Black Diamond Vs North Face (The Definitive Guide)

It's winter season and you're dreaming of the perfect coat to keep you warm and stylish. You're on the prowl for the best outdoor brand, the one that can withstand the toughest of weathers and still look good while doing it. Search no further, because today we're comparing two of the most popular brands in the outdoor industry: Black Diamond and North Face. Both brands have their own unique strengths, but which is the best for you?

In this article, we'll give you the lowdown on the similarities and differences between these two heavy hitters, helping you make the right choice for your winter wardrobe. So sit tight, grab a hot cocoa, and let's dive in.

Comparison

Materials & Technology

Design & Style

Functionality & Performance

Men's Rain Jackets

Men's Hybrid Jackets

Men's Ski Jackets

Women's Rain Jackets

Women's Hybrid Jackets

Women's Ski Jackets

Final Verdict

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Black Diamond Vs North Face

Materials and Technology

When it comes to outdoor gear, Black Diamond and North Face are two of the most popular brands out there. Both companies have a reputation for producing high-quality, top-notch gear that can withstand even the toughest outdoor conditions.

One of the most important factors that sets Black Diamond and North Face apart from other brands is the technology and materials they use in their coats and jackets. In this section, we'll dive into the specifics of each brand's technology and materials, and compare how they fare in terms of durability, breathability, water-resistance, insulation, and weight.

Starting with Black Diamond, this brand is known for its innovative and advanced materials. Take, for example, their "Nanoprism Technology" which is a waterproof and breathable fabric that helps regulate body temperature. This technology is ideal for cold, wet conditions where staying dry and warm is essential. Black Diamond also uses high-quality insulation materials, such as PrimaLoft and Thinsulate, to provide warmth without adding weight or bulk.

On the flip side, North Face also has its own range of cutting-edge materials and technology. For example, their "Futurelight" fabric is a waterproof, breathable material that uses nanospinning technology to create tiny holes in the fabric that allow moisture to escape without compromising on warmth or protection. North Face also uses down feathers in many of their jackets, which is one of the most effective insulation materials around.

So, which brand comes out on top when it comes to materials and technology? It's a tough call, as both Black Diamond and North Face are at the forefront of outdoor gear technology. Ultimately, it depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. So, do your research and find the brand that fits your needs and style best.

Design and Style

When it comes to outdoor apparel, design and style are just as important as functionality. Fortunately, both Black Diamond and North Face have proven themselves to be masters in this department.

First, let's talk about the fit. Black Diamond offers a range of sizes, from XS to XL, to ensure that everyone can find a jacket that fits them perfectly. North Face goes even further with their range of extended sizes, catering to customers with larger body types. In terms of fit, both brands offer a variety of options to suit different body types and preferences.

Versatility is another key factor when deciding on an outdoor jacket. Black Diamond's jackets tend to be more specialized for specific activities, such as skiing or climbing. However, they also offer more multi-purpose options, such as their popular StormLine Stretch Rain Shell. On the other hand, North Face's jackets are designed for a wider range of activities, from hiking to skiing to everyday wear. If you're looking for a jacket that can handle multiple outdoor activities, North Face is your best bet.

Now, let's talk about color options and aesthetics. Black Diamond tends to lean towards darker, more muted colors with a focus on functionality over style. However, they do offer some brighter options for those who want to add a pop of color to their outdoor wardrobe. North Face, on the other hand, offers a wide range of bold colors and patterns. Their jackets are designed to make a statement and are perfect for those who want to stand out on the trails.

In terms of overall design and style, both Black Diamond and North Face offer high-quality options that are sure to last for years to come. Ultimately, your choice will come down to your personal preferences and the specific activities you plan on using the jacket for. Whether you go with the specialized options from Black Diamond or the versatile options from North Face, both brands offer top-notch design and style in their jackets and coats.

Functionality and Performance

When it comes to selecting the perfect winter coat or jacket, one of the most important factors to consider is its functionality and performance. After all, it doesn't matter how stylish a coat may look if it doesn't keep you warm and dry in cold and harsh weather conditions. In this section, we will examine how Black Diamond and North Face stack up against each other in terms of their functionality and performance.

