The North Face Ultra Gore-Tex XCR Trail Running Shoe - Men's - 2006

These are my 2nd pair and I cannot say how pleased I am with them. I bought the 1st pair a bit small as they run small so think about that when ordering. This pair came in only 2 days before I was to leave on a 7 day mission trip to Africa. No time for break-in....No worries! They felt great the first day I put them on. Overall in a week of walking the dusty trails of Malawi I put in about 35 miles with no problems. Dew never touched my feet and I had complete comfort and support all day long. I would buy this shoe again if these wore out today.

The first reviewer of this shoe (BrianInColumbus) remarked that the sizing was off. I have to agree. I'm normally a 10 and found that the size 10 in this shoe was way too short. The 10.5 was a better fit, but this shoe is generally an unusual shape: it is wide and short. In addition, the tongue folds dug uncomfortably into my upper foot. These might be great shoes for some people, but they didn't really work for me.

I bought these intending to wear them with a full pack, but haven't done that yet. I do wear a 40-lb weightvest two miles to work several days a week and they are holding that fine. My only real complaint is that my heel is loose, and I get some toe-crunch. I'm hoping that I can solve that by adding another hole up near the top, but a little toward my ankle. Will see.

I also tried the later model, the 103. Did not like that as much as this one.

Best I've worn yet... comfortable, great fit for small feet, durable, cool.

I have been in search for a wide Gore-Tex trailrunner and I was almost going to give up.I purchased the Salomon XA 3D XCR but they were way to narrow. The NF Gore-Tex XCR shoe doesn't come in wide, but by going up a half size it fits me perfectly!
I'm very excited, going to order the gaiters now.

Using these shoes here in MD on slippery, wet, sometimes icy and muddy trails. Great support over varying terrain and as long as the water does not go over your ankle, very water proof!! Not a bad shoe for winter running on trails!

Really well built, a tad bit on the heavy side and they do seem to run one size shorter than say New Balance trail shoes. I like the lace to the toe feature on this shoe makes them much more like a good quality day hiker than some of the trail shoes marketed these days. If shoe weight does not bother you and your running is not limited to bright sunny summer days these Gore-Tex shoes are what you need all the way to almost late fall.

These are terrific running shoes, and I'm glad I bought them. They are comfortable right out of the box, provide good support, and work well on all terrains. I run 50-60 miles per week and have several long runs on these shoes already, they're great. The optional gaiters are excellent, too, and do a nice job of keeping stuff out of your shoes on wet days....

I have usually chosen Asiacs running shoes, and would have never considered anything else. I was looking for a waterproof, sturdier running shoe to use on trails and rougher terrain. I saw the recommendation for these shoes in Outside magazine, so thought I'd give them a try. They are worth every penny!! Excellent support, comfortable from the first step. Hint: when you buy these also get the Goretex gaiters, they fit the shoe and are a good choice when trail running, wet weather, or paths with a lot of skree. Great shoes!!

You gotta get a pair of these shoes. I took them on a ten mile run in the North Georgia mountains - IN THE RAIN - IN FEBRUARY. I put my foot into wet clay mud up to the LACES, and kept on running without even a hint of "squish squish". I know that this run would've been a real pain without these shoes, sloshing around and dragging on my ankles and knees, changing my running gait, etc.. If you need to run in any weather and under any conditions, get a pair of these shoes. Obviously, since I am writing "run" I don't mean these are any replacement for hiking shoes. These are RUNNING shoes. Now go get a pair and GET RUNNING!

First, I have to say that I have had my pair a year now and purchased the gaiters from a different source. These will hold-up under normal conditions, but I was running 5/miles per day in these and the soles quickly wore down, so with a little shoe-goo I kept them going. I have since purchased a second pair and I try not to be as hard on them. A couple problems I have had is that one of the bungee cords that hold the gaiters on came loose, but a spot of glue fixed that. I also wore these on a century ride in the rain and even with the gaiters, my feet got soaked through...so much for Gore-Tex water-proof claims! These are a heavier shoe which work well as a trail shoe but as a distance runner you should watch for material wear.

