The North Face Venture 2 Hooded Jacket – Men’s

We’ve read the reviews across the web for the The North Face Venture 2 Hooded Jacket – Men’s and summarize the results below:

Universal Ranking

PeakScore: 87 (out of 100)
User Rating: 4.6 stars 
Expert Rating: 3.7 stars

Number of Ratings Reviewed: 2183

Pros & Cons

Reasons to buy:

User Reviews

  • The jacket folds into pocket for storage.
  • Pretty lightweight.
  • Waterproof and dries quickly.
  • Velcro cuffs to adjust sleeves.
  • Pit zips allow for ventilation and air flow.
  • Very wind-resistant.
  • Ability to tighten waistline via drawstring cord.
  • DryMembrane material is very durable.

Expert Reviews

  • Inexpensive and lightweight.
  • DWR lasted longer than other models in the same price range.
  • Elastic at the back of the hood keeps the elements out.
  • Pit zips were moved forward to increase ventilation and increase comfort.
  • 40D ripstop nylon stands up to wear-and-tear.
  • Stuffs into the left-hand pocket and features a clip-in loop when compressed.
  • Hang loop at the back of the collar for storage.
  • Matrix half-layer adds durability and comfort by separating DryVent waterproof membrane from the skin.
  • Chin-guard lining to ensure comfort and no rubbing against the face.
  • Zips are covered with stormflaps to keep water out.

Reasons NOT to buy:

User Reviews

  • Many reports of sleeves being too long.
  • Not suitable for wearing alone in colder temperatures, so will need to layer underneath.
  • Some reports of the inner-lining having a ‘rubber’ feeling against the skin, which can be uncomfortable when perspiring.
  • Velcro allows for sleeve adjustment, but there is no elastic.
  • Some reports of sizing running too large.
  • No mesh fabric in the interior of the jacket.
  • Not very breathable for aerobic activities.
  • No chest pockets.

Expert Reviews

  • Hood doesn’t fit over a helmet.
  • Not very breathable despite pit zips.
  • Hood doesn’t have a stiffened brim.
  • Cord locks for hem and hood adjustment are small and can be difficult to use.
  • Mobility isn’t the best, because the jacket bunches at the wrists, or has a tendency to move and leave the wrists exposed.
  • Coating wears off over time.
  • Breathability low at only 750g -800/m²/day.

Summary:

The North Face Venture 2 Hooded Jacket for men is a basic rain jacket that would be best around town or for light excursions. The relatively low weight, durability, inexpensive price, adjustable hood, and wind-resistance and waterproof abilities make this a safe choice for some outdoor exploits, while the lack of breathability and break-down over time make this unsuitable for prolonged adventures.

Multimedia:

Note: User and expert rankings were reviewed across the web, including here: 1, 2.