First, let's take a look at pockets. Both Black Diamond and North Face offer jackets and coats with multiple pockets to accommodate everything from your smartphone to your gloves. However, Black Diamond takes things to the next level with specialized pockets designed for carrying skiing and climbing gear. These pockets can be incredibly useful if you're an outdoor enthusiast looking for a jacket that can double as a gear bag.

Next, let's talk about zippers. A jacket with a subpar zipper can quickly become a frustrating experience, but both Black Diamond and North Face use high-quality zippers that will stand the test of time. They both offer jackets with water-resistant zippers, which is a must-have feature for anyone who doesn't want to get soaked in wet weather.

Moving on to hoods, both brands offer jackets and coats with adjustable hoods that provide excellent protection against the wind and cold. However, North Face takes the cake when it comes to hoods, as they use insulated hoods that provide amazing warmth and protection against the harshest of conditions.

As for cuffs, both brands offer a variety of options, including elastic cuffs and adjustable Velcro cuffs. Black Diamond offers cuffs with thumbholes to keep your hands warm, which can be a great feature for anyone who doesn't want to wear gloves.

Finally, let's talk about warmth, breathability, and weather-resistance. Both Black Diamond and North Face jackets and coats are designed to keep you warm and dry in cold and harsh weather conditions. However, North Face does have an edge in terms of breathability, as they offer jackets with two-layer Gore-Tex fabric that provides excellent breathability while still keeping you dry.

In conclusion, both Black Diamond and North Face offer jackets and coats with excellent functionality and performance. It really comes down to what features are most important to you. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, Black Diamond might be the better choice thanks to their specialized pockets. But if you're looking for a jacket that is incredibly warm and comfortable, North Face might be the way to go.

Black Diamond Vs North Face Men's Rain Jackets

When it comes to Men's Rain Jackets, two of the most popular brands in the market are Black Diamond and The North Face. While both brands offer high-quality rain jackets, they differ slightly in terms of style and features.

The Black Diamond Stormline Stretch Rain Shell is a perfect representation of Black Diamond's range of rain jackets. It boasts an impressive BD.dry™ waterproof/breathable/windproof solution, making it ideal for any weather condition. Its ultra-stretchy fabric and underarm gussets offer excellent mobility, perfect for those active in outdoor pursuits. Additionally, its adjustable cuffs and hem provide a personalized fit.

On the other hand, The North Face's Dryzzle FUTURELIGHT™ Jacket represents the brand's rain jacket range. Its breathable-waterproof technology is top of the line, ensuring that you stay dry and comfortable even in heavy rain. The slim-fit design is stylish, yet it's still functional, with an adjustable hood and hook-and-loop cuff tabs.

When deciding between these two brands, consider your specific needs. If you're into outdoor activities that require a lot of movement, Black Diamond's range may suit you better with its ultra-stretchy fabric and underarm gussets. Meanwhile, if you're looking for a rain jacket that's stylish yet still functional, The North Face's range, with its Dryzzle FUTURELIGHT™ Jacket, may be the right choice for you.

Both Black Diamond and The North Face offer a range of rain jackets to suit different needs, so make sure to look beyond these reviewed products to find the one that's right for you.

Stormline Stretch Rain Shell by Black Diamond

SHOP ❤ Check price on blackdiamondequipment.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Unbeatable all-weather shield.

What makes it special? With its impressive BD.dry™ waterproof/breathable/windproof solution, this rain jacket is an all-weather shield for alpine squalls or urban downpours. The StormLine Stretch Rain Shell comes fully equipped with DWR sealed pit zip vents, two zippered hand pockets, and a waterproof center front zipper - making it ideal for the wettest conditions. However, it also quickly adapts to moderate weather, thanks to its underarm gussets and ultra-stretchy fabric that add mobility and durability. One of the Stormline's standout features is its adjustable, climbing-helmet-compatible hood - perfect for on-route escapades when inclement weather rolls in. Additionally, the shell's adjustable cuffs and hem allow for a personalized fit, while DWR pit zips provide excellent ventilation. When the weather clears up, the StormLine conveniently stows into the right-hand pocket and clips to a harness or bag with a carabiner clip loop. This rain jacket is available in XS-XL, with black also available in XXL.

