Gear Review
The North Face Apex Bionic Softshell Jacket - Men's
Wet and on the Move!
By Cedar Wright
Ranked #457 - Men's Softshell Jackets
June 13, 2009
I really like this jacket...and am a big proponent of the apex fabric for "medium" cold "medium" wet days....no it's not water proof, but if you are out in the rain or snow and moving non-stop it's a lot more breathable than gore-tex or other fully water-proof fabrics, and I think this is a great jacket for ice-climbing, cross country skiing, climbing, running, and anything where you need a wind and water resistant piece that is ultra breathable. As an added bonus I think this jacket is "techy" looking with out making you look like you are in extra in Tron! Nice balance of form and function.
View Details: The North Face Apex Bionic Softshell Jacket - Men's
Helpful Votes: 11 Yes
Change me.
5 Comments Last Reply: September 17, 2010 By: Benjamin Vincent
I have to disagree with dan and esoteric. Gore-tex breaths well for a waterproof/windproof fabric, but any moisture still has to pass through a membrane, where that isn't the case in this and many other softshells. Pretty much anything that breaths with no membrane breaths better than even the best breathable membrane. Gore-tex is the best breathable membrane thats totally wind/water proof and getting better and better all the time, but keep in mind there isn't a gore-tex jacket out there that doesn't still have pit zips.
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
I used to have one,it repels water but nothing on breathable
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
Good shoulder season jacket....
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
I agree, the apex is less breathable.
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
On the contrary, I find this jacket to be much less breathable than a GoreTex or similar jacket.
Helpful Votes: 3 Yes