The North Face
Antora Hooded Raincoat
The North Face Antora Hooded Raincoat is a waterproof, hip-length shell jacket featuring a 2-layer DryVent membrane with a PFC-free DWR finish, offering a hydrostatic head rating of 25,000 mm. It is intended for everyday rain protection and casual wear, and can be layered over midlayers for cold, windy conditions, though it is not insulated and lacks pit zips, making it less suitable for high-output activities. Key features include an adjustable tunnel hood, a storm flap over the front zipper, zippered hand pockets, and elasticated cuffs.
Color
Size
Specifications
- Material
- Main material: 100% polyester with polyurethane coating; Lining: 100% polyester
- Gender
- female
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
Product Insights
The Antora Hooded Raincoat by The North Face is a $150 CAD casual rain jacket inspired by the 1985 Mountain Jacket, featuring color-blocking, a storm flap, and heat-transfer logos. Its 2L DryVent shell uses a PFC-free DWR that requires re-treatment every 25-40 washes, and buyers report moisture buildup due to no pit zips and limited breathability, with wetting out in sustained heavy rain. It lacks packability, has elastic cuffs and an adjustable hem, and fits true to size (size up for layers). The hood seals weather but leaves the face exposed, incompatible with bike helmets; pockets are deep but set high for backpack use. Designed for daily commutes and light outdoor use, it often serves as a fallback versus competitors like the Venture or Torrentshell.
- Color-blocking
Two-tone paneling originates from the 1985 Mountain Jacket's reinforced shoulder panels.
Why this is supported
The Antora's color-blocking is not merely stylistic—
this color-blocked design has a functional origin rather than an aesthetic one.
ultrabuffet.comThe brand itself confirms this lineage:
With practical design elements inspired by our iconic Mountain Jacket
thenorthface.com- Design
Center-front storm flap is a simplified Alpine placket from the 1985 Mountain Jacket.
Why this is supported
The Antora's storm flap is a direct heritage element:
Alpine-style pockets and centre front placket
outdoor-insight.co.uk, underscoring its weather-sealing function.
- Logo
Heat-transfer logos on left chest and back-right shoulder replicate the 1985 Mountain Jacket's positioning.
Why this is supported
The logo placement is grounded in the original design:
Heat transfer logo on left chest and back-right shoulder
thenorthface.com. This positioning was intended so
the person behind you could stare at your back and read that North Face logo without confronting you.
ultrabuffet.com- Ventilation
No pit zips, causing moisture buildup during exertion.
Why this is supported
The Antora lacks pit zips entirely—
Vista has zip pit venting, Antora doesn't.
u/CalligrapherNo7337 in r/TheNorthFaceThis seals in moisture:
as moisture buildup cannot escape
How does the lack of pit zips affect breathability for high-output activities like hiking or running?The elasticated cuffs and storm flap over the front zipper further limit airflow:
Antora has elasticated cuffs, Vista has hook and loop straps.
u/CalligrapherNo7337 in r/TheNorthFaceand
jacket - it has a Velcro storm flap to protect the front zipper from rain and wind
u/Legitimate-Swim-1085 in r/TheNorthFaceThe result:
Antora is great for casual wear but not for hiking
u/3fiftyone in r/hikinggearand the jacket is
best suited for casual urban use, not active pursuits.
How does the lack of pit zips affect breathability for high-output activities like hiking or running?- Fabric
2L DryVent construction (polyester shell with PU coating, polyester mesh lining).
Why this is supported
The Antora uses a 2-layer DryVent construction with a separate mesh liner. As noted in a Reddit comparison,
Vista is a 2.5L shell, Antora is 2L.
u/CalligrapherNo7337 in r/TheNorthFaceindicating a less breathable laminate than higher-end models.
- Packability
Not packable into its own pocket; inconvenient for on-off use during activity.
Why this is supported
The jacket does not pack into its own pocket, making it awkward to stow during active use. A Reddit user notes,
Vista is packable into its own pocket, Antora isn't.
u/CalligrapherNo7337 in r/TheNorthFaceand a Q&A advises,
No, it lacks pit zips and is not packable; it is better suited for casual wear.
Is the Antora good for hiking?- Value
At $150 CAD, often a fallback versus Venture or Torrentshell.
