Articles

The Amazing Features of The North Face's Latest Trail Running Shoes, "VECTIV 3.0"

2025.05.02

THE NORTH FACE offers a series of trail running shoes called "VECTIV" designed with the concept of supporting runners to run faster and farther, maximizing their performance. The name "VECTIV" is a coined term combining Velocity and Effective.

First introduced in 2021, the series has now evolved to "VECTIV 3.0" (with VECTIV 2.0 coming out in 2023).Three models have been released: "Summit VECTIV Pro 3," "Summit VECTIV Sky 2," and "VECTIV Enduris 4." What are the characteristics of each model?

Achieving Superior Propulsion & Comfort Compared to Previous Models

"VECTIV 3.0" builds upon two generations of development, referencing feedback from athletes and users around the world. Through repeated testing and improvements, the shoe has reached completion. Tests were conducted with The North Face's athlete team in various terrains and conditions worldwide.

"We are always focused on enhancing the performance of runners. The completion of these shoes, following numerous field tests with top athletes around the globe, is a distinctive feature and appeal of VECTIV 3.0," said Makiko Nakamura from The North Face Marketing Department at Goldwin.

So, how does "VECTIV 3.0" differ significantly from its predecessor "VECTIV"?

"All three models have different update points (such as weight reduction, depth of lugs, and midsole thickness), but they've adopted a multi-layer structural sole unit that converts landing impact into propulsion, maximizing the performance of runners.

"In particular, the incorporation of a nitrogen-infused ultra-light DREAM foam midsole with a 3D-structured plate, as well as its rocker construction that generates high propulsion, shows evolution far beyond the original VECTIV, resulting in higher rebound and exceptional comfort."

VECTIV 3.0 features ultra-light DREAM foam and a 3D-structured plate. The image shows the flagship model "Summit VECTIV Pro 3"

Flagship Model Featuring a 5-Layer Structural Sole Unit

Let's check the update points for each model, starting with the flagship model "Summit VECTIV Pro 3."

"The Summit VECTIV Pro is a long-distance shoe designed for use in 100-mile races, targeting top athletes and core runners."

Developed for comfortably overcoming long-distance races, the "Summit VECTIV Pro 3" offers high propulsion as a major appeal. Priced at 33,000 yen (tax included)

The stack height (sole thickness) is 33mm at the forefoot and 39mm at the heel, which is an increase of 7mm from the previous model. The sole unit features a 5-layer structure with two plates integrated. The top plate is made of a blend of carbon and TPU, shaped like wings to enhance stability primarily on soft foam.

The carbon plate located at the bottom, sandwiched by DREAM foam, is highly rigid, contributing to propulsion. If there is a plate that enhances elasticity positioned closer to the foot, one may feel stiffness in the latter stages of long races. This structure was created to allow runners to maintain propulsion comfortably throughout long-distance races.

The outsole rubber utilizes The North Face's unique Surface Control material, just like in the previous model. While the lug height remains at 3.5mm, the shape has been updated, and the number of lugs has increased, providing a more grip-friendly design.

The sole unit of the "Summit VECTIV Pro 3" features a 5-layer structure with a 10mm thick DREAM foam embedded between the two plates to enhance elasticity and cushioning.

"Summit VECTIV Sky 2" Suitable for Short & Middle Distances

"The 'Summit VECTIV Sky 2' has been designed to be lighter and features deeper lugs, making it a higher grip model compared to its predecessor. Originally aimed at VERTICAL races (type of race that ascends to the mountain summit), it is well suited for runners focusing on speed in short distances.

"Moreover, this model's high comfort has led to an increase in its purchase for middle-distance races. The North Face athletes also prefer this model for both short and middle distances."

Suitable for short to middle distances. A lightweight trail running shoe focused on speed. "Summit VECTIV Sky 2." 29,700 yen (tax included)

Weighing about 30g lighter than its predecessor at approximately 240g (for size 27.0cm). Despite being lighter, the stack height is 6mm thicker than before, with a forefoot of 23mm and a heel of 27mm, greatly improving cushioning and responsiveness. The lugs on the outsole are now 1.5mm higher than the previous model, reaching 5mm.

"VECTIV Enduris 4," the Most Versatile in the Series

"The 'VECTIV Enduris 4' is a versatile model that caters to a wide range of runners, from entry-level users just starting trail running to those participating in ultra-trail races."

Attractive balance suited for runners aiming to finish long-distance races. "VECTIV Enduris 4," 24,200 yen (tax included)

This model is equipped with a balanced set of features required for trail running shoes, using DREAM foam in the midsole and incorporating a 3D-structured TPU plate. The stack height has increased by 4mm compared to the previous model, enhancing cushioning and responsiveness. To improve stability, the shape of the plate has also been modified to maintain balance.

"VECTIV 3.0" has attracted attention from many trail runners. It is currently available for rental at "MT.TAKAO BASE CAMP" (Hachioji City, Tokyo). If you want to test the feel of running in an actual field, be sure to visit.

PROFILE

Makiko Nakamura

Goldwin Inc.
THE NORTH FACE Marketing Department

Text by Fumihito Kouzu