Gear Review
The North Face Free Thinker Jacket - Men's
A few design oddities
By Benjamin Vincent
Ranked #51 - Men's Ski Jackets
February 9, 2010
I recently had a chance to check out this jacket, and was pretty impressed. This jacket is water tight, no question. I just have an issue with a few design oddities for a jacket. The hood is attached. Not removeable, not stowable, although it IS 3 way adjustable. All inside pockets are on the right side, accessible with the left hand. Lefties rejoice, but most people are right handed. The sleeves seem extra roomy, Popeye would have no problems stuffing his abnormal forarms in them. There are many things to like as well: The material does seem rugged, it isn't going to tear easily, and has a slight sheen to it. A few patches of microfleece added on each shoulder, around the back of the collar, on the back of the neck and at the chin add some comfort with negligible affect on wieght. All external zippers including pitzips are water tight. The hand pockets are huge - ample storage, but not lined. Without having really tested it in rugged conditions yet, this is more a review on function than performance. I'm not worried about it's performance, but can't get over wondering why they put ALL the inside pockets on the "wrong" side.
View Details: The North Face Free Thinker Jacket - Men's
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
Tech Specs:
- Material:
- Gore-Tex Pro Shell (3-layer)
- Insulation:
- none
- Fabric Waterproof Rating:
- guaranteed waterproof
- Fabric Breathability Rating:
- guaranteed breathable
- Hood:
- yes, fixed, , helmet-compatible
- Fit:
- athletic
- Venting:
- dual core
- Powder Skirt:
- yes
- Pockets:
- (external) 2 zippered hand, 2 chest dual vertical zip, 1 bicep, (internal) 2 goggle / media, 1 stash
- Seams:
- fully taped
- Wrist Gaiters:
- no
- Liner-Compatible:
- no
- RECCO:
- yes
- Recommended Use:
- alpine climbing, mountaineering, skiing
- Manufacturer Warranty:
- lifetime
Change me.