I have an older NorthFace Apex Bionic Soft shell that I love. but after a few years of camping in it and having a lighter color, I decided I want to get a second one in black because years of camping and hiking grime and campfire soot made it dingy and unattractive. It still works great but not appropriate to wear to work because it makes me look like a dirt-bag. So I wanted to get a second one to wear everywhere except the trail and keep the dirty one for the backwoods. Unfortunately, My house got messed up pretty bad and both my cars were totaled in Hurricane Mathew and a lot of the stuff I wanted or needed this winter had to be dialed down so I could afford repairs. Then I found this black Columbia Ascender soft shell and found it was half as much as the northface and even better, the one with the electric blue zipper was even less! I wasn't too keen on the blue zipper but after I wore it a while it grew on me and I love it now and glad I got it over the plain black on black. It was worth it both on looks and the bargain price.
The following information is based on my opinion when comparing the NorthFace Apex Bionic to this Columbia Ascender:
1. The Columbia is fitted in a way that is more complimentary to my shape. Its wider at the shoulders its slightly tapered at the waist and the sleeves are a little more snug compared to the Northface. the Columbia is more formfitting and is flattering to the body even if you don't have a perfect six pack body (which I definitely do not). The northface is generally more loose fitting and creates the illusion of a flattering body shape by the two tone color design (obviously not true of the (TNF Black on Black version).
2. isulative ability i find that both jackets are equal in this area.
3. Water resistance, both are very impressive, neither one is completely waterproof, and the Columbia I think is slightly better in this area.
4. Comfort wise , advantage goes to Columbia. They have a fabric lining where the northface has fabric with a web like netting material in some sections. Both are comfortable Columbia is just more comfortable. also because of the way its fitted, the Columbia is more snug while the Northface is a little looser so if you are wearing this with your regular clothes to go to and from work or to wear a sweater while working outside in the cold, the Columbia will be comfortable. If you are doing winter Camping and spending long periods outside in freezing or sub freezing, then the Northface can accommodate more layers and fit more comfortably. I have worn a long sleeve compression Tee, thermals, cotton tee shirt, and hooded sweatshirt with wool lining and the North Face Bionic over the top and was warm and my movement was not restricted. Was able to hike in sub freezing temps, with good mobility and not need a heavy coat.If you are not hiking and just sitting still for several hours you will need a warmer coat but if you are active this will be adequate with sufficient layers. If you prefer the look of the Columbia and want to wear this many layers buy a size larger than your actual size.
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