Nylon is a generic designation for a family of synthetic polymers, more specifically aliphatic or semi-aromatic polyamides. Nylon polymers have found significant commercial applications in fibers (apparel, flooring and rubber reinforcement), in shapes (molded parts for cars, electrical equipment, etc.), and in films (mostly for food packaging).

Polyester is a category of polymers that contain the ester functional group in their main chain. As a specific material, it most commonly refers to a type called polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Polyesters include naturally occurring chemicals, such as in the cutin of plant cuticles, as well as synthetics through step-growth polymerization such as polybutyrate. Natural polyesters and a few synthetic ones are biodegradable, but most synthetic polyesters are not. This material is used very widely in clothing.

For superior warmth and comfort, The North Face products are insulated with exclusive, high-fill-power goose down ranging from 550 to 900 fill, which represents the highest quality down commercially available. Each lot of down is tested at three stages of production for loftiness, moisture resistance and the ability to regain loft after compression to ensure highly thermal, lightweight performance across all sport spectrums.

The DWR treatment is the first line of defense against wet weather conditions and prevents the face fabric from becoming saturated. DWR is a polymer applied to the face fabric that creates microscopic pegs, or hairs, that protrude from the fabric. These pegs encourage the water droplets to band together and roll off, instead of spreading out along the face of the fabric and soaking through.

Ripstop fabrics are woven fabrics, often made of nylon, using a special reinforcing technique that makes them resistant to tearing and ripping.

Heat Seal technology eliminates stitches, creating baffles that greatly reduce water penetration, heat loss and down migration.

The YKK® is the world's largest zipper manufacturer. YKK® products use the best materials that are made by the most modern equipment and are mass produced under extreme quality control. YKK® was founded in Japan, in 1934, by Yoshida. In the early years, Mr. Yoshida's company carried his name; it was called Yoshida Kogyo Kabushikikaisha, or YKK® for short.