The best North Face jackets and why everyone's obsessed with THIS puffer style right now

It seems we can't escape North Face puffer jackets. The California rock logo and the cloud-like silhouette are literally everywhere right now. Suddenly the two-tone Nupste jacket has become the height of fashion and one of the best North Face jackets you can buy.

The North Face has had a reputation for making some of the best winter coats you can buy for many years. But that reputation was built on how functional they are and the quality of craftsmanship. If you want to be warm and dry, this brand delivers. However, recently, celebrities like Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner have been spotted in theirs.  

Looking to invest in one of the most sought-after The North Face jackets? We've rounded up the most popular North Face jackets that deliver on style and comfort.

The best North Face jackets

If you are wondering what is the North Face jacket that everyone has, it's this one. Tap into that 90s puffer jacket craze, with the iconic Nuptse design. Taking inspiration from the OG it has a boxy design and features the signature logo on the chest. Filled with cozy Responsible Down Standard (RDS) goose down, it’s a winter essential that’s bang on-trend and practical too. It’s also water-resistant, has a packable hood and despite its size, it can be stored neatly in its own pocket. Win-win. Wear with your mom jeans and a sporty sweater on those off-duty days.

A TNF classic that has stood the test of time, this parka is a worthy addition to your coat collection. Originally designed in 1968, it has kept a lot of its key features such as the popper button front and zip fastening and the oversized fit. The latest iteration is now packed full of recycled down for warmth and crafted from organic cotton and recycled nylon blend, so it’s kinder to the planet too. A contender for one of the best parkas for women, the built-in belt offers a flattering silhouette.

Take it up a notch with another The North Face signature style that nails that retro aesthetic and keeps you feeling toasty during a cold spell. This padded design delivers on all the technical elements too. Filled with ethically-sourced down to keep you warm, it’s water repellent and has wind resistant technology. The closest thing you’ll get to stepping out in your duvet, we love the purple colorway for a fresh update.

If you’re after one of the best waterproof jackets, then this one is a front-runner. It’s lightweight and breathable, helping to regulate the body temperature for all-day comfort. The simple, yet sleek design makes it a strong choice for a weekend hike or your daily commute, proving you’ll get plenty of wear out of it. We love the peak on the hood to ensure your face stays dry during a downpour too. Keep it classic in grey or lift your look with a pop of color.

Another nifty waterproof jacket, this has been perfectly designed for a rainy run. The breathable fabric means you can sweat without the stickiness and it’s crafted using recycled materials too. Other clever details include reflective elements to ensure you can be seen in low-light conditions and there’s an internal mesh pocket to store the essentials too. Ultra-lightweight you can stash this in the best backpacks just in case. Stand out from the crowd and go for the vibrant green hue.

Paying homage to the original Search and Rescue collection which was originally designed to protect mountain rescue teams, this is one of TNF’s most sought-after styles. Stylish enough to be worn off the mountain, this design features a custom print from artist Shantell Martin for a unique touch. It’s made from 100% recycled polyester and the sleek monochrome color palette will ensure versatility and longevity. Finish off with black jeans and your best white trainers.

For those minimalists amongst us, you can’t beat this slim-fitting waterproof design. It has all the necessary details that help a jacket protect you from the elements—from the tapered seams to the mesh lining to the stowable hood. The brushed-knit chin guard is a noteworthy touch too. Another practical choice for hiking, the pared-back design means it will never go out of style.

This jacket stows in its own pocket making it perfect for stashing in your bag as you dash out of the door. It’s made from 100% recycled materials and has a synthetic fill that reduces heat loss and increases warmth. The perfect layering tool, wear on its own or layer it underneath a waterproof outer shell for added protection. Whether you’re trekking through the city or having a countryside ramble in your best walking boots, it’s got you covered.

Why is North Face so popular?

The North Face was founded in San Fransico in the 1960s by two hiking enthusiasts. It began as a small mountaineering store that became popular with outdoor athletes.  

Doesn't sound exactly like a recipe for mass fashion popularity, does it? So what is it about North Face jackets that makes them Instagram fodder for celebrities, off-duty models, influencers and regular folk alike? It surely can't just be a case of plummeting temperatures. Not even that can account for the fact that Google search for 'The North Face puffer jacket' is up a whopping 508%. Or that ASOS reports a 400% rise in sales year on year.

One reason for The North Face's popularity is its designer collaborations, which have helped this heritage performance-wear brand stay relevant. Last year, The North Face worked with MM6 Maison Margiela on a capsule collection of fleece vests beloved by Hailey Bieber. 

They followed that with a Northface x Gucci collaboration, announced on TikTok, further propelled the brand into the fashion stratosphere. Its monogrammed puffer is so lust-worthy, Vogue's deputy editor Sarah Harris waxed lyrical about hers.

And coming soon, on November 11th 2021, they have a collaboration with Taiwanese streetwear boutique INVINCIBLE launching. Working with Japanese stylist Akio Hasegawa the new collection features bright space prints on the brand's classic jackets. Expert to see them all over Instagram very soon...