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The North Face Varius Guide Jacket

Men's Clothing > Jackets & VestsRated: ***** by 34 reviews. Also available for: Women

Berg's Ski Shop

The Varius Guide provides classic all-weather protection in a fortified hardshell jacket.
The Varius Guide jacket is a best-seller because its 2-layer stretch HyVent™ construction provides excellent protection from the elements, the right amount of mobility, and details designed for skiing and snowboarding.
Features
  • Adjustable and detachable hood with lower face protection
  • HyVent™ 2L dobby Nylon
  • Brushed chinguard lining is soft against your skin
  • Hem cinchcord
  • Internal security pocket
  • Left vertical chest pocket
  • Pit zip with 2-way zippers
  • Two hand pockets
  • Velcro®  adjustable cuffs
  • Waterproof, breathable, seam sealed # Avg Weight 910 g (32.1 oz)
  • Length from Center Back 29.5 in. Fabric abrasion: 140D x 70D 4.3 oz/yd stretch nylon HyVent®  2L
  • Fabric body: 70D x 70D 136 g/m (4.0 oz/yd) dobby nylon HyVent® 2L

Hyvent™ Technology:
With HyVent™ technology, The North Face can now deliver the best waterproof/breathable technology for consumers who don't want to pay a premium cost.
They incorporated this technology by utilizing a polyurethane (PU) coating that consists of a tri-component multi-layer formula for waterproof protection, moisture permeability, and durability. This technology was lab tested in The North Face quality assurance lab to ensure the best possible durability and function. The average breathability achieved using HyVent™ is 650g/m2/24 hours on the Moisture Vapor Transfer Rate (MVTR) scale*. To test the level of waterproofness we subjected HyVent™ garments to 20 wash cycles* where on average they retained over 60 PSI on the waterproofing Mullens Test*.
It's important to note they do not rely solely on these figures: the final stamp of approval comes from the field, the only place to get an honest evaluation of what lab-tested technology can really do. "This technology keeps me out in the storms catching the best snow long after most people have gone inside," says skier and mountaineer, Rick Armstrong. "It's just as good-if not better-than anything else on the market." HyVent™ garments have been heavily field tested for over three years with outstanding proof of long-term performance. The North Face guarantees you cannot find a more waterproof/breathable technology anywhere for this price.
* MVTR testing per ASTM E96B Upright Cup Water Method.
* Wash Cycle-Machine wash warm (105F) + detergent. Tumble dry low (145F) for 40 minutes.
* Mullens testing per ASTM D751. U.S. Federal Standard 191A-55 requires a minimum of 25psi.
* These averages are based on the results of all Fall 2002 HyVent™ fabrics. Individual results will vary depending on the weight and construction of each face fabric.
Pit zips:
Pit zips allow body head to dissipate from your body's core and armpits allowing increased ventilation to keep you cooler and more comfortable

Rocky Mountain Trail

Ideal for skiing and snowboarding, this waterproof and breathable jacket uses druable stretch fabric in key movement areas Fortified waterproof shell delivers all-weather protection beneath a lightweight, seam sealed, breathable fabric. Backcountry-ready, The North Face Men's Varius Guide Jacket features a fully adjustable, removable hood with lower face protection to block sideways rain, a slew of interior and exterior zip pockets for stowage, and a vibrant lining (on some colorways). HyVent Fabrics HyVent is a superior waterproof, breathable technology that utilizes a polyurethane (PU) coating for waterproof protection, moisture permeability, and durability. Durable Water Resistant (DWR) finishes on fabrics and zippers give long life to waterproof technologies. When water hits the fabric’s surface, DWR finishes act like water repels off a ducks back, leaving you dry in wet, rainy conditions.

Features:

  • Brushed collar
  • Elastic and Velcro® adjustable cuffs
  • Fully adjustable, removable hood with lower face protection
  • Hem cinch cord
  • Internal chest zip pocket
  • Pit-zips with two-way zippers
  • Standard fit
  • Two Napoleon chest pockets with wind flaps
  • Two hand pockets
  • Waterproof, breathable, seam sealed
  • Zip-in compatible

Mountain Gear

Arm yourself against mountain storms with The North Face's waterproof, breathable Varius Guide Jacket; a sturdy, seam-sealed shell for outdoor pursuits that don't stop with bad weather. Rely on HyVent fabric to shed precipitation while allowing interior moisture to evaporate and take advantage of this jacket's arsenal of weather protection including a fully adjustable hood, pocket and front zip storm flaps, and wind cuffs. Specifications based on size Large.

