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The North Face Spring / Summer Collection 2015

We find out what's new for the UK's leading outdoor gear specialist in 2015.

We take a look at The North Face’s 2015 spring / summer collection that includes a comprehensive range of shells, mid layers, lightweight walking shoes and running gear.

This year the leading outdoors brand has split its gear into three sections: the ‘Summit Series’ designed for hardcore mountaineers, the ‘Hike Collection’ for your everyday walker, and the ‘Performance’ range aimed at serious trail and fell runners.

In this article we’ve provided a little information on each product including the basic specs (weight, sizes, fabrics etc) and a little bit about the different technologies used across the range.

To check out the gear, scroll down the page or use the links below to jump to your preferred gear category.

Fuseform Originator Jacket

Specs

Sizes: Men’s – S, M, L, XL. Women’s – XS, S, M, L.
Average weight: Men’s – 282g. Women’s – 262g.
Fabric: 40D, 100% Nylon Variegated Ripstop Hyvent 2.5L
Designed for: climbing

Overview

Thanks to new FuseForm construction, this one-piece climbing shell is built like nothing else – literally, the whole jacket is pretty much made from a single piece of fabric using different textures in different areas.

‘Using revolutionary manufacturing techniques, the FuseForm Originator Jacket reaches superior levels of abrasion resistance, making it essential for any expedition. When you’re on the mountain, precision is crucial – it says here – which is why this lightweight yet durable shell has been perfected to the finest detail.’

Other features

Single piece construction eliminates extra thread and bulk / Cordura yarn for added durability / Adjustable helmet-compatible hood with laminated brim / Harness and pack friendly handpockets / Internal chest pocket.

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Verto Micro Vest

Specs

Sizes: Men’s – S, M, L, XL. Women’s – XS, S, M, L.
Fabric: 10D , 25g / m2 100% Nylon Micro Ripstop Pertex Quantum / 800 Water Resistant Fill Goose Down
Designed for: athletes

Overview

An uncomplicated micro-baffled down gilet that is big on product technology. Think water-resistant down with a colossal 800 fill power rating and super lightweight Pertex Quantum fabrics for optimal warmth to weight ratio. We’ll update with a weight when we have one.

Other features

Two zippered handpockets and it stuffs into its own pocket.

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Infiesto ¼ Zip

Specs

Sizes: Men’s – S, M, L, XL. Women’s – XS, S, M, L.
Fabric: 184g / m2 , 94% Polyester, 6% Acrylic Jersey
Designed for: keeping warm on a cool summer’s evening

Overview

Worn next to the skin, or used as a lightweight mid-layer, this versatile product offers superior wicking, says TNF, as well as insulation. Suitable for any alpine environment, the hollow core yarn construction has been designed to offer excellent warmth to weight ratio. Interesting: we’ve encountered hollow-fibre fleece in the distant past, but it ended badly in a Peruvian laundry.

Other features

Zippered chest pocket.

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Verto S3K GTX

Specs

Sizes: Men’s – 7-14. Women’s – 5-11.
Average weight: Men’s – 582g. Women’s – 578g.
Designed for: light mountaineering

Overview

Looks like a seriously light mountain boot. Here’s the blurb: ‘Just like the weather, terrain can change in an instant. The Verto S3K GTX boot provides a technical fit that adapts to everything underfoot. A lower cut allows freedom of movement on climbing sections, while the Kevlar wrap secures the foot on demanding surfaces. With added breathability and waterproofing, this is a superior choice for light mountaineering.’

We’ve been impressed with TNF’s Verto range generally, it’s designed in Europe and has a nice last with a decently broad forefoot and a snug heel. One to keep an eye on.

Upper

Waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex membrane / Ballistic nylon upper with suede overlays / Northotic Pro+ premium EVA footbed with gel heel and OrthoLite forefoot-cushioning pads and TPU Cradle support / TPU quarter weld for structure / Neoprene heel collar for flexibility.

Bottom

TPU Cradle heel-stability technology with crampon spoiler / EVA midsole / TPU shank / Vibram Mulaz outsole.

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Micro Thermoball Hybrid Hoodie

Specs

Sizes: Men’s / Women’s – XS, S, M, L, XL.
Fabric: Shell – 15D 33 g/m2 100% Nylon. Insulation – 9.5 g/m2 Primaloft Thermoball Synthetic insulation.
Designed for: something to whip out your pack when it gets a bit chilly

Overview

Thermoball technology gives you down-like warmth from synthetic full using tiny balls of PrimaLoft fibre – we’re impressed with this year’s version and the range expands again next year mixing Thermoballs and non-insulated soft-shell esque sleeves. The advantage, says TNF, is not only insulation, but also increased breathability during aerobic activities.

This means your core temperature can be maintained, while the stretch soft shell sides and sleeve panels will keep the air flowing. Another step in the advancement of Thermoball innovation.

Other features

Active fit / 15D nylon with Thermoball insulation hybridized with TNF Apex Aerobic side panels and sleeves / Drop hood with bound opening / Secure zip hand pockets. Men’s has an Internal elastic hem and bound cuffs as well as being stowable in its own handpocket, while women’s has bound hem and cuffs.