Why this is supported
Outdoor gear experts say the Antora's price is
good, but not spectacular
u/jpoRS1 in r/frugalmalefashion. They recommend
waiting for a deal on the TNF Venture, Marmot Precip, or Patagonia Torrentshell
u/jpoRS1 in r/frugalmalefashionbecause they use
superior tech at an only slightly higher price
u/jpoRS1 in r/frugalmalefashion.
- Feature tradeoffs
Lacks pit zips and packability; adds storm flap and elastic cuffs; suited for casual use.
Why this is supported
Reviewers note the Antora is
great for casual wear but not for hiking - you stay dry but there’s no ventilation if you need it
u/3fiftyone in r/hikinggear. It also
but
has a storm flap
u/CalligrapherNo7337 in r/TheNorthFaceand
has elasticated cuffs
u/CalligrapherNo7337 in r/TheNorthFace. Another traveler shares that
if you're a traveller and packability is important to you and you value pit zips for dumping heat on hikes, the antora is a downgrade from the venture
u/Legitimate-Swim-1085 in r/TheNorthFace.
- Material properties
PFC-free DWR requires re-treatment; PU coating can degrade.
Why this is supported
The Antora uses a
non-PFC durable water-repellent (non-PFC DWR) finish
thenorthface.comthat
requires re-treatment roughly every 25–40 washes
Recycled materials and PFC-free waterproofing — pfc_free_dwr_finish. However, the
polyurethane coating in the DryVent 2L membrane can degrade over time
How durable is the polyurethane coating on this jacket? Does it tend to peel or degrade over time?and
may wet out faster than higher-end membranes like Gore-Tex
How durable is the polyurethane coating on this jacket? Does it tend to peel or degrade over time?.
- Fit
Fits true to size solo; size up for thick layers to stay warm in 30-40°F weather.
Why this is supported
Brand Q&A confirms that the jacket
generally fits true to size
Does this jacket run true to size, or should I size up for layering?and recommends sizing up for thick mid-layers. A Reddit user reports using
a lightweight down puffer under mine when it gets down in the 30s or 40's
u/AZbitchmaster in r/TheNorthFace, verifying the jacket's effectiveness as a windproof shell in cold weather. The slim fit, described by thestyleversa.com as
The modern, slimmer style of this jacket makes it useful and stylish at the same time.
thestyleversa.com, reinforces that sizing up may be needed for bulky insulation, while the jacket layers well with slim mid-layers for warmth.
- Waterproof performance in prolonged rain
Buyers report it holds up in moderate rain but wets out in sustained heavy rain.
Why this is supported
Despite a 25,000mm hydrostatic head rating, real-world reports indicate limited performance in sustained rain. One user notes:
The jacket shell is made up of DryVent 2L, which according to this site https://www.alpinetrek.co.uk/blog/dryvent-info/ - the material has a hydrostatic head of 25,000mm.
u/wanderingcfa in r/TheNorthFaceHowever, Q&A advises it is
good for moderate rain but may not hold up in prolonged heavy downpours.
How waterproof is the Antora?Another buyer suggests
I would recommend waiting for a deal on the TNF Venture, Marmot Precip, or Patagonia Torrentshell. They are similar products that use superior tech at an only slightly higher price.
u/jpoRS1 in r/frugalmalefashionThis corroborates that the jacket may not match higher-end membranes in extended exposure.
- DWR maintenance
The non-PFC DWR finish requires re-treatment roughly every 25-40 washes.
Why this is supported
The PFC-free DWR requires more frequent re-treatment. Research confirms
the PFC‑free technology currently requires re‑treatment roughly every 25–40 washes — more frequently than the 30–50 washes typical of short‑chain fluorocarbon finishes
Recycled materials and PFC-free waterproofing — pfc_free_dwr_finishAdditionally, proper care is essential. Q&A provides instructions:
Machine wash cold on gentle cycle with a tech wash (no fabric softener), rinse thoroughly, and tumble dry on low heat to reactivate the DWR. Periodically apply a PFC-free DWR spray to maintain water repellency.
What are the recommended washing and DWR restoration procedures for this jacket?The 2L construction with a mesh liner helps protect the PU coating from abrasion. One owner explains:
the antora style is a dryvent 2 layer waterproof construction which means it's waterproof but the face fabric and the PU coating is bare and it'll have a material liner to protect it
u/Legitimate-Swim-1085 in r/TheNorthFace- Breathability and condensation
Buyers report sweat buildup during active use due to limited breathability.
