The North Face Vectiv Exploris 2 FutureLight™ Leather hiking shoes are designed for adventurers seeking durable, waterproof protection and advanced stability on varied terrain. These shoes excel in keeping feet dry and comfortable during challenging hikes, though their leather construction requires specific care to maintain performance and longevity. With a focus on innovative materials and biomechanical support, they offer a reliable option for serious outdoor enthusiasts.
FUTURELIGHT™ Membrane: A breathable and waterproof material integrated into the upper, designed to keep your feet dry from external moisture while allowing internal perspiration to escape, ensuring comfort in diverse weather conditions.
VECTIV™ 2.0 Cradle Midsole: This advanced midsole technology is engineered to optimize energy return and provide stability, propelling you forward on the trail and reducing fatigue over long distances. It acts like a rockered sole, aiding in efficient stride.
Leather Upper Construction: The use of leather provides enhanced durability and a premium feel, offering robust protection against abrasions and rugged trail elements. It also contributes to the shoe's overall structural integrity.
Optimized Traction: While not explicitly detailed, VECTIV series typically features advanced outsole patterns for superior grip on various surfaces, from wet rocks to loose dirt, ensuring confidence with every step.
Excellent waterproofing thanks to the FUTURELIGHT™ membrane, keeping feet dry in wet conditions.
Superior breathability prevents overheating and maintains comfort during strenuous activity.
VECTIV™ 2.0 midsole offers exceptional energy return and stability, reducing fatigue.
Durable leather upper provides robust protection and a long-lasting lifespan.
Designed for varied terrain, offering reliable performance on diverse trails.
Leather material requires regular maintenance and care to preserve its waterproof properties and appearance.
Potentially heavier than synthetic alternatives due to leather construction.
Initial break-in period might be needed for the leather to conform to the foot.
Specific VECTIV™ sole geometry may not suit all foot types or gait patterns.
Info needed: May not be ideal for extremely hot and humid environments where maximum ventilation is prioritized over waterproofing.
Excellent waterproofing thanks to the FUTURELIGHT™ membrane, keeping feet dry in wet conditions.
Superior breathability prevents overheating and maintains comfort during strenuous activity.
VECTIV™ 2.0 midsole offers exceptional energy return and stability, reducing fatigue.
Durable leather upper provides robust protection and a long-lasting lifespan.
Designed for varied terrain, offering reliable performance on diverse trails.
Leather material requires regular maintenance and care to preserve its waterproof properties and appearance.
Potentially heavier than synthetic alternatives due to leather construction.
Initial break-in period might be needed for the leather to conform to the foot.
Specific VECTIV™ sole geometry may not suit all foot types or gait patterns.
Info needed: May not be ideal for extremely hot and humid environments where maximum ventilation is prioritized over waterproofing.
The North Face Vectiv Exploris 2 FutureLight™ Leather shoes are built for sustained performance on moderate to challenging hiking trails. The FUTURELIGHT™ membrane ensures that stream crossings, sudden downpours, and muddy paths won't leave your feet soaked. This makes them ideal for multi-day treks or day hikes in unpredictable weather.
The VECTIV™ 2.0 cradle midsole is where these shoes truly shine in terms of efficiency. Imagine traversing undulating terrain; the rockered sole helps to smoothly transition your weight from heel to toe, minimizing wasted energy and providing a sensation of forward momentum. This is particularly beneficial on long ascents or when covering significant distances, helping to reduce muscle fatigue in your legs.
Thanks to the leather upper, these shoes offer excellent protection against trail debris, sharp rocks, and brush, ensuring your feet are shielded from impacts. The robust construction also contributes to the shoe's overall stability, providing confidence when navigating uneven surfaces or carrying a pack.
These shoes are best suited for:
Day Hikes and Backpacking: Offering the durability and comfort needed for extended periods on the trail.
Varied Weather Conditions: Their waterproofing and breathability make them versatile for changing forecasts.
Technical Terrain: The stability and grip provided are crucial for rocky, root-laden, or slippery paths.
For example, during a hike in the Lake District, the FUTURELIGHT™ membrane would keep your feet dry through boggy sections and sudden rain showers, while the VECTIV™ 2.0 midsole would assist in maintaining a consistent pace across rolling hills.
Initial Try-On: Wear the shoes with your preferred hiking socks to ensure a comfortable fit. Walk around indoors to get a feel for the VECTIV™ sole's unique rockered geometry.
Lacing: Ensure laces are snug but not overtight. Experiment with different lacing techniques if you experience pressure points or heel slippage.
Break-in Period: Due to the leather upper, a short break-in period of a few short walks is recommended before attempting long hikes to allow the leather to soften and conform to your foot shape.
These shoes are designed for male adult hikers and backpackers seeking waterproof, breathable, and supportive footwear. They are compatible with a wide range of outdoor activities, including:
Hiking and trekking on established trails
Backpacking trips (light to moderate loads)
Trail walking in varying weather conditions
Avoid using them for specialized activities like mountaineering or trail running, as they are optimized for hiking stability and protection rather than extreme agility or climbing.
To ensure the longevity and performance of your THE NORTH FACE Vectiv Exploris 2 FutureLight™ Leather hiking shoes:
Cleaning: After each use, brush off loose dirt and debris. For tougher grime, wipe the leather upper with a damp cloth. Use a specialized leather cleaner for hiking boots if necessary, following product instructions.
Drying: Allow shoes to air dry naturally at room temperature. Avoid direct heat sources (like radiators or hairdryers) as these can damage the leather and membrane.
Waterproofing Maintenance: Periodically reapply a leather-specific waterproofing treatment to the exterior to maintain its water repellency, especially after cleaning.
Storage: Store shoes in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Do not store them in sealed plastic bags, as this can trap moisture and promote mildew.
Leather Conditioning: Use a leather conditioner specifically designed for hiking boots to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. Apply sparingly and buff according to product instructions.