Antora Seam-Sealed Rain Parka for Hiking 2025
Waterproof Running & Trail Gear
A seam-sealed shell that keeps up when the forecast lies and your long run doesn’t stop.
It was a Tuesday tempo run — the kind where you check the radar twice, convince yourself the clouds look “fine,” and end up completely soaked by mile two. I’ve been there more times than I care to admit. Since testing the The North Face Antora Rain Parka, that particular Tuesday misery has largely become a memory. This is a waterproof jacket built for people who train outside no matter what, and it shows in every detail.
What I Love
Across several wet weather outings — trail hikes, rainy-day running routes, and soggy commutes to the trailhead — a few things kept standing out.
- Seam-sealed construction means water genuinely stays out, not just “mostly” out — I tested this in a proper downpour and stayed dry through a two-hour hike.
- The breathable nylon shell doesn’t trap heat the way cheaper rain layers do; on moving efforts, it actually vents enough to stay tolerable.
- The adjustable hood cinches down tight without creating blind spots — a small thing that matters a lot when wind is pushing rain sideways.
- Zip hand pockets sit at a height that works whether you’re running or hiking, and they seal well enough that I stopped worrying about my phone.
- The relaxed fit layers comfortably over a midlayer on cold days without feeling boxy when you’re running light underneath.
What to Watch For
No shell is perfect, and this one has a few quirks worth knowing before you buy. The relaxed fit is genuinely relaxed — if you prefer a more athletic, body-skimming profile for running, it may feel roomier than expected. On high-output efforts, the breathability is good for a waterproof jacket, but it’s not a softshell; you will notice warmth building on hard climbs or fast tempo paces.
- Hem could be longer for full hip coverage when bending or crouching on trail.
- Packs down but isn’t stuffable into its own pocket — less convenient for layering on the go compared to ultralight shells.
Who It’s For
This jacket suits someone who moves outdoors in unpredictable weather and needs real waterproofing, not just water resistance. If you run or hike in the Pacific Northwest, the UK, or anywhere with a “four seasons in one day” climate, this is the shell to reach for. It also works well if you tend to run warm and have been burned by non-breathable rain layers that turn into saunas by mile three.
“The shell that finally convinced me to stop checking the radar before a trail run.”
How to Wear It
Session 1: Wet-weather running — pair over a lightweight long-sleeve base layer with moisture-wicking tights, a low-profile running cap under the hood, and your usual road or trail shoe. Keep it minimal underneath so the breathability can do its job.
Session 2: All-day trail hike in variable conditions — layer over a fleece midlayer, pack trekking poles, and wear with waterproof trail boots. The relaxed fit earns its place here, giving your arms full range of motion on scrambles without pulling at the shoulders.
What People Are Saying
Quick FAQ
Does it run true to size?
Yes, with the caveat that the fit is intentionally relaxed. If you’re between sizes and prefer a closer cut for running, consider sizing down.
Is it fully waterproof or just water-resistant?
Fully waterproof with seam-sealed construction — this is a step above a DWR-coated “shower-proof” jacket. It held up through sustained rain without leaking at the seams.
Can you wear it for running specifically, or is it more of a hiking layer?
Both, honestly. It’s versatile enough for moderate-pace running and it shines as an outdoor rain jacket for hiking and trail use. Very high-intensity running may push the breathability limit.
The Verdict
The North Face Antora Rain Parka delivers on its core promise: keep you dry when the weather turns, without making you feel like you’re wearing a bin bag. For a This North Face relaxed-fit outdoor running review, it lands as one of the more honest all-condition shells at this price point — real waterproofing, real breathability, real wearability across activities. If you train or hike outdoors regularly in wet climates, this jacket earns consistent rotation. Buy it if unpredictable weather is your normal; skip it if you need an ultralight packable layer or a close-fitting race-day shell.
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