Why this is supported
The jacket lacks pit zips, which affects breathability. Q&A notes:
The lack of pit zips severely limits breathability during high-output activities like hiking or running, as moisture buildup cannot escape.
How does the lack of pit zips affect breathability for high-output activities like hiking or running?This can lead to internal condensation that may feel like the jacket is leaking.
- Coating durability
Liner-protected coating degrades more slowly than exposed coatings.
Why this is supported
A review notes:
The polyurethane coating in the DryVent 2L membrane can degrade over time, especially with frequent washing or improper care.
How durable is the polyurethane coating on this jacket? Does it tend to peel or degrade over time?However, the jacket's mesh liner protects the coating, as one Reddit user explains:
it'll have a material liner to protect it versus the venture with dryvent 2.5L where it looks and feels like 1 layer
u/Legitimate-Swim-1085 in r/TheNorthFaceThis liner helps the coating endure longer than if directly exposed.
- Care
Wash with tech wash and reapply DWR every 25-40 washes.
Why this is supported
The recommended care routine includes:
Machine wash cold on gentle cycle with a tech wash (no fabric softener), rinse thoroughly, and tumble dry on low heat to reactivate the DWR.
What are the recommended washing and DWR restoration procedures for this jacket?Additionally, the PFC-free DWR finish requires re-treatment frequently:
requires re‑treatment roughly every 25–40 washes — more frequently than the 30–50 washes typical of short‑chain fluorocarbon finishes
Recycled materials and PFC-free waterproofing — pfc_free_dwr_finishThis means periodic maintenance is necessary to maintain water repellency.
- Drawcords
Drawcord system balances durable metal aglets and a weaker collar loop.
Why this is supported
A durability assessment notes:
The drawcord around the hood ends in two such toggles and is tied to a loop at the collar, which could be a weak spot over time with frequent use.
outdoorgearlab.comHowever, the drawcords themselves are well-made:
The tightening strings through the hood and around the hem of the jacket are very nice, well made with metal tips.
zappos.comThis suggests the metal tips are durable, balancing the potential weakness at the collar loop.
- PFC-free DWR
PFC-free DWR finish eliminates PFAS forever chemicals.
Why this is supported
The Antora uses a non-PFC DWR finish,
non-PFC durable water-repellent (non-PFC DWR) finish
thenorthface.com, which eliminates PFAS forever chemicals. This aligns with The North Face's company-wide commitment:
Midway through 2025, The North Face reported that it achieved its goal of eliminating its use of PFAS in its products; now, all new The North Face styles are PFAS free.
bettertrail.comThe finish avoids the persistent, bioaccumulative pollutants of legacy fluorocarbon treatments.
- Pocket height
High pockets suit backpack use but buyers report they feel too high for daily wear.
Why this is supported
The Antora's hand pockets are positioned higher than typical rain jackets, a deliberate design inspired by mountaineering shells. This allows easy access when wearing a backpack hip belt, but some daily users find the height uncomfortable:
They are too high compared to the older version.
zappos.comThe elevated placement is also a direct design cue from the Mountain Light Jacket, as noted:
you'll have larger pockets that slash over the chest though since it's based on the design of the mountain light jacket
u/Legitimate-Swim-1085 in r/TheNorthFaceOverall, the height is a practical trade-off: functional for hiking but potentially less comfortable for casual wear.
- Pocket capacity
Pockets are deep enough to hold a smartphone and keys comfortably.
Why this is supported
Independent testing shows the hand pockets are notably deep:
the hand pockets are quite deep and comfortable to have the hands in, and there is plenty of room for a cell phone and keys.
outdoorgearlab.com- Pocket weatherproofing
Pocket flaps keep stored items dry in rain.
Why this is supported
The zippered pockets are equipped with protective flaps that effectively shield contents from moisture:
The pocket flaps keep the contents of the pockets dry
outdoorgearlab.com- Hood coverage
The hood cinches down for a weather seal but leaves the face fairly exposed for unobstructed vision.
Why this is supported
The three-piece tunnel hood cinches down with a rear drawcord for a weather seal, but
The hood offers minimal coverage, leaving the face fairly exposed to the elements.
outdoorgearlab.comHowever, the hood can be adjusted without blocking vision:
The adjustable hood can be tightened or loosened based on your preference. This feature gives you the protection you need without restricting your vision or movement.
fitnessforlifeco.comThis indicates a deliberate trade-off prioritizing peripheral vision over full face coverage.