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Dryzzle FUTURELIGHT™ Jacket by The North Face

SHOP ❤ Check price on thenorthface.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Stay dry in style with this slim-fit breathable jacket.

What makes it special? This slim-fit jacket features North Face's breathable-waterproof technology that guarantees to keep you dry while still remaining comfortable. The seam-sealed FUTURELIGHT™ 3L shell is soft and stretchy, making it easy to move around in without feeling constrained. Plus, the jacket's non-PFC DWR finish adds extra water repellency to ensure you stay dry even in heavy rain. The jacket's design is uncomplicated yet stylish, with three zip-secure pockets to keep your belongings secure. There's also an adjustable, three-piece hood that provides extra protection for your head, and hook-and-loop cuff tabs that keep the cuffs snug against your wrists to prevent rain from dripping in. One of the best features of this jacket is its internal stow pocket that allows you to pack it away easily when the rain clears. It's perfect for traveling or for people who don't like carrying bulky jackets around. It's both functional and stylish, with a comfortable fit that won't weigh you down.

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Black Diamond Vs North Face Men's Hybrid Jackets

When it comes to men's hybrid jackets, Black Diamond and The North Face both offer high quality and innovative options to choose from. While both brands have their unique strengths, you can't go wrong with either choice.

Black Diamond's First Light Hybrid Hoody combines the benefits of their First Light insulation with key panels of blended merino wool, providing the wearer with both warmth and breathability. The PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Active in the hood, chest, and arms keep the jacket's insulation in place, meaning you can focus on your tasks without worrying about readjusting. The lightweight Schoeller shell fabric, featuring NanoSphere Technology, gives the jacket resistance to sudden changes in weather. Pair that with its Bluesign approved primary fabric and the First Light Hybrid Hoody is an environmentally-conscious choice as well.

On the other hand, The North Face's Summit Series Casaval Hybrid Hoodie has an innovative design with a hybrid construction that provides stretch-woven underarms and hem for increased mobility and comfort. This feature eliminates shoulder seams and makes wearing a heavy pack on multi-day trips comfortable and easy. Its synthetic Ventrix insulation is perforated throughout the back panel, giving it dynamic venting, and the high-CFM body fabric ensures breathability during high-output activities.

Ultimately, the deciding factor between these two brands and their men's hybrid jackets comes down to personal preference and individual needs. If you're looking for a jacket that will keep you warm and dry while also being environmentally-friendly, the First Light Hybrid Hoody is an excellent choice. If, on the other hand, you prioritize mobility and flexibility, the Summit Series Casaval Hybrid Hoodie is a better option. No matter which one you choose, both options are well-made and reliable, so you can rest assured you're getting a quality product.

First Light Hybrid Hoody by Black Diamond

SHOP ❤ Check price on blackdiamondequipment.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Versatile, migration-resistant hybrid hoody.

What makes it special? This versatile jacket combines the benefits of First Light insulation with panels of blended merino wool, giving you the best of both worlds when it comes to warmth, breathability, and range of motion. The PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Active in the hood, chest, and arms is migration-resistant, so you can rest assured it'll stay put during even the most intense outdoor activities. But that's not all. The lightweight Schoeller shell fabric over the insulation features NanoSphere Technology, making it resistant to unexpected weather. Zippered chest pockets store small essentials, while the underarm gussets and low-profile stretch cuffs make sure the hoody moves with you as you tackle any adventure. And let's not forget that the primary fabric is Bluesign approved, so you can feel good about the impact this jacket has on the environment. With its blend of insulation and merino wool, migration-resistant design, and weather-resistant technology, it's a reliable choice for all your outdoor endeavors.