Features:

  • Get added weather protection with the fully adjustable hood, center front double storm flap (zipper and Velcro), wind skirt, adjustable Velcro cuffs, and hem cinchcord
  • Increase ventilation by opening the 2-way zippers at the armpits
  • Plenty of pocket space with a Napoleon chest pocket, internal chest pocket, and 2 hand pockets
  • Weather any storm in waterproof, seam-sealed HyVent shell fabric – it’s totally breathable to keep you dry during high-aerobic activities
  • When temperatures drop, easily zip in another coat

Altrec

The North Face Men's Varius Guide Jacket is a classic all-weather jacket with a fortified shell. The jacket has plenty of pockets and one is specifically designed for a MP3 player. The hood works well over a helmet or can be removed if you do not want to use it. A versatile ski jacket for any condition, with this superior jacket on your back, you'll stay dry and warm, even if you find yourself in the middle of monsoon season in Shillong, India. Trust us, it rains a lot there.

Features:

  • Brushed collar
  • Elastic and Velcro adjustable cuffs
  • Fabric: HyVent - a superior waterproof, breathable technology that utilizes a polyurethane (PU) coating
  • Fully adjustable, removable hood with lower face protection
  • Hem cinch-cord
  • Internal chest zip pocket
  • Pit-zips with two-way zips
  • Standard fit
  • Two Napoleon chest pockets with windflaps
  • Two hand pockets
  • Waterproof, breathable, seam sealed
  • Zip-in compatible

Rock/Creek Outfitters

The Varius Guide Jacket by The North Face is a waterproof, breathable, seam sealed Hyvent jacket made for all weather protection: snow, rain, wind or whatever the elements decide to give you. Hyvent is a superior waterproof technology using a polyurethane coating that has three layers of waterproof protections, moisture permeability and durability.
The Varius Guide Jacket is designed to be in the elements all day, while you perform highly aerobic activities keeping you dry, warm, and safe from hypothermia.

Features:

  • Adjustable snap wind skirt
  • Brushed chinguard lining
  • Center front zipper with Velcro closure and interior storm flap
  • Elastic and Velcro adjustable cuffs
  • Fully adjustable, removeable hood with lower face protection
  • Hem cinchcord
  • Internal chest pocket
  • Napoleon chest pocket with wind flap
  • Pit-zips with two-way zippers
  • Standard fit
  • Two hand pockets
  • Waterproof, breathable, seam sealed
  • Zip-in compatible

REI

Ideal for skiing and snowboarding, the waterproof, breathable North Face Varius Guide jacket uses druable stretch fabric in key movement areas.

  • Made from coated 2-layer HyVent™ nylon and stretch HyVent for durable and comfortable protection; features a combination of mesh and taffeta lining
  • All seams are sealed for complete protection
  • Features a fully adjustable, detachable hood and a brushed tricot collar lining and chin guard; jacket zips up to protect chin and lower face in blustery weather
  • Pit vents with 2-way zippers let you quickly and easily control core temperature
  • Gripper-elastic powder skirt, drawcord hem and adjustable cuffs keep out the spindrift
  • 2 generously sized handwarmer pockets, a vertical chest pocket and an inside, secure stash pocket
  • Zip-in integration feature lets you zip in compatible The North Face mid layer insulating pieces


PeterGlenn

The North Face Varius Guide Shell Ski Jacket is a waterproof, breathable shell with stretchy, abrasion-resistant panels. Pit zips and a removable hood allow for temperature regulation, making this jacket great for backcountry and resort riders alike. You can zip in insulating jackets like the Nuptse for even more versatility and warmth.

Features:

  • Adjustable removable hood keeps your head dry
  • Hem cinches to keep air from coming underneath
  • Pit zips let heat out during activity
  • Plenty of pockets conveniently store gear
  • Seam-sealed to keep you completely dry
  • Snap wind skirt keeps wind from coming in underneath
  • Waterproof HyVent fabric protects you from wet weather
  • Zip-in compatibility means you can put your favorite fleece underneath for extra warmth

O2GearShop.com (Fall 2008)

The fortified waterproof shell of the Varius Guide Jacket by The North Face delivers all-weather protection beneath a lightweight, seam sealed, breathable fabric. Backcountry-ready, the Varius Guide Jacket features a fully adjustable, removable hood with lower face protection to block sideways rain, a slew of interior and exterior zip pockets for stowage, and a patterned lining (on some colorways).

