While this isn’t all that abnormal for a 2.5-layer build, I’ve found that competitors like the aforementioned Marmot PreCip Eco are better alternatives when working up a sweat (the Marmot’s mesh hand pockets do a better job encouraging airflow compared to the Venture’s solid nylon). Even over milder terrain and with temperatures hovering in the low 40s Fahrenheit, the interior lining felt clammy, slippery, and uncomfortable against my skin. I wore it for extended stretches while hiking through rain, wind, and hail, and in each case I started overheating rather quickly. Like most budget-oriented, 2.5-layer rain jackets, the Venture doesn’t provide standout levels of breathability. It just so happens that we pushed the jacket too hard, but as long as you set reasonable expectations and stay on top of cleaning (always a good idea), the Venture 2 is a suitable entry-level option. Further, Velcro cuffs do a solid job sealing out moisture around the wrists, and I didn’t experience any leaking around the center zipper that is covered by a nylon flap (also secured with Velcro). The hood is easy to cinch, and while the bill is flimsy and leaves a little too much of the forehead exposed, it stayed securely in place throughout the test. As an emergency shell for around town or light summer backcountry use, it should do the trick. In fairness to the Venture 2, rain jackets in this category are far from bulletproof and The North Face did a fine job blocking strong gusts of wind. Needless to say, the Venture didn’t leave a positive impression. Finally, even after laying out the shell overnight inside my tent, it was still completely wet when I grabbed it the next morning. And as the intensity of the weather increased, the shoulders and arms of the jacket soaked through and became pinned against my layer underneath. The DWR coating beaded up light rain for a short stretch, but the top fabric layer started wetting out rather quickly (much faster than competitors like the Marmot PreCip Eco). And when the skies inevitably opened up, the jacket underwhelmed in terms of water protection. With heavy rain and possible snow in the forecast, its thin 2.5-layer construction and $99 price point didn’t inspire a ton of confidence. To see how it stacks up to the competition, see our article on the best rain jackets.Īgainst my better judgement, I brought The North Face Venture 2 as my primary rain shell on a late winter backpacking trip through the Grand Canyon. Below are our experiences with the Venture 2. The verdict: it’s a good value and includes a solid feature set, but we found its waterproofing to be lacking in rough conditions and heavy rainfall. Over the past year, we’ve tested the shell extensively from backpacking in the Grand Canyon to daily wear around town. The Venture 2 has been a long-time staple in The North Face’s rain jacket collection, aiming to balance weather protection, weight, and price.
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