The North Face Men's Venture 2 Jacket-Shady Blue-XL

I bought a light, hooded windbreaker from North Face while travelling in Nepal to Everest Base Camp. It was a cheap purchase abroad as i forgot my rain jacket. The windbreaker held up in strong winds and rain and was perfect for layering. Besides the zipup, the coat has velcro closures and the hood is designed to stay on and not be blown away in the wind. Very happy with purchase. It is a striking sky blue colour that doesn't fade in the wash and holds up well during torrential downpours. I recommend both the brand and the jacket.

3 month update :(

Purchased 3 months ago to be prepared for winter season. I wrote a review describing issues with color discrepancies ( order an all Black shell, get one that's Grey and black. I decided to compromise over the color and keep the product.Went to wash it for the first time the other day and while checking the pockets, I noticed that the seam had split open and the pocket was falling apart. I contacted Customer Service and though the process for warranty returns is to send it back to Quebec so they can decide to repair or replace the item, Simon in customer service suggested that I send in some pics to the Warranty department and maybe they will replace the product and accept the original one back later so Im not without a jacket while waiting for the process to be ... MorePurchased 3 months ago to be prepared for winter season. I wrote a review describing issues with color discrepancies ( order an all Black shell, get one that's Grey and black. I decided to compromise over the color and keep the product.Went to wash it for the first time the other day and while checking the pockets, I noticed that the seam had split open and the pocket was falling apart. I contacted Customer Service and though the process for warranty returns is to send it back to Quebec so they can decide to repair or replace the item, Simon in customer service suggested that I send in some pics to the Warranty department and maybe they will replace the product and accept the original one back later so Im not without a jacket while waiting for the process to be completed. Simon reminded me that he could make no promises but he was empathetic to my dilemma and wished the best of luck.The "Auto-Reply" I received :Dear The North Face customer,We have received your email and are looking forward to handling your request. Our regular turnaround time is of 5 to 10 business days but may be exceeded during peak business periods (August to March). We answer all correspondence in sequential order.Thank you for contacting The North Face warranty serviceThe warranty teamSo at least 3 weeks to get a replacement jacket ( if I'm lucky ) with a good chance that I still have to send it back as requested in the warranty process. Also, this color is no longer available so another compromise has to be made from the customer, sigh !My experience so far with North Face has been disappointing to say the least. I can't return this item to a "Bricks and Mortar" 40 min away as according to customer service, they will advise me to send the garment back to Quebec.If you want to replace your jacket frequently and don't mind compromising on quality and color, then feel free to keep supporting North Face. I would spend more and buy something that gives you a serviceable life longer than one season or less."Fashion verses Function" you decide.

BEST Jacket for fall/winter hiking I've ever owned.

I absolutely love this jacket. I bought it as a jacket to cut the wind, a very light shell. I did not buy it as a "rain jacket", but if it was breathable - then gosh I got everything I ever wanted. And I really really did! This is the best hiking/get caught in the rain jacket I have ever owned at a fraction of the price I thought I would need to pay to get both water resistance and breathbility. The pit zips are full zips - and I just hiked in the rain with them down and did not get wet at all. I use this for everyday colder fall hiking, and expect it is the only jacket I will wear over a 3/4 zip medium weight shirt for winter. NOTES: I am female with very wide shoulders, run body temperature hot, and don't hike below 15F. I also only typically hike 4-10 miles, but ... MoreI absolutely love this jacket. I bought it as a jacket to cut the wind, a very light shell. I did not buy it as a "rain jacket", but if it was breathable - then gosh I got everything I ever wanted. And I really really did! This is the best hiking/get caught in the rain jacket I have ever owned at a fraction of the price I thought I would need to pay to get both water resistance and breathbility. The pit zips are full zips - and I just hiked in the rain with them down and did not get wet at all. I use this for everyday colder fall hiking, and expect it is the only jacket I will wear over a 3/4 zip medium weight shirt for winter. NOTES: I am female with very wide shoulders, run body temperature hot, and don't hike below 15F. I also only typically hike 4-10 miles, but hike most days. Everything else I've ever had I started sweating in, even though it was just a light shell. I actually only write reviews if I hate or love a product and I love this jacket. Tempted to buy another one for the future right now. I was expected only some water resistance, based on other reviews - but I just went out for 90 minutes in the rain and it didn't soak through or make me sweaty. I really really love this jacket! Please don't ever stop making it! My daughter borrowed it yesterday to run in. She runs cold (opposite of me), and ran with three layers under this and didn't get sweat soaked either. (I had her wear it over her clothes because it is bright yellow and she was running on the road and I didn't want her in only dark clothing.)

