The North Face Vortex 3-in-1 Jacket

The North Face Vortex 3-in-1 Jacket – A real 3 in 1 jacket.

You know what I really hate? Of course you don’t, so let me tell you. I really hate when jackets advertise themselves as being the ultimate 3 in 1 jacket. They offer up so much hype about how versatile the jacket is, but when you go to the store to check it out, the liner or second jacket, is really nothing more than a jacket liner with a logo sewn onto the outside.

If a jacket is going to advertise its self as a 3 in 1 jacket, then all parts of the jacket need to be amazing as a standalone product as well. A prime example of this is the North Face Vortex 3-in-1 Jacket. This is what a 3 in 1 jacket should be. Each part of the jacket, but shell and liner can be work individually with exceptional results. Put together the two of them and you get a jacket that is nothing short of outstanding.

One thing I am really happy to see in the North Face Vortex 3-in-1 Jacket is that the liner isn’t just another piece of crap. The liner in the North Face Vortex 3-in-1 Jacket really could be its own jacket. The liner is water resistant and also features an inner pocket as well as zippered hand warming pockets. Does your jacket liner do that?

The quick & dirty:

Where you can get one:
Backcountry: $278

Why they rock:

• Wear the shell jacket and zip-in liner jacket together for maximum protection or wear either piece alone as conditions warrant
• Fully seam-taped nylon shell jacket uses HyVent 2-layer coating for waterproof, breathable protection
• Polyester slick mesh lining wicks away moisture; embossed nylon taffeta in sleeves eases layering
• Core vent mesh gussets allow you to regulate body heat effectively
• Detachable hood is fully adjustable to ensure a weather-blocking, personalized fit
• Features front handwarmer pockets for chilly hands, Napoleon pocket and forearm pocket with goggles cloth
• Interior zip security pocket holds cash, ID, phone and other accessories
• Gripper powder skirt with shock cords keeps snow out; snow pants attachment loops keep skirt in place for a seamless fit
• Adjustable cuffs and drawcord hem help seal out snow and cold air while retaining warmth
• Zip-in/zip-out ripstop nylon liner jacket is filled with 100g Heatseeker polyester fiber insulation for soft, cozy warmth
• Water-resistant liner jacket features internal pocket and zippered handwarmer pockets; elastic cuffs and hem hold in warmth
• Sleeve tabs and main zipper secure liner jacket and shell jacket together

Seat-of-the-pants rating: 9 out of 10

Really I can’t say enough good things about the North Face Vortex 3-in-1 Jacket. It is one 3 in 1 jacket that actually lives up to its name. While some North Face gear is overpriced just because it hasthe North Face name, the North Face Vortex 3-in-1 Jacket is not one of them. It is worth every penny.

Looking to buy? Check out these sites:
Backcountry: $278