- Home
- The North Face Apex Mckinley Softshell Jacket - Men's
- Question and Answer
Gear Question
The North Face Apex Mckinley Softshell Jacket - Men's
This and TNF Sentinel Thermal both seem to have the same features--windproof...
By Kevin Neal
Ranked #2480 - Men's Softshell Jackets
April 14, 2010
This and TNF Sentinel Thermal both seem to have the same features--windproof soft shell with fleece backing, yet the Sentinel Thermal is pricier. Can anyone tell me the differences between these two jackets?
View Details: The North Face Apex Mckinley Softshell Jacket - Men's
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
By Ian McCalder
Ranked #29 - Men's Softshell Jackets
April 14, 2010
Hey Kevin. The Sentinel Thermal differs in two ways. First, it has a "high loft" fleece backer for added warmth. Most softshells have a microfleece lining that isn't very thick. The fleece in the Sentinel Thermal is somewhat akin to mashing a 100 weight fleece inside a softshell jacket. Second, it uses Gore Windstopper as a laminate. This is where the cost difference (mostly) comes from. The North Face has to pay Gore to use its fabric (the Windstopper liner), and Gore fabric doesn't come cheap. This is partly due to Gore's reputation with the Gore-Tex fabric. So, The North Face passes on the cost to you, the comsumer. Think of it as a brand name windproof liner. The McKinley uses The North Face's Apex ClimateBloc, which is also windproof, but it doesn't cost them money since they own the technology. Thus, the jacket is cheaper. Lastly, I just thought of this, the Sentinel Thermal is a "Summit Series" jacket which will cost more simply because it's more "hardcore".
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
Change me.