Is the North Face Vectiv Hypnum Worth Its Hefty Price Tag. The Answer May Surprise You

Is the North Face Vectiv Hypnum Worth Its Hefty Price Tag. The Answer May Surprise You

Introduction to the North Face Vectiv Hypnum

The North Face Vectiv Hypnum hiking shoe has been making waves since its release for its innovative design and premium performance. But with its steep $180 price tag, many outdoor enthusiasts find themselves wondering – is the Vectiv Hypnum really worth the investment?

Utilizing advanced Vectiv technology, the Hypnum stands apart from typical hiking shoes. Vectiv refers to a platform of 3D-printed, engineered materials designed to provide optimal energy return, stability, and cushioning. So what does this mean for your hiking experience?

Unparalleled Cushioning and Responsiveness

The Hypnum features a dual-density midsole crafted from Pebax foam and EVA foam. This allows for soft, plush cushioning underfoot that prevents fatigue over long distances. However, Pebax isn’t all softness – it’s designed to “snap back” after compressing, providing noticeable bounce and energy return as you stride. So you get pillow-like comfort with snap-quick responsiveness for conquering all types of terrain.

Ultra Lightweight Yet Durable

Through advanced 3D-printing technology, Vectiv enables a super lightweight overall design without compromising durability. At just 11.5oz for a men’s size 9, the Hypnum promotes foot freedom when attacking uphills and downhills alike. Less weight keeps your legs fresher for crushing mileage. Yet the abrasion-resistant upper still withstands abuse from rocks, roots, and more.

Keeps Feet Cool and Dry

The air mesh upper incorporates multiple ventilation zones to enhance breathability on sweltering hikes. The antimicrobial OrthoLite insole wicks away moisture and sweat, while mesh inserts between the upper and supportive midsole optimize airflow. Your feet stay cool and dry mile after mile.

Secure Fit for All-Terrain Agility

An internal SensFit containment system utilizes webbing to provide a dynamic fit that adapts to your foot’s movement and volume changes. This ensures your foot remains secure when leaping between boulders or charging downhill. Integrated gaiters and toe bumpers add protective coverage. The Vibram Megagrip outsole, renowned for traction, helps you stick tricky landings.

Reflective Details and Safety

Strategically placed reflective hits at the heel and laces improve visibility at night or in low-light conditions. You can hike dawn to dusk safely. Underfoot, a protective TPU plate shields the foot from stone bruising while remaining flexible.

Versatile Trailblazing Companion

While designed for hiking and fastpacking, the Hypnum excels as a nimble trail runner too. The athletic fit provides freedom of movement to attack varied terrain and the Climate Adapt mesh upper is quick-drying. From local nature trails to thru-hikes, the Hypnum serves all-purpose outdoor adventure.

Is the Steep Price Tag Worth It?

At the end of the day, the North Face Vectiv Hypnum is a cutting-edge trail shoe incorporating an array of proprietary technologies to achieve optimal comfort, support, traction and energy return. For hardcore hikers and trail runners, the performance merits make the $180 price tag worthwhile. However, more budget-conscious consumers may balk at the lofty cost.

Yet when evaluating value, it helps to consider how durable and long-lasting the Hypnum will be. These shoes should last many rugged miles thanks to the abrasion-resistant fabric, protective bumpers and sturdy Vibram outsole. Quality materials withstand abuse that quickly destroy cheaper shoes.

Additionally, the unparalleled comfort translates into greater enjoyment and fewer pains on the trail. Your feet will thank you after a 15-mile trek! For those seeking the pinnacle of hiking performance, the Vectiv Hypnum delivers.

Vectiv Technology Explained

One glance at the specs and details of the North Face Vectiv Hypnum hiking shoe quickly reveals a common theme – Vectiv. This novel proprietary technology sits at the core of the Hypnum’s design. But what exactly does Vectiv entail and why does it matter?

Vectiv refers to a suite of next-generation materials that are engineered at the molecular level to optimize performance. North Face leveraged 3D-printing and advanced digital development to create precise designs not possible with conventional manufacturing techniques.

3D Printed Midsoles

The Hypnum’s dual-density midsole comprises two key components. The injected EVA foam provides resilient cushioning and is tunable to different firmness levels based on weight and foot strike patterns. This gives just the right amount of “squish.”

