The North Face Summit Series IKB Apparel Review

Introduction to The North Face Summit Series

The Summit Series collection is The North Face’s high-performance line, the cream of the crop. If you want all the features or the nicest fabrics and technologies, it’s the gear you’re picking. I’ve been lucky enough to run in and love their Summit Series shoes, but I’ve never tested their clothing line. And lucky for me I got to test some as they released the Summit Series x IKB collab.

What is IKB and why did this collaboration happen? First, IKB is International Klein Blue, which was first mixed by the French artist Yves Klein. And that brings us to the why. The North Face released this collection right before a little race in France (UTMB) and an underground race– also in France– The Speed Project CHX. But this isn’t a race review. Let’s focus on the clothing, shall we?

This blue relies on ultramarine, which gives it that bold and bright color. The North Face collection is very blue…or I guess very IKB in color. Almost every piece is solid blue, with some items, like the shorts I tested, displaying a dripping white paint pattern, likely a nod to the artist who created the color. I’ve worn all the pieces at once and I thought it would be too much, and maybe it is, but it does work. It’s a super unique look, color, and style, but I actually dig it.

Superior Futurelight Jacket ($300)

My toxic trait? Owning way too many jackets. I’m fully aware of this, and honestly, I’m not planning to stop anytime soon. I mean, you never know what kind of ultra-specific weather conditions you’ll face, and having just the right jacket is essential.

The Summit Series Superior Futurelight jacket may be a bit of a mouthful for a name, but it’s super lightweight and surprisingly durable. This isn’t one of those flimsy, barely-there windbreakers you toss in your pack as a “just in case” item. No, this is a legit jacket that holds its own against rain, wind, and cooler temps. It might not pack down to palm-size, but it folds into its own hip pocket, making it about hand-sized, which is still pretty packable. This jacket has a drawstring hood and waist, so you can cinch things down when the weather gets rough.  

The Futurelight fabric is seriously impressive—it’s both breathable and waterproof, which is a hard combo to get right. It keeps you dry when the weather changes, but doesn’t leave you feeling like you’re trapped in a sauna on those tough climbs. That said, it does hold some warmth! Then again, this is true of any fully waterproof jacket.

On a recent run, as I descended from 12,000ft to warmer temps, I definitely noticed it heating up. I’ve also worn it on dog walks during cool evenings (around 45 degrees), and it kept me nice and cozy. The small fit well, but for those looking for a slim fit, size down. 

Also, bonus points for being made from 100% recycled material. Eco-friendly and trail-ready—what’s not to love?

High Trail Short-Sleeve ($75)

Contrary to my jacket hoarding, I have maybe two nice running shirts. The rest are oddly fitting technical shirts from various races I’ve run. If it’s hot out, I just wear a sports bra. Shoulder season is always awful for me. I rely heavily on arm warmers. Anyway, I digress.

I was excited to have another shirt in my “oh damn, it’s kind of chilly” fodder. A shirt doesn’t need to be super complicated. It just needs to do whatever a shirt is supposed to do. And this shirt does that and more. Made with FlashDry-Pro fabrics, it keeps moisture in check during those high-effort runs, and the slim fit with split hems and underarm gussets gives you all the mobility you need.

I prefer a looser fit and the small (what I normally wear) was just loose enough for my liking. I would size up if you’re on the cusp of sizes or want a very relaxed fit. The bonded seams make for a smooth, chafe-free experience, even on long days with a pack. Plus, the body-mapped fabric reduces weight in key areas, and the reflective details are a nice touch for early morning or late evening miles. Lightweight, comfortable, and built for the trail—this shirt just works. Also- loving the IKB blue. No complaints here. 

Pacesetter 3” Shorts ($85)

The Pacesetter shorts come in two lengths: 3- and 5-inch inseam options, so no Salomon Shortneys here. I tested the 3” version and they were a little short for my liking. I appreciated the fabric not restricting any movement on climbs, but they did feel pretty darn short. Let’s say I was thankful for the liner. For those looking for a little more coverage, try out the 5” option.

I love that they are made with 89% recycled nylon, they’re durable and have just the right amount of stretch. The FlashDry-XD fabric does a great job managing moisture while adding some extra durability, and the internal brief liner keeps things comfortable. I will note that when it’s really hot out, the fabric did feel like it stuck to my legs a little bit. This might be the nature of the short length. But that passed once they were able to dry out a bit; however, f you’re in a humid climate, it may be something to note.

The clamshell-opening pockets on the hips, along with the drop-in pocket and zip pocket on the waistband, give you plenty of secure storage for keys or gels (if that’s your thing, but eh, gross). My iPhone 12 (yes I have a 12 and no I don’t want the newest one) just barely fits in the back pocket. However, I wouldn’t advise running with it back there for long, as the bouncing was a little distracting.