First Impressions
Feather weight and streamlined. That’s the Better Than Naked Jacket from The North Face. At a paltry 5.25 ounces, this piece of gossamer running gear still saves room for a couple of extra features that should keep you in this piece while the temps drop to the low 50s.
Features
The North Face builds the Better Than Naked from a combination of solid polyester acrylic panels – treated with a DWR coating – and breathable polyester mesh back and side panels. The fabric is very thin and light weight with just the right amount of stretch.
Specs
Fabric: Polyester acrylic/mesh
Weight: 5.25 oz
Pack size: 7 x 4 x 3 in
To keep weight down, the Better Than Naked foregos the handwarmer pockets in favor of a single napoleon pocket on the upper chest. And unlike most other jackets in the category, the Better Than Naked includes a built-in hood.
The snug-fitting design and ear holes aid in ventilation and hearing. The hood can be used in lieu of a pocket for packing. Roll up the Better Than Naked into the hood, and it packs down to one of the smallest packages around. Well done.
Fit
The Better Than Naked fits snug, but no need to size up or down.
Final Verdict
For those shoulder season runs where the temps don’t drop too terribly low, The North Face Better Than Naked is exactly what you need, just a little extra protection from the elements with virtually no weight penalty. Nice.