The Cryptic line has been out for a few years now and is not just boarding specific. They've had skiers like Dana Flahr and Ingrid Backtrom on the team for a while. Also.. as a big mountain skier and pro snowmobiler I can honestly say I'm probably harder on my outerwear than 99% of skiers out there. The North Face holds up and performs like no other in the backcountry, especially during 12 hour days on the ice cap in whistler, where it can rain/slush like no other. Quality and durability of TNF gear is second to none. I think everyone will be pleasantly surprised with this years Cryptic line up!
If the pricing is slightly higher than some of the competition its because its made of 20,000mm Hyvent or Gore-Tex and WELL MADE. A lot of other companies only produce 5,000-15,000mm that fall apart after 1 season, and trust me it makes a huge difference if you are hiking and sweating, or skiing in rain. There's a reason you see people skiing in TNF jackets from years and years ago. It lasts and its well made. They don't sacrifice quality to produce cheaper/less inexpensive goods because the brand is known for making high functioning quality gear. A lot the cryptic line women's jackets had length added of 2"+ or more this year and they're catering more and more to freeride, or big mountain skiing/boarding. Think people will be pleasantly surprised.
northface is the japyiest shit out there i do not approve. but if they came to me and offered me $$$ id wear anything they told me to. but toms prob got more choices....