An Introduction to The North Face Apex STH Pants
The North Face Apex STH pants are quickly becoming a go-to choice for skiers and snowboarders looking for a durable, comfortable, and weather-resistant softshell pant. As more outdoor enthusiasts discover the features and benefits of these popular ski pants, it’s worth taking a closer look at what sets them apart.
Key Technical Features
The Apex STH pants utilize a 2-layer nylon fabric treated with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish to shed moisture and light precipitation. This softshell fabric remains stretchy and breathable. Critical seams are fully sealed for additional weather protection. An adjustable powder skirt can be connected to compatible North Face jackets to prevent snow from getting in.
Articulated knees improve mobility and reinforced instep patches guard against abrasions from ski boots. Secure zippered hand pockets keep small items in place. For a secure fit, the pants have a low-profile belt, adjustable waist tabs, and fixed suspenders.
Benefits for Skiing and Snowboarding
The relaxed fit of the Apex STH pants allows for layering base layers and long underwear underneath. Side venting zippers aid temperature regulation. The fabric’s four-way stretch enables a full range of motion. For all-day comfort, the pants utilize plush taffeta lining on the waistband and fly.
The waterproof and wind-resistant fabric protects the wearer from the elements yet remains breathable during aerobic activities. The pants hold up to abrasions from falls on rough terrain. Freedom of movement helps performance on the slopes.
Weather Protection and Warmth
While not fully waterproof like a hard shell, the Apex STH pants resist light rain and snow. The DWR coating causes moisture to bead up and roll off the fabric. If conditions deteriorate, side vents can be closed to seal out wetness.
The softshell fabric utilizes the wearer’s body heat to provide warmth. The lined waistband and adjustable powder skirt prevent heat loss. With good base layers, the pants maintain comfort in cold conditions.
Strengths and Drawbacks
For resort and backcountry skiing, the Apex STH pants deliver mobility, weather-resistance, and versatility at a reasonable price point. The relaxed fit accommodates layers and allows air circulation. Stretch fabric and articulated knees enable free movement.
The main drawback is a lack of complete waterproofing compared to hardshell pants. For heavy storms, fully sealed seams would offer more protection. Removable suspenders would improve versatility.
Ideal Uses
These ski pants excel at resort skiing and moderate backcountry adventures. The balance of weather protection, breathability, and mobility suits them for groomed runs, glades, on-piste terrain, and short hikes to snowy zones. For bluebird days, they can suffice by themselves, but layering with a waterproof shell is recommended for stormy snowsports.
With their solid combination of comfort, performance features, and resilience, the Apex STH pants live up to their reputation as a leading softshell option for skiers and boarders. Their thoughtful design provides good value at a reasonable price point.
Key Features of The Apex STH Pants
When researching a new pair of ski or snowboard pants, it’s smart to look at the key features and technical details. This gives you an idea of the design, materials, and performance you can expect. For The North Face’s popular Apex STH softshell pants, there are a number of standout qualities to consider.
2-Layer Nylon Fabric
The main fabric used on these pants is a 2-layer nylon treated with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish. This coating sheds moisture from snow and light rain while allowing the fabric to remain stretchy and breathable. The nylon weave balances abrasion resistance with comfort and mobility.
Fully Sealed Seams
On higher wear areas like the seat and knees, North Face fully seals the seams. This adds weather protection by preventing moisture from seeping through small stitching holes. Fully taping the seams ramps up the water resistance compared to pants with just critically taped seams.
Articulated Knees
For maximum mobility on the slopes, these ski pants utilize articulated knees in the pattern. This allows the knees to bend and flex more naturally without the fabric binding or restricting you. The improved freedom of movement becomes apparent when carving turns.
Reinforced Boot Hooks
To protect against abrasion and scuffing from ski boots, The North Face reinforced the inner cuffs with durable fabric. This extra layer of material beefs up a high wear area and prevents premature wear and tear damage during your snow adventures.
