8 Best North Face Vests of 2026

This versatile, eco-conscious performer stands out with 100g of Heatseeker synthetic insulation and recycled water-resistant fabric, making it a powerhouse for urban adventurers and weekend trail-goers alike. Its hollow-core fibers deliver lightweight warmth without bulk, while the non-PFC DWR finish ensures you stay dry during sudden drizzles—perfect for those in-between seasons when weather can’t make up its mind. With stretch bindings at the collar and armholes, it moves with you, not against you, solving the stiffness problem common in insulated vests.

In real-world use, the Junction shines from commutes to light hikes, offering reliable core warmth without overheating—thanks to its breathable construction and secure zip pockets that keep essentials safe and accessible. The Summit Navy color gives it a clean, professional look ideal for city wear, while the moderate insulation level makes layering easy under a shell. However, it’s not built for extreme cold or sustained downpours, and while it resists light moisture well, prolonged wet conditions will compromise warmth.

Compared to the heavier ThermoBall Vest, the Junction trades some packability and weather resistance for everyday wearability and value. It’s a smarter pick than down-filled options for damp climates, and more sustainable than many competitors thanks to its post-consumer recycled materials. For anyone seeking a durable, warm, and planet-friendly vest that transitions seamlessly from office to outdoors, this one delivers impressive performance without the premium price tag.

Engineered for relentless wind and unpredictable weather, the Apex Bionic 3 leverages WindWall softshell fabric to create a highly effective barrier against biting gusts—making it a top-tier choice for active users in cold, blustery conditions. Its non-PFC DWR finish and breathable construction allow for sustained output without clamminess, while the adjustable hem cinch-cord lets you seal out cold air with precision. This is the vest you grab when the forecast says ‘wind advisory’ and your layers need to perform, not just insulate.

During testing on windy ridge hikes and brisk morning bike commutes, the Apex Bionic 3 excelled at blocking wind chill while maintaining breathability—no sweaty back syndrome even during uphill sprints. The zippered chest and hand pockets are glove-friendly and spacious enough for a phone or keys, and the streamlined fit layers perfectly over a fleece without restricting arm movement. That said, it offers minimal insulation on its own, so it’s best paired with a mid-layer in freezing temps.

When stacked against the Junction Insulated Vest, the Bionic 3 wins on wind protection and mobility but loses on standalone warmth. It’s less of a cozy layer and more of a high-performance shell—ideal for runners, hikers, and cyclists who prioritize weather defense over insulation. For anyone who’s ever felt chilled by wind slicing through their jacket, this vest delivers precision protection with outdoor-ready durability, making it a superior choice for dynamic, high-output use.

The Yumiori Vest redefines cozy with its ultra-soft, double-sided brushed fleece—a tactile delight that feels like wrapping yourself in a premium recycled cloud. Designed for daily wear and light adventure, it features 100% recycled polyester fleece that’s both planet-friendly and plush, while the stretch binding at hem and armholes ensures it moves with you, not against you. With a two-layer stand collar and auto-lock VISLON zipper, this vest solves the common fleece issues of gapping and cold drafts.

In real-world use—from dog walks to coffee runs—the Yumiori delivers consistent, breathable warmth without overheating, even when layered over a long-sleeve tee. The secure-zip chest and hand pockets keep small items safe, and the internal cinch cord lets you tailor the fit for a sleeker look or extra wind protection. It’s not meant for heavy storms or sub-zero temps, but in mild to cool conditions, it’s a go-to layer that balances comfort and function flawlessly.

Compared to the ThermoBall Vest, the Yumiori offers less weather resistance and packability but wins on softness and everyday wearability. It’s the kind of vest you’ll reach for daily because it feels that good. For women who want a lightweight, sustainable, and stylish layer that bridges casual and outdoor life, the Yumiori stands out as the most comfortable, feel-good option in The North Face lineup—warmth with soul, not just specs.

This packable powerhouse combines lightweight ThermoBall insulation with wind- and water-resistant WindWall fabric, delivering down-like warmth without the weight or environmental cost—a revelation for travelers and minimalist adventurers. Its 100% recycled construction and ability to stow into its own hand pocket make it a sustainable, space-saving essential for unpredictable climates. With a draft flap behind the zipper and hem cinch cord, it seals in heat like a high-end puffer, but without the bulk.

In testing across mountain trails and city commutes, the ThermoBall proved exceptionally effective in cool, dry, and windy conditions, holding warmth even when compressed under a backpack. The non-PFC DWR finish sheds light rain, and the secure hand pockets are perfectly positioned for cold hands. However, it’s less breathable during high exertion, and in prolonged rain, moisture eventually creeps in—so it’s best as a weather-resistant mid or outer layer in dry cold.