Excellent Basic Jacket

Excellent Jacket. It's so simple, it does exactly what it's made to do. I own the Venture I jacket, not the II, so this version may be updated, however mine is a couple years old now, and I've re-applied the water shedding coating only once. Sheds water very well, and I have endured many torrential downpours with this jacket, and continue to stay dry. The jacket is not warm. It's just a shell, it's not meant to be. Pair with a breathable warmth layer, and you can endure any weather. Being a waterproof shell, it breathes very poorly. The armpit vents work very well to allow breathability, but to maintain it's water/wind proof protection that's it.This is not a con, but instead a byproduct of its intended purpose. Wind proof also. I would buy this again and again. ... MoreExcellent Jacket. It's so simple, it does exactly what it's made to do. I own the Venture I jacket, not the II, so this version may be updated, however mine is a couple years old now, and I've re-applied the water shedding coating only once. Sheds water very well, and I have endured many torrential downpours with this jacket, and continue to stay dry. The jacket is not warm. It's just a shell, it's not meant to be. Pair with a breathable warmth layer, and you can endure any weather. Being a waterproof shell, it breathes very poorly. The armpit vents work very well to allow breathability, but to maintain it's water/wind proof protection that's it.This is not a con, but instead a byproduct of its intended purpose. Wind proof also. I would buy this again and again. Fit's very very well and true to size. I wear a medium in everything. I can choose to wear this with only a t-shirt and still looks flattering, but I can choose to wear a heavyweight sweatshirt underneath, and plenty of room and flexibility. If you plan to be sweating, the jacket will be moist from condensation on the inside, so expect this.The jacket also is very durable. It's been through many forests, rocky scrambles, and everything in-between, and not a single rip or tear. It'll tear if a sharp rock catches it, but I've been good to avoid it. The shell accepts aftermarket rain proofing coating very well, also. Kudos, North Face.

Great choice as an outer shell

I had this jacket for about a month now and have used it daily as the outer shell of my rucking (hiking) clothing kit - wicking layer, warmth layer, outer shell. Living in Michigan, I've already had the opportunity to use it through most weather conditions - from cold and snowy, to warm-ish and windy. I've been very happy with it and would recommend it as use as an outer shell, but not an only layer because it's not very breathable. For me, that's not a big deal. When I'm done wearing, I turn it inside-out to let the interior dry out on the back of a chair. Just know, if you're doing physical activity, and this is the only layer against your skin, the sweat it's not going to wick away or evaporate.PRO's: Great wind and rain protection. Lightweight. Easily ... MoreI had this jacket for about a month now and have used it daily as the outer shell of my rucking (hiking) clothing kit - wicking layer, warmth layer, outer shell. Living in Michigan, I've already had the opportunity to use it through most weather conditions - from cold and snowy, to warm-ish and windy. I've been very happy with it and would recommend it as use as an outer shell, but not an only layer because it's not very breathable. For me, that's not a big deal. When I'm done wearing, I turn it inside-out to let the interior dry out on the back of a chair. Just know, if you're doing physical activity, and this is the only layer against your skin, the sweat it's not going to wick away or evaporate.PRO's: Great wind and rain protection. Lightweight. Easily packable. Roomy side pockets. Good fit.CON's: Breathability (holds perspiration inside). Pricey.