Features:

  • Center front double stormflap with zip and Velcro® closure
  • Elastic and Velcro® adjustable cuffs
  • Fortified shell delivers all-weather protection
  • Fully adjustable, removable hood with lower face protection
  • Hem cinch-cord
  • Internal chest pocket
  • Napoleon chest pocket with windflaps
  • Pit-zips with two-way zips
  • Standard fit
  • Two hand pockets
  • Waterproof, breathable, seam sealed
  • Wind skirt
  • Zip-in compatible

Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)

Fortified for all-weather protection, the lightweight Varius Guide jacket is ready for the backcountry—waterproof, breathable, and seam sealed.

Features:

  • 70-denier nylon and stretch nylon abrasion panels backed by HyVent
  • Adjustable snap wind skirt
  • Brushed chin guard lining for nonchafing comfort
  • Center front zip with Velcro closure and interior storm flap
  • Elastic and Velcro adjustable cuffs
  • Fully adjustable, removable hood with lower face protection
  • Hem cinch cord
  • Internal chest pocket
  • Napoleon chest pocket with wind flap
  • TNF compatible midlayers can be zipped into this shell
  • Two zippered hand pockets
  • Two-way underarm zippers for ventilation
  • Waterproof, breathable HyVent coating and sealed seams for complete weather protection
  • Weight: 1 lb. 11.9 oz.

Zappos.com (2009)

Backcountry-ready and fortified, this waterproof shell delivers the all-weather protection that you need.
Waterproof, breathable, and seam sealed.
Zip-in compatible for additional insulation.
Fully adjustable and removable hood with lower face protection.
Center front double stormflap with zip and hook-and-loop closure.
Interior and exterior zip pockets for stowage.
Two-way pit zips for air circulation.
Elastic and hook-and-loop adjustable cuffs.
Adjustable hem cinch-cord.
R9 center back length.
W0D 136 g/m² (4.0 oz/yd²) dobby nylon HyVent body.
Q40D x 70D 146 g/m² (4.3 oz/yd²) stretch nylon HyVent 2L abrasion panels.
Machine wash warm and tumble dry low.
Product measurements were taken using size MD. Please note that measurements may vary by size.


Ramsey Outdoor

Fortified shell delivering all-weather protection, with waterproof, breathable fabric and seam seals.

Features:

  • Adjustable snap wind skirt.
  • Avg Weight: 792 g (27.9 oz).
  • Brushed chinguard lining.
  • Center front zipper with Velcro® closure and interior storm flap.
  • Elastic and Velcro® adjustable cuffs.
  • Fabric: body: 70D 136 g/m2 (4.0 oz/yd2) dobby nylon HyVent™ abrasion: 140D x 70D 146 g/m2 (4.3 oz/yd2) stretch nylon HyVent™.
  • Fully adjustable, removable hood with lower face protection.
  • Hem cinchcord.
  • Internal chest pocket.
  • Length from Center Back: 29".
  • Napoleon chest pocket with wind flap.
  • Pit-zips with two-way zippers.
  • Standard fit.
  • Two hand pockets.
  • Waterproof, breathable, seam sealed.
  • Zip-in compatible.

Backcountry.com Outlet

Thanks to waterproof breathable HyVent fabric, The North Face Varius Guide Jacket keeps you dry as you ski, climb, or hike. This jacket's flexible fabric stretches in key areas to allow maximum freedom of movement on hairy technical ascents and descents, and underarm vents keep the sweathog factor under control. The Varius Guide Jacket's removable hood protects your head during winter storms, and a lower-face panel keeps your chin dry. Two front pockets warm your hands, and The North Face Varius Jacket's adjustable cuffs block cold air without cutting off your blood-flow.


USOutdoor.com

Fortified waterproof shell delivers all-weather protection beneath a lightweight, seam sealed, breathable fabric. Backcountry-ready, the Varius Guide Jacket features a fully adjustable, removable hood with lower face protection to block sideways rain, a slew of interior and exterior zip pockets for stowage, and a vibrant lining (on some colorways).