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Summit Series Casaval Hybrid Hoodie by The North Face

SHOP ❤ Check price on thenorthface.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Stay warm and comfortable on any adventure.

What makes it special? The jacket is designed to provide reliable, lightweight warmth to keep you comfortable during any activity. The synthetic Ventrix™ insulation is perforated throughout the back panel, allowing for dynamic venting, while the high-CFM body fabric ensures breathability during high-output activities. One of the most exciting features of this hoodie is its hybrid construction, which includes stretch-woven underarms and hem for increased mobility and comfort. This design innovation eliminates shoulder seams, making it incredibly comfortable even when wearing a heavy pack on multi-day trips. The raglan sleeves and underarm gussets provide full arms-up mobility, while the attached helmet-compatible hood with a pre-tensioned elastic opening and rear adjustment provides additional protection. The Summit Series Casaval Hybrid Hoodie also includes exposed, water-resistant, reverse-coil center front zip with an internal kissing welt finish and concealed-zip hand pockets with an internal pouch in the left pocket. This hoodie also features an internal hem cinch-cord with a single-point adjustment and an attached, helmet-compatible hood with a pre-tensioned elastic opening and cinch-cord adjustment at the back, providing additional protection against the elements.

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Black Diamond Vs North Face Men's Ski Jackets

When it comes to men's ski jackets, both Black Diamond and The North Face offer a range of high-performance options, but how do they compare? Let's take a closer look.

Starting with Black Diamond, their Recon Stretch Ski Shell is a great example of the brand's commitment to durability and comfort. With a waterproof and breathable BD.dry™ solution, 4-way stretch fabric, and ample storage options, this jacket is built for a day on the mountain. Its pit zip vents and removable powder skirt add versatility, making it an ideal choice for variable conditions. And with a relaxed fit, the Recon Stretch Ski Shell is comfortable and functional.

On the other hand, The North Face's ThermoBall™ Eco Snow Triclimate® Jacket is a great example of the brand's focus on performance and versatility. The waterproof and breathable DryVent™ 2L shell, non-PFC DWR finish, underarm vents, and helmet-compatible hood all make it an ideal choice for a range of skiing conditions. And with its ThermoBall™ Eco insulation, this jacket will keep you warm in even the wettest weather. Plus, with its zip-in compatibility and range of pockets, the ThermoBall™ Eco Snow Triclimate® Jacket is a versatile piece that can be used all winter-long.

Ultimately, both Black Diamond and The North Face offer high-quality men's ski jackets, but they differ slightly in their approach. While Black Diamond focuses on durability and comfort with its Recon Stretch Ski Shell, The North Face prioritizes versatility and performance with its ThermoBall™ Eco Snow Triclimate® Jacket. Choosing between these brands will come down to your personal preferences and priorities, so consider what's most important to you before making a purchase.

Recon Stretch Ski Shell by Black Diamond

SHOP ❤ Check price on blackdiamondequipment.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Unstoppable ski jacket for extreme conditions.

What makes it special? Combining a durable 4-way stretch fabric with their waterproof/breathable solution, BD.dry™, this jacket is ready for all your in and out-of-bounds missions. One feature that sets the Recon apart from other ski jackets is its ample storage. With a chest pocket for essentials and two mesh internal drop pockets for skins or extra layers, you can easily carry everything you need for a day on the mountain. The jacket also boasts a lift pass pocket on the left arm, making it easy to access and scan your pass. But it's not just the storage that makes the Recon a standout jacket. The pit zip vents allow for easy temperature regulation on the skin-track, while the removable powder skirt adds versatility for variable conditions. And on storm days, the ski-helmet compatible hood provides added protection from the elements. The combination of durable fabric, waterproof/breathable technology, and ample storage make it a standout choice for any skier looking for a reliable and comfortable jacket.

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ThermoBall™ Eco Snow Triclimate® Jacket by The North Face

SHOP ❤ Check price on thenorthface.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

The ultimate comfortable and high-performance ski jacket for men.