NF Venture - Nice Kit

I have more than one of these. At the right price point they're very good value.Pros:I live in South East US where it gets really hot and humid.*This rain jacket doesn't over heat you and get you sweaty in warmer seasons too quickly thanks to Pit Zips.*Hood has draw string around your head so that the hood moves with your head when you turn it.*Packable and reasonably light.*No leakage on any of them yet.Cons:*The one way zipper seperates at the bottom often. I really hate this on cheap stuff - hard to fix. Fortunately, a firm zip down rejoins halves and restores the zipper to functional. Regardless, the zipper seperation is annoying for the price point.*There is draw string cordage in the pockets for hood opening control. The holes in the pockets ... MoreI have more than one of these. At the right price point they're very good value.Pros:I live in South East US where it gets really hot and humid.*This rain jacket doesn't over heat you and get you sweaty in warmer seasons too quickly thanks to Pit Zips.*Hood has draw string around your head so that the hood moves with your head when you turn it.*Packable and reasonably light.*No leakage on any of them yet.Cons:*The one way zipper seperates at the bottom often. I really hate this on cheap stuff - hard to fix. Fortunately, a firm zip down rejoins halves and restores the zipper to functional. Regardless, the zipper seperation is annoying for the price point.*There is draw string cordage in the pockets for hood opening control. The holes in the pockets for this cordage path way are riveted as a measure against hole rippage. The rivets come out. So far no rippage in pocket fabric, but I watch it closely. Tempted to return over this.Note: The sleeves on this jacket are really long - they will drop down completely over your hand, fingers included unless you got really long arms. However, when you have on a pack or PFD, the sleeve length becomes just right.I still like this jacket enough to have several for different uses - backpack kit, kayak kit, emergency car kit.

NOT AS PICTURED for the TNF Black/TNF Black/Mid Grey

The color you receive will not be as pictured if you order the Black/Black/Mid Grey. The top 1/3 of the jacket is a grey, and is not all black with a grey logo as pictured for that colorway. I ordered it twice. The first time, I contacted customer service to see if they simply sent me the wrong jacket and if they actually had the all black Venture 2 like pictured, and they said they did and to simply reorder. I reordered and was annoyed to find the 2nd one the same exact color with the grey top panel. I don't think they have the one pictured, and if they do, I'm not sure how to order it lol maybe take a chance and 3rd time is the charm? I also wouldn't know how it fits since I ordered in a different size as a gift for a friend, but I'm sure it's a great rain ... MoreThe color you receive will not be as pictured if you order the Black/Black/Mid Grey. The top 1/3 of the jacket is a grey, and is not all black with a grey logo as pictured for that colorway. I ordered it twice. The first time, I contacted customer service to see if they simply sent me the wrong jacket and if they actually had the all black Venture 2 like pictured, and they said they did and to simply reorder. I reordered and was annoyed to find the 2nd one the same exact color with the grey top panel. I don't think they have the one pictured, and if they do, I'm not sure how to order it lol maybe take a chance and 3rd time is the charm? I also wouldn't know how it fits since I ordered in a different size as a gift for a friend, but I'm sure it's a great rain jacket.To be fair, the jacket tags from both orders DO match the TNF Black/TNF Black/Mid Grey color description, so again it might just mean they have the wrong jacket pictured.I'd recommend to a friend if they aren't looking for the all black colorway pictured in the Black/Black/Mid Grey selection.

Perfect Lightweight Jacket!

I recently acquired the Men's Venture 2 Jacket from a separate outdoor retailer, and I'm thrilled with its simple design and versatility in a mix of outdoor climates. The features I love most is that it's unlined, sturdy, durable, packable, waterproof, breathable, has few pockets, and is notably lightweight. These features are essential when you need a jacket that can serve either as a reliable windbreaker worn by itself or worn as an outer garment over insulating clothes. I can also comfortably wear this jacket in warm, breezy weather with just a long-sleeve cotton shirt without overheating, which is something I can't experience if I'm wearing a Gore-Tex raincoat that has a 2-ply liner. The Venture 2 Jacket also has a remarkable hood that does not impair my ... MoreI recently acquired the Men's Venture 2 Jacket from a separate outdoor retailer, and I'm thrilled with its simple design and versatility in a mix of outdoor climates. The features I love most is that it's unlined, sturdy, durable, packable, waterproof, breathable, has few pockets, and is notably lightweight. These features are essential when you need a jacket that can serve either as a reliable windbreaker worn by itself or worn as an outer garment over insulating clothes. I can also comfortably wear this jacket in warm, breezy weather with just a long-sleeve cotton shirt without overheating, which is something I can't experience if I'm wearing a Gore-Tex raincoat that has a 2-ply liner. The Venture 2 Jacket also has a remarkable hood that does not impair my peripheral vision while I'm walking on a sidewalk or looking both ways for cars while standing at a busy intersection. It also keeps my head warm and dry. I honestly can't think of anything negative to say about this jacket. It's worth every penny and a fantastic product I will cherish for as long as I own it.

