As the crisp air of fall gives way to the biting chill of winter, having reliable gear is non-negotiable for any hiker. The North Face consistently stands as a beacon of durability and innovation, crafting equipment designed to handle the specific challenges of cold-weather trails. From sudden downpours to freezing temperatures, the right jacket, footwear, and accessories make all the difference between a memorable adventure and a miserable trek.
Our selections for 2025 have been put to the test against autumn winds and winter snow, ensuring each piece delivers on its promises. This roundup focuses on performance-driven apparel and gear that will keep you protected, comfortable, and focused on the trail ahead, no matter what the forecast holds.
The Ultimate North Face Hiking Gear for Cold Weather
- THE NORTH FACE Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack
- THE NORTH FACE Men’s Antora Waterproof Jacket
- THE NORTH FACE Men’s Aconcagua 3 Jacket
- THE NORTH FACE Men’s Snowfuse Winter Boot
- THE NORTH FACE Jim Beanie
- THE NORTH FACE Men’s Thermoball Insulated Jacket
- The North Face Women’s Aphrodite 2.0 Pant
- The North Face Men’s VECTIV Exploris II Hiking Shoes
THE NORTH FACE Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack
Your hike often starts with a commute, and the Borealis backpack is the perfect bridge between urban and trail life. It securely transports your 16-inch laptop and other daily essentials with a water-repellent finish that shrugs off light rain or snow. The external bungee cord system offers flexible storage for a jacket or helmet, making it a versatile choice for the transition from work to wilderness.
Comfort is paramount, especially when carrying gear for a full day. This backpack features the FlexVent suspension system, which is certified by the American Chiropractic Association for its ergonomic support. With articulated shoulder straps and a breathable back panel, it provides all-day comfort. Smart organization includes two multi-use external pockets and a fleece-lined compartment for sensitive items like sunglasses or a phone.
THE NORTH FACE Men’s Antora Waterproof Jacket
When the weather turns harsh, the Men’s Antora Jacket is your first line of defense. Constructed with a fully seam-sealed DryVent 2L shell, this jacket is completely waterproof and breathable, ensuring you stay dry from both external precipitation and internal perspiration. Its non-PFC DWR finish adds an extra layer of protection against rain and wind, making it a reliable choice for year-round use.
Designed with a standard fit that allows for ample mobility, this jacket is styled for both backcountry trails and everyday wear. The adjustable 3-piece hood provides superior coverage and can be fine-tuned for a secure fit in windy conditions. Available in a wide range of sizes, including big sizes, it’s built to be a go-to piece for any hiker facing unpredictable weather.
THE NORTH FACE Men’s Aconcagua 3 Jacket
For superior warmth on cold-weather hikes, the Men’s Aconcagua 3 Jacket is a top contender. It uses a 50/50 blend of recycled 600-fill waterfowl down and recycled polyester insulation, providing excellent heat retention without excessive weight. This updated version features zoned sheet insulation in the arms for greater freedom of movement, which is essential for navigating tricky terrain with trekking poles.
The jacket is crafted from 100% recycled polyester with WindWall fabric, offering reliable wind resistance. A non-PFC DWR finish adds a layer of water repellency, guarding against light snow and drizzle. Its combination of high-quality, sustainable materials and focused insulation makes it an efficient and responsible choice for staying warm in the mountains.
THE NORTH FACE Men’s Snowfuse Winter Boot
Tackle deep snow and icy paths with confidence in the Men’s Snowfuse Winter Boot. Its waterproof suede upper and dual-injection-molded Northlight EVA shell create a durable barrier against slush and heavy snow, while the lightweight construction prevents fatigue during long winter hikes or snowshoeing excursions. You get the protection of a serious winter boot without the cumbersome weight.
Warmth is guaranteed with 200 grams of recycled Heatseeker insulation, which traps heat effectively to keep your feet comfortable in freezing temperatures. The durable sole provides reliable traction on slippery surfaces. This boot is built for performance, ensuring your feet stay dry, warm, and supported in the most challenging winter conditions.
THE NORTH FACE Jim Beanie
Don’t underestimate the importance of a good beanie for retaining body heat on a cold hike. The Jim Beanie is a chilly-weather essential, featuring a soft fleece earband that provides extra comfort and protection for your ears against biting winds. Its classic, versatile fit makes it suitable for both high-output trail days and casual wear around town.
This beanie is made with sustainability in mind, using body fabric from 80% recycled polyester and a headband from 100% recycled polyester fleece. It delivers the softness and durability you expect from The North Face while minimizing its environmental impact. It’s a simple, effective, and responsible way to stay warm.
THE NORTH FACE Men’s Thermoball Insulated Jacket
The Men’s Thermoball Insulated Jacket offers a modern solution for dynamic weather. Its synthetic insulation, made with recycled Thermoball fill, mimics the loft and warmth of down but continues to perform even when damp. This makes it an excellent choice for high-exertion activities or regions with wet cold, where traditional down might clump and lose its insulating properties.
Featuring a new standard fit for a flattering shape with ample mobility, this jacket is both functional and stylish. The wind-resistant WindWall fabric and a non-PFC DWR finish provide reliable weather protection, while the secure-zip pockets keep your essentials safe. It’s also easily packable, making it a perfect mid-layer or standalone piece for variable conditions.
