The North Face VECTIV Taraval Review: Are These the Best Shoes for Hiking Trails?

As someone who's always on the lookout for the next best thing in outdoor gear, I recently got my hands (or rather, feet) on The North Face VECTIV Taraval shoes. Being a adventurer who’s as passionate about hiking trails as about keeping up with the latest gear, I knew I had to give these shoes a thorough test. Whether you’re scaling the sturdy peaks or simply exploring local trails, these shoes promise a lot. But do they deliver? Let’s dive in.

The North Face VECTIV Taraval Ratings

Here's how I would rate The North Face VECTIV Taraval shoes based on my experience and the collective feedback from other adventurers:

Comfort: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
The comfort level of these shoes is one of their strongest points. The Ortholite footbeds and cushioned midsole make for a plush, comfortable experience, even on long hikes. The only deduction is due to the sizing issue, where some users might need to size down to get the perfect fit.

Breathability: ★★★★★ (5/5)
The breathable mesh upper is perfect for warm-weather hikes, keeping your feet cool and dry. This feature makes the shoes a top choice for summer hiking in places like California, where temperatures can soar.

Traction: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
With SurfaceCTRL™ rubber outsoles and 4mm lugs, the shoes provide excellent grip on a variety of terrains, from rocky trails to loose gravel. They offer stability and confidence with every step. The slight deduction is because they aren’t designed for wet, slippery conditions.

Durability: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
The materials and construction are robust, ensuring that the shoes can handle rough use over time. However, the light color options, particularly white, may not look as pristine after a few hikes.

Water Resistance: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
This is where the VECTIV Taraval falls short. The lack of waterproofing means these shoes aren’t ideal for wet or boggy conditions. They’re best suited for dry, warm-weather hikes, which limits their versatility.

Overall Performance: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
For adventurers who primarily hike in dry conditions and value comfort and breathability, these shoes are an excellent choice. However, their limitations in wet environments and the need to find the right sizing might make them less appealing for some.

The Hype: What Makes VECTIV Taraval Stand Out?

The North Face has been making waves with their VECTIV line, particularly focusing on the VECTIV technology. This innovative tech is designed to maximize energy return and provide stability on uneven terrain. The VECTIV Taraval shoes, specifically, are marketed as the perfect balance of comfort, durability, and performance. With features like a 3D TPU plate for stability, a rocker midsole for propulsion, and SurfaceCTRL™ rubber outsoles for grip, these shoes seem ready for just about anything.

On the Trail: Comfort and Fit

The first thing that hits you when you slip on these shoes is the comfort. The Ortholite footbeds provide a cushioned, plush feel that’s immediately noticeable. Unlike many other hiking shoes that require a break-in period, the VECTIV Taraval felt trail-ready right out of the box.

However, there’s a catch. Sizing can be tricky with these shoes. They tend to run a bit large, so you might want to size down, especially if you’re between sizes. Once you find the right fit, though, the shoe's design ensures your foot stays secure, even on steep or uneven terrain.

Performance: From Dry Heat to Rocky Trails

Living in California means dealing with a variety of terrains and climates, from the dry desert heat to the cool, rocky trails of Northern California. The breathability of the VECTIV Taraval is a game-changer, especially on those scorching summer days. The breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool, making these shoes perfect for warm-weather hikes.

But here’s where they might fall short for some adventurers: they’re not waterproof. If you’re planning to hit the trails in wetter conditions or expect to encounter streams, these might not be your go-to shoes. I’d recommend these for dry conditions only. That said, they do dry out quickly if they get wet, but it's best to avoid soggy situations.

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Traction and Stability: Confidence in Every Step

The grip on these shoes is impressive. Whether you’re hiking on gravel, dirt, or more challenging rocky terrain, the SurfaceCTRL™ rubber outsoles with 4mm lugs provide the kind of traction that gives you confidence. The rocker midsole and 3D TPU plate contribute to a stable, yet responsive feel. This is especially important if, like me, you’ve had knee issues in the past and need that extra support on uneven ground.

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Durability: Built to Last?

Durability is another area where these shoes shine. The combination of synthetic leather and breathable mesh, along with protective overlays, makes these shoes robust enough to handle regular use on tough trails. After several hikes, they show minimal signs of wear, which speaks to the quality construction that The North Face is known for.

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The North Face VECTIV Taraval Shoes: Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Comfort and Cushioning: Many users appreciate the comfort these shoes provide, particularly noting the plush Ortholite footbeds and rocker sole that aids in forward propulsion. The shoes require minimal break-in time, which is a big plus for those who want to hit the trails immediately.

2. Breathability: The upper material is highly breathable, making these shoes ideal for warm weather hikes. Users noted that their feet stayed cool and dry in hot conditions, which enhances overall comfort.

3. Grip and Stability: The shoes feature a SurfaceCTRL rubber outsole with 4mm lugs, offering excellent grip on various terrains, including dirt, gravel, and mud. The VECTIV technology and 3D TPU plate underfoot provide good stability, which is appreciated by those tackling uneven trails.

4. Durability: The combination of synthetic leather and breathable mesh with durable overlays makes these shoes robust for long-term use. Users have reported that the shoes hold up well even after extensive use on rough terrain.

5. Lightweight: At around 1 lb. 8.8 oz. per pair, these shoes are relatively lightweight for hiking footwear, making them a good choice for those looking to reduce fatigue on long hikes.

Cons:

1. Not Waterproof: One of the significant drawbacks mentioned by users is the lack of waterproofing. The breathable upper, while great for ventilation, allows water to seep in easily. These shoes are not recommended for wet or boggy conditions.

2. Sizing Issues: Some users have reported that the shoes run a bit large, which can lead to a less secure fit if not properly sized. It's advised to try them on or consider sizing down, especially if your feet are on the smaller side.

3. Color Options: The white color variant is often criticized for being impractical in outdoor settings, as it tends to show dirt and stains quickly. This might be a concern for those who prefer low-maintenance gear.

4. Price: While the shoes offer good performance, some users feel that the price point might be a bit high considering the lack of waterproofing and other advanced features available in competing models.

Final Verdict: Are They Worth It?

If you’re an adventure enthusiast looking for a versatile, comfortable, and durable pair of shoes for warm-weather hikes, The North Face VECTIV Taraval is worth considering. They’re particularly suited for varied terrains, provided you steer clear of wet conditions. Just make sure you get the sizing right, and you’ll have a reliable companion for your outdoor adventures.

Whether you're planning your next hike or hitting the sturdy trails, these shoes offer the right mix of comfort and performance to keep you going.

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Feel free to share your own experiences with the VECTIV Taraval in the comments. Have they lived up to the hype for you? Let’s keep the conversation going!

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