A really good trail running shoe, with perfect lacing and protection. The sole gives a better grip than you can expect from a shoe without spikes. The shoe is a little bit narrow. It is a quality shoe, that will hold for many races! Gore-Tex has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, it gets a little bit warmer than in a normal shoe, but not that much. Gore-Tex protects your feets from water, but if the water is deep enough, you will get wet anyway!

This is the second pair of these shoes that I have owned and I love them. They are breathable, waterproof and they look cool as well. I have used them for trail running, street running and casual wear and they really hold up well. The only drawback is the initial order because they run almost a full size small.

I own a lot of North Face gear, mainly clothing (jackets, hats, gloves) and love the quality. These shoes are no exception! As my title states, "This is my second pair". Even though I still love my first pair and have at least a year's worth of use left in them, I figured I would order the new orange/gray color and at the price I got them for it was a "no brainer". I use them trail running and running in snow and rain. They are comfortable, breathable, and most importantly, keep out the wet stuff.

However, as other uses have mentioned, ORDER A FULL-SIZE LARGER than you normally wear.

These do fit a bit wide. The lacing system allows for comfortable down hills without jamming your toes. The waterproofing may not be 100% when going through creeks but enough to notice a difference. Wet grass is no longer an automatic foot wash! The traction is fine and I expect many hours of trail running with these treads.

It’s a great trail shoe, and it fits well. Used them on a scramble at Red Rock Canyon, NV and they performed well. I also used them on a hike at MT Charleston, NV and even with snow they performed well. I recommend these shoes for scrambling and hiking. They keep feet dry and warm.

I like these shoes a lot. They are really comfy and breathable, waterproof too. I wear them trail running and hiking. They have great traction. They get a 4 cuz they're a little ugly!

Great shoe! On my second pair. Wear them at Red Rock Caynon, Nevada to scramble to a climbing wall. Good comfort and stability. Also great for hiking at Mt. Charleston, Nevada. Keeps my feet dry and warm hiking thru the summer snow. Great all around shoe.

i don't like ordering on line but these shoes are perfect.

I love the multi-fit lacing system on this shoe. With the multi-fit lacing system these shoes fit like a glove. I can lace them tighter in the mid foot area and leave the toe box area loose. Needless to say they are very comfortable. However, I would not say they "fit true to size". I had to go up two sizes from my normal street shoe size.

I have run 4 trail runs (6-8 miles distances), I had blisters on left foot (Yes, I was wearing the proper socks) and the sizing was close but a little small. Anyway, I am becoming happier with these shoes the more I use them. They are invaluable for when you spike yourself on roots/stumps. These things are like tanks and give great protection. I think we'll become great friends.

Good support and very comfortable. Highly recommended for runners that need traction and comfort. Sizes run about a 1/2 size bigger than normal (adidas, nike, etc.)

Great shoe in terms of design & fit, but (for me) needs more "cushining" toward the toe (ball of your foot). I also would not mind an "even more agressive tread design, of long wearing hard rubber". (Previous Sprinter/PoleVaulter)

This is the MOST comfortable shoe I have ever worn! I ordered a 1/2 size up am happy! It's like walking on air! I'm thinking about getting a second pair just to keep in the closet! Seriously a great shoe!

I love these shoes...although they developed an annoying squeak about a week into wearing them all day, everday. They keep my feet dry in a variety of conditions. Have gotten a little damp inside under very heavy rain/downpour conditions, but I would think that is to be expected. Good support and good traction on all terrain.
As far as the squeak goes- I think there was a small defect with one part of the sole. Only one shoe was affected by this. Other than this slight fault these are a great pair of shoes.

I work for a lumber/forestry company. I walk on uneven and rugged land all day long and this shoe is great. I have tried other brands of trail shoes and none have held up in so many ways. Quality of the stitching, the tread, the GoreTex. The ability to add the gaiter to the shoe did help me keep many things out of my shoes. The only thing it took me a while to get used to is I would pull the laces too tight. They go so far to the sides of the shoe, when very very tight they sometimes can feel like they're digging into the top of your foot. I however need a very tight-fitting shoe for the land I walk.

I run along side railroad tracks because it allows me to escape the city. The Ultra Gore-Tex XCR Trail Running Shoes provide me with the stability and comfort I need on those bulky rocks.

