The North Face Retro Nuptse 1996 (Black, L) Review – Cozy, Classic, and Timeless πŸ–€

πŸ–€ Main Content

πŸ§₯ The North Face Retro Nuptse 1996 Review

This is one of my all-time favorite winter jackets β€” the The North Face Retro Nuptse 1996 in black (L size) πŸ–€
I’m around 157 cm / 53 kg (about 5’2″ / 117 lbs), and since this is a men’s L, it fits super loose and cozy.
The length covers my hips, so it honestly feels like being wrapped in a warm blanket ☁️.
I can easily wear thick hoodies or sweaters underneath without feeling tight.

Back when I was in middle school, The North Face was the thing in Korea β€” everyone wore it over their school uniform during winter πŸ˜‚.
Seeing it become a global trend again makes me nostalgic and proud at the same time.
Those who kept their old Nuptse from that era? Yeah… they definitely hit the jackpot this time γ…‹γ…‹.

πŸ“Έ Detail Shots

Let’s start this The North Face Retro Nuptse 1996 Review with the close-up:
The glossy black shell gives off that perfect subtle shine β€” not too much, not too matte. The thick down panels make it look structured but still soft.
When you touch it, you can tell it’s high-quality insulation that traps warmth instantly.
The back keeps it clean and simple. Just the signature white logo on the shoulder, nothing extra.
I love how minimalist it feels β€” like the brand knew exactly when to stop designing.

πŸŽ„ Cozy Winter Mood

I wore my The North Face Retro Nuptse 1996 to a Christmas café with this giant teddy bear 🧸.
The whole vibe was warm, soft, and nostalgic β€” kind of like the jacket itself. The down kept me warm even though it was freezing outside.
Under warm cafΓ© lighting, you can really see how this jacket reflects the light in the most flattering way.
The black color looks richer indoors, and the puffy structure adds so much volume without feeling bulky.

🧒 Selfie (with Beanie)

Selfie wearing The North Face Retro Nuptse 1996 jacket with a black beanie.

This shot might be my favorite part of the The North Face Retro Nuptse 1996 Review πŸ˜†
Paired it with a simple black beanie β€” it’s casual but stylish, and honestly, it’s such an easy combo for winter.
I love that effortless, slightly oversized streetwear look.

Mirror Shot

Mirror selfie showing full outfit with The North Face Retro Nuptse 1996 jacket in elevator.

Mirror selfies are basically part of my review ritual at this point πŸ˜‚
Here you can see the full outfit. The sleeves are puffy, the shoulders drop just right, and the fit is generous without swallowing my frame.
That’s what makes this jacket so wearable.

πŸ–€ Classic Official Look

Official product photo of The North Face Retro Nuptse 1996 black jacket – front view.

And of course, here’s the official photo β€” crisp lines, perfect proportions, timeless as always.
If you want to check out the official details, size options, and all colorways, you can visit the brand’s page below πŸ‘‡
πŸ‘‰ Men’s 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket – The North Face (Official Site)

✨ Final Thoughts

Compared to the Nuptse Short Jacket, the Retro Nuptse 1996 has a slightly longer, cozier, and more classic vibe.
Both have completely different fits β€” and that’s what makes each special πŸ’«.

If you’d like to see my review of the other version, check it out below πŸ‘‡
πŸ‘‰ The North Face Nuptse Short Jacket Review