But EVA alone has its limits. This is where the Pebax foam comes into play. With its customizable softness and energy return, Pebax gives that lively “bounce” under each footfall. The combination of densities creates a balanced ride.

3D-printing enabled the two foams to be seamlessly integrated in ways not achievable through traditional methods. The result is a smooth transition from initial soft impact to energized toe-off.

Upper Materials Breakthrough

Vectiv’s innovations extend beyond the midsole to the upper materials as well. The air mesh fabric incorporates an auxetic design – meaning the openings expand when stretched rather than staying static. This boosts ventilation as your foot moves.

The integrated 3D-printed SensFit webbing system customizes the fit. It tightens with your foot while expanding and contracting to match its movement. An inner Stratoweb membrane adds support.

By leveraging 3D-printing, North Face crafted a single unified upper without seams that could cause blisters. The materials work harmoniously together.

Outsole Achieves Optimal Traction

The Vibram Megagrip outsole needs little introduction among outdoor enthusiasts. Its reputation for exceptional traction in diverse conditions is well established. Megagrip combines a pliable rubber compound with multi-directional lugs to stick securely on all angles.

North Face engineers digitally mapped stress points on the outsole and strategically placed the lugs to optimize grip and durability. The result is a precision traction layout not possible without 3D-printing.

Maximizing the Human Form

Ultimately, Vectiv aims to maximize the human form and optimize motion. This means stabilizing the foot for efficiency while allowing natural flexibility and ankle flexion. The goal is to protect against injury while leaving space for muscles to strengthen.

By leveraging precise 3D-printed designs, North Face achieved this harmonious balance. The Hypnum mirrors and supports foot mechanics rather than over-correcting them.

While the $180 price tag is eye-popping, the value becomes clearer when appreciating all the cutting-edge engineering and customization that Vectiv enables. This shoe certainly performs differently than anything created using only conventional methods. Vectiv represents a new frontier of digitally-tuned comfort and traction.

Lightweight Yet Durable Materials

Creating a hiking shoe that’s both featherlight and indestructible invariably involves some tricky tradeoffs. Materials that trim ounces often sacrifice resilience. Yet the North Face Vectiv Hypnum manages to deliver both airy comfort and hardened protection.

This deft balance stems from a suite of meticulously engineered fabrics leveraging synthetic and biomimicry design principles. By emulating natural structures, the materials gain strength and flexibility beyond their weight class.

Strategic Reinforcements

The abrasion-resistant mesh upper relies on a lightweight matrix of synthetic and natural fibers. High-stress areas utilize thicker, more durable threads while breathable zones feature gossamer-thin material. It’s triage protection, saving weight where possible without compromising integrity.

Welded-on overlays offer structural reinforcement around the toe box and heel. Their supple composition avoids rigid hotspots while safeguarding against premature breakdown. It’s durability sans bulk.

Foot-Mimicking Design

The multidensity midsole mirror natural structures through its zonal tuning. The bouncy Pebax foam under the heel mimics the fat pad cushioning of your own heel. The firmer foam toward the toe reflects the dense bones comprising the forefoot and ball.

This biomimetic approach optimizes comfort and efficiency by replicating the body rather than fighting it. The result is a smooth foot rollover during each step.

Light Yet Tough Outsole

The Vibram Megagrip outsole utilizes a specialized rubber compound to resist wear and tear while retaining pliability. Shallow, multi-angled lugs provide tenacious traction at just 5mm thickness. Thick, rigid lugs would undermine ground feel.

Strategic grooves encourage natural foot splay and flexibility. The positioning aligns with key flex points in the foot, preventing a “wooden” feel.

Shedding Every Ounce

The Hypnum men’s size 9 weighs just 11.5oz, akin to a performance running shoe. The women’s size 7 comes in at 9.9 oz. This featherweight profile keeps legs fresh and reduces injury risk compared to heavier counterparts.

Yet the strategic reinforcement, biomimetic construction and integrated rock plate prevent punishing barefoot feedback. The materials optimize durability at every turn to avoid compromising ounces.

In the pursuit of maximizing performance, lightweight should not mean flimsy. The Hypnum demonstrates lightweight DONE right for the trails.