This was a Valentine's Day gift for my boyfriend. He of course loved the shoes, but I got him the wrong size... it was so easy to send these back & the customer service representative that I spoke with was incredibly helpful!! I have since returned the shoes & expect the right size this week!

I'm not a trail-runner, but bought these for hiking, primarily short 2 or 3 day trips. These are in most ways great shoes: they are light weight but very well built; they kept my feet dry in rain and puddles especially using the cool gore-tex gaiters; they have plenty of cushion for a trail runner (I wouldn't use them on talus or truly rugged trails, though); offer good support even when carrying a 30lb pack; and they look great -- could be worn on the street. However, they are sized for elves. I ordered a whole size larger than my usual 10.5 and they were still too small. Backcountry readily exchanged them for the next half size larger (a 12!), and they fit well and didn't need any breaking in. In fact I did a 3-day backpack trip with them straight out of the box with no problem. Two other issues: they are a bit warm, even for a cool fall hike. More problematic: they have poor traction on wet surfaces, especially wood, but also doing stream crossing rock-hopping, they proved to be treacherous. Even on dry rock they don't have the sure-footedness I get with my Vibram soled hiking boots. Even so, under most conditions they are a great alternative to heavy hikers.

These are far and away the best trail shoe I've ever used. In the past I have tried Nike, New Balance, Aesics. It seems to me this shoe was designed by people who actually run trails. Comfortable out of the box. Light weight, excellent traction and good protection for the bottom of your feet. I plan on buying another pair before they sell out.

Great for trail running or just walking around in the rain. I would definitely recommend these to anyone.

Good shoe, especially after buying a good set of really comfy insoles. I like them. could have used a little more yellow coloring on the shoe. I like the rugged look.

These shoes are really comfortable and really good for running or just walking around. I hope they keep making these shoes forever because I want them again. And so do a lot of my friends. Keep up the good work the shoes are well worth every cent I paid. Thank you!

I've loved these shoes, although I maaaaybe shoulda sent them back for a 1/2 size larger as they come small, but they still fit, but are just snug. Same as the previous review though, mine developed a squeaky noise in the heel of both shoes about a week into wearing them and hasn't stopped since (been 9 months now). Not a big deal outdoors, but inside the house, work, etc. everyone wonders what's up with my cool but squeaky North Face shoes! lol

These shoes are great. They are comfortable, and the quality of materials is wonderful. The waterproof Goretex liner is nice, but not quite as breathable as the lower model The North Face trail running shoes. If you really need breathability, the XCR liner doesn't quite cut it. It's breathable, but not as much so as mesh. All around great shoes though.

Love these shoes. Snug fit, but that's good for support. Great traction and lightweight. Can't wait to really test them out on next spring's soggy trails. Really keep my feet dry and they don't seem as bulky as other Gore-Tex shoes/boots.

I love these shoes. This is my second pair. I run on a wet golf course in the morning and never get wet feet. Comfortable, stable, and good traction. Just ordered a pair for my wife too.

Very good pair of shoes, the Gore-Tex keeps the rain and snow out, especially with the optional gaiter. I've found that they could use slightly more insultaion in cold weather. They also have very good traction.

I replaced my Nike Storm Shear with XCR and the difference is unbelievable. I had on opportunity to test it out last weekend when Washington DC area was getting slammed with the remains of Hurricane Ivan. Not only did it keep my feet dry,I was able to run at full throttle without worrying about twisting my ankle. I give 5 for Stability,Motion Control,Cushioning,Weather Protection and Traction but 4 for Ventilation(as expected). Can't wait till we get a snow storm so I can go out to run!!! One more thing, if your feet are wide size 1/2 up(Toebox is not too wide).

You will like this shoe! Very light water proof unless you get water in the top in around your ankles. I work on a golf course and I have found this shoe to be quite excellent.

The new North face XCR Trail shoes combine the latest style with real world function. After spending several week ends with these I have come to the following conclusions, #1 The size runs a little small #2 they are very comfortable #3 shock absorbant. Money well spent.