The North Face Women’s Aphrodite 2.0 Pant
Comfort on the trail extends to your choice of pants, and the Women’s Aphrodite 2.0 Pant is designed for all-day movement. Known for their comfortable fit and durable construction, these pants are a favorite for hiking in cooler weather. The fabric provides excellent stretch and freedom, allowing for unrestricted strides on ascents and careful steps on descents.
While details are limited, this model is a staple in The North Face lineup, typically offering a modern fit that is both functional and flattering. They are ideal for layering under shells in very cold weather or wearing on their own during a crisp autumn hike, making them a versatile bottom layer in any hiking wardrobe.
The North Face Men’s VECTIV Exploris II Hiking Shoes
A solid foundation is critical, and the Men’s VECTIV Exploris II Hiking Shoes are engineered for stability and comfort on rugged trails. They likely feature The North Face’s VECTIV technology, which includes a rocker midsole and underfoot plate designed to propel you forward while providing stability on uneven surfaces. This can help reduce leg fatigue over long distances.
Expect a focus on grip and durability with a surface-control rubber outsole that offers reliable traction on both wet and dry terrain. The combination of supportive cushioning and a secure fit makes these shoes a strong option for day hikers and backpackers looking for a performance-oriented shoe that can handle a variety of trail conditions encountered in fall and winter.
What to Look For in Your North Face Hiking Gear
Getting your kit right for fall and winter hiking is a different ball game compared to a summer stroll. The stakes are higher with colder temperatures, unpredictable weather, and shorter daylight hours. After testing a ton of gear in muddy, windy, and downright chilly conditions, I’ve nailed down what truly matters when you’re picking out your North Face hiking gear for 2025.
First up is insulation and weather protection. You need a system. A single heavy jacket won’t cut it. Look for a reliable waterproof and breathable shell, like those using The North Face’s FutureLightâ„¢ technology, to block wind and rain. Under that, a versatile insulated layer is key. I prefer synthetic insulation for its performance even when wet, but down is fantastic for extreme cold and packability if you can keep it dry. Your base layer is non-negotiable—always go for moisture-wicking merino wool or polyester. Cotton is a recipe for being cold and miserable.
Next, consider footwear traction and support. Those dry, rocky trails from summer can become slick, muddy, or even icy. Your summer hiking shoes likely won’t have the aggressive lugs needed for secure footing. A waterproof hiking boot with a robust Vibram® or similar outsole is your best friend. It provides ankle support for uneven, hidden terrain under leaves and gives you the confidence to tackle slippery slopes without taking a tumble.
Finally, don’t overlook pack features and accessories. Your backpack needs to accommodate your extra layers. Look for one with a well-designed hip belt to transfer weight off your shoulders and plenty of accessible pockets for items like a headlamp, navigation, and snacks. Speaking of headlamps, the early sunsets mean one is absolutely essential. A durable, weather-resistant pack with a built-in rain cover can save your gear—and your day—when a surprise snow flurry or rain shower hits. Getting these fundamentals right is the first step to comfortably enjoying the stark beauty of a winter landscape, which is why I put together this list of the 8 best North Face hiking gear 2025: fall & winter tested picks.
FAQ
Is FutureLightâ„¢ really waterproof?
Yes, absolutely. In my testing through heavy fall rains and wet snow, FutureLightâ„¢ has held up impressively. The key difference between it and older waterproof membranes is its incredible breathability. It’s made using a nanospinning process that creates tiny pores, which block water droplets from the outside but allow your sweat vapor to escape more effectively. This means you stay dry from both the elements and your own exertion, reducing that clammy feeling you can get with other “waterproof” fabrics during high-output activities like hiking uphill with a pack.
Can I use the same North Face jacket for fall and deep winter?
You can, but it depends on the jacket and how you layer. A sturdy shell jacket, like the Dryzzle FUTURELIGHT™, is perfect for a rainy fall day with a fleece underneath. For deep winter, you’ll likely need to add a hefty insulated mid-layer, or simply opt for a dedicated, heavily insulated parka for very cold conditions. The beauty of a system is its flexibility; a shell paired with different mid-layers can cover a huge range of temperatures, making it a more versatile and valuable investment for year-round use.
How should I care for my waterproof North Face gear?
Proper care is crucial for maintaining performance. After each hike, I wipe off any dirt and let the gear air dry completely—never put it in a dryer unless the care label explicitly says it’s safe. Over time, the durable water-repellent (DWR) coating on the outer fabric will wear off. When water stops beading up on the surface, it’s time to revive it. I wash the garment with a technical cleaner like Nikwax Tech Wash, then tumble dry on low heat for about 20 minutes to reactivate the DWR. This simple process has kept my shells effective for seasons.
Are North Face hiking boots good for wide feet?
The North Face offers a variety of fits across its footwear line. While not every model comes in a specific wide size, many of their boots are known to have a roomier toe box, which is a common need for hikers. I’d recommend trying them on in-store if possible, or ordering from a retailer with a good return policy. Pay close attention to how the heel and midfoot feel—you want a secure lock without any pinching. The Hedgehog Fastpack Mid, for example, often gets praise for its accommodating fit.
What’s the most important piece of gear for a winter day hike?
If I had to pick just one, it would be a reliable, waterproof and insulated boot. Cold, wet feet will end your hike faster than anything else. Everything else can be managed with layers, but without proper footwear, you’re in for a miserable and potentially dangerous time. Following that, a well-fitting pack to carry your extra insulation, water, food, and the other nine essentials is a very close second for safety and comfort.