The North Face Summit Vectiv Pro 2 Review
Published: February 12, 2024
Runs like a DREAM
Likes
- Bouncy midsole feels great on trail and road
- Breathable and secure upper
- Lots of cushion for longer runs or ultra distance races
Dislikes
- Toebox could be a little wider
- Price point is high
What's New
The North Face VECTIV Pro was an immediate RW staff favorite when it was released last year so needless to say, we were excited to get the VECTIV Pro 2 on feet for some testing miles. With the same tooling in the midsole, the underfoot experience is still fantastic thanks to the lovely combination of the DREAM foam midsole and the innovative winged carbon fiber plate.
But this year's version features an all-new upper made up of high tenacity yarns that helps reduce the overall weight of the shoe by 10 grams and the internal booty adds protection against debris without compromising breathability. Even though we see only minor changes with this update, it's still exciting to see improvement in a shoe that already contains top notch features.
The Bottom Line
The results are in and we're happy to report that there will be no sophomore slump for TNF VECTIV Pro 2! The ride of this shoe remains a DREAM thanks to the bouncy and energetic midsole foam that's comprised of a PEBA and High-Rebound EVA blend. Our tester loved the experience in this shoe no matter the terrain or or challenges thrown their way. From the trails to the road and especially while uphill climbing, our tester lauded the energetic ride of the VECTIV Pro 2.
However, as much as our tester loved running in this shoe, she does feel it is best used for races under 50 miles due to the stiff wings of the carbon fiber plate in the forefoot that might cause discomfort for some after several hours. Moreover, even though it keeps the same $250 price point as version 1, the VECTIV Pro 2 continues to be on the high end of trail racing shoes and that might prevent runners from being able to experience the awesome ride it has to offer.
But overall, TNF VECTIV Pro 2 remains a top of the line option for trail runners looking for a fun, protective, and versatile carbon-plated trail racing shoe.
Specifications & Fit
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 9.7 oz (size 9) | Women's: Coming Soon (size 8) |
| Stack Height | 32 mm (Heel), 26 mm (Forefoot) | 6 mm Heel-Toe Offset |
| Terrain | Trail |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | True to Size |
Our In-Depth Look
Upper
Becky: The upper materials are comfortable and breathable, although some debris can get in more easily than I would like. The fit is secure, even on more technical or uneven terrain. The toebox could be widened, or placement of the carbon wings in a different spot to avoid possible irritation.
Midsole
Becky: The foam feels bouncy and energetic, which is especially evident on downhills and more well paved or well groomed sections. It is not overly soft, so it does feel stable on uneven or technical terrain despite how thick the midsole is.
Outsole
Becky: I have worn them in mostly dry conditions, but did get the chance to try them out on a muddy day and had no slippage issues. However, the lugs wore out faster than the rest of the shoe in v1, and I suspect the same could happen with v2.
Comparable Shoes
The North Face Summit VECTIV Pro 2 vs. HOKA Tecton X 2
Becky: I have run in the TNF Summit VECTIV Pro 2 and the HOKA Tecton X 2, both of which are two of my favorite trail running shoes of all time. The Summit Pro 2 is more fun to run in because of the midsole foam producing a bouncy and energetic ride. The Tecton X 2 gives me less concern over longer runs because it doesn’t have the wings in the forefoot that can cause some discomfort after several hours.
The North Face Summit VECTIV Pro
The North Face Summit VECTIV Pro is a carbon-plated trail running shoe specifically tuned for the demands of long distance trail races.
The North Face Women's Summit VECTIV Pro
The North Face Summit VECTIV Pro is a carbon-plated trail running shoe specifically tuned for the demands of long distance trail races.
Individual Thoughts
BeckyOverall Score: 9/10
The Summit VECTIV Pro 2 is my favorite shoe in the carbon plated trail running shoe category. It is fun to run in on trails and even pavement, and makes running long and uphill climbing feel easier. It fits well, but could be a little wider in the toebox near the pinky toe area in order for me to feel confident during races above 50 miles in distance.