Simply one of the finest athletic shoes I've ever owned, if not THE finest. Quality of construction, comfort, and style are all on the highest order. You simply can't go wrong with this shoe. It's breathable yet waterproof goretex upper and bomb-proof outsole make this shoe perfect for all seasons. Its lacing system is not only attractive and supportive, but very functional in giving the shoe a "tailored" fit. The rounded toe also gives the shoe a more natural fit than other sneaks. TNF's lifetime warranty assure that you will never be dissatisfied. I give it the highest recommendation possible.

These are the most comfortable shoes I have owned. I work in an Emergency Department and I'm on my feet constantly. These shoes work awesome on a hard floor. If I get any fluid on them, I spray them off with out getting drenched.

I know this is a great shoe for some but I felt the Soloman XCR Pro 2 was much more snug on the trail and easier to run in. TNF ran small and tight on my foot, which is a little wide with a high arch.

Great on the trails, kept my feet dry and warm. Already have told a few people about them and the people that went for the hike with me looked as though they were knock me over the head and steal them. (Thank God I wear a size 13 and nobody else did). Took them with me to Jamacia for my honeymoon and ya mon the rastas really liked them!!

These are great trail shoes. I've run with them over rocks, on scree, in mud, in the snow, and they suck it up and handle it. They seem to breathe very well, and have never been too hot, and certainly never cold. The tongue is unusually wide, and takes some getting used to, but is never a bother while running. Absorb shock very well. I am taking these to the mountains of Laos and Cambodia in a few weeks. My favorite trail shoe.

The TNF shoe/boots had a quick/almost immediate breaking in. I bought a 1 size smaller which fit perfectly. The shoe peformed well on the multi-conditioned city streets, and then on a winter backpacking trip in shenandoah nat'l park. They provide a solid, well-tractioned, supportive undersole if lugging a heavy pack or on a long trek.

This shoe runs small. I purchased a size 14 and it was too small for me. It felt like a size 13. Unfortunately, the 14 is the largest made. Other than that, it seems to be a well made shoe.

The "look" is awesome but when you try it on the fit is too tie. I needed 2 weeks to get use to the tie fit.

Sorry I will not recommend the shoes.

North Face Ultra Gore-Tex XCR Trail Running Shoe purchased for my son who is in the Army in Germany this winter. He says the shoes are "awesome" as his feet are now the only part of him warm and dry after the pre-dawn runs through the countryside. I purchased a half size larger than he usually wears and he says this is a great fit. North Face has a great name for a reason. I may get him another pair as he heads to rougher country than Germany pretty soon.

Great shoes and take others' advice on shoe size. Always buy a size bigger than what you would normally wear. Otherwise...happy trails!

Order 1/2 to 1 size larger than normal. I wear 11 normally, I had to get the 12s. Great shoe.

These shoes have been surprisingly comfortable on steep, paved and graveled mountain roads.
One word of caution would be to not order 1/2 size larger as recommended, especially if you have a good fit at your regular size.

Do you know how whenever you buy new shoes there is always that break-in period. I like to call that "the fight". I've had my XCR's for about 4 weeks now, and to be honest, the first time I put them on I thought I might have met my match. However, I was determined to win this one because I knew that once the will of the shoe gave way it would be not only an enjoyable, but a quality experience as well.
The fight took place at the top of the tongue of the shoe, where the last lace holes are. The pressure applied to the top of my foot was noticeable; so much so that for the 1st 30 hrs. of wear I could only lightly tie the shoe strings.
Eventually the shoe succumbed to the will of my feet and they fit quite well. The best part about them is that they keep my feet dry when necessary. And when needed, they dry out relatively quick. They are comfortable and I am quite optimistic that they will last beyond what I am accustomed to from lesser shoes.

The shoes that I bought are really comfortable and I look foward to wearing them to class when it rains. Backcountry was very helpful with my process of buying these shoes. Thanks-Lance

I recently purchased a pair of North Face XCR trail running shoes. After using them for several weeks I can give them a high recommendation. They are stable, with ample cushioning and they keep your feet dry. Make sure you buy them one full size larger than your normal running shoe, that's how small they run!

These are the best shoes I have ever owned. They are very comfortable breathable and keep my feet dry. The bottoms fell of my first pair and North Face replaced them for free.

