The North Face Resolve vs Venture: A Detailed Comparison

The North Face Venture and Resolve are two worthy jackets when it comes to saving you from the rain.

They are both super-waterproof and breathable as well.

But, there are still quite a few differences that are worth exploring.

So, in this detailed comparison, I will show you exactly what is what, and which one is the perfect fit for your next rain jacket.

Features Comparison

In this section I compare the jackets by feature, so you can see where they differ, and then give a winner for that feature at the bottom.

Waterproof & Breathable

Both these jackets use North Face’s patented DryVent technology.

DryVent is designed to be waterproof, windproof, and breathable.

The Venture uses the 2.5 layer version, and the Resolve uses the 2 layer version which differs on the inner lining (more on that later).

On the outside, they have a DWR (durable water repellant) finish that helps make the water bead and roll off.

Winner: NONE

Comfort

The main difference between these two jackets in terms of comfort is the lining.

The Venture has a dry touch print that is designed to raise the fabric from the skin allowing moisture to wick away through the breathable layer faster. The benefit is that this is a lighter jacket (less material) but some people may find it not as comfortable as it is directly against the skin.

The Resolve has an extra breathable mesh inner layer to separate the jacket outer layer from your skin. This not only helps you feel more comfortable but also allows the jacket to move more easily, especially when you are adding more layers that can catch/rub on the outer layer.

Another couple of things to note:

The Venture has pit-zips incorporated under the arms. This is a top-of-the-line rain jacket feature that allows you to open a zipper under your arms to increase airflow when the going gets hot. It’s a great way to reduce sweat and cool you down too.

The Resolve has a nice fleece-lined chin and neck area, which when you zip the jacket all the way up, also covers the lower part of your face really well.

Winner:

Resolve for overall comfort

Venture for cooling potential

Main Jacket Features

The rest of the jacket features are quite similar:

• Elastic cuffs
• Two zippered pockets (great as hand warmers)
• Double drawcord access on the hem
• Storm flap on the main zipper to keep out rain and wind

Except for the hood area, which is a little different…

The Hood

Both jackets have an adjustable hood which is great for when you have too much or too little space around your head with the hood on. It also helps keep the elements at bay when things get a little stormy.

What is even better is being able to roll up and stow the hood in the collar when you don’t need it. You can do this with the Resolve but not with the Venture.

This is a cool feature because most of the time, you won’t need the hood. And with the Venture (and a lot of similar rain jackets) it just flaps about at the back and annoys you. I have a stowable hood on my jacket too, and absolutely love this feature, especially when you are carrying a back and the hood can get in the way.

Winner: Resolve (stowable hood)

Packability

The Venture is designed as more of a backpacker’s jacket. That is why it is the better jacket in terms of packability.

It is 25% or 4 oz (100g) lighter than the Resolve and it can also back down into its own pocket. That is a design feature you will love when you are out backpacking and need to maximize space and minimize weight.

The compromise is that the hood is not stowable and it uses the 2.5 layer system (as mentioned above). However, if it is just something you layer up with and use just when you need it (rain, or severe cold), neither should be a huge problem.

Winner: Venture (lighter and stows in pocket)

Price

The latest prices on Amazon as of the end of 2017 see both these jackets at very similar prices. So, there is little reason to decide on price alone, unless you happen to see a great deal!

Winner: NONE

Which One Is Right For You?

If comfort is the most important thing, then Resolve is the better jacket for you. The fleece collar that also stores the hood, as well as the extra lining, along with the elastic cuffs all makes for a nice jacket to wear.

If weight, packability, and function are more important (say you are a backpacker or don’t intend on wearing the jacket so much) then the Venture is a better option. It lacks a few of the comfort features of the Resolve, but saves you lots of weight and can be easily stowed in a pack.

Neither option is going to disappoint, whichever you choose.