Features:

  • Adjustable snap wind skirt
  • Brushed chin guard lining
  • Center front zip with Velcro® closure and interior storm flap
  • Elastic and Velcro® adjustable cuffs
  • Fortified shell delivers all-weather protection, with waterproof, breathable fabric and seam seals
  • Fully adjustable, removable hood with lower face protection
  • Hem cinch-cord
  • Internal chest pocket
  • Napoleon chest pocket with windflap
  • Pit-zips with two-way zips
  • Standard fit
  • Two hand pockets
  • Waterproof, breathable, seam sealed
  • Zip-in compatible

This description was also provided by: The North Face


Paragon Sports

This jacket delivers acclaimed protection in harsh, wintry elements. With a synthetic lining, the Insulated Varius Guide Jacket offers quick-drying capabilities to keep you dry and comfortable so you never have to stop exploring.

Features:

  • Brushed collar lining
  • Center-front zip and Velcro closure
  • Elastic wind skirt with snap closures
  • Fully adjustable, removable drop hood with lower face protection
  • Internal chest zip pocket with hidden cell phone slot
  • Napoleon chest pocket with PU zippers
  • Pit-zips with two-way zips
  • Standard fit
  • Waterproof, breathable, seam sealed

Oregon Mountain Community

The North Face Varius Guide Jacket New design. Fortified shell delivering all-weather protection, with waterproof, breathable fabric and seam seals.

Features:

  • Adjustable snap wind skirt
  • Brushed chinguard lining
  • Center front zipper with Velcro closure and interior storm flap
  • Elastic and Velcro adjustable cuffs
  • Fully adjustable, removable hood with lower face protection
  • Hem cinchcord
  • Internal chest pocket
  • Napoleon chest pocket with wind flaps
  • Pit-zips with two-way zippers
  • Standard fit
  • Two hand pockets
  • Waterproof, breathable, seam sealed
  • Zip-in compatible

Massey's Outfitters

Avg Weight: 910 g (32.1 oz) [CB] 29.5"
Brushed collar
Elastic and Velcro® adjust-able cuffs
Fabric: abrasion: 140D x 70D 4.3 oz/yd2 stretch nylon HyVent 2L
Fabric: body: 70D x 70D 136 g/m2 (4.0 oz/yd2) dobby nylon HyVent
2L
Fortified shell delivering all-weather protection, with waterproof, breathable
fabric and seam seals.
Fully adjustable, removable hood with lower face protection
Hem cinchcord
Internal chest zip pocket
Pit-zips with two-way zippers
Standard fit
Style Number: AL0D
Two hand pockets
Two Napoleon chest pockets with wind flaps
Zip-in compatible


FogDog Sports

The North Face(r) Varius Guide men's shell jacket is fortified for all-winter protection. The waterproof and breathable seam-sealed HyVent(tm) construction prevents snow, ice and rain from penetrating the exterior of the jacket.


Appalachain Outdoors

This jacket from The North Face features a fully adjustable, removable hood w/ lower face protection to block sideways rain.


Backcountry.com

The North Face Men's Varius Guide Jacket handles weather abuse like a pro without feeling like a crinkly-ol' stiff.


Moosejaw

No description provided.

Abrasion:140D x 70D 4.3 oz/yd2 stretch nylon HyVent™
Abrasion Materials:140D stretch nylon HyVent
Activity:Winter
Average weight:28 ounces
Avg Weight:792 g (27.9 oz)
Avg. Weight:765 g (27 oz)
Back length:29 inches
Body Materials:70D dobby nylon HyVent
Breathable Rating:675g
Center Back Length:29in [M]
Core Venting:Underarm zips
Country Of Origin:China
Cuff Style:Elastic and VELCRO® Brand Adjustable Cuffs
External Pockets:2
Fabric:body: 70D 136 g/m² (4.0 oz/yd²) dobby nylon HyVent, abrasion: 140D x 70D 146 g/m² (4.3 oz/yd²) stretch nylon HyVent 2L
Fabric Content:Abrasion
Fabric(S):70D nylon, stretch nylon
Gender:Men's
Hood:Yes, removable
Insulation:N/A
Internal Pockets:1
Length from Center Back:26"
Lining:Nylon
Manufacturer Warranty:Lifetime
Material:HyVent (dobby and stretch nylon)
Pockets:2 Front, 1 chest with wind flaps, 1 internal
Powder Skirt:Wind skirt
Primary Use:Alpine/Ascent
Recommended Use:Skiing, snowshoeing, backcountry trekking
Seam Taped:Yes, critical seams taped
Secondary fabric:140-denier x 70-denier stretch nylon
Shell fabric:Nylon
Technology:Durable Water Resistant (DWR) finishes on fabrics and zippers give long life to waterproof technologies. When water hits the fabric’s surface, DWR finishes act like water repels off a ducks back, leaving you dry in wet, rainy conditions.
Ventilation:Underarm zippers
Warranty:Lifetime
Waterproof:Yes
Waterproof Material:HyVent coating
Waterproof Rating:25psi
Waterproofing:HyVent waterproof breathable laminate
Weather Conditions:Snow
Weight:32.1 oz (910g)
Windproof:Yes
Zip-in Compatibility:Yes