Great outdoor shoes in any weather.
Great fit, roomy, light and yet very durable. I'd suggest ordering a half-size bigger than what you would normally order. I've been hiking for years and this shoe is right at the top!

I run in Chicago along Lake Michigan, and the shoes are great for the snowy/icy parts of the paved path that I run on. The Gore-Tex keeps the feet dry when I hit puddles, and keeps everything warm and dry. However, my feet do get overly warm when wear the shoes while driving and the heater is running.

Purchased about 3 weeks ago and have been running in them every other day since. I take a size 10.5-11, depending on brand. I decided on the 11 in this shoe, though initial fit was tight and my toes touched the front. However, I have found that trail shoes must be a snug fit for complete support- when I used thin merino wool running socks and tied the shoes comfortably tight, they fit perfectly. Don't worry about your feet being cold in the winter: the gore-tex does a fine job. Also, it is best to try any shoe on later in the day to ensure a more accurate fit (feet expand). I live in Maine and have been running on everything. Ice, slush, hard-pack, roots, rocks, mud, water, uphill, downhill all with a 10 pound pack and water. Initially got a few blisters but they subsided. The gaiters are an amazing addition, however they should be a little lower around the ankles (a little water/debris snuck in here and there). Outstanding value, great performance.

I bought the XCR for my Irish culture class to Ireland. There it protected me against the furious weather this year for 17 days. One day at the Giant's Causeway, a wave ran into me soaking my jeans up to my thighs. I took the XCR out and let it dry for the night - done. Best pair of shoes I've owned for water resistance.

On the contrary, there is little arch support for us who need that so be prepared to go out and shell out for something in addition to it!

So far, these trail shoes have performed as advertised...they are well-built, waterproof, and exactly what I was looking for. My only complaint is that, compared to other manufacturer's size 11 shoes, they seem roughly a half-size smaller. In other words, consider ordering a half-size larger than what you normally wear. KK

Bonne chaussure. Seulement les gore tex fait beaucoup transpirer, sinon rien a dire, bone camelotte.

I've been a trail runner for many years now and these are hands down the best shoe I've ever owned. Comfortable, breathable, durable and pretty sweet looking to boot!! High praise, which is rare from me, you can't go wrong for the price either!!

It is suggested that you get 1/2 a size or 1 size bigger then what you normally wear. I did that the 1/2 size part and it fit me perfectly. I’m a size 8.5 on Timberland and size 8 on Sketchers but I’m a size 9 on the XCR. It feels comfortable as well and I use it daily in NYC. Its been snowing but still has plenty of grip. Since it was stated waterproof, I decided to play around and put the mesh part ( the area on top of your toes in front that feels soft and where breathes ) under my faucet. Like, I suppose after 20 seconds of constant running water, it was still dry (very little dampness because I used hot water instead of cold or warm). So I am plenty satisfied with its waterproof claims. As for breathability, it has a little problem with that. It doesn't release enough in my opinion but it’s winter so I’m fine with it. Hope this helps. Have a nice day peeps and don't stop exploring ^^

I have owned TNF Ultra GTX runners for about 2 months now. They have good stability and the waterproofing has never failed, but the soles and the arch support have already broken down. I have seen it in multiple pairs and see them returned at my local shop.

I like these shoes a lot. They're very comfortable. I've done some hiking in mud and snow and they've kept me dry. They breathe better then another pair of Gore-Tex shoes I have by a certain maker (Montrail). Those pair your feet end up sweating so much-what's the point in a waterproof shoe if you get wet from the inside?

Cool shoes.

Thanks.

These North Face shoes prove that all trail shoes are not created equal. I have owned a lot of trail shoes over the years, but nothing approaches these TNF XCRs! As an exclusive trail runner, I demand a lot from my foot gear. The rocks, roots, felled trees, brooks, mud, snow, rain, and scree make it difficult for my shoes to celebrate their six month birthday. The tread grabs the earth like tiger paws and breeds confidence as I motor up a mountain trail covered with freshly fallen snow. I'm so glad I purchased the custom made gaiter too. They do an amazing job of keeping debris and snow out. Recently my poor shoes were so muddy, that I went into the company shower shoes and all to clean them off. (I know that sounds weird, but no one was around.) The gaiter and shoes managed to stay water-tight like water off of a duck's back. Heed the advice to purchase a half-size larger. Normally I'm a 10 and I'm so glad I purchased 10.5. They fit perfectly. I called North Face and talked with a product specialist. She concurred that several runs of this shoe do run a half-size smaller.

