after 30 minutes of aerobic activity, my bottom layer is drenched because NF's Apex fabric just doesn't breathe. It also doesn't layer very well, because the fabric doesn't stretch half as well as, say Schoeller 400.
Lack of breathability reduces this to pretty much a fashion piece for non-aerobic pursuits in temps when you're not at risk of getting cold arms.
BergMann at REI on 01/25/2009

Apex vest sizing

Rating:***

The sizing is very strange. I bought an XL which is my normal size and it was miles too large for me so I sent it back and got a large. But large is a little on the small size, so the difference in adjacent sizes is too great. Also there is no chest pocket as in the jacket. Another feature that I don't like is the zip pull being on the left side as I am right handed like the majority of people and would prefer it on the other side. Overall rating - fair.

James Pelion at Backcountry.com Outlet on 10/05/2008