The North Face Run

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is VECTIV™ technology and how does it help on trail runs?

  VECTIV™ is a midsole platform that combines a curved rocker geometry with a stiff energy‑returning plate (carbon or forked carbon in VECTIV 2.0) and high‑rebound foams to bias energy forward and improve propulsion. The system is paired with aggressive outsoles like Surface CTRL or Vibram for traction, so you get a more propulsive toe‑off on rolling and technical terrain.
• How does the VECTIV Flight compare to the VECTIV Enduris for trail running?

  The VECTIV Flight is tuned for speed and race performance, offering a lighter, more responsive feel ideal for tempo efforts and shorter fast stages, while the VECTIV Enduris prioritizes durability, protection, and stability on rocky or technical trails. Both use VECTIV propulsion tech, but Flight favors lower weight and quicker rebound whereas Enduris emphasizes protective uppers and a more robust outsole.
• Which The North Face shoes are best for ultras versus road‑to‑trail runs?

  For longer ultras, models like the VECTIV Infinite (and other VECTIV long‑distance variants) focus on sustained cushioning and stability to reduce fatigue over many miles, while road‑to‑trail options such as the Hyper‑Track Guide bridge pavement and light singletrack with a livelier midsole and smoother rocker (Hyper‑Track has about an 8mm drop). Choose the cushioned/stable VECTIV options for long days and the Hybrid/Guide models for mixed surfaces and faster efforts.
• How should I size and fit The North Face running shoes?

  Many recent TNF running shoes use a D‑width last, so they fit broader feet than older narrow lasts, but fit still varies by model. Try shoes on with the socks you run in, leave about a thumb’s width of room in the toe box for downhill clearance, and consider a half size up if you have a high volume foot or plan long downhill miles.
• What running‑specific fabrics and features does The North Face use in jackets, apparel, and vests?

  For wet conditions TNF’s FutureLight membranes use nanospun construction for high waterproofness (around a 20,000mm rating) with enhanced breathability, while FlashDry™ fabrics wick and dry quickly for base layers and shirts. Running vests and packs include soft‑flask pockets, hydration tube loops, adjustable sternum straps and elastic stabilizers to minimize bounce, and many jackets pack down small for shoulder‑season runs.