The North Face

Pre-owned The North Face jackets, from the Nuptse down jacket and Summit Series shells to rain jackets, softshells, fleece and hoodies.

Down jackets and puffers

The Nuptse is one of the best-known jackets from The North Face, with a boxy shape and wide horizontal baffles that keep the down evenly spread. The 1996 Retro Nuptse is a reissue based on the version from 1996. A number such as 550, 700 or 800 on the label is the fill power of the down, and a higher number gives more loft and warmth for the same weight. The Gotham is a down parka with a longer body and a high neck. The puffer jackets have their own page, The North Face puffer jackets.

Shells, rain jackets and softshells

A shell is a jacket without insulation that keeps out wind and rain, made in nylon or polyester with a hood or a stand collar and a full zip. HyVent is the name The North Face uses for its own waterproof, breathable fabrics, and Summit Series is its most technical line. Apex Bionic is a softshell, a stretch fabric that blocks wind and light rain while letting more air through than a waterproof shell. Windbreakers are lighter still and often packable. The jackets have their own page, The North Face jackets.

Fleece, hoodies and sweatshirts

Besides outerwear, The North Face makes fleece jackets, hoodies and crewneck sweatshirts, usually with the logo on the chest. The Denali is a fleece jacket with nylon panels on the shoulders.

Size and measurements

The North Face cuts most jackets with room for a layer underneath, and older jackets are often roomier than current ones. The letter on the label is therefore a rough guide.

Down, shells and care

Down that has clumped can often be restored with a careful wash and a long, low tumble dry. On a shell, the membrane lasts for years, while the DWR finish on the surface wears off and can be renewed with a wash-in or spray-on treatment. A technical wash is better than regular detergent, and fabric softener is best avoided.

The same items can be browsed for men and women. The complete guide to The North Face covers the models and how to date them, The North Face technology names explains the names on the labels, and the comparison of winter jackets sets The North Face beside Canada Goose, Moncler and Patagonia. More outdoor brands are on the Patagonia, Arc'teryx and outdoor clothing pages.

Frequently asked questions

What does the number on a Nuptse mean?

The number is the fill power of the down, such as 700. A higher fill power gives more loft and warmth for the same weight.

Does the water resistance of a shell last?

The membrane lasts for years. The DWR finish on the surface wears off with use and can be renewed with a wash-in or spray-on treatment.

Does The North Face run large?

Most jackets are cut with room for a layer underneath.

How can genuine The North Face items be recognised?

The complete guide to The North Face explains what to look for on the labels and the logo.