Stacked against the Yumiori Fleece, the ThermoBall offers far superior insulation and weather protection, though it sacrifices some softness and breathability. It’s also more compact and technical than the Junction Insulated Vest, making it ideal for packable warmth. For women who need lightweight, high-efficiency insulation that packs small and performs big, this vest delivers backcountry-ready warmth with urban polish, outclassing most in thermal efficiency per ounce.

The Tsillan Vest is a no-frills, budget-smart essential that delivers cozy mid-weight warmth with a clean, classic look—perfect for those who want The North Face quality without the premium price. Made from partially recycled polyester, it offers durable softness that holds up to campfires and daily wear, while the full-zip design and stand-up collar let you dial in coverage as temps shift. It’s not flashy, but it solves the basic need for affordable core insulation with outdoor-ready details.

In everyday use—whether layered over a flannel or worn solo on a crisp evening—the Tsillan provides reliable, breathable warmth without overheating. The zip chest and hand pockets are functional and secure, and the standard fit accommodates mid-layers with ease. However, it lacks advanced features like cinch cords or weather-resistant finishes, and while it’s water-repellent to a degree, it’s not built for wet conditions. It’s best suited for dry, cool weather and low-intensity use.

Compared to the Gordon Lyons, the Tsillan offers similar fit and warmth but with less fleece density and sustainability. It’s a smarter buy than generic vests, offering brand reliability and outdoor DNA at a wallet-friendly cost. For men seeking a simple, durable, and affordable vest for casual wear or light outdoor use, the Tsillan stands as the most accessible entry point into quality North Face layering—function-first warmth without the fluff.

Built for serious warmth in cold conditions, the Gordon Lyons Vest is a heavyweight fleece powerhouse with a thick, double-knit recycled polyester construction that radiates cozy heat the second you put it on. Its sweater-knit texture offers a rugged, outdoorsy aesthetic while delivering breathable, non-clammy insulation—ideal for long days in freezing temps or as a robust mid-layer under a shell. This is the vest you grab when the mercury drops and you need real thermal staying power.

During extended wear in sub-40°F conditions, the Gordon Lyons proved exceptionally effective at retaining core heat, even when stationary. The full-zip design allows for quick venting, and the secure zip pockets are deep enough for wallets or gloves. However, its bulkiness limits layering under tighter shells, and while it’s durable, it’s slow to dry if it gets wet—so it’s best reserved for dry cold or as an indoor-to-outdoor layer.

Versus the Glacier Fleece Vest, the Gordon Lyons offers denser warmth and a more substantial feel, though it’s less packable and breathable. It’s also warmer than the Tsillan but less versatile in mild weather. For men who prioritize maximum fleece warmth and sustainability in a timeless outdoor design, this vest is a cold-weather workhorse—like a campfire you can wear, delivering unmatched cozy performance for its class.

The Glacier Fleece Vest is a microfleece benchmark—a slim, technical layer designed for maximum versatility and circular sustainability, made entirely from 100% recycled polyester and built to be disassembled and recycled at end-of-life. Its reinforced stretch binding on the collar, armholes, and hem ensures a snug, durable fit that withstands repeated use, while the concealed hand pockets offer security without bulk. This is the vest for those who value eco-innovation and performance in one clean package.

In real-world testing, it excelled as a mid-layer under shells, providing light but effective warmth without sacrificing mobility or breathability. The slim profile fits neatly under jackets, and the solid-color design pairs well with any outer layer. However, as a lightweight fleece, it’s not sufficient as a standalone in freezing temps, and the lack of a chest pocket or cinch cord limits customization in windy conditions.

Compared to the Gordon Lyons, the Glacier is lighter, sleeker, and more sustainable, but offers less insulation. It’s also more technical than the Tsillan, with better durability and eco-credentials. For men who need a streamlined, planet-first fleece for layering in variable conditions, the Glacier stands as the most responsible and functional microfleece option—quietly advanced, not just cozy.

Tailored for younger adventurers, the North Down Hooded Vest delivers 600-fill recycled down insulation in the body and Heatseeker synthetic in the hood, creating a smart hybrid warmth system that keeps teens toasty in winter weather. The 3-piece insulated hood is a game-changer—uncommon in vests—offering full head coverage without sacrificing mobility. With a non-PFC DWR finish and secure-zip pockets, it’s built for school days, snow play, and weekend hikes alike.

In cold, dry conditions, the down body provides excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, while the synthetic-filled hood retains heat even if damp—perfect for frosty mornings or accidental snowball fights. The chin guard prevents zipper rub, a thoughtful touch for sensitive skin. However, like all down, it loses insulating power when wet, and the hood, while cozy, adds bulk under helmets or hoods.

Against the ThermoBall Vest, the North Down offers superior warmth in dry cold but less packability and weather resilience. It’s also more specialized than the Yumiori, with real winter-ready performance. For parents seeking a durable, warm, and responsibly made vest that grows with their teen’s adventures, this one delivers head-to-toe protection with outdoor integrity—a rare hooded hybrid that actually works.