- Helmet compatibility
The hood fits over a thick winter hat but will not accommodate a bike helmet.
Why this is supported
According to a Q&A on the product page,
likely won't accommodate a bike helmet. It should fit over a thick winter hat when fully adjusted.
Is the hood designed to fit over a bike helmet or a thick winter hat?This clarifies the hood's fit for different headwear.
- Drawcord hardware
Metal-tipped aglets prevent fraying and are easy to use, but the drawcord's collar attachment loop may wear over time.
Why this is supported
The hood and hem drawcords have
very nice, well made with metal tips
zappos.com, which prevent fraying and provide easy grip with cold or gloved hands. However,
The drawcord around the hood ends in two such toggles and is tied to a loop at the collar, which could be a weak spot over time with frequent use.
outdoorgearlab.comThis indicates a potential durability concern with the attachment method.
- Branding
Heat-transferred logo is low-profile and matte, avoiding loud embroidery.
Why this is supported
Branding is kept subtle with a
Heat transfer logo on left chest and back-right shoulder
thenorthface.com, avoiding the bulky embroidery common on technical shells.
- Versatility
Designed for daily commutes and light outdoor use; retains a structured look when not packed.
Why this is supported
The Antora fills the niche of being
stylish enough for your daily commute but still functional enough to take into the woods
outdoorgearlab.com. Unlike some rain jackets, it
, which helps it maintain a structured, polished look when carried.
- Cuffs
Elastic cuffs trade adjustable seal for simplicity and lower cost.
Why this is supported
The Antora uses elastic cuffs rather than adjustable hook-and-loop cuffs. As one Redditor notes,
Antora has elasticated cuffs, Vista has hook and loop straps.
u/CalligrapherNo7337 in r/TheNorthFaceAnother buyer confirms that
it won't have adjustable Velcro cuffs
u/Legitimate-Swim-1085 in r/TheNorthFace, highlighting that the elastic cuffs cannot be cinched, allowing wind and rain to enter more easily, particularly when wearing multiple layers.
- Hem adjustability
Adjustable toggle hem cinch seals out wind-driven rain, uncommon at this price.
Why this is supported
The Antora's adjustable toggle hem is a direct carryover from the Mountain Jacket.
The Antora retains the adjustable cinch hem and hood drawcord of the Mountain Jacket
Design heritage from the Mountain Jacket — adjustable_hem_and_hoodThis hem cinch allows the wearer to seal out wind-driven rain, a feature uncommon in rain jackets at this price level.
Image Analysis
3 images- 01
Product
Front view of a hooded rain jacket on a model. Features a fitted hood with drawcord toggles, a center front concealed zipper with external storm flap, vertical zip pockets under angled flaps at the chest sides, elasticated cuffs, and a small chest logo on the wearer's left side.
- Overall silhouetteStraight-hem hip-length rain jacket with a relaxed fit worn by a model, shown from the front.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.08 · w 0.76 · h 0.78 (high) - Hood constructionAttached three-panel hood with an extended collar area and visible drawcords with plastic toggle stoppers at the collar.
1 region
x 0.32 · y 0.06 · w 0.36 · h 0.18 (high) - Center front closureCenter front concealed zipper covered by a narrow external storm flap that runs vertically from collar to hem.
1 region
x 0.38 · y 0.20 · w 0.24 · h 0.60 (high) - Chest pocket styleVertical zip pockets set under slim angled storm-flap panels on both sides of the chest; pocket zippers are partially visible at the side seams of the flap panels.
2 regions
x 0.19 · y 0.30 · w 0.18 · h 0.40 (high); x 0.63 · y 0.30 · w 0.18 · h 0.40 (high) - Sleeve cuffsElasticated wrist cuffs finished with gathered elastic at the hem of each sleeve.
2 regions
x 0.14 · y 0.73 · w 0.20 · h 0.13 (high); x 0.66 · y 0.73 · w 0.20 · h 0.13 (high) - Fabric appearanceSmooth, slightly matte coated shell fabric consistent with waterproof rain outerwear, showing slight creasing and soft folds at the sleeves and body.
- Chest logo“Small stacked text logo printed on the wearer's left chest reading 'THE NORTH FACE' with the arc logo mark above; printed in a light/white tone contrasting subtly with the shell.”
1 region
x 0.58 · y 0.32 · w 0.14 · h 0.09 (high)
Other
Studio product shot showing the model from mid-thigh up against a plain light gray background. Even lighting with soft shadows; the model's hands and black pants are visible. Image is centered and vertical.