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Men’s Pursuit Jacket

Specs

Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Average weight: 350g
Fabric: 75D 100% Polyester / Hyvent / 128g/m2
Designed for: keeping you protected from all weather conditions

Overview

‘You can’t predict the weather, but you can be prepared. With this full-featured rainwear shell, you’re ready for almost every adventure. Waterproof, breathable and seam-sealed, it gives you total protection when you need it.’

In other words: it’s a neat-looking, lightweight Hyvent waterproof jacket.

Other features

Two zippered handpockets / Elasticated waistband with flat internal drawcord.

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Hedgehog Fastpack Lite GTX

Specs

Sizes: Men’s – 7-14. Women’s – 5-11.
Average weight: Men’s – 320g. Women’s – 276g.
Designed for: people who want to go fast

Overview

The original Hedgehog was a big hit and a firm favourite of many lightweight walkers and the latest stage in its evolution is a new lightweight version, the Hedgehog Fastback Lite GTX. Think running shoe feel and technology in a light walking shoe.

TNF reckons: ‘With the feeling of a running shoe, this waterproof footwear is designed for the hiker who wants to go fast. The Cradle Guide midsole gives you the perfect balance between support and cushioning, while the stitch-less upper reduces weight and creates a better fit.’

Upper

Waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex membrane / Abrasion- resistant and breathable textile mesh / TPU quarter weld for structure

Bottom

Dual-density, compression-molded EVA midsole with Cradle Guide / TPU shank / Exclusive Vibram rubber outsole.

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Women’s Superhype Lite Jacket

Specs

Sizes: XS, S, M, L.
Average weight: 262g.
Fabric: 30D 64% Nylon, 36% Polyester / 113 g/m2 / Gore-Tex 3L Active Shell
Designed for: looking good on the hills

Overview

Women’s specific waterproof jacket using Gore’s most breathable Gore-Tex Active fabric – a really nice fabric – in what looks like a neat, fitted cut designed to fit a European body shape. Hurrah!

‘Designed with an EU feminine fit, this Gore-Tex Active Shell delivers both style and versatility. Incredibly lightweight, it has been shaped to fit the body, while giving you the comfort of full waterproofing and a fixed adjustable hood in case the weather turns.’

Other features

Waterproof, breathable, Gore-Tex Active Shell / Articulated cuffs / Fixed adjustable hood / 2 front hand pockets / Active fit with feminine shaping.

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Ultra MT

Specs

Sizes: Men’s – 7-14. Women’s – 5-11.
Average weight: Men’s – 295g. Women’s – 240g.
Designed for: running quick off road

Overview

Lightweight off-road running shoe with a Vibram sole unit and a hot weather friendly breathable mesh upper:

‘No matter what terrain you’re on, the Ultra MT will keep you running along the toughest trails. Thanks to the new Vibram Megagrip outsole, unrivalled traction will keep you close to the ground. You’ll also have the benefit of enhanced upper support as well as breathable Ultra Airmesh over the quarter. The innovation continues underfoot, where precise stability and protection ensures a better performance with every step.’

Upper

A bodymapping layer system on the upper enhances support on the medial side, protecting the toe area.

Bottom

8mm drop between heel and forefoot ensures control on uneven surfaces and supports midfoot striking when needed / Overlasted midsole increases stability of the upper/bottom connection / ESS in the forefoot secures an impact distribution on the forefoot / Vibram Megagrip full length trail specific outsole.

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Storm Stow Jacket

Specs

Sizes: Men’s – S, M, L, XL. Women’s – XS, S, M, L.
Average weight: Men’s – 140g. Women’s – 130g.
Fabric: 54 g/m2 100% Nylon Woven Ripstop
Designed for: whipping out your pack during a run when the weather turns

Overview

Super lightweight waterproof running jacket with a claimed weight of 130-140g depending on gender. Should be spot on as an emergency trail-running shell:

‘More daylight during summer means running longer, which is why you should be prepared if the weather changes. This ultralight jacket is fully waterproof and windproof, but also packs incredibly small, so you can keep it on hand for any emergency. When the trail takes you further, there is no better protection to carry with you.’

Other features

Fully seam sealed / Performance fit / Adjustable stowable hood with visor / Adjustable back hardware / Reflective logo / Packable feature at left sleeve / Drop-tail hem.

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Better Than Naked Long Haul Skirt and Short

Men’s Shorts

The men’s shorts stay comfortable on longer runs with a wider comfort-fit waistband, stitch-free design on critical seams, and maximum storage capacity for big days.

Other features: Integrated compression-short liner / Stowpockets on each leg /Reflective logos.
Body fabric: 55 g/m2 100% Polyester Woven Diamond Ripstop

Women’s Skirt

The women’s skirt combines modern style with superior comfort, this new running skirt is built to minimize distractions. With maximum storage, built-in compressive-short liner, and a wide waistband for added support, you can forget about what you’re wearing and focus on the trail ahead. And… great name!

Other features: Front energy gel pocket with key loop / New comfort fit / Reflective logos.
Body fabric: 55 g/m2 100% Polyester Diamond Ripstop.

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