What makes it special? This jacket is packed with features that make it an ideal choice for those who demand the best from their ski jackets. The waterproof and breathable DryVent™ 2L shell helps keep you dry in any weather, while the non-PFC DWR finish adds an extra layer of protection. And with underarm vents, the ThermoBall™ Eco Snow Triclimate® Jacket also helps regulate your body temperature, so you never get too hot or too cold on the slopes. The jacket also features a range of pockets, including a secure-zip chest pocket, secure-zip hand pockets, and an internal goggle pocket, so you can easily store all your essential skiing gear. And for those who wear helmets on the slopes, the helmet-compatible hood is a must-have feature. But what really sets this jacket apart is the 11 g/ft² ThermoBall™ Eco insulation, which provides unparalleled warmth even in wet weather. And with its zip-in compatibility, you can easily pair this jacket with other garments from The North Face® to create the perfect layering system for your needs.

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Black Diamond Vs North Face Women's Rain Jackets

When comparing Black Diamond and The North Face rain jackets for women, it's important to consider the features and benefits of each brand's offerings. Both brands produce high-quality rain jackets, but there are some key differences to consider that could help you choose the perfect jacket for your needs.

The Black Diamond Stormline Stretch Rain Shell is a great example of a high-quality rain jacket, with its BD.dry technology that provides both waterproofing and breathability. It also has underarm gussets and ultra-stretchy fabric that offers excellent mobility and durability, making it perfect for active women.

On the other hand, The North Face Antora Jacket features waterproof, breathable and seam-sealed DryVent™ 2L shell technology with a non-PFC DWR finish, making it ideal for heavy rain and stormy weather conditions. Its standard fit and secure-zip pockets also make it perfect for women on-the-go.

When it comes to style, the Black Diamond Stormline Stretch Rain Shell has a simpler design, while The North Face Antora Jacket has a more alpine-style design. Both jackets come with adjustable hoods for added protection during rainy weather.

Black Diamond and The North Face have similar price points for their women's rain jackets, but the features they offer differ significantly, so it's up to you to decide which one is best suited for your needs.

Overall, both brands offer excellent quality in their women's rain jackets, but Black Diamond is known for its more active and outdoorsy style, while The North Face offers a wider range of functional designs for a variety of uses.

Stormline Stretch Rain Shell by Black Diamond

SHOP ❤ Check price on blackdiamondequipment.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Stay dry and comfortable in any weather.

What makes it special? This rain jacket is made with Black Diamond's BD.dry technology, which is both waterproof and breathable, making it ideal for any weather conditions you may face. The Stormline Stretch Rain Shell is also designed with the active woman in mind. The ultra-stretchy fabric and underarm gussets allow for maximum mobility and durability, making it perfect for any outdoor activity. It even has a climbing-helmet-compatible hood for those rainy days on the mountain. This rain jacket is fully equipped with a waterproof center front zipper, two zippered hand pockets, and DWR sealed pit zip vents for ventilation. And when the sun comes out, it neatly packs into the right-hand pocket with a carabiner clip loop.

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Antora Jacket by The North Face

SHOP ❤ Check price on thenorthface.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Eco-friendly and stylish rain jacket for women.

What makes it special? Made with 100% recycled fabrics, its design is inspired by the iconic Mountain Light Jacket, giving you style and functionality in one package. The Antora Jacket has a standard fit and features waterproof, breathable and seam-sealed DryVent™ 2L shell technology with a non-PFC DWR finish, which ensures that you stay dry no matter how intense the rain gets. Its windproof fabric also protects you from the wind, making it suitable for outdoor activities like hiking, running and camping. This jacket comes in an alpine-style design with secure-zip hand pockets, making it perfect for those who love going on adventures while keeping their essentials close by. The attached three-piece hood with drawcord and cord locks provides adjustability while the stormflap with a hook-and-loop closure covers the center front zipper adds a layer of protection. The elastic-bound cuffs and internal drawcord with cord lock at the hem for adjustability, ensures a snug fit and maximum protection from the elements. The drop-tail hem design also adds extra coverage while the heat transfer logo on left chest and back-right shoulder adds a touch of style.