- Background and lightingUniform light gray studio background with even, diffuse lighting and minimal shadows.
- Model and poseFemale model facing forward with a neutral expression, arms relaxed at sides; hands visible at lower frame.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.55 · w 0.76 · h 0.40 (high) - Visible non-product clothingBlack pants visible from the waist down that are not part of the jacket product and occupy the lower portion of the frame.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.80 · w 0.64 · h 0.18 (high) - Image crop and framingImage is vertically oriented and cropped to show the model from slightly above the head down to mid-thigh, centering the jacket.
Colors
light cream· shell fabric#CBC5BBwhite· chest logo print#F2F2F1- Overall silhouetteStraight-hem hip-length rain jacket with a relaxed fit worn by a model, shown from the front.
- 02
Product
Left-side close-up of a light cream hooded raincoat showing hood geometry, front zipper with storm flap, adjustable drawcords with plastic cord locks, chest seam detail, and a printed brand logo on the left chest.
- Hood shapeThree-panel hood with a soft structured brim area and a smooth single-layer inner facing visible around the face opening.
1 region
x 0.45 · y 0.08 · w 0.44 · h 0.34 (high) - Drawcords and cord locksPaired drawcords emerge from metal eyelets at the hood base and terminate in small cylindrical plastic cord locks and knotted cord ends; cords are the same light color as the shell.
2 regions
x 0.28 · y 0.21 · w 0.18 · h 0.18 (high); x 0.39 · y 0.18 · w 0.12 · h 0.18 (high) - Front closure and storm flapCenter front zipper is covered by a narrow storm flap that runs vertically; the zipper pull and portion of teeth are visible near the neck.
1 region
x 0.29 · y 0.30 · w 0.12 · h 0.33 (high) - Chest seam and pocket flapHorizontal chest seam with a shallow top pocket or flap line visible across the left and right chest panels.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.42 · w 0.64 · h 0.14 (high) - Printed logo text“THE NORTH FACE”
1 region
x 0.36 · y 0.47 · w 0.14 · h 0.10 (high) - Shell material appearanceSmooth, slightly satiny woven outer shell with a matte finish and minimal surface texture, appearing water-resistant.
- Left shoulder and sleeveVisible left shoulder seam with a slightly dropped sleeve seam and clean topstitching following the shoulder line.
1 region
x 0.52 · y 0.48 · w 0.40 · h 0.43 (high)
Other
Studio portrait-style close-up showing the product worn by a model in left profile against a plain light background with soft even lighting and minimal shadows.
- Model profile and stylingFemale model shown in left profile from upper chest to top of head; hair pulled back exposing ear and neck; model's skin and facial features are visible and not part of the product.
1 region
x 0.01 · y 0.00 · w 0.45 · h 0.60 (high) - Shot compositionTight crop focusing on upper torso and hood area, left side of frame shows model face, right side shows hood and cascading hair extending out of frame.
- Background and lightingPlain neutral light gray to off-white background with soft, even studio lighting and low-contrast soft shadows under the chin and around the hood.
Colors
pale cream· shell#C3C2BD- Hood shapeThree-panel hood with a soft structured brim area and a smooth single-layer inner facing visible around the face opening.
- 03
Product
Back view of a hooded, long-sleeve raincoat on a model showing hood, back yoke, center back seam, elastic sleeve cuff, and a small upper-back logo.
- Hood shapeAttached three-panel hood with a rounded crown and visible topstitching, sitting relaxed over the upper back and shoulders.
1 region
x 0.23 · y 0.06 · w 0.45 · h 0.21 (high) - Back yokeHorizontal yoke seam across the upper back just below the hood, forming a short cape-like panel.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.21 · w 0.64 · h 0.12 (high) - Center back seamSingle vertical seam running down the center of the back from the yoke to the hem, visible as topstitching.
1 region
x 0.43 · y 0.28 · w 0.14 · h 0.55 (high) - Sleeve cuffElasticized hem at the wrist on the visible sleeve, gathered into a narrow elastic band.
1 region
x 0.75 · y 0.72 · w 0.16 · h 0.12 (high) - Fabric finishSmooth, slightly satiny woven outer face suggesting a water-resistant coated or laminated shell with minimal surface texture.