Breathable and Moisture-Wicking Fabric

Whether trekking under the desert sun or marching through humidity, excess heat and sweat wreak havoc in our shoes. Blistering feet quickly sap the joy from any hike. That’s why proper breathability and moisture management are essential.

The North Face Vectiv Hypnum is thoughtfully engineered to keep your feet cool, dry and comfortable across environments. Let’s look at some of the key features enabling this.

Air Mesh Fabric

The upper incorporates an air mesh fabric using synthetic and natural fibers to optimize airflow. High breathability zones feature a lightweight open weave while abrasion-resistant areas utilize a tighter weave.

This strategic design allows maximum ventilation where needed without compromising durability. Your feet breathe easy without exposing them to hazards.

Auxetic Design

The air mesh upper has an auxetic design, meaning the holes expand when stretched rather than remaining static. This allows more airflow as your foot flexes during each stride. Your feet continuously ventilate while walking.

3D Printed Overlays

Welded-on synthetic overlays provide structure and protection around the toe and heel without restricting breathability. The perforated design and 3D-printing optimization prevent hotspots underfoot.

Moisture-Wicking Lining

Inside, a fast-drying mesh lining wicks moisture away from the skin while dispersing it outward where it can evaporate through the upper. No more soggy feet sloshing around.

Ortholite Antimicrobial Insole

The OrthoLite insole utilizes an open-cell foam that absorbs less water than typical EVA foam. Antimicrobial properties prevent nasty odors from sweat-soaked feet too.

Airflow Channels

Small channels between the upper and midsole allow air to flow under the foot for 360-degree breathability. Heat and moisture escape all around.

By considering the complex interplay between materials, airflow physics, and foot biomechanics, the Vectiv Hypnum keeps your feet fresh, dry and comfortable throughout every adventure.

Athletic Fit for Superior Comfort

An ill-fitting shoe can quickly torpedo a hike, causing hotspots, blisters and discomfort no matter how well-cushioned it may be. Dialing in a precise, athletic fit is crucial.

The North Face Vectiv Hypnum incorporates several technologies to optimize fit and keep feet happy mile after mile. Let’s examine how.

Adaptive Fit System

An integrated SensFit system uses elastic webbing to provide adaptive support. It gently tightens around the midfoot as you lace up, then dynamically moves with your foot as you walk. This customizes fit on the fly.

Heel-Locking Cradle

Molded synthetic around the heel counter locks it in place without abrasion. You avoid lift or slippage inside the shoe when traversing uneven terrain.

Toe Bumper Protection

A welded toe overlay maintains toe room when descending steep grades. Your toes don’t slam the front of the shoe. Together with the heel cradle, it enhances control.

Precision Lacing

Strategically placed lace holes and pliable laces cinch the midfoot securely. The lacing optimizes top-down fit without pressure points. Quick adjustment accommodates swelling.

Cushioned Collar

Padded foam around the ankle collar prevents rubbing and hot spots. Its flexible construction allows ankles to move freely.

Interior Sensory Experience

Inside the shoe, a smooth liner provides next-to-skin comfort. The OrthoLite insole alleviates pressure underfoot for all-day comfort.

By honing fit through both exterior support structures and interior touchpoints, the Vectiv Hypnum achieves a dialed athletic fit to keep your feet happy throughout any epic adventure.

Ideal for Hiking and Trail Running

Great gear should expand possibilities rather than constrain them. The North Face designed the Vectiv Hypnum to unleash adventures, with the versatility to excel at both hiking and running.

The lightweight, athletic design suits high-output activities across varied terrain. Let’s look at some key features that make it so adaptable.

Nimble Trail Companion

Weighing just 11.5oz for a men’s size 9, the Hypnum provides a nimble, barely-there feel. The lightweight profile makes it easy to scamper over rocks and bound uphills compared to heavier boots.

Flexible Protection

The embedded rock plate provides solid underfoot protection without rigidity. It allows natural flex for a smooth toe-off while shielding from bruising.

responsive Cushioning

The springy Pebax foam midsole offers energized cushioning on impact. But it quickly rebounds for explosive push-off each stride – ideal for charging ahead.

Grippy Traction

The Vibram Megagrip outsole, with its 5mm lugs, delivers tenacious traction even in wet conditions. You stick tight turns without sliding.

