Contributions by Pittsburgh Pete (3)

I have had a variety of North Face products in the last 10 years. I've had jackets, shoes, base layers, and now this tee. I really want to like North Face products, I really really do. They are readily available at many stores, and the cost is usually relatively inexpensive compared to other companies. So I continue to give them chances at proving themselves. However, this company only keeps proving to be a jack of all trades but a master of nothing. It seems they have become more interested in making stylish looking products rather than producing items that are functional for actual outdoor use. This tee is no different. Although it may cost half as much as comparable shirts made by Mountain Hardwear or Patagonia, it is half as light, half as comfortable, and half as functional. It's too heavy and too long to be a good running shirt. If you are a weekend warrior looking to buy a product that you can wear just hang'n out as a regular tee shirt, this may be the one for you. But if you are going to seriously run or workout on a regular basis, I would not recommend this tee. The deeper I dive into running and exercising, the more I'm finding out that 99% of the time you get what you pay for with gear. My pappy used to say, "Buy cheap, buy twice..." I couldn't say it better than that. Try the Patagonia Airius T-Shirt ($46) or Mountain Hardwear's Double Wicked Tee ($32). These prices are not out of this world once you see how they perform. I have both of these products and they both out perform the North Face Ruckus.

I've been running in this jacket for about a week and find it to be very comfortable. I'm 5'10" and about 180 pounds and sometimes I fall between a medium and a large in Patagonia and Mountain Hardwear products. I got a large in this jacket and it fits perfect. The length of the sleeves is just right and the adjustable elastic waist prevents the jacket from the uncomfortable rubbing against the butt that sometimes happens with other coats when running. With the lining, there's no need for heavy layers. Perfect for running in temps ranging between 35 to 45 or walking between 45 to 55. Would've given it 5 stars if it had a chest pocket that was Mp3 compatible instead of the sleeve pocket. However, this is still a great jacket for a great price. Highly recommended.

I haven't been able to put this coat to a true test yet because I got it a little late in the season. However, I have worn it a few times and it is an incredibly comfortable, warm, and lightweight jacket. It's not to bulky, so it can be worn around town, not just on the mountain. It seems to me that there are more extreme coats available for more extreme activities, but this coat suits me just fine. A very functional jacket.