1 region
x 0.22 · y 0.20 · w 0.56 · h 0.62 (high) - Hem shapeSlightly curved hem that is longer at the back center with a clean stitched edge.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.72 · w 0.64 · h 0.12 (high) - Upper-back printed logo“THE NORTH FACE”
1 region
x 0.55 · y 0.24 · w 0.12 · h 0.08 (medium) - Fit and silhouetteRelaxed hip-length fit with slightly tapered side seams and moderate room through the body when worn by the model.
Other
Studio rear-quarter shot of a model against a plain light background with soft diffuse lighting; model hair and black pants visible.
- Shot compositionRear-quarter studio shot showing the model turned slightly to the right so the back and right profile are visible.
- BackgroundEven, neutral light gray to off-white seamless background with no visible props.
1 region
x 0.00 · y 0.00 · w 1.00 · h 1.00 (low) - Model stylingModel wears black pants and has hair pulled back in textured braids gathered at the back; right hand relaxed by the side.
2 regions
x 0.35 · y 0.02 · w 0.34 · h 0.18 (high); x 0.62 · y 0.78 · w 0.20 · h 0.20 (high) - Lighting and shadowSoft diffuse lighting with faint shadowing under the hood and along the left side of the back, minimal specular highlights.
Colors
soft off-white· main shell#CBCAC5tonal white· printed logo#F3F3F1- Hood shapeAttached three-panel hood with a rounded crown and visible topstitching, sitting relaxed over the upper back and shoulders.
Documents & Data
Customer Reviews
23 total23 reviews · out of 5
je l aime beaucoup
la couleur est belle
imper
Pas encore porter mais il me semble parfait .La couleur est belle et rare
Great!
Better than I expected.
belle qualité
Efficace contre la pluie et la forme du capuchon protège bien des grands vents. La grandeur médium est fabriqué étroite aux hanches et les manches sont un peu longues, mais je l'ai acheté quand même parce que la grandeur large avait les épaules tombantes et les manches beaucoup trop longues. Je vais quand même l'apprécier.
J’adore
J’adore
Produit fidèle à la description.
Superbe couleur. Coupe féminine. Confortable.
Résistant à la pluie!
Belle coupe qui permet de mettre une couche plus épaisse en dessous. Très imperméable!
trés confortable et legère
je l'aime bien.
It fits, haven’t been raining
It fits, haven’t been raining so haven’t used it yet
Colour
Did not like the color.
Fait tres bien
Fait tres bien
Beautiful jacket
Waterproof and wind proof Great for traveling
Imperméable
Très confortable mais faite grand
Grandeur parfaite
Super
Très beau design
Pas eu l'occasion de le porter sous la pluie. Je l'adore.
Imperméable North face
Très belle qualité. J’aime beaucoup cet imper.
Love the fit
The jacket fits nice and personally, I actually like the pockets. The only thing I’m not too fond of is the plasticky feeling of the fabric, but overall I’m pleased with this jacket.
Achat imperméable capuche Antora
Couleur Style
Malgré erreur de livraison car
Malgré erreur de livraison car reçu en premier pas le bon article. Mais 2 jours après bien reçu mon imperméable. Livraison très rapide. Merci,
Contente au début mais déçue !
Bonjour! Après que je l’ai mit 4 fois la fermeture éclair s’ouvre dans le bas une fois zippe. Je suis très déçu.
Beau manteau de pluie
Super manteau de pluie. Léger, beau, confortable.
Waterproof Rain jacket
Sleeves longer, rain proof, bright yellow green colour
Magnifique manteau
Très beau et confortable
Reddit Insights
6 threads · r/frugalmalefashion, r/TheNorthFace, r/hikinggearReddit users generally view the North Face Antora as a functional entry-level rain jacket for casual use, but often recommend alternatives like the Patagonia Torrentshell or TNF Venture for better features and performance.
While the Antora is acknowledged for its decent waterproofing and affordability, the overall sentiment is mixed with a negative lean, as many users highlight shortcomings such as lack of pit zips, non-packability, and inferior technology compared to competitors.
Themes
Use Cases
- Casual everyday rain protection in urban settings
- Layering shell for cold and windy conditions
- Short hikes or walks in light rain (not ideal due to lack of ventilation)
Watch Out For
Compared To
vs Patagonia Torrentshell
Torrentshell is recommended for superior waterproofing and durability, though it is heavier and crinklier; often considered a better investment.
vs The North Face Venture / Alta Vista
Venture and Alta Vista are lighter, packable, have pit zips, and are better for hiking; Antora is seen as a downgrade for active use.
vs REI Rainier
Rainier is preferred over Antora for hiking because it is packable and has pit zips, though some reviews mention soaking through quickly.
vs Marmot Precip
Marmot Precip is mentioned as an alternative with better tech, but some users had issues with lining durability.