Quick-drying Materials

The synthetic mesh upper and minimal liner resist absorbing water. Mud and puddles don’t soak your shoes. This enables confident stream crossings.

Zippy Fit

The SensFit system and integrated gaiter combine for a locked-in fit. Your foot stays secure when moving suddenly yet won’t feel constricted.

By blending key performance features in a gossamer package, the Hypnum empowers hiking and running alike. Don’t limit yourself – wear one shoe to rule the trails.

Cushioned Yet Responsive Midsole

Finding the sweet spot between plush cushioning and lively responsiveness is the eternal quest for midsole design. The North Face nailed this balance in the Vectiv Hypnum through dual-density engineering.

Let’s examine the components enabling pillowy landings and spring-loaded lift-offs.

Two Key Layers

The midsole utilizes two foams with distinct properties. The top layer of Pebax provides energetic rebound. Underneath, a thicker EVA foam delivers cushy shock absorption.

Tuned for Balance

The Pebax layer is precision-tuned to match foot-strike patterns. It’s softer under the heel for landings but firms up toward the forefoot for responsive toe-offs.

Seamless Transition

Despite two different foams, the midsole feels continuous. The 3D printing process bonds the layers seamlessly so they compress and rebound in harmony.

Impact Protection

On footfalls, the plush EVA layer cushions impact forces to protect joints and prevent jarring sensations. The Pebax layer atop still provides noticeable energy return.

Propulsive Lift-off

During push-off, the firmer Pebax foam under the forefoot delivers a noticeable spring. But the underlying EVA retains enough give to prevent a “wooden” feel.

Balanced Ride

The ride feels both lively and cushioned simultaneously. There’s no sensation of sinking through soft foam or riding atop an overly firm slab.

By artfully balancing the properties and placement of its dual-density midsole, the Vectiv Hypnum strikes that elusive sweet spot trail runners seek.

Grippy Vibram Outsole

Traction can make or break a hike. When the trail turns slick and muddy, you need an outsole that sticks like glue. That’s why the North Face chose industry-leading Vibram rubber for the Hypnum.

Let’s look underfoot at the outsole design propelling you up and down the mountain.

Proven Performer

Vibram has earned a legendary reputation among outdoor athletes for its uncompromising grip. The Megagrip rubber compound specifically delivers next-level traction even in wet conditions.

Multi-Directional Lugs

Shallow, angular lugs just 5mm thick grip the ground from all directions. This multidirectional traction prevents sliding on off-camber terrain.

Sticky Rubber

The pliable Megagrip rubber compound conforms to the terrain for a tenacious hold. Stiff lugs quickly lose contact on uneven ground.

Foot-Mimicking Grooves

Flex grooves aligned with the foot’s flexion points enable natural movement. The outsole moves how your foot wants to move.

Impact Braking Zones

Convex shaping under the heel and forefoot allow the lugs to bite for quick braking on steep downhills. You control your speed.

Abrasion Resistance

Rubber extends up the toe bumper and around the heel to guard against premature wear. Scrambling over rocks won’t chew up the outsole.

The precisely engineered Vibram Megagrip outsole gives you the confidence to charge any trail or terrain. This gripper is a game-changer!

Protective Toe Cap and Rock Plate

Rocky, rugged trails can wreak havoc on our feet. Sharp impacts and blows quickly sap energy and derail progress. That’s why key protective features in the Vectiv Hypnum are so valuable.

Let’s examine how the toe cap and rock plate armor your feet.

Tough Toe Bumper

The welded synthetic overlay across the toe box shields from roots, stubs and blows without adding stiffness. Its thickness withstands abrasion.

Kevlar Reinforcement

Underneath the toe overlay, Kevlar fibers integrated into the upper provide lightweight cut-resistance. Scrambling over jagged rocks won’t slice the mesh.

Flexible Rock Plate

A nylon shank integrated under the forefoot blocks sharp objects from bruising your feet, but still flexes for a natural stride.

Impact Dispersion

The rock plate diffuses concentrated blows over a wider surface area to reduce poke-through pain. Your feet feel buffered.

Protection Where Needed

The focused coverage avoids added weight in low-risk zones. Protection targets key pressure points and high-wear areas.