Secure Zippered Pockets
The hand pockets use durable zipper closures to safely stash small essentials like keys, a ski pass, lip balm, phone, or wallet. The zippers keep gear secure so items don’t go flying out if you take a spill in the powder.
By understanding these vital features and fabric technologies, you gain insight into the overall performance and design intent of the Apex STH pants. It’s what makes them a popular softshell option for active winter sports enthusiasts.
A Closer Look at the 2-Layer Apex Nylon Fabric
When researching technical outdoor gear like ski pants, it helps to dive deeper into proprietary fabrics and material technologies. For The North Face Apex STH pants, the standout feature is the 2-layer Apex nylon fabric.
Weather Resistance
The nylon has a tightly woven construction that blocks wind and resists moisture, while allowing just enough stretch for athletic mobility. The DWR coating helps water bead up and roll off the pants.
Breathable Design
Unlike a rubbery hard shell, this softshell fabric remains air permeable. This allows sweat vapor generated during intense skiing to pass through the pants instead of getting trapped inside. Staying dry helps regulate body temperature.
Lightweight Mobility
The nylon fabric only has two layers, keeping it lightweight compared to a thick hard shell. Freedom of movement is enhanced by the 4-way mechanical stretch. You can flex, bend, and crouch without restriction.
Abrasion Resistance
Made of sturdy yet pliant nylon yarns, the fabric stands up well to scrapes against tree branches and tumbles in rough terrain. Falls and spills won’t shred the pants like tissue paper.
Warmth Without Bulk
The 2-layer construction provides warmth by trapping body heat, while remaining trim fitting for a flattering silhouette. You stay warm without looking like you’re wearing potato sacks.
By utilizing this high-tech Apex nylon, The North Face created ski pants that optimize freedom, weather protection, breathability, and comfort on the slopes. The fabric is a large part of why the Apex STH pants have become so popular.
Why the Apex STH Pants are Great for Skiing & Snowboarding
When choosing gear for the slopes, it’s smart to look for apparel purpose-built for your sport. For skiers and snowboarders alike, The North Face Apex STH pants deliver key performance benefits tailored specifically for winter mountain adventures.
Weather Protection
The DWR coating and durable nylon fabric provide shelter from wind, light snow, and drizzle. Fully sealed seams add weatherproofing for stormy days. You stay dry without overheating.
Temperature Regulation
Side vents with zippers allow you to dump heat as needed. For cold spots, the fixed powder skirt blocks snow intrusion. The softshell material breathes better than a hardshell to prevent moisture buildup.
Freedom of Movement
Articulated knees and 4-way stretch fabric give you full mobility to carve, jump, and slash without restriction. The pants move with you as you pop ollies or slalom gates.
Impact Protection
Falls and tumbles are part of skiing and snowboarding. The softshell fabric resists tearing when you take a tumble on rough terrain. Instep fabric guards against ski edge gashes.
Flattering Fit
With adjustable tabs and a low-profile belt, you can dial in a tailored fit that flatters your form without impeding motion. The pants move with you while showcasing your assets.
The Apex STH pants deliver optimized performance for dynamic winter sports. Their specialized design considers the needs of skiers and boarders for protection, mobility, climate control, and flattering fit.
Their Low-Profile Belt & Secure Zippered Hand Pockets
Ski and snowboard pants need to securely stay in place while also making it easy to access your essentials. For the Apex STH model, The North Face included both a low-profile belt and zippered hand pockets to serve these dual purposes.
Snug Fit
To prevent snow and moisture from sneaking into the pants, the thin low-profile belt lets you cinch them close to your body. This creates a snug fit around your waist without adding bulky layers.
Underlayer Friendly
Since the belt lies flat, you can still easily tuck base layers or a midlayer top into your pants without having to loosen your belt every time. The slim belt is designed with layering in mind.
Quick Access Storage
The zippered hand pockets let you swiftly stow small items like chapstick, a granola bar, glove liners, a beanie, or smartphone. The water-resistant zippers keep your belongings securely stashed.
