This guide helps hikers and outdoor enthusiasts understand and optimize their use of The North Face VECTIV EXPLORIS 2 FUTURELIGHT LTH shoes. Designed for rugged trails, these shoes offer exceptional comfort, waterproof protection, and stability, though proper care is essential to maintain their leather upper.
FUTURELIGHT™ Membrane: Offers advanced waterproof protection while remaining breathable, keeping your feet dry and comfortable in various conditions.
TPU Plate: Integrated for enhanced stability and protection against uneven terrain, reducing foot fatigue.
Premium EVA Foam & Ultralight Midsole: Provides superior cushioning and support, ensuring exceptional comfort during long hikes.
Surface CTRL™ Rubber Outsole: Engineered for optimal durability and traction in high-wear areas, offering reliable grip on diverse surfaces.
Nubuck Leather Upper: A durable and stylish material that contributes to the shoe's longevity and protective qualities.
Rocker Midsole Design: Promotes efficient forward propulsion, aiding in a smoother and more energetic stride.
Heel and Forefoot Fork: Designed to enhance support and stability, particularly on technical trails.
Breathable Design: Despite being waterproof, the construction allows air circulation to prevent overheating and moisture buildup inside the shoe.
Excellent waterproof protection with breathability
Superior stability and support for rugged terrain
High level of comfort for extended wear
Durable construction for long-lasting use
Optimized for efficient forward movement
Fits true to size, simplifying purchase
Leather material requires specific cleaning and care
Potentially heavier than full-synthetic trail shoe alternatives
May require a short break-in period for optimal comfort
Info needed: Specific temperature ratings for extreme cold/heat not provided
Info needed: Not ideal for highly technical climbing sections due to overall bulk
Excellent waterproof protection with breathability
Superior stability and support for rugged terrain
High level of comfort for extended wear
Durable construction for long-lasting use
Optimized for efficient forward movement
Fits true to size, simplifying purchase
Leather material requires specific cleaning and care
Potentially heavier than full-synthetic trail shoe alternatives
May require a short break-in period for optimal comfort
Info needed: Specific temperature ratings for extreme cold/heat not provided
Info needed: Not ideal for highly technical climbing sections due to overall bulk
The North Face VECTIV EXPLORIS 2 FUTURELIGHT LTH shoes are engineered for sustained performance on varied outdoor terrain. The FUTURELIGHT™ membrane ensures your feet remain dry during wet trail conditions, from unexpected rain showers to shallow stream crossings, without sacrificing breathability. This makes them suitable for multi-day treks or day hikes where weather can be unpredictable. The TPU plate and rocker midsole work in conjunction to provide a stable platform and propel you forward, reducing muscle fatigue on longer distances. For example, during a descent on a rocky path, the TPU plate offers underfoot protection and stability, while the Surface CTRL™ rubber outsole maintains reliable grip on loose gravel or slick surfaces. The premium EVA foam and ultralight midsole deliver consistent cushioning, making these shoes a comfortable choice for all-day adventures where comfort is paramount. They excel on established trails, forest paths, and moderately technical mountain trails. Their durable nubuck leather construction also makes them robust against abrasions from trail debris.
The VECTIV EXPLORIS 2 FUTURELIGHT LTH are ready to wear right out of the box. Simply lace them up to your preferred comfort and security. As they feature a leather upper, a brief break-in period may be beneficial to allow the material to conform to your foot shape for optimal comfort.
These shoes are primarily designed for hiking, trekking, and trail walking. Their waterproof and stable design makes them ideal for varied terrain, including:
Forest trails
Rocky paths
Muddy conditions
Moderate mountain trails
They are suitable for adults and fit true to size. They are not specifically designed for running, though the rocker sole aids efficient movement.
To ensure the longevity and performance of your VECTIV EXPLORIS 2 FUTURELIGHT LTH shoes:
Cleaning: Clean the nubuck leather upper with a damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes, which can damage the leather and the FUTURELIGHT™ membrane. For stubborn dirt, use a specialized nubuck cleaner.
Drying: After use, especially if wet, allow the shoes to air dry naturally at room temperature. Remove insoles to aid drying. Avoid direct heat sources like radiators or direct sunlight, which can dry out and crack the leather.
Storage: Store shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Waterproofing Maintenance: While the FUTURELIGHT™ membrane provides lasting waterproofness, keeping the outer leather treated with a suitable waterproof spray for nubuck leather can help prevent the leather from absorbing water, which maintains breathability and overall shoe performance. Apply as directed by the product manufacturer, typically after cleaning and drying.