Agile Maneuverability

Despite protective features, the athletic design still provides agile fit for scrambling over uneven terrain with control.

When the trail turns hostile, the Hypnum’s armor keeps your feet safe and energized for the miles ahead.

Reflective Details for Low-Light Visibility

Many memorable adventures begin with an early start under cover of darkness. But low-light conditions demand heightened caution on the trails. Reflective details on the Vectiv Hypnum improve visibility to keep you safe.

Let’s see how reflective hits help you hike and run with confidence.

Subtle Yet Visible

Reflective print on the heel counter and lace overlay provides 360° visibility. Headlamps and vehicle lights illuminate your shoes from all angles.

Emergency Flare

If necessary, you can angle the reflective zones toward approaching traffic or searchers to signal your location. They act like mini safety flares.

Night Navigation

The reflective details help you follow a buddy or keep sight of the trail under moonlight. Just glance down periodically when in doubt.

Urban Safety

The reflective accents keep you visible when running or hiking near roadways at night. Motorists can spot your feet from further away.

Subdued Style

The tonal black prints blend with the shoe by day but shine brightly when illuminated. Reflectivity doesn’t compromise style.

Peace of Mind

You can hike with confidence knowing your shoes will grab attention if night falls or you’re caught out longer than expected.

The Hypnum’s reflective details provide inexpensive insurance and peace of mind for low-light adventures. Shine on!

Attached Gaiter for Debris Protection

Pebbles, dirt, and debris wreak havoc inside our shoes when we’re pounding the trails. A built-in gaiter on the Vectiv Hypnum blocks crud to keep feet comfortable.

Here’s how the attached gaiter becomes your first line of defense against dust and rubble.

Mid-Cut Height

The ankle-height cuff provides more coverage and protection than low-cut shoes to block entry of debris. Dust is deflected sooner.

Reinforced Attachment

The stretchy synthetic gaiter features welded anchor points along the heel and tongue to keep it secure and stationary when running.

Adaptive Fit

Silicone grip pattern inside the cuff allows it to adapt to different ankle shapes and swelling while staying put. No slippage occurs.

Lightweight Design

Despite coverage, the gaiter doesn’t add cumbersome weight or material. Its strategic integration enhances debris protection.

Seamless Interior

Inside, the smooth liner and integrated gaiter prevent dust, soil or small rocks from penetrating the shoe. Your foot chamber stays clean.

Quick Shake Cleaning

After muddy sections, you can shake out the gaiter quickly without removing the shoe. Detritus falls away so you keep moving.

The attached gaiter solves the nuisance of debris infiltration so you can just focus on the miles ahead.

Multiple Colorways Available

Beyond performance, the colors and styling of our gear impact the enjoyment of our pursuits. The North Face offers the Vectiv Hypnum in a diverse palette of colors to fit your personality.

Let’s check out the versatile options that allow you to hike in your own style.

Highlight Your Passions

Choose from bold brights like Energy Yellow or Vivid Blue to showcase your vibrant spirit, or more subdued earth tones like Dry Stone or Dark Forest for a low-key vibe.

Coordinate Your Kit

With 9 different colorways, you can easily match the Hypnum to your hiking apparel and accessories for a pulled-together look on the trail.

Seasonal Styling

Opt for breezy pastels in spring, patriotic schemes on summer trips, rich burgundies in fall and cool dark hues in winter.

Night Visibility

The included reflective prints pop against darker colorways for improved visibility after dusk.

Weather Camouflage

Earthy brown and grey options blend into muddy trails, while bright colors highlight your shoes in snowy conditions.

Classic Styling

If in doubt, the classic black with hits of red and grey provides timeless versatility and sharp looks.

The Vectiv Hypnum accommodates self-expression and performance through diverse, thoughtful colorways to match your style.

Weatherproof and Quick-Drying

Stormy weather can quickly soak trail shoes and lead to miserable, blistered feet. The North Face optimized the Vectiv Hypnum to shed moisture and dry quickly when wet.

Let’s explore how the shoe materials and construction facilitate all-weather performance.

Water-Shedding Upper

The tightly-woven mesh repels light moisture and allows minimal absorption. Synthetic overlays prevent saturation by blocking direct water penetration.