Source Threads
Expert assessment of Antora as decent but not great rain jacket
This would be a decent (but not great) rain jacket, and provide moderate wind protection. It is *not* insulated and as such would not be suitable for cold weather on its own. The price is good, but not spectacular. If you're in the market for something like this, I would recommend waiting for a deal on the TNF Venture, Marmot Precip, or Patagonia Torrentshell. They are similar products that use superior tech at an only slightly higher price. But if you MUST buy a rain jacket TODAY, this isn't a mistake. Merely not as good as I know you could do. Source: work in the outdoor industry, including time at multiple outdoor retailers, and familiar with the product.
u/jpoRS1r/frugalmalefashionView thread →
Layering advice for using Antora in cold weather
I like to use a lightweight down puffer under mine when it gets down in the 30s or 40's, or a fleece is fine in cool weather. Layering is key, as is wearing a warm hat. It's real usefulness is in it's ability to keep the wind from cutting through your warmth layers, which will go a very long way in keeping you warm.
u/AZbitchmasterr/TheNorthFaceView thread →
Waterproof rating and performance of Antora
The jacket shell is made up of DryVent 2L, which according to this site https://www.alpinetrek.co.uk/blog/dryvent-info/ - the material has a hydrostatic head of 25,000mm. That level of waterproofing is on the high end and should keep you dry.
u/wanderingcfar/TheNorthFaceView thread →
Feature comparison between Antora and Vista jackets
Vista is a 2.5L shell, Antora is 2L. Vista is packable into its own pocket, Antora isn't. Antora has a storm flap, Vista doesn't. Antora has elasticated cuffs, Vista has hook and loop straps. Vista has zip pit venting, Antora doesn't. Antora is made with recycled materials. Antora is the cheaper coat on the TNF website
u/CalligrapherNo7337r/TheNorthFaceView thread →
Antora suitable for casual but not hiking due to ventilation
I’ve had two Antoras over the years and I just got the TNF Alta Vista because I wanted pit zips - I haven’t tried the Rainer but I was between that and the AV. Antora is great for casual wear but not for hiking - you stay dry but there’s no ventilation if you need it. Before I got the AV I also tried the Black Diamond Stormline Stretch but I was between two sizes and neither one fit me well enough. So long story short, if you want packable and pit zips - Rainer over the Antora.
u/3fiftyoner/hikinggearView thread →
Detailed breakdown of Antora styles and construction vs Venture
there's two antora styles; the antora jacket or the antora rain hoodie. both will be slightly thicker than you're used to with the lightweight venture jacket since the antora style is a dryvent 2 layer waterproof construction which means it's waterproof but the face fabric and the PU coating is bare and it'll have a material liner to protect it versus the venture with dryvent 2.5L where it looks and feels like 1 layer since everything is sandwiched together. it just means when you open up the jacket and feel how it's made it'll feel like the whole jacket is made of 2 layers; the main face fabric plus a mesh liner so it'll feel heavier than the venture. jacket - it has a Velcro storm flap to protect the front zipper from rain and wind just like the venture but it won't have adjustable Velcro cuffs or pit zips like the venture does nor will it be packable and as lightweight as the venture. antora features elastic cuffs. you'll have larger pockets that slash over the chest though since it's based on the design of the mountain light jacket rain hoodie - does not have a storm flap so on those hard rainy and windy days, it's possible water may leak down the main zipper. it also has exposed hood and hem cinch cords. no pit zips and it has elastic cuffs and smaller pockets than the jacket style but bigger pockets than the venture. same 2 layer dryvent construction overall they will all be waterproof and it'll get the job done if you're happy with the venture. it'll feel a little heavier due to the construction but it's tiny differences. it's just a different style of jacket made of similar waterproofing. the fit might be a little different but you'll have to try it on and see if feels comfortable and looks good. in my opinion, if you're a traveller and packability is important to you and you value pit zips for dumping heat on hikes, the antora is a downgrade from the venture. hope it helps
u/Legitimate-Swim-1085r/TheNorthFaceView thread →