Designed for adventurers who demand speed and protection on the trails, The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight Track Shoe combines durable construction with advanced waterproofing. This guide will help you maximize your experience, whether you're tackling fast-paced hikes or light trail running, ensuring a secure and dry journey. Be aware that while highly breathable, its waterproof nature may offer a slightly different feel than non-waterproof, highly ventilated alternatives in extreme heat.
Abrasion-Resistant Performance-Mesh Upper: Provides robust durability against trail debris and snags, ensuring the shoe withstands rugged conditions.
Breathable-Waterproof FUTURELIGHT Membrane: Offers a critical barrier against water while allowing vapor to escape, keeping your feet dry and comfortable in wet environments.
Double-Punched Eye Row: Allows for precise and fine-tuned lacing adjustments, ensuring a secure, custom fit that minimizes movement within the shoe.
Molded Lycra Collar: Enhances ankle comfort and provides a snug, supportive fit around the entry point, preventing debris from entering.
Protective Molded-TPU Toe Cap and No-Sew Mudguard: Delivers essential protection against impacts and abrasions from rocks and roots, while the mudguard prevents mud and dirt accumulation.
Exceptional Waterproofing: The FUTURELIGHT membrane keeps feet dry in wet conditions.
High Durability: Abrasion-resistant upper and protective elements ensure longevity on tough trails.
Secure, Customizable Fit: The lacing system and molded collar provide excellent foot hold.
Enhanced Trail Protection: Molded toe cap and mudguard shield against common trail hazards.
Comfortable for Fast-Paced Activities: Designed for agility and comfort during quicker movements.
Relative Breathability: While FUTURELIGHT is breathable, it may offer less airflow compared to non-waterproof, highly ventilated shoes in very hot, dry climates.
Specialized Use: Primarily designed for fast-paced hiking and trail running; may not be optimal for casual urban wear or extreme technical mountaineering.
Exceptional Waterproofing: The FUTURELIGHT membrane keeps feet dry in wet conditions.
High Durability: Abrasion-resistant upper and protective elements ensure longevity on tough trails.
Secure, Customizable Fit: The lacing system and molded collar provide excellent foot hold.
Enhanced Trail Protection: Molded toe cap and mudguard shield against common trail hazards.
Comfortable for Fast-Paced Activities: Designed for agility and comfort during quicker movements.
Relative Breathability: While FUTURELIGHT is breathable, it may offer less airflow compared to non-waterproof, highly ventilated shoes in very hot, dry climates.
Specialized Use: Primarily designed for fast-paced hiking and trail running; may not be optimal for casual urban wear or extreme technical mountaineering.
These shoes are engineered for those who move quickly and confidently across varied terrain. The Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight excels in conditions where moisture is present, such as dewy mornings, muddy trails, or light rain, thanks to its breathable-waterproof FUTURELIGHT membrane. The abrasion-resistant mesh upper and protective toe cap make them ideal for rocky paths and technical singletrack, shielding your feet from impacts and sharp edges.
Fast-Paced Hiking: The 'Fastpack' designation indicates suitability for moving efficiently over longer distances, supporting lightweight packing.
Light Trail Running: While not a dedicated racing flat, the shoe's design provides the agility and protection needed for moderate trail runs.
Mixed Weather Conditions: Perform reliably in changing weather, keeping feet dry without causing excessive overheating, especially important during shoulder seasons.
Varied Terrain: From dirt paths to gravel roads and rocky trails, the shoe offers stable footing and protection. Ensure your foot is securely laced using the double-punched eye row to prevent slippage on descents or uneven ground.
Lacing: Utilize the double-punched eye row to achieve a customized and secure fit. Start lacing from the toe, ensuring even tension throughout. Experiment with different lacing techniques to find what offers the most comfort and security for your foot shape and activity.
Break-In: Like most performance footwear, a short break-in period is recommended. Wear them for shorter walks or hikes before tackling longer excursions to allow the shoe to conform to your foot.
Activities: Ideal for fast hiking, trail walking, light trail running, and general outdoor pursuits where waterproof protection and durability are key.
Socks: Pair with moisture-wicking synthetic or merino wool socks to enhance comfort and prevent blisters, especially important with waterproof footwear.
Cleaning: After use, remove loose dirt and debris with a soft brush. For stubborn mud, use a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh detergents, which can compromise the FUTURELIGHT membrane.
Drying: Allow shoes to air dry naturally at room temperature. Remove insoles and loosen laces to facilitate airflow. Do not expose them to direct heat sources like radiators or direct sunlight, as this can damage materials.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Ensure they are completely dry before storing to prevent odor and mildew.
Waterproofing Renewal: Over time, the shoe's outer DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish may wear off. You can restore this with a spray-on or wash-in DWR treatment specifically designed for breathable waterproof footwear.