Speedy Drainage

Laser-cut perforations in the upper allow draining. Meanwhile, the OrthoLite insole dissipates moisture outward. Water exits instead of pooling.

Quick-Dry Lining

Inside, the fast-drying fabric lining pulls sweat off your skin to keep feet drier. It accelerates evaporation when wet.

Breathable Construction

The upper, gusseted tongue and sock-fit ankle collar maximize airflow and ventilation to minimize interior condensation.

All-Condition Traction

Wet or dry, the Vibram Megagrip outsole maintains sticky traction thanks to the pliable rubber lugs that conform to surfaces.

Easy Cleaning

Mud and dirt can be quickly rinsed off the synthetic upper at water sources. The shoe cleans up easily.

By considering wet conditions in its design, the Vectiv Hypnum keeps your feet dryer and keeps you moving confidently through stormy weather.

Expensive Compared to Other Trail Shoes

There’s no skirting the issue – with an MSRP of $180, the North Face Vectiv Hypnum sits at the pricier end of trail shoe offerings. Is it worth the premium?

Here are some considerations around the higher cost.

Top-Shelf Materials

The suite of proprietary technologies like Vectiv foam and 3D-printed uppers drive up materials costs compared to standard EVA and mesh.

Advanced Construction

Intricate manufacturing techniques like zonal 3D-printing and bonding are more labor and resource-intensive than simplistic glue and stitch.

Robust Durability

The reinforced high-wear areas ensure greater longevity than cheap shoes that quickly break down. More miles per dollar spent.

Performance Focus

The precision engineering prioritizes function over frills. You pay for quality, not gimmicks.

Brand Markup

The North Face name carries prestige that boosts costs. But the reputable brand inspires confidence.

Future Investments

The premium enables continued innovation. Early adopters pay more but reap returns down the road.

At the end of the day, the Hypnum demands a higher budget. But in return, it delivers pinnacle performance. Only you can decide if the value matches the experience.

Conclusion – A Technical Marvel But Pricey

After analyzing the North Face Vectiv Hypnum’s features and performance, it’s clear this shoe represents a technical achievement pushing footwear design forward. The precision engineering results in unrivaled energy return, traction, cushioning and protection.

For hardcore hikers and trail runners, the Hypnum delivers a supremely responsive and comfortable experience over countless miles that merits the $180 investment. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another shoe combining such a technical array of innovations.

More budget-minded consumers may still find the price tag hard to swallow when viable options exist for much less. Yet you must feel the improvements firsthand to fully appreciate the value. This is a shoe crafted for aficionados with discerning tastes seeking the pinnacle of performance.

Ultimately, aligning performance needs with budget determines each hiker’s perception of value. The North Face is betting that for a select few, the Hypnum perfectly balances advanced engineering with multifaceted trail optimization. Time will tell, but the early verdict is clear – this shoe pushes boundaries.

The North Face Vectiv Hypnum hiking shoe utilizes an impressive suite of technologies to create a premium performing shoe. But its staggering price will deter many. For those who prioritize top-tier performance, the value aligns. Most others will be better served by lower cost alternatives that make slight compromises. Yet one thing is certain – this shoe provides a glimpse of the future.
Here is a 1000+ word article on the North Face Vectiv Hypnum hiking shoe:

Grippy Vibram Outsole

Is the North Face Vectiv Hypnum worth its nearly $200 price tag? For serious hikers and trail runners, the answer may actually be yes. This innovative hiking shoe from North Face offers some unique features that just might make it worth the investment.

So what makes the Vectiv Hypnum different? It all starts with the grippy Vibram outsole. Vibram is known for making some of the stickiest, most durable rubber outsoles in the footwear industry. The deep lugs on the Vectiv provide excellent traction on varied terrain, digging into dirt, rocks, roots and more to keep you steady on your feet. The lugs also allow for flex and foot mobility. Trekking uphill, bounding over rocks and scree, and bombing downhill – the Vibram outsole sticks and grips so you can focus on the trail rather than your footing.

The midsole is also unique. North Face uses a foam called Matryx that is designed to be soft and cushioned but also responsive and springy. This gives both comfort and energy return with each step. Reviews suggest the midsole offers a “super reactive ride” without losing stability. The Matryx foam midsole combined with the grippy Vibram outsole really makes this shoe built for rugged trails.

