The North Face Aconcagua 3 Hooded Insulated Jacket - Black - Size 12

Still named after the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere, the Aconcagua returns for another ro...

Currently unavailable

Colour
Size
Gender
Material

Currently out of stock

This product is not available at the moment. Check back later or explore other options below.

Similar alternatives

Product Information

Full details

This guide is for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers seeking reliable warmth in cold and damp conditions. The North Face Aconcagua 3 Hooded Insulated Jacket excels in providing exceptional insulation through a blend of recycled down and synthetic materials, making it a versatile layering piece. However, while offering robust thermal protection, it's designed for light protection where needed most, rather than as a heavy-duty outer shell in extreme environments.

All features

Dress Size UK12
Age Groupadult
MaterialPolyester
ColourBlack
GenderFemale
Model Part Number0197641079462
BrandThe North Face

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Is this jacket waterproof?

No, the jacket features a Durable Water-Repellent (DWR) finish on its WindWall™ fabric, which provides resistance to light moisture and helps water bead up and roll off. It is not designed to be fully waterproof in heavy rain or prolonged wet conditions.

What kind of activities is this jacket best suited for?

The Aconcagua 3 Hooded Jacket is ideal for cold-weather activities such as hiking, backpacking, mountaineering approaches, camping, and everyday casual wear where reliable warmth is needed. Its hybrid insulation makes it versatile for varying conditions.

What does 'RDS certified down' mean?

RDS stands for Responsible Down Standard. This certification ensures that the down and feathers used come from ethically treated animals, meaning they have not been subjected to unnecessary harm like force-feeding or live-plucking.

What is the difference between down and Heatseeker™ Eco insulation?

Down insulation (600-fill goose down in this case) offers superior warmth-to-weight ratio and compressibility for dry conditions. Heatseeker™ Eco is a synthetic insulation made from 70% post-consumer recycled polyester, designed to provide warmth even when wet, making it excellent for damp or humid environments. The jacket uses a blend of both for optimal performance.

How should I store the jacket when not in use?

Store your down jacket unpacked and uncompressed in a cool, dry place. Avoid compressing it for long periods, as this can damage the down clusters and reduce its loft and warmth over time. Hanging it in a closet is ideal.

Can I layer other clothing with this jacket?

Yes, this jacket is specifically designed to be a versatile layering piece. You can wear a base layer underneath for moisture management and fit a waterproof/windproof shell over it for additional protection in severe weather without feeling overly bulky.

How durable is the WindWall™ fabric?

WindWall™ fabric is engineered to reduce the effects of wind chill while allowing enough air permeability to keep you comfortable. It's durable for its intended use in outdoor activities, providing good resistance against abrasion for a lightweight insulating layer.

Troubleshooting

Jacket feels less warm than expected.

Ensure you are layering appropriately for the conditions. In very cold or damp weather, consider adding a warm base layer and/or a protective outer shell. Ensure the hood and cuffs are snug to trap warmth.

Water is no longer beading off the jacket.

The DWR (Durable Water-Repellent) finish may need to be reapplied or reactivated. Wash the jacket with a technical fabric cleaner and tumble dry on low heat to reactivate DWR, or apply a spray-on DWR treatment.

Zipper feels stiff or gets stuck.

Periodically clean and lubricate the zipper with a specialized zipper lubricant. Check for any fabric caught in the zipper teeth and carefully free it.

Jacket smells or appears dirty.

Follow the garment's specific care instructions. For general cleaning, spot clean small areas or machine wash using a front-loading washer on a gentle cycle with a down-specific cleaner and cold water. Avoid top-loading washers with agitators.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Exceptional warmth retention, even in damp conditions, due to hybrid insulation.
  • Lightweight and ideal for layering, offering versatile warmth without bulk.
  • Eco-friendly construction with recycled down and synthetic insulation, and RDS certification.
  • Good wind resistance and light moisture protection from WindWall™ fabric with DWR.
  • Adjustable hood provides adaptable protection against wind and cold.
  • Secure-zip hand pockets offer practical storage for essentials.

Cons

  • Not fully waterproof; DWR finish provides resistance to light moisture only.
  • Designed for 'light protection' meaning it may not be suitable as a standalone outer layer for harsh, abrasive conditions.
  • May require additional heavy-duty outer shell in extreme or prolonged wet weather.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Setup

The Aconcagua 3 Hooded Jacket requires no complex setup. Simply unpack, put it on, and adjust the hood and cuffs for a comfortable fit.

Compatibility

This jacket is designed as a versatile layering piece. It pairs effectively with a moisture-wicking base layer and can easily fit under a waterproof and windproof outer shell for comprehensive protection in harsh conditions. Its streamlined design ensures it won't feel bulky when layered.

Care

> Info needed: Specific care instructions for washing, drying, and maintaining the down and synthetic insulation. Generally, down jackets require careful washing with specialized down detergent and thorough drying (often with dryer balls) to restore loft. Follow the care label on your jacket for precise instructions to preserve its warmth and DWR finish.