Well, it's my favorite color!

This one of several North Face rain jackets I own and was purchased to keep in my daypack (or backpack for overnights).Fits fine in a Men's large and I'm 5' 7" 175lbs.I bought this to replace another TNF rain jacket that didn't have pit zips or a fully adjustable hood. The adjustment in the back is the one that keeps the front of the hood from dropping down over your eyes and is a MUST. (If you wanna see where you're going!) I've worn this 4-5 times and it's a great windbreaker shell and kept me protected from light rain however, even with the pit zips and having the front partially unzipped I was soaked from sweat. Same thing each time I've worn it so, breathable??? Not so much. This is hiking 5-10 miles up and down hills with a 20 lb pack with my Golden ... MoreThis one of several North Face rain jackets I own and was purchased to keep in my daypack (or backpack for overnights).Fits fine in a Men's large and I'm 5' 7" 175lbs.I bought this to replace another TNF rain jacket that didn't have pit zips or a fully adjustable hood. The adjustment in the back is the one that keeps the front of the hood from dropping down over your eyes and is a MUST. (If you wanna see where you're going!) I've worn this 4-5 times and it's a great windbreaker shell and kept me protected from light rain however, even with the pit zips and having the front partially unzipped I was soaked from sweat. Same thing each time I've worn it so, breathable??? Not so much. This is hiking 5-10 miles up and down hills with a 20 lb pack with my Golden Retrievers. Takes a good while to dry, too. It's very light and takes up very little space in my pack, which is a plus. I have a lot of gear (Sleeping bags, tents, jackets, clothes, etc) and LOVE most of my TNF gear and their lifetime warranty.

You wont go wrong buying this jacket...

Buying this jacket wont be a mistake, but think about what you will be using it for. In short this is a solid jacket but there are better options for backpackers and climbers (any breathable hardshell). And there are cheaper options for casual users (PreCip).The quality of this jacket is better than other TNF garments I have, and they clearly have thought about the wearer when designing it. The waist cinch is very nice and totally blocks the wind when tightened. The fleece around chin part of the hood is comfortable and all the zippers and zipper pulls are top notch, No complaints here.What gets me is the waterproof material used in this jacket. It's not breathable at all, yet it somehow manages to also not be waterproof either. I was backpacking in the Ozarks ... MoreBuying this jacket wont be a mistake, but think about what you will be using it for. In short this is a solid jacket but there are better options for backpackers and climbers (any breathable hardshell). And there are cheaper options for casual users (PreCip).The quality of this jacket is better than other TNF garments I have, and they clearly have thought about the wearer when designing it. The waist cinch is very nice and totally blocks the wind when tightened. The fleece around chin part of the hood is comfortable and all the zippers and zipper pulls are top notch, No complaints here.What gets me is the waterproof material used in this jacket. It's not breathable at all, yet it somehow manages to also not be waterproof either. I was backpacking in the Ozarks this past fall for my university and had been very happy with my jacket up until then. After all it does make for a very nice casual and stylish rain jacket. To my disappointment the jacket started seeping through after about 20 minutes of continual heavy rain. Not long after that my mid and base layers were also dampened from what I presumed to be my own perspiration. The pit zips helped immensely but unfortunately were not enough to make up for the awful breathability.All in all I cannot recommend this jacket for backpacking or climbing. You will be much much better off saving up a little bit more and buying a real hardshell jacket.For casual use this jacket is bomber. If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up