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 Insulated Varius Guide JacketThe North Face Insulated Varius Guide Jacket$168.95 - $249.00
The North Face Varius Guide PantThe North Face Varius Guide Pant$104.86 - $149.00
The North Face Varius Guide Pant - ShortThe North Face Varius Guide Pant - Short$149.00
The North Face Varius Guide Pant - LongThe North Face Varius Guide Pant - Long$149.00

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 Varius Guide JacketThe North Face Varius Guide Jacket - Women's$168.99 - $203.00
The North Face Insulated Varius Guide JacketThe North Face Insulated Varius Guide Jacket - Women's$119.97 - $249.00
The North Face Insulated Varius Guide JacketThe North Face Insulated Varius Guide Jacket - Girl's$103.20
The North Face Varius Guide PantThe North Face Varius Guide Pant - Women's$84.48 - $149.00

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

The North Face Denali HoodieThe North Face Denali Hoodie
Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests
$128.95 - $179.95
The North Face Denali JacketThe North Face Denali Jacket
Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests
$79.98 - $169.00
The North Face Nuptse VestThe North Face Nuptse Vest
Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests
$98.95 - $129.00
Spyder Powder Shell JacketSpyder Powder Shell Jacket
Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests
$298.99 - $419.00
The North Face Pumori Fleece JacketThe North Face Pumori Fleece Jacket
Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests
$69.27 - $99.00
The North Face Redpoint VestThe North Face Redpoint Vest
Men's Clothing > Jackets & Vests
$98.95 - $99.00
GoLite Spectre JacketGoLite Spectre Jacket
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$137.48 - $274.95

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 Largeout of stockN/A
Ignition Orange
Ignition Orange
203.00169.00203.00203.00169.00198.95203.00203.00  
Potlatch Orange
Potlatch Orange
198.95199.00199.00198.95199.002 More...198.95199.002 More...198.95199.002 More...198.95199.00199.00  
Bittersweet Brown
Bittersweet Brown
199.00199.00199.00199.00199.00199.00199.00199.00199.00199.00  
Anemone Green (New Taupe Green)
Anemone Green (New Taupe Green)
199.00203.00199.00203.00199.00203.00199.00203.00203.00  
Anemone Green
Anemone Green
198.95199.002 More...198.95199.003 More...198.95199.003 More...198.95199.003 More...198.95199.002 More...  
Mountain Blue
Mountain Blue
198.95198.956 More...149.95198.957 More...198.95198.957 More...198.95198.956 More...198.95198.953 More...  
Mountain Blue / Deep Water Blue
Mountain Blue / Deep Water Blue
199.00168.95199.00199.00199.00   
Basin Blue
Basin Blue
 148.95 169.00   
Asphalt Grey
Asphalt Grey
198.95198.954 More...198.95198.954 More...198.95198.953 More...198.95198.953 More...198.95198.953 More...  
Asphalt Grey / Black
Asphalt Grey / Black
168.95199.00168.95199.00168.95199.00168.95199.00199.00  
Black (Black)
Black (Black)
198.95199.00203.00198.95199.00203.00198.95199.00203.00198.95199.00203.00198.95199.00203.00  
Black (Citronelle Green)
Black (Citronelle Green)
198.95199.00198.95199.00198.95199.00198.95199.00198.95199.00  
Black / Black
Black / Black
 198.99198.99199.00198.99199.00198.99199.00  
Black / Citronelle Green
Black / Citronelle Green
199.00199.00199.00199.00199.00199.00199.00199.00  
Asphalt168.99168.99168.99168.99168.99  
Bittersweet168.99168.99168.99168.99168.99  
Black
Black
168.95199.002 More...168.95169.005 More...149.95168.956 More...168.95169.005 More...198.95198.953 More... 198.95
Pumice Grey   169.00   
Red (Black)
Red (Black)
199.00203.00199.00203.00203.00199.00203.00199.00203.00  
Soil Brown   169.00   
Sorry     198.95 
TNF Red
TNF Red
198.95198.95198.95198.95198.95198.95198.95198.95  
TNF Red / Black
TNF Red / Black
199.00199.00199.00199.00199.00199.00199.00199.00  