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Black Diamond Vs North Face Women's Hybrid Jackets

When it comes to Women's Hybrid Jackets, both Black Diamond and The North Face have their fair share of impressive offerings.

While Black Diamond's Vision Hybrid Hoody boasts an ultra-durable Japanese liquid crystal polymer ripstop construction in high abrasion areas, The North Face's Summit Series Casaval Hybrid Hoodie features a unique hybrid construction with stretch-woven underarms and hem for added mobility and comfort.

Black Diamond's Vision Hybrid Hoody also includes 60g PrimaLoft Gold Insulation with Cross Core technology, which uses NASA-developed Aerogel for hyper-light and hyper-warm insulation. On the other hand, The North Face's Summit Series Casaval Hybrid Hoodie uses synthetic Ventrix™ insulation to deliver breathability and mobility during any activity.

Both jackets also include adjustable, helmet-compatible hoods and secure storage options for your essentials. The Vision Hybrid Hoody has two harness-compatible zippered hand pockets, a right-hand stow pocket, a zippered chest pocket, and an internal drop pocket. Meanwhile, the Summit Series Casaval Hybrid Hoodie has concealed-zip hand pockets with an internal pouch in the left pocket.

Ultimately, the decision between Black Diamond vs The North Face women's hybrid jackets comes down to personal preference. Black Diamond's Vision Hybrid Hoody is perfect for those who need a jacket that can withstand the elements and provide premium warmth, while The North Face's Summit Series Casaval Hybrid Hoodie is great for those who value a jacket that offers optimal breathability and mobility.

Vision Hybrid Hoody by Black Diamond

SHOP ❤ Check price on blackdiamondequipment.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Hybrid jacket that withstands every outdoor challenge.

What makes it special? This jacket is designed for optimal movement in the mountains, making it perfect for all your outdoor adventures. The Japanese liquid crystal polymer ripstop construction in high abrasion areas is ultra-durable while also being breathable and stretchy in the underarms and back panels. What really sets this jacket apart is the 60g PrimaLoft Gold Insulation with Cross Core technology, which includes NASA-developed Aerogel. This material is used in space suits and maintains the best warmth-to-weight ratio in the industry—making this jacket ultra-light and hyper-warm. The two harness-compatible zippered hand pockets, right-hand stow pocket, and zippered chest pocket provide ample storage space for all your adventure essentials. Plus, the internal drop pocket comes in handy for keeping your gloves or beanies warm. The integrated hem gasket and elastic cuffs provide a secure fit that keeps drafts out, while the helmet-compatible hood adds extra protection from wind and snow. The jacket also comes in a regular fit, making it comfortable and easy to wear for any outdoor activity.

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Summit Series Casaval Hybrid Hoodie by The North Face

SHOP ❤ Check price on thenorthface.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Pioneering mid layer for ultimate comfort and mobility.

What makes it special? This jacket boasts synthetic Ventrix™ insulation that delivers the perfect amount of breathability and mobility for any activity. What sets this jacket apart is its hybrid construction, featuring stretch-woven underarms and hem for added comfort and mobility. Plus, its high-CFM body fabric allows for breathability during even the most high-output activities. The Casaval Hybrid Hoodie also includes an attached, helmet-compatible hood with pre-tensioned elastic opening and rear adjustment for optimal fit. One of the best features of this jacket is its lack of shoulder seams, reducing bulk and providing extra comfort while carrying a pack. And with concealed-zip hand pockets and an internal pouch in the left pocket, you can store your essentials without worrying about losing them during your adventures. Its attention to detail and focus on comfort and mobility make it a great option for any outdoor enthusiast, whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just starting out.

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Black Diamond Vs North Face Women's Ski Jackets

When it comes to women's ski jackets, both Black Diamond and The North Face offer a range of high-quality options with unique features that cater to different needs.

