The North Face Himalayan vs Diablo Jacket: A Comparison

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When the mercury plummets and the winds howl, a reliable jacket isn’t just a wardrobe staple, it’s a shield against the elements.

The North Face, a brand synonymous with outdoor adventure, offers a range of jackets designed to tackle varying degrees of Mother Nature’s moods.

Two standout products in their lineup are the Himalayan Down Parka and the Diablo Down Jacket, each with its own set of features tailored to different environments, needs, and preferences.

In this comparison, we’ll explore the nuances of these two popular models, including their materials, design, and performance, to help make your choice easier for your next cold-weather companion.

Let’s get started!

Comparison Table:

Contents:

• 1. The North Face Men’s Himalayan Down Parka
• 2. The North Face Men’s Diablo Jacket
• 3. Comparison and Differences
• 4. Which is Better and When?

1. The North Face Men’s Himalayan Down Parka

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The North Face Men’s Himalayan Down Parka – thenorthface.co.uk
Check it out at TheNorthFace.co.uk
Check out the HMLYN version at TheNorthFace.com

The Men’s Himalayan Down Parka by The North Face is a robust outer layer that offers comfort and protection in cold conditions. The parka has a standard fit, which means it is true to size, providing an easy and comfortable fit without being too tight or too loose.

This jacket is inspired by the iconic design and legacy of equipping mountain adventurers, but it has been updated with modern technology to serve not only those in the wilderness but also those in urban environments. The retro, oversized look is combined with contemporary features.

The fabric used in the construction of parts of the body is WindWall™ nylon with a non-PFC durable water-repellent (Non-PFC DWR) finish, which provides excellent wind resistance and protection from light rain.

The inside lining of the parka and part of the outer fabric is made with WindWall™ recycled polyester, which also has a Non-PFC DWR finish, offering a layer of windproofing and water resistance while also being environmentally conscious by using recycled materials.

The insulation is a key feature of this parka, with 550-fill-power goose down providing superior warmth. The down is certified to the Responsible Down Standard (RDS), which guarantees ethical sourcing and responsible production.

The parka comes in various sizes to accommodate a variety of body types, and it has an average weight of 1180 g, making it substantial enough for insulation yet still wearable for everyday use.

Additional features enhancing the parka’s functionality include:

• an attached, adjustable, three-piece hood with drawcord and cord locks for a customizable fit and additional protection against the elements;
• a secure-zip internal chest pocket and top-entry, secure-zip patch hand pockets for safely storing personal items;
• The North Face logo prominently displayed on the left chest and back-right shoulder for brand recognition;
• adjustable hook-and-loop cuff tabs and a hem drawcord for adjustability and to lock in warmth.
• a storm flap with a hook-and-loop closure that covers the front zip, providing an extra barrier against wind and moisture.

The jacket is priced at around $380.

Materials and Characteristics

• Insulation: 550-fill-power goose down, Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certified
• Fabric: WindWall™ nylon and WindWall™ recycled polyester, with Non-PFC Durable-Water-Repellent Finish
• WindWall™ Fabric: Highly wind-resistant to reduce the effects of chilling winds while maintaining breathability
• Standard Fit: True to size for a comfortable and easy fit
• Attached, adjustable, three-piece hood
• Breathable design, allows air to pass to help regulate body temperature
• Average weight of 1180 g

2. The North Face Men’s Diablo Jacket

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The North Face Men’s Diablo Down Jacket – thenorthface.co.uk
Check it out at TheNorthFace.co.uk

The Diablo Men’s Down jacket by The North Face is meticulously crafted to offer protection in cold and harsh climatic conditions. It presents a design that balances lightness and sturdiness, coupled with a finish that repels water, keeping you comfortably dry amidst light rain.

Equipped with 700-fill-power goose down, the jacket delivers outstanding thermal retention, ensuring warmth while avoiding added weight or volume. Additionally, it incorporates a full-length zipper with a chin guard to shield your face from brisk temperatures, along with a pair of zippered pockets at the hands for carrying essentials.

Available in an array of colors such as classic black, vibrant blue, and red, the Diablo jacket is adaptable for various uses. It can serve as a standalone outerwear piece or as an insulating mid-layer beneath a more robust shell when facing particularly harsh weather.

The price for this jacket is around $300, although it may vary based on the retail location.

Materials and Characteristics

• Lofty 700-fill-power goose down insulation certified to the Responsible Down Standard (RDS)
• 100% Nylon fabric with Non-PFC Durable-Water-Repellent Finish
• FlashDry™ fabrics designed to draw moisture away from the skin for dryness and comfort.
• Breathable design
• Puffer jacket
• Very lightweight jacket

3. Comparison and Differences

The North Face’s Himalayan Parka and the Diablo Jacket each cater to those braving the cold, yet they differ in design, insulation, and features.

The Himalayan Parka is a heavyweight option at 1180g with a retro, oversized look, crafted from WindWall™ nylon and recycled polyester with a Non-PFC DWR finish for wind resistance and light rain protection. It boasts 550-fill-power goose down for warmth, a three-piece hood, and various pockets, including a secure internal chest pocket.

In contrast, the Diablo Jacket prioritizes a balance between warmth and lightness, with 700-fill-power goose down and a full-length zipper with a chin guard. It’s lighter than the Himalayan, designed for versatility as either a standalone jacket or a layering piece. It also features FlashDry™ technology for moisture management.

Priced around $300, the Diablo Jacket is a more affordable option compared to the Himalayan’s $380 price tag.

Both jackets are RDS certified, ensuring ethical down sourcing for their insulation.

Must read: Are The North Face Jackets Worth the Price? Why Are They so Expensive?

4. Which is Better and When?

It of course depends on the intended use and climate.

The Himalayan Parka, with its 550-fill goose down and heavier build, is tailored for battling extreme cold and offers additional protection against harsh weather with features like a storm flap and adjustable hood.

Its retro, oversized style coupled with the use of recycled materials makes it a fashionable and eco-friendly choice for urban explorers facing frigid temperatures.

On the other hand, the Diablo Jacket, filled with 700-fill goose down, is lighter and incorporates FlashDry™ technology, making it ideal for active pursuits where moisture management and ease of movement are key.

It’s also well-suited for layering under a shell in less severe conditions, and its lower price makes it a versatile and budget-friendly option.

In the end, the Himalayan excels in providing maximum warmth and weather protection for outdoor use, while the Diablo is a go-to for dynamic activities and milder weather, offering a balance between warmth and flexibility.

Read also: The North Face Nuptse vs Diablo Jacket: A Comparison