The North Face Krakatoa 1/2 Zip Hoodie Review
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With the changing of seasons and the temperatures starting to dip, it’s that time of the year when we start adding layers as the temperatures begin to dip. The North Face Krakatoa 1/2 zip Hoodie is a new and perfect solution, whether you are braving the unexpected harsh conditions or trying to keep in a little warmth while running in the cold. I’ve been heading to the high country of Colorado to test the Krakatoa in the winds and colder temperatures above tree line and found absolutely no complaints. Whether I am hiking or out for a run, I like to keep the weight I carry to a minimum. Weighing in at 5 oz., the Krakotoa was hardly noticeable when worn, minus the windproof and water resistant protection it provided.
The Krakatoa is a half zip, which is nice for when you want to let your upper body air out a bit more. The half zip also saves on weight, by eliminating the need for additional zipper length, which weighs more than the light weight fabric that The North Face has incorporated into this garment. The hoodie has a zippered pocket at the left chest that can easily hold a gel or an iPod, but nothing much larger. I was able to fit my Droid Eris phone in the pocket, but with the loose fit of the jacket, the added weight made the fit of the jacket more awkward. With that said, I would suggest carrying lighter weight items in this pocket.
If you find yourself in super windy conditions, you can cinch the hood down with a cord located on the back of the hood. When out running, I typically don’t like hoods and opt for a ball cap. Therefore, it has to be super cold, windy, or rainy, for me to use use this feature. However, the hood is nice to have for less aerobic, lower heart rate and sweat producing activities, such as hiking.
In some of the more difficult trail races we’ve run, such as the Gore-Tex Trans Rockies Race and the Pikes Peak marathon, you are usually required to carry something that is waterproof or windproof. When I had the choice of what to carry in my pack during the Gore-Tex Trans Rockies, I carried the Krakatoa because it was super light, packable, and dependable when it came to the harsh elements. Overall, we have been super impressed with the North Face Krakatoa 1/2 Zip Hoodie and give it our stamp of approval. For more information on the Krakatoa 1/2 Zip Hoodie and other TNF products, please visit www.thenorthface.com.
