The North Face Seasonal Mountain Jacket - Black

No, this jacket features a Non-PFC Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish, which provides excellent resistance to light rain and moisture. It is water-repellent, meaning water beads up and rolls off, but it is not fully waterproof like a hardshell jacket, which is designed for heavy downpours.

Non-PFC DWR refers to a Durable Water Repellent finish that does not use perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs). This makes the treatment more environmentally friendly while still providing effective water resistance by preventing the outer fabric from absorbing moisture.

As a 'Seasonal' Mountain Jacket, it is designed for mild to moderate temperatures and changing weather conditions. For cold winter weather, you would need to layer it over insulated mid-layers to provide adequate warmth, as it does not offer significant insulation on its own.

Locate the designated packable pocket (usually one of the hand pockets). Turn the pocket inside out, then begin to stuff or fold the entire jacket into this inverted pocket. Work slowly, compressing the fabric as you go, until the entire jacket is enclosed within its pocket.

Ripstop fabric is a woven fabric, often nylon or polyester, that uses a special reinforcing technique making it resistant to tearing and ripping. During weaving, thicker, stronger threads are interwoven at regular intervals in a crosshatch pattern, which prevents small tears from spreading.

The two side zip pockets are designed with a flap over the zip for added protection against moisture. While they offer good resistance to light rain and splashes, they are not fully waterproof and valuables susceptible to water damage should be stored in waterproof bags during heavy precipitation.

The Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish can lose effectiveness over time due to dirt, oils, and repeated washing. Wash the jacket according to care instructions, then tumble dry on low heat to reactivate the DWR. If this doesn't work, consider re-treating the jacket with a DWR-restoring spray or wash-in product specifically designed for outerwear.

Ensure all pockets are empty and the jacket is fully unzipped and laid flat. Start by folding the sleeves inward, then fold the jacket vertically to match the width of the pocket. Begin rolling or stuffing the jacket from the hem towards the hood, tucking it neatly into the designated pocket. It may require a bit of compression.

Gently work the drawcords back and forth through their channels. If they are knotted or twisted, carefully untangle them. Ensure the jacket is clean, as dirt can sometimes impede smooth operation. Applying a very small amount of silicone lubricant to the cord locks (avoiding fabric) can sometimes help, but use sparingly.

Thanks to its ripstop fabric, small tears should not spread easily. For minor damage, a fabric repair patch designed for outdoor gear can be used. For larger tears, professional repair is recommended to maintain the jacket's integrity and water resistance.