The North Face Gore-Tex Mountain Jacket — Purple/Black | Men's L

A 1990s The North Face Gore-Tex mountain shell in that bright purple and black colorway, made in the USA and tagged Large. It is the hooded, storm-flapped shell the brand built its mountain reputation on, and it shows the honest wear of a jacket that actually went outside, noted below.

Why it's vintage

The North Face has used Gore-Tex in its outerwear since 1977. Here's what collectors look for on this '90s shell.

KEY INDICATORS: what to look for

1. Black box neck tag: The logo sits on a black square tag, the style common on North Face jackets in the 1990s (it was reused later, so it supports the era rather than proving it).
2. Separate USA tag: A second tag below reads MADE IN U.S.A. with the size, L.
3. Care symbols: The care tag shows care symbols alongside words. US care tags could use symbols from 1997.
4. Production code: North Face added production codes in 1985, but this care tag's print has worn too far to read, so no exact date.

How to check: Check the neck for the black square logo tag and the separate country-of-origin tag under it.

The piece

• Brand: The North Face
• Tag size: L
• Color: purple and black
• Gore-Tex nylon shell, mesh lining
• Hood, two-way zip under snap storm flap, Velcro cuffs, chest and hand pockets, hem drawcord
• Made in USA
• Era: 1990s

Measurements are pictured in the photos (PP, NH, SS, PC).

Condition

1. Left sleeve, just above the cuff: frayed hole showing the inner layer, as pictured in its own close-up
2. Front zipper pull is broken; a previous owner replaced it with a green zip tie, as pictured
3. Light surface wear to the nylon
4. Care tag print has faded

Ships from Ontario, CA.