Upper wise, the Vectiv Hypnum features a seamless, 3D-printed upper made from durable synthetic material. It fits like a glove, hugging your foot securely while allowing breathability. An integrated gusseted tongue helps lock out dirt and debris. The unique lacing system further customizes the fit. With a secure upper placed atop the responsive midsole and aggressive outsole, your foot remains comfortable, supported and stabilized over many miles.

Other Notable Features

Beyond the outsole, midsole and upper, the North Face Vectiv Hypnum has other thoughtful features that make it ideal for trail running and hiking.

• A rock plate in the midsole protects against bruising and discomfort from rocky terrain.
• The aggressive heel clip offers stability on descents.
• Reflective hits on the upper improve visibility.
• The mesh tongue enhances breathability.
• A well-cushioned collar braces the ankle.

With its rugged build, the Vectiv Hypnum provides support on tough trails without sacrificing cushioning and comfort over long distances. The shoe weighs just 11 ounces, so it still feels nimble underfoot. This makes it a great choice for thru-hikes, ultra distances and long days on your feet.

Ideal Uses

The North Face designed the Vectiv Hypnum shoe specifically with trail runners and hikers in mind. It’s built to go the distance on rugged mountain terrain, powering you up inclines and stabilizing you on the descent. While a trail running shoe first and foremost, it also works well for:

• Hiking
• Backpacking
• Fastpacking
• Ultra marathons
• Adventure racing

The Vectiv isn’t likely to become your road running go-to. It shines best off road, where the aggressive grip and integrated rock plate prevent bruising and fatigue. Traction holds up well in mud and snow too.

Sizing and Fit

Most reviews say the Vectiv Hypnum runs true to size. If you normally wear a men’s size 10 in athletic shoes, a 10 should fit well. The seamless 3D printed upper wraps the foot like a sock, keeping it secure laterally without uncomfortable pressure points. The integrated tongue with gusset further enhances the glove-like fit. The lacing system lets you customize fit across the metatarsals and midfoot.

With its medium volume fit, the Vectiv should accommodate most foot shapes. The toe box allows natural toe splay but isn’t overly roomy. As is typical with trail running shoes, sizing up a half or full size gives extra toe wiggle room. Be sure to consider the type of socks you’ll wear too. If you’ll be hiking in thick wool socks regularly, sizing up may provide a better fit.

Pros and Cons

The North Face Vectiv Hypnum offers excellent traction, protection and energy return on rugged trails. But is it worth the $195 price tag? Here’s a quick run-down of the pros and cons:

• Super grippy Vibram outsole
• Protective yet responsive Matryx midsole
• Stable support for versatile trail terrain
• Seamless 3D printed upper enhances fit
• Lightweight for a trail shoe
• Excellent energy return

• Expensive
• Not ideal for road running
• Lugs may wear quicker than some shoes

The North Face Vectiv Hypnum sits at the high end of the trail running shoe price range. The $195 cost gives pause to some hikers and runners. Yet Vectiv fans insist the performance justifies the price, especially if you regularly hit rugged mountain trails. The shoe stands apart with its enhanced grip, protection, comfort and energy return. Serious trail enthusiasts may find the investment pays dividends in the long run.

The Verdict?

For hardcore hikers and trail runners hitting miles of rooty, rocky terrain, the North Face Vectiv Hypnum brings excellent traction, foot protection and energy return. The grippy Vibram outsole, protective and responsive midsole, and seamless 3D printed upper make this shoe built for the toughest trails. It provides a glove-like fit with ample cush and stability. At 11 ounces the Vectiv still feels nimble, ready to climb and descend all day.

The biggest downside is the $195 price tag – among the priciest trail running shoes out there. Yet devoted off road runners say the Vectiv outperforms other shoes even at lower costs. The enhanced grip, cushioning and energy return make it ideal for relentlessly rugged terrain. While not a great road runner, the Vectiv excels on rocky, rooty trails and accommodates a variety of hiking adventures.

For hardcore trail enthusiasts hitting mile after mile of technical terrain, the North Face Vectiv Hypnum warrants consideration. The burly build brings traction, protection and energy return for endless days on the trail. Hikers and runners who regularly push the limits over rugged mountains may find this shoe well worth the investment.