Legend

  •     - Altrec
  •     - Backcountry.com
  •     - Rocky Mountain Trail
  •     - Berg's Ski Shop
  •     - O2GearShop.com (Fall 2008)
  •     - Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)
  •     - Zappos.com (2009)
  •     - Mountain Gear
  •     - Paragon Sports
  •     - The North Face
  •     - Appalachain Outdoors
  •     - FogDog Sports
  •     - Massey's Outfitters
  •     - Moosejaw
  •     - Backcountry.com Outlet
  •     - Ramsey Outdoor
  •     - PeterGlenn
  •     - USOutdoor.com
  •     - Rock/Creek Outfitters
  •     - Oregon Mountain Community
  •     - REI

The North Face Varius Guide Jacket Reviews Summary:

RatingNumber
of Reviews
*****25
****8
***1
**0
*0
To see how this product compares to others view Men's Jacket Reviews.

Positive Reviews:

Best for the money...Armholes OK

Rating:*****

After reading the reviews I knew what to expect from this jacket. I wanted something warm and dryer than my old jacket, with a heavier & stronger shell. The waterproof rating is one of the highest I found in this price range so I went with North Face. A couple of the reviewers complained of smallish arm holes and this was a concern for me as I intended to layer with my new Underarmor jacket. I spent a lot of time in the store trying on size medium and large jackets with my Underarmor and a fleece North Face zip in vest. Although the armholes did seem a bit smaller than expected, making the jacket a bit more difficult to get into, the fit was fine in my usual size medium. (I'm 5'8" 155 lbs with kinda longish arms) I swung my arms in every direction possible and felt no restriction. Thinking of extra insulation for really cold days I zipped in the fleece vest (a size large vest in a medium jacket) and wore the jacket over my underarmor. Things were a bit more snug but stilll OK and I intend to order a vest the correct size. The large size jacket did fit looser but the sleeves were noticably longer and the jacket "puffed out" more. I would have bought the large if I intended to wear my down jacket underneath. I think the stretch fabric in the shoulders and outer sleeves allows for freedom of movement even with the slightly tighter arm holes. All in all It makes a nice system for skiing with my existing insulation layer. I wear a ski helmet and wanted a removable hood. The zipper is so well hidden beneath a layer of fabric that you'd think it was a permanently attached hood. I hope this helps people concerned with fit issues.

Bob at Backcountry.com Outlet on 01/02/2009

Function and Style

Rating:*****

Excellent coat for many reasons. 1) The material is VERY durable. I crashed my bike and skidded across the pavement for a few feet and the jacket only developed one very small hole, and that was only through the outermost layer. The North Face was able to excellently repair the hole, and now it is indistinguishable from the original material in both looks and weather resistance. 2) Speaking of weather resistance, this coat will do a very good job of keeping you dry and fairly warm. This jacket is only a thick shell, extra insulation IS NEEDED for wintersports like downhill skiing. This jacket was made with this in mind as it features zip-in compatibility. Personally, I zip in a Redpoint jacket for insulation in the winter, and the result is a bomber coat that is really warm and comfortable without extra bulk and weight. 3) The jacket looks awesome. This is not one of the North Face's flashy, glitzy, ski-bunny styled pieces of apparel. This is a serious jacket, made for people who want to brave the elements, and the jacket's appearance reflects that. This fabric, when comparing to other coats, is not the slippery nylon feel of many waterproof fabrics. Rather, this is a thicker, rougher texture. As a result, the jacket is much more durable. HOWEVER, water does not simply bead off this jacket like wax paper. In fact, the fabric actually gets pretty wet on the outside, and it takes a little while to dry. Inside, though, you will never have to worry about getting wet. Overall, This is an AWESOME coat for someone looking for a durable, weather proof shell that works great when layered in winter, or as a stand-alone in spring/fall.

jjglynn at Backcountry.com Outlet on 04/02/2008

Nice Jacket for the price.

