It’s really kind of inevitable that I would do a review of the North Face Apex softshell. Since I bought my first one nearly a decade ago, it’s been indispensable in my closet. From cool days in the city to biting cold nights out in the backcountry, this jacket been nearly everywhere I have, and has rarely left me wanting.
As someone who has a closet full of coats and jackets of various weights and uses, I have choices for outer layers for most any conditions, be it a cool night in the city or an alpine winter night. Yet most times, I simply grab my Apex. A good-looking cut yet impressively warm for the weight, I can take this jacket most anywhere and be covered for nearly any eventuality. With the newer addition of velcro enclosures on the cuffs and a drawstring on the waist, not much gets by it, although with the absence of a hood you’d best have other plans to keep your head dry. And while it beads off water remarkably well, it won’t be able to shrug off a downpour.
Pros:
– Light-weight yet warm
– Durable: water-resistant and wind-proof
– Good quality for the price
Cons:
– No hood
– Doesn’t pack down much for light travel
Price: ~$100
More info
– North Face product info
– More reviews of the Apex
– Buy it online at REI.com
Failure To Land 
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