It’s been a while since our last comparison review so it is finally time for another head to head comparison of two jackets.
In the previous ones we have looked at jackets that were from different brands, so we thought it would be interesting if we were to compare two parkas from the same brand. For that reason, we have selected Gotham III and McMurdo III, two parkas by The North Face.
Few brands have been so frequently featured in our articles and reviews as The North Face. We are fascinated by this brand’s jackets because they perform very well in different conditions and are also very well-made.
* Note: The availability of the products in this page (including colors and sizes) might change at any time. Also please check the products materials and features on the various shops before buying. We do our best to assure the accuracy of our articles, but sometimes they might contain errors. The product images shown are for illustration purposes only.
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Comparison: The North Face McMurdo III vs Gotham III
Appearance and Wear
Looks-wise these jackets are similar and different at the same time. Length difference aside, they both come with oversized pockets on the body and a sleeve pocket on the left side.
Their hooded collars and faux fur trim are also a common design feature, as is the storm placket that covers the main zipper.
So it comes down to the length, with McMurdo III being a long parka and Gotham III being a regular one.
The wear is also different, clearly, because of the length difference. McMurdo III is more suitable for those working outdoors that move around a lot, because it covers the back very well, while on the other hand, Gotham III has an elasticized hem that makes it fit snuggly around the hips.
The last difference is their adjustability, with McMurdo III having adjustable sleeve cuffs, which is not the case with Gotham III.
Warmth and Performance
Usually here is where the jackets’ specific features come through in our other comparison reviews. However, in this case, these jackets are practically identical.
Being insulated with 550-fill goose down sets their ability to provide warmth and maintain it at the same level. So not much difference when it comes to their warmth.
And because they both have faux fur trim on the hoods, they also keep the face well-protected, especially when snowing.
As for performance, surely Gotham III is more practical due to being a regular-length parka. However, if you live in areas where winter does not play around, practicality might not be the main concern.
Their shell is the same and so is their lining. DryVent 2L, as we saw in a previous article of ours, is a breathable, waterproof and windproof membrane, as well as quite light and easily adaptable to movement. And because both of these jackets have DryVent 2L shells, their weather-resistance is also identical.
They are durable to wear and tear to an extent, but you can rest assured that they are fully weatherproof and will remain so for a considerable amount of time.
And since we are on the matter of durability and longevity of these jackets, The North Face provides lifetime warranty for its products and such is the case for both McMurdo III and Gotham III.
If something is to go wrong, which is highly unlikely in itself, then you have nothing to worry about.
Conclusion
Because both jackets perform similarly when it comes to weather-resistance and warmth, it’s all a matter of what length you like best and what winters are like in your area. Obviously, the harsher the winter where you live, the longer the parka.
Thank you for this excellent comparison.
You’re welcome! We are glad you like it.