In the last few years, one topic has been shaking up the running shoe market: Carbon. It was only a matter of time before this technology also found its way into trail running. The North Face has now presented the Flight Series Vective, the first trail shoe with a carbon fibre plate. Keller Sports Pro Jan was able to take a closer look at trail shoe in recent weeks.
About the The North Face Vectiv Flight Series
The North Face takes a slightly different approach with its trail shoe than the manufacturers of established models with carbon for the road. The 3D VECTIV plate made of carbon is designed to provide propulsion and stability while running. It is located directly under the foot, above the midsole.
The North Face also uses a rocker construction for the midsole. In combination with carbon, this gives the Vectiv high forward momentum. In addition, it is supposed to reduce the impact on downhills by 10%. The upper is made of a durable knit material.
Through the use of classic protective elements, this provides safety when running over rough terrain. In addition, the wearing comfort is very high. The outsole runs the entire length of the trail shoe and the tread is not too aggressive. The rubber compound used should nevertheless guarantee grip on all surfaces.
How does the The North Face Vectiv perform?
Due to the use of the carbon fibre plate, the Vectiv is relatively stiff compared to other trail running models. For runners who have already run with carbon running shoes on the road, this is a familiar feeling. In combination with the rocker construction, you quickly get a flowing running feeling.
The North Face has found a good mix of cushioning levels. It is neither too hard nor too soft - in short: just right for dynamic running on the trails. I also found the knit upper of the The North Face Vectiv very comfortable. I classify the fit here as medium wide. Despite the many protective elements, the trail shoe offers a lot of freedom when running.
The Vectiv is also convincing in terms of grip: the rubber compound grips well in all weather conditions. Passages over asphalt are also no problem with the running shoes. For me, the TNF Vectiv is an optimal companion for many distances and certainly an interesting option for the ultra trails.
The North Face Vectiv at a glance
| Weight | 7 |
| Damping | 8 |
| Reactivity | 8 |
| Grip | 10 |
| Stability | 8 |
| Gender | Women & Men |
| Weight | 490g (Women US7) & 570g (Men US9) |
| Off-set | 6mm |
| Sole material | 3D VECTIV Carbonplate & VECTIVE Rocker |
| Upper material | Kevlar, Polyamid and Matryx |
| Fit | normal |
| Application | Trail runs over all distances up to ultra trails |
| Shoe type | neutral trail running shoes |
| Price | 199,90 € * |
Conclusion
With the The North Face Vectiv, the brand has presented a very fast trail shoe. Despite the focus on dynamics, comfort is not neglected, so it is well suited for many distances. I find the implementation of the carbon fibre plate and rocker construction very balanced, especially for a trail shoe.
Credits: Jan Lau
* The actual price may differ from the one indicated here. It depends on current offers and the model.
