The North Face - fleece question

[Ciaran]

Hi

Now, before I start I know TNF aren't the best make about, nor are they the cheapest but I have a coat that I need an inner liner for.

I've narrowed the choice down to the following:

Windwall Jacket
Quartz Jacket
Momentun Jacket

All are £60 but I'm not too sure which one to go for. As mentioned, it will be used to zip into current water proof jacket that I have and to wear as a day to day jacket when out walking along the beach or such like.

Any experts care to let me know what the difference in each is?

Thanks.

[Master Mischief]

I cannot find the Quartz but the difference between the Windwall and the Momentum is that one is windproof and the other is not.

If you are only wearing it under the waterproof then the Momentum is probably more suitable as it is very breathable (not too sweaty) but if you plan on wearing it was a single jacket then fleeces lose all of their warmth if there is any wind making the Windwall a better bet.

If you are in the UK probably best to go to Cotswold outdoor and try on / get proper advice.

You will have to stick with TNF as you say because they use ladies zips on gents clothing.

Finally, although it is more convenient to zip the two together it is technically batter (warmer) not to as you form 2 proper layers.

The North Face website is very helpful too.

[Ciaran]

http://www.surfmountain.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=30...

Here is the Quartz

Thanks for the reply, there is an independent shop (link above) that sells all three so I'll call in to see them.

Windwall looks like it could be the winner.

[Master Mischief]

Had a better look.

The Quartz is Polartec 100, which is a fleece material used by lots of manufacturers. The 100 always was the thinnest one and looking at the jacket weights it looks to be the case. This jacket has the most "leisure" fit of the three.

The Momentum is TFN's own material and is similar in weight (warmth) to the Quartz but a more techinal (closer) fit. I think I have used one of these with work.

The Windwall is not only windproof but a heavier weight of fabric so will be the warmest of all three. It is a less techincal cut than the momentum. The downside of the warmth / windproof fabric is reduced breathability but this will only matter for hardcore use.

For mincing on the beach I would agree that the Windwall is the best bet and worth the extra £10. You may well find that you don't need the waterproof over it for the majority of conditions.

Edited by Master Mischief on Wednesday 26th August 11:25

[Ciaran]

Brilliant, thanks for our help fella.

[Ciaran]

Cotswold have a NF Peregrine windstopper reduced from £120 to £69 is that a better jacket to the Windwall?

[Master Mischief]

I cannot get onto the cotswold site but I have found it elsewhere.

The main difference is that it is Gore Windstopper fabric rather than TFN's own version. It is probably technically better fabric but you probably would not notice.

The other thing is that is has an attached hood that may get in the way.

It is probably a better value buy at the discounted price but the benefits may not benefit you and may even hinder you.

[Ciaran]

Didn't notice the hood so I'll not bother with it.

Although it's not a massive issue, the Windwall doesn't zip in to my coat apparently. Not to worry. Getting a black one after work.

[Master Mischief]

You are probably better off not zipping it in and as it is a windstopper and therefore a bit rain proof you will probably find yourself not bothering with the waterproof. I hope you like it, I am a big fan on TFN kit.