The North Face has long been a popular go-to brand for warm and comfortable jackets. Their jackets utilize modern fabric technologies that maximize benefits and minimize costs. In this Apex Bionic vs Apex Bionic 2 comparison, we are going to let you in on what many people are wondering.
Many people are wondering what the actual differences are between the Bionic and its successor, the Bionic 2. This the Bionic 2 really an improvement? Before we get into what the actual differences, you’re going to cover how these Bionic jackets are alike.
Liked the Apex Bionic Jackets? Then, you might also like: The North Face Apex Bionic vs Chromium Jacket Review
Apex Bionic vs Apex Bionic 2
Not much has changed since the Bionic with the Bionic 2. In fact, most of their features are exactly the same. Below are all of the features that are included in both these jackets.
- 96% polyester and 4% elastane: Both the Bionic and the Bionic 2 are made of mostly polyester and part elastane. It is the elastane that helps to create the stretchiness needed for high activity levels. This way, you always be comfortable moving your arms around and taking part in aerobics or climbing.
- Machine washable: Thankfully, both of these jackets are machine washable. There is no need to go to a dry cleaner or use special detergents.
- DWR coating: The DWR coating on these jackets creates a sort of impermeable layer. Water will be enough of this coating easily. While these jackets are water-resistant, you’re not completely waterproof. This is the cost that it comes that for a jacket that allows for breathability.
- Soft fleece lining: The fleece lining on these jackets is very soft to the touch and very comfortable to wear. The fleece also as an extra layer of warmth in cold weather.
- Breathable: The North Face has ensured that you can take part in plenty of activities in these jackets. These jackets are very breathable in order to keep you dry when you’re sweating.
- Two waist pockets: These jackets have two zippered waist pockets on each side. You can open of these pockets in order to allow the heat to escape, as the lining of these pockets are made of mesh.
- Breast pocket: There is a zippered breast pocket in a Napolean style.
- Adjustable cuffs: In order to prevent the cold air from going up the sleeves, the cuffs are adjustable in order to allow you to cinch down.
- Hem drawcord: These jackets have a hem drawcord to help prevent updrafts.
- Relaxed fit: Both of these jackets have a relaxed fit to allow for plenty of movement but with a bit of a slimming effect.
Apex Bionic vs Apex Bionic 2: The Differences
The main difference between these two jackets is the amount of windproofing they have. First, it is important to remember the interplay between windproofing and breathability. The more windproof a jacket is, the less breathable it is. However, jackets that have the most windproofing are also the warmest in cold weather.
How much windproof he actually needs is up to you. But basically, the Apex Bionic 2 has a limited degree of air permeability (approximately 20 CFM). This means that it is not 100% windproof, and thus will allow some of the cold wind to get through. It does this by using its WindWall fabric is a wind-resistant fleece.
This WindWall technology uses a type of fabric-bonding process that allows for more air to get through. Some people might like this if they are going to be doing a lot of activity that will make them sweat.
In contrast, the original Apex Bionic is rated as 100% windproof. It uses the TNF Apex ClimateBlock technology to improve the fabric rating and make it 0CFM. This means that it will be warmer when in cold windy conditions.
The Verdict
If you will be doing a lot of aerobic activity and will probably be sweating, you may be better off with the Apex Bionic 2. However, if your main concern is staying warm in cold and windy weather, perhaps you should go for the original Apex bionic.
