With ultralight becoming the new black, there are plenty of lightweight jackets on the market today. A new one, that’s also pushing the envelope of jacket construction, is the North Face Triumph Anorak. Made with just two welded panels (versus the typical 15), the Triumph reduces stiching and seams for improved waterproofing and comfort.
Features of the Triumph Anorak:
- Waterproof, breathable, seam-sealed Hyvent DT with overlap seam construction
- Revolutionary two-panel construction for minimal seaming and ultralight characteristics
- Magic Seam® construction for improved comfort, weather protection and lighter weight
- Fully adjustable attached hood with laminated brim
- Right chest pocket
- Elastic cuffs
- Elastic-bound hem
- Colors: Scottish Moss Green (tested), Black, Jake Blue
- MSRP: $179
The North Face Triumph Anorak Review
A lightweight shell is a requirement in my book. Something that’s versatile enough for use in Winter (with proper layering) or in the Summer (during sudden downpours) as that backup all-weather shell that doesn’t weigh you down. The all-new Triumph Anorak from The North Face has been an interesting companion over the past few months.
The construction of the Triumph provides a level of uniqueness that I’ve never seen. By using only two panels for its construction, the overall feel of the jacket and freedom of movement is off the charts. The elimination of all the extra seams also adds an extra measure of breathability (because seam tape doesn’t breathe as well) with all that mobility.
I’ve now used the Triumph trail running in cool temperatures (30-40 degrees) with much success. I’m amazed at how well the Hyvent DT fabric breathes. After a long run, the inside of the jacket feels only slightly damp to the touch, yet the exterior has shed rain, wind and snow without flinching.
While I really dig the feel of this jacket and the supreme performance of the shell, it does have room for improvement. The first item would be the fit. While having only two panels does improve the feel of the jacket, the fit is pretty roomy overall. That’s a good thing should you wish to layer up with the Triumph, but when used as an athletic shell, the excess fabric is just that… excess.
The other small gripes are in the lack of an adjustable hem (quick-pull drawcord would be nice) and the location of the hood adjustments, which makes for tricky cinching since it’s on the inside of the hood. Also, keep in mind that this is an ultralight shell, so the fabric isn’t as durable as a traditional-weight shell.
Good Triumph Anorak
- Hyvent DT fabric breathes extremely-well while remaining waterproof
- Very lightweight overall… feels like you’re wearing nothing
- Excellent wind protection
- The full-coverage hood is easy to cinch and stays put when adjusted
- Collar height is tall enough to cover most of the face in a pinch
- Freedom of movement
- Welded, 2-panel construction offers simplicity
Bad Triumph Anorak
- Pricepoint is a bit steep
- Fit is extremely baggy overall… should be streamlined
- No elastic hem to cinch down further
- Hood cinching can be challenging
Bottom Line: The North Face Triumph Anorak
Wow is this thing light! At 5.9 oz, the Triumph Anorak is a wonder… and with 2-panel welded construction, it offers excellent performance and overall feel. Stash it away and pull it out in a pinch or use it on aerobic singletrack adventures.
Buy Now: Find The North Face Jackets at REI
