Quick verdict
The North Face makes hiking footwear that ranges from casual trail shoes to technical alpine boots. Reviews tend to describe the boots as durable and capable, often with firmer midsoles, structured support and waterproof membranes, though opinions vary depending on the model and how you plan to use it. Common drawbacks are a narrower, more athletic fit than some brands, a short break-in period on stiffer models and a price some hikers see as including a brand premium.
What The North Face does well
- Weather protection. Many models use waterproof, breathable membranes such as GORE-TEX or the company’s own technologies (more in our waterproof hiking boots review).
- Traction. Several models use Vibram or proprietary rubber with deep lugs. The Verto Alpine Mid GTX has a Vibram rubber sole with 5 mm lugs.
- Durable materials. Rubber toe protection, structured heel cups and abrasion-resistant uppers are typical on more rugged models.
- Support. Compared with softer casual brands, many models offer firmer midsoles and structured ankle support.
Drawbacks
- Fit. Several reviewers and summaries note a narrower fit. A UK reviewer of the Verto Alpine Mid said the boot comes up small for wider-footed people and suggested trying a wider option if your foot is wider than an F fitting.
- Break-in. Stiffer boots may take some time to feel comfortable.
- Price. Some hikers feel they pay extra for the brand name, particularly on fashion-oriented models.
- Mixed quality across the range. The brand makes both fashion-casual and technical gear, so check which type of product you are looking at.
Models hikers ask about
Verto Alpine Mid GORE-TEX
Live For The Outdoors tested the women’s version and described it as a lightweight, technical boot that sits in a new middle tier of the brand’s range. The review lists a weight of 503 g per boot, a leather upper with a GORE-TEX liner and a stiff build that can take a light crampon. It said the boot was very capable on technical terrain but offered less all-day comfort than softer boots, needed some break-in and came up small for wider feet. The brand’s UK price at launch was around 180 pounds, according to that review.
Hedgehog Trek GTX
A UK blogger reviewing the women’s Hedgehog Trek GTX found it comfortable out of the box, with good grip on wet mud and a well-sized toe box. The notes were that the orthotic arch support felt noticeable at first, the laces loosened easily and a small amount of water entered through the upper in heavy rain. This is a more traditional leather boot with a GORE-TEX liner and a Vibram sole.
Offtrail Hike LT Mid GTX
Hikers often ask about this lighter off-trail mid boot. We did not rely on a detailed review of it for this page, so check recent tester reviews. Generally, it is positioned as a lighter, stiffer hybrid, but confirm current specifications.
Fit and sizing
Because the fit often runs narrow, try boots on with your hiking socks (see how to fit hiking boots) and check for toe pressure on downhills. Wide-footed hikers may prefer to start with brands known for roomier lasts, such as Merrell or KEEN. A reviewer who wore a past pair of The North Face boots on a very long trek said they compressed her toes, a reminder to test fit on downhill walking rather than only in the store.
Are North Face running shoes any good?
The North Face makes trail-running shoes, and reviews are generally positive for casual and trail use, though experiences vary by model. For serious running, compare against specialist running brands, and for hiking, compare models in the same way you would hiking shoes. For comparison with other brands that started in running, see our Hoka and New Balance reviews.
What brand is best for hiking boots?
There is no single answer. The best brand depends on foot shape, terrain, load and budget. The North Face tends to appeal to hikers who want a firmer, more technical feel (compare Salewa and La Sportiva) and have average to narrow feet.
Who The North Face suits
These boots suit hikers who want durable, waterproof footwear with firmer support, including those tackling rocky or alpine terrain on day hikes or light trips. If you want a softer, roomier boot, look at other brands in this section.