Rating:****

I am pretty satisfied with the Varius guide jacket. It is a nice coat for the price, but the hy vent zippers under the pits are somewhat annoying. I read that they were annoying, buy I am still glad I bought the coat. I bought an xxl even though I am an xl in most jackets except for North Face. Which always seems to run small, but it is pretty big without a fleece underneath. But if I zip in a fleece I wouldn't want it to be an xl. The only other negative is the colors North face had this year. I got the basin blue which is very blue. I didn't care for any of the colors they were offering so I thoght this was the best one. In any case I really like the jacket and it seemed to be a good deal for the price.

Philip at Backcountry.com Outlet on 01/23/2008

Great product

Rating:*****

I spoke with a representative online as wanted to purchase an all-weather jacket that was of the utmost quality and was directed towards the Varius Guide as a shell .. the gentleman online knew his stuff!! I've worn my jacket to work with a wool sweater underneath in windy and snowy conditions and it has held up superbly. It is the best purchase I have made in a long time. It is well made, seems extremely durable, and surprisingly warm, in below freezing weather you will need a fleece or a sweater underneath but an excellent product. WORTH EVERY PENNY!!!!!

7huseyn at Backcountry.com Outlet on 02/25/2008

Jacket seems just right for skiing in all weather conditions

Rating:*****
Just received this jacket so haven't had a chance to test it out yet. But the Hyvent fabric, lining, and construction is exactly like my wife's NF jacket from 5+ years ago and it is still holding up well, easily shedding wet snow and rain. I'm expecting the same from my jacket. Number, size and location of pockets are great. I also like the ability to remove the hood. One minor critique is the rubber tab at the end of the adjustable velcro cuff which makes it stick out a bit.
Anonymous at Altrec on 03/29/2008

Great Jacket

Rating:*****
This is a really great jacket. I have only had it a few weeks, but I am quite happy with the purchase. It is quite warm by itself but also works really great as a waterproof and windproof shell. I am currently using it with the TNF Aconcagua down jacket and and the combo has kept me quite warm in below zero wind chill conditions. It looks great too. Highly recommended. Service from Altrec was good as well. I would definitely buy from them again.
Anonymous at Altrec on 02/10/2008

Great Jacket except for Pitzips

Rating:****
The pitzips get hung up every time, from the first time that you try to use them. Possibly resulting in rips and tears. Very poorly designed and awkward to use. I broke a sweat and thought I was doing yoga just trying to use the pit zips. Otherwise it's a great jacket. But I will exchange and give it another chance.
My North Face Bionic Jacket pocket zips do the same thing. I think I may be done with The North Face clothing line.
Mammothdan at REI on 10/24/2009

Amazing jacket!

Rating:*****

I purchased this jacket to use as an outer layer on snowshoe outings here in the San Juan Mtns of Colorado. I wear it over a light or mid-weight fleece and capilene 3 base layer. I am amazed at how comfortable I am this way. Although the jacket is not insulated, I have been completely comfortable in cold, windy situations with wind chill as low as -25F. The quality is excellent, like all of the other products I have purchased from The North Face.

Russ from Durango at Backcountry.com Outlet on 01/02/2008

Fantastic jacket

Rating:*****
after buying this jacket for my self, I ended up up buying it for my whole family! It is such a great jacket for a great price. It does a superb job of blocking the wind even in the coldest of all weathers. I found that I only needed this jacket during the cold winter season. It is true that fleece would make you whole lot warmer but I found that even sweater was sufficient. I will definitely order from Altrec again!
Anonymous at Altrec on 12/02/2007

Not bad, but there's better for the price.

Rating:****

This jacket will keep the rain off and the wind out. It's durable material and HyVent weather protection won't disappoint. The hood doesn't stay put as much as I'd like, and I can't imagine a situation when I'd want it all the way off rather than just pushed back. I'd recommend another jacket with a fixed hood, but that's more preference than anything. A fleece, zipped in or not, is definitely necessary for high-altitude/low-temp conditions. You'll need the insulation.

Tyler Olander at Backcountry.com Outlet on 12/06/2008

Neutral Reviews:

Alright Jacket

Rating:***

This jacket is fine, but I agree with other reviewers that you could get a better jacket for the price. It does fine in snow, but saturates in rain and could be lighter. It needs a snow skirt to be a good ski coat, and lighter material to be a good rain shell. So all and all not to bad.

keohan682170037 at Backcountry.com Outlet on 04/08/2009