Discreet Design
Set slightly off the hips, the low-profile zippered pockets don’t add bulk to your thighs. This streamlined look flatters your form rather than making you look top-heavy.
For active use on the slopes, this dual design considers both function and aesthetics. You can fine-tune the fit while easily accessing necessities on the go.
How the Articulated Knees Improve Mobility on the Slopes
To perform at your best on the mountain, ski and snowboard pants need to support free movement without restriction. That’s why The North Face designed the Apex STH pants with articulated knees – an ergonomic shaping that mirrors your body’s natural motion.
Natural Flex
The articulated knee pattern at the joint allows you to bend and flex smoothly without the fabric binding or limiting your range. The pants move with you as you dynamically carve.
Unimpeded Mobility
With the tailored articulation, you can crouch low and snap back up without the fabric restricting you or slowing you down. Freedom of motion helps performance.
Wrinkle Reduction
By shaping the fabric to match your anatomy, the pants are less prone to wrinkling or creasing when you flex your knees. Less fabric bunching equals better mobility.
All Day Comfort
The articulated shaping eliminates pressure points behind the knees that can irritate and restrict motion. You stay comfortable hour after hour on the mountain.
Crouching and Jumps
For tricks and technical moves like ollies, butters, or crouching in the moguls, you need pliant fabric that accommodates dynamic knee bending. The Apex STH pants deliver.
This purposeful patterning underscores how The North Face optimized these pants for unhindered mobility on the slopes. You’ll feel the improved freedom of motion once you take them skiing or riding.
The Benefits of Having Side Venting Zippers
An active winter sport like skiing or snowboarding requires pants that can adapt to changing weather and exertion levels. That’s why The North Face outfitted the Apex STH pants with side vents featuring zipper closures – it allows you to control airflow based on conditions.
Cooling Effect
When working hard uphilling or on a warm spring day, you can open the side zips to increase ventilation. This allows heat and perspiration to escape so you don’t overheat.
Quick Adjustment
With just a quick zip, you can open or close the vents in seconds. That on-the-fly adaptability lets you rapidly cool down or seal out cold air.
Sealing Out Moisture
If it starts snowing or raining, shutting the water-resistant zippers prevents moisture from creeping in through the side vents. Closed up, the pants keep you drier.
Temperature Regulation
By providing the ability to fine tune airflow, side zips allow you to dial in just the right temperature as activity levels and weather shift. Staying comfy equals better performance.
Interior Access
The side openings allow easy access to base layer or bib pockets without having to remove skis or unbuckle bib straps. That convenience keeps you moving.
Side zip vents give you more climate control options. Just be sure to keep them shut if you take a tumble in deep snow to avoid leakage!
Their adjustable Powder Skirt for Cold Weather Protection
When designing snowsport apparel, keeping heat in and moisture out are key priorities. For the Apex STH pants, The North Face included an adjustable powder skirt that integrates with compatible jackets to seal out snow and cold air.
Blocking Snow Entry
By connecting the powder skirt inside your jacket, you create a continuous barrier that prevents snow from sneaking in through gaps between your top and bottom layers. This keeps you drier.
Trapping Body Heat
With the skirt fastened to your jacket, warm air exhaled gets trapped inside your layers, while cold exterior air is blocked from entering near your waist. This insulation effect helps keep your core warmer.
Customizable Coverage
Since the skirt is adjustable, you can loosen or tighten it to adapt to different jacket lengths and fit preferences. Get the right amount of overlap for your body shape.
Moving With You
Made of stretchy softshell fabric, the powder skirt flexes and bends naturally with your body. You get full mobility without cold spots opening up.
Quick Connections
The skirt fastens swiftly to compatible North Face jackets using simple snap closures. Just pop them together before hitting the slopes.
This clever powder skirt integration provides noticeable cold weather protection right where you need it most – at your waistline and lower back.
