Which is warmer in wet weather?

The Bedford. Its seam-sealed DryVent shell is waterproof and its 550-fill down insulates well in cold, wet conditions. The ThermoBall resists rain but is not a waterproof shell.

Which is better for travel?

The ThermoBall. It is packable, lighter and machine washable. The Bedford weighs 2 lb 6 oz and is not marketed as packable.

Is the Bedford worth the extra $36?

Yes if you face rain or wet snow and want a true waterproof shell with down warmth. No if you want a lighter, cheaper parka for dry cold.

Which covers more of the body?

The ThermoBall, which is knee length. The Bedford has a 33.5-inch center back, roughly hip to mid-thigh.

Yes. The ThermoBall has an attached hood. The Bedford has an adjustable hood with a removable faux-fur ruff.

Which has more pockets?

The Bedford. It has a zip chest pocket, zip hand pockets, four hook-and-loop front pockets and an interior security pocket. Pocket details are not listed for the ThermoBall.

The North Face Women's ThermoBall Hooded Parka vs The North Face Men's Bedford Down Parka Insulated Winter Jacket

Buy the Women's ThermoBall Hooded Parka for synthetic, packable warmth at a lower price. Buy the Men's Bedford Down Parka for a waterproof DryVent shell and 550-fill down in wet, cold weather. As of November 4, 2026, the ThermoBall is $154.00 at Backcountry.com and the Bedford is $190.00 at eBay. The ThermoBall has also dipped to $122.99 in its recent price history, so it is the cheaper pick by about $36 at current best prices.

Today the The North Face Women's ThermoBall Hooded Parka costs $36.00 less at its best price.

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