For example, Black Diamond's Recon Stretch Ski Shell is made from a durable 4-way stretch fabric with BD.dry technology, making it a reliable option for any skier looking for both performance and comfort. The jacket has a relaxed fit and comes with ample storage, including a chest pocket and two internal drop pockets, perfect for storing skins or extra layers. It also has a removable powder skirt for added versatility and adjustable cuffs for a customized fit.

On the other hand, The North Face Women's Superlu Jacket is all about urban sophistication meeting alpine performance. This jacket features a waterproof, breathable, seam-sealed DryVent™ 2L shell that keeps you dry and warm in wet weather. It also has Heatseeker™ Eco insulation for added warmth. The jacket has a standard fit, a fixed hood, adjustable cuff tabs, and a powder skirt.

When comparing the two brands, it's important to consider your personal needs and preferences. Both jackets are made from high-quality materials and offer great features, but they cater to different styles of skiing. The North Face Women's Superlu Jacket is perfect for those who prioritize fashion and versatility, while the Black Diamond Recon Stretch Ski Shell is a great option for those looking for maximum performance and comfort on the mountain.

In summary, to decide between the two brands, it's important to consider your skiing style, preferences, and what you prioritize most in a ski jacket. No matter what you choose, both Black Diamond and The North Face have a wide range of women's ski jackets to fit almost any need.

Recon Stretch Ski Shell by Black Diamond

SHOP ❤ Check price on blackdiamondequipment.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

The ultimate ski jacket for women.

What makes it special? Designed with a durable 4-way stretch fabric and BD.dry technology, this jacket is made to withstand both in and out-of-bounds missions. The Recon Stretch Ski Shell also features a ski-helmet compatible hood and waterproof front zipper, keeping you protected from the elements even on stormy days. One of the standout features of this jacket is its ample storage, with a chest pocket, lift pass pocket, and two internal drop pockets perfect for storing skins or extra layers. It also has a removable powder skirt for added versatility in changing conditions. The Recon Stretch Ski Shell is designed to be both waterproof and breathable, with DWR treated pit zips for easy temperature regulation on long skin tracks. Its relaxed fit and adjustable cuffs also ensure a comfortable and customized fit for any body type.

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Superlu Jacket by The North Face

SHOP ❤ Check price on thenorthface.com

Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Stay warm and dry on the slopes.

What makes it special? It offers the perfect combination of urban sophistication and alpine performance, making it a great choice for any ski trip. The waterproof, breathable, seam-sealed DryVent™ 2L shell keeps you dry, warm and stoked from first chair until last. The jacket also comes with Heatseeker™ Eco insulation for warmth even in wet weather. This is a game-changer for any skier who has ever struggled with the elements on the mountain. The jacket has a standard fit, a fixed hood, and adjustable cuff tabs, providing maximum adjustability and comfort. The Superlu Jacket also has a powder skirt, which is great for keeping snow from creeping in and ruining your day. The VISLON® center front zip and secure-zip hand pockets are also very convenient. One of the features we really love is the secure-zip chest pocket with media port. This is perfect for storing your phone or music device and listening to tunes while you ski. Additionally, the internal goggle pocket is a lifesaver. It means you don't have to worry about your goggles getting damaged or misplaced when you're not wearing them.

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Final Verdict

After comparing and contrasting Black Diamond and North Face, it's clear that both brands offer high-quality coats and jackets for outdoor enthusiasts. While Black Diamond may have a more specialized focus on climbing gear, North Face offers a wider range of outdoor gear for all types of activities. Both brands have their strengths, whether it's Black Diamond's innovative climbing gear or North Face's durable and versatile outdoor jackets.

Ultimately, choosing between Black Diamond and North Face will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're into climbing or mountaineering, Black Diamond may be the better choice for you. However, if you're looking for a wider range of outdoor gear and apparel, including jackets and coats, North Face is a great option.

In conclusion, it's important to remember that there is no right or wrong choice when it comes to choosing between Black Diamond and North Face. Both brands have a loyal following for a reason, and your choice will ultimately depend on what best fits your specific needs. So whether you're hitting the mountains or just going for a hike in the woods, both Black Diamond and North Face are reliable and suitable choices for your outdoor needs.