How the Relaxed Fit Allows for Layering Underneath
Temperature regulation is a key consideration for ski and snowboard apparel. To allow for insulation layers on cold days, The North Face designed the Apex STH pants in a relaxed, non-restrictive fit with extra roominess.
Accommodating Base Layers
With the looser relaxed fit, you can easily layer thick insulating long johns or tights underneath the shell pants without the material feeling tight or constraining.
Air Circulation
The looser cut enables better airflow which helps transport moisture away from your skin to keep you drier. Excess heat can also escape rather than getting trapped.
Easy On and Off
Thanks to the generous fit, the pants slip on and off over boots and multiple underlayers without requiring much effort. Less struggle equals more fun on the hill.
Wrinkle Resistance
A closer slim cut is more prone to fabric bunching and wrinkling when layered up. The Apex STH’s relaxed fit remains smooth looking and streamlined.
Full Range of Motion
For mobility-intensive activities like skiing and snowboarding, a non-binding relaxed fit ensures you have full freedom of motion for jumps, turns, or tricks.
By considering how skiers and boarders layer up in cold weather, The North Face optimized the Apex STH pants for easy insulation without compromising style or performance.
The Pants are Fully Seam Sealed for Waterproofness
For softshell ski pants like the Apex STH, weather protection depends not just on the fabric but also the construction. That’s why The North Face fully sealed the seams throughout these pants – it significantly boosts water resistance.
Keeping Moisture Out
By sealing the stitch holes with waterproof tape, moisture is prevented from seeping through the seams and onto your base layers. Fully sealed seams make a big difference in wetness protection.
Reinforced Seat and Knees
On the rear and knees where wear is most intense, The North Face uses extra durable seam sealing to prevent leaks even after abrasion. These high stress zones stay drier longer.
DWR Coating Overlay
In addition to the factory seam sealing, the DWR treatment applied to the outside of the pants further repels moisture from getting through abrasions or holes down the line. Dual protection.
Interior Lining
Soft taffeta lines the waist, fly, and front rise inside the pants providing an extra moisture barrier for sensitive areas. This adds comfort.
All-Day Dryness
Fully sealed seams prevent wetness from compromising the pants over the lifespan. Skiers and boarders stay drier lap after lap, season after season.
It’s fine details like sealed seams that enhance the Apex STH’s waterproofing and durability for snowy alpine adventures.
Review of the Apex STH’s Durability & Warmth
When selecting ski or snowboard pants, it’s wise to consider durability and warmth – you want gear that can handle rugged alpine conditions while keeping you comfortable. For the Apex STH model, The North Face included design elements to address both priorities.
Tough Materials
The tightly woven nylon exterior resists tears, scuffs, and abrasions from falls, rocks, branches, and gear. Reinforcements provide added protection on the knees, seat, and inner cuffs.
Waterproof Fabric
The DWR coating causes moisture to bead up and roll off while sealed seams prevent wetness from seeping through stitching holes. Conditions may soak you, but the pants won’t soak through.
Wind Resistance
The dense 2-layer nylon blocks blustery winds from stealing your body heat. Down to about 25 degrees Fahrenheit, the pants retain enough warmth to keep you comfortable outdoors.
Trapping Warmth
The softshell material keeps your own radiant body heat trapped inside. Fleece lining inside the waistband and fly provide extra insulation against cold.
Strategic Insulation
Features like the powder skirt, adjustable waist, and vents help fine tune warmth while wicking fabrics dissipate sweat moisture before chill sets in. Smart cold weather adaptations.
Tested in demanding mountain conditions, the durable and weather-resistant Apex STH pants deliver reliable warmth and protection run after run.
Why the Fixed Suspenders Come in Handy
For active snowsports, keeping your pants in place is essential. That’s why The North Face equipped the Apex STH model with fixed suspenders in addition to the belt – it keeps the pants secure when the terrain or weather gets rowdy.
Preventing Snow Intrusion
The suspenders keep the waistline snugly anchored in place, eliminating gaps where snow can sneak in and chill your back and stomach. Fewer cold spots means more comfort.
Secure Fit for Mobility
Whether you’re carving turns, ollieing, or straight-lining through glades, the suspenders prevent your pants from sliding down and restricting motion. Freedom to move equals better performance.
Distributing Weight
By transferring some of the pants’ weight off your waistline and onto your shoulders, suspenders reduce pressure points that can get uncomfortable after hours outdoors.
Customizable Positioning
You can adjust the suspenders’ attachment points on the front and rear of the pants to get your personalized secure fit dialed in just right.
Quick On and Off
Unlike removable suspenders, the fixed style is fast and easy to slip on and take off without fussing with multiple clasps and attachments.
In demanding weather on rugged terrain, fixed suspenders keep your pants locked in place for unimpeded mobility and protection.
Pros & Cons of The North Face Apex STH Pants
When evaluating any piece of performance gear, it’s helpful to weigh both the benefits and drawbacks. For The North Face’s popular Apex STH softshell ski/snowboard pants, here are the key pros and cons to consider:
Pros:
- Durable water-repellent coating and seam sealing
- Stretchy, abrasion-resistant nylon fabric
- Relaxed fit for easy layering and air circulation
- Articulated knees enhance mobility
- Side vents allow temperature regulation
- Low-profile belt and zippered pockets
- Fixed suspenders keep pants secure
- Reasonable price point for the features
Cons:
- Not fully waterproof like a hardshell pant
- Non-detachable suspenders reduce versatility
- Sizing runs large for some users
- Thigh zippers would improve venting
- Not as warm as insulated ski pants
Weighing the pros against the cons will help determine if the versatile Apex STH pants match your specific needs and preferences for mountain adventures.
How The Pants Compare to Competitor Models
When evaluating new ski or snowboard pants, it helps to compare them against similar options from other top brands. How do The North Face Apex STH pants stack up against key competitors like Patagonia, Arc’teryx, and Marmot?
Weather Protection
The Apex STH provides good water resistance thanks to a DWR coating and fully sealed seams. But hardshell models from Arc’teryx and Patagonia offer more complete wet weather protection.
Warmth
With just a softshell design, the Apex STH isn’t as warm as insulated ski pants from Marmot and Patagonia better suited for frigid temps.
Articulation
The articulated knees on the Apex STH provide natural mobility. But Patagonia’s top ski pants feature 3D patterning for even better articulation.
Pockets
Secure zippered hand pockets conveniently hold small items. But Arc’teryx and Marmot offer more pocket options for organizing gear.
Fit
The relaxed fit accommodates layers while allowing freedom of motion. But some slim fits like Patagonia’s allow greater stretcher mobility.
Overall, the Apex STH pants provide good value by blending comfort, weather protection, and mobility. But other models excel more in specific areas.
Are the Apex STH Pants Worth the Investment?
When considering any performance outdoor gear, you want to ensure it provides good value for the money. Given the price and features of The North Face Apex STH pants, are they a worthwhile investment for skiers and snowboarders?
Durability
Built with burly nylon fabric and reinforced wear zones, the Apex STH pants stand up to rugged use without quickly developing holes and tears. They should last for multiple seasons.
Weather Protection
The DWR coating and fully taped seams block moisture reasonably well for a softshell pant. While not totally waterproof, they provide ample wet weather performance.
Versatility
The blend of weather resistance, breathability, and mobility make the Apex STH pants versatile across different temperatures and aerobic activities. They adapt well to varied conditions.
Comfort Features
From the plush taffeta lining to articulated knees, waist adjusters, and zippered vents, small details improve the wear experience and comfort over long days.
Price
Given the durable materials, technical features, and functionality, the Apex STH provides a solid value at around $200 retail. That’s reasonable for the performance.
Stacked up against competitors, the well-rounded Apex STH pants deliver features and value that make them a worthwhile investment for active mountain adventures.