The shoes are great, they fit my feet well, the only down side is that there was a slight manufacturing defect in the toe box that the rubber was bent over a little. It results in my toes having less wiggle room than I'd like. Other than that they are great.

Good pair of shoes. Very comfortable for running.

I love these things; the fit was right on by size. I had the North Face Switchbacks for a year and like these better. A little more arch support too!

I read the reviews on multiple websites, people say that you need to order a .5 size larger then you would normally, but I find that to be somewhat true after wearing them for awhile I wish I would have bought my normal size—but great shoe!

These North Face Gore-Tex shoes are very comfortable and keep your feet dry. Although I’ve only had this pair a few weeks, they really have been an impressive addition to my gear. The soles have good grip. The lacing is comfortable. They have required almost no break-in wear and have shown no signs of rubbing blisters. However, I understand that is as much a factor of individual foot shape as it is a manufacturing flaw. These are very comfortable shoes. I highly recommend these shoes to anyone who needs the Gore-Tex water protection.

Best trail running shoe on the market. They do run a little small, but I suggest you order your regular size. Just getting ready to order another pair.

These are great trail runners! XCR does well and they are comfortable and surprisingly light.

I was mainly looking for a shoe to keep my feet dry. These are great, no water gets in at all.

These shoes have been great! They are plenty light enough for trail running and could handle an occasional hard surface run. They would also be plenty comfortable and durable enough for light hiking or all-day wear. I bought the trail-gaiters, too, which work pretty slick with these shoes. Good stuff. Order true to size or maybe 1/2 size larger.

This shoe has a narrow toe box and wide in the heel. The worst fitting shoe I've tried in a long time. It also feels stiff and clunky, more like a light hiker than a trail runner. They did keep my feet dry, however. If you want a shoe that stays on the heel and has decent room in the toe box, look elsewhere.

Great Shoes, Some Reservations

Make no mistake, these are great shoes. The quality and workmanship are first-rate, and the design is innovative. The footbeds give adequate support, the outsoles are sticky, but seem durable. I wore these shoes for one short 4-mile break-in hike and then took them to the Grand Canyon and did the Bright Angel Trail with no problem. They were comfortable right out of the box.

My only reservation is that the shoes do run slightly narrow, but they are really low-volume (the ht. from the sole of your foot to the top of your foot). Be aware of this and if you have really wide feet or “high” feet you probably won’t be happy. The good news is that the lacing system is so good, each eyelet being semi-locking, that you can compensate a lot by adjusting the laces. The laces are marvels themselves, sticky, ribbed wonders that will hold a knot no matter what. Overall great shoes, but bear the fit in mind.

Good quality, and really great outsole, but there are two problems. 1) It's too warm or not breathable enough when the temperature is above 0C (not enough surface for the XCR membrane to be effective here) and 2) The "lacing system" is not as good as its main competitor (the Salomon XCR) because here it doesn't allow you to squeeze the forefront of the foot while maintaining a comfortable fit around the bigger part of the foot: when racing downhill you'll have to choose between keeping blood circulation into your feet (with a loose fit) or keeping your toe nails intact (with a tight fit)!

Something no one else mentioned is these shoes don't vent that well. I used them on a short hike at 90º and my feet baked. Also, I agree with one other review that said the tounge fold hurt the top of my foot.

I recommend you to buy these shoes if you are running in wild forest. With its perfect lacing system, you won’t have any problems with your toes/nails during downhill running. It is light and durable. I used the shoes with its gaiter, and I had no more string loosening.

I tried every other brand, but these ones are my favorite.

Very nice shoes, I purchased them in spring of 2005, and put well over 100 rounds (approx 700 miles) on them as a caddy at the local country club. They were nice and waterproof up until somewhere around 500 miles, which is when the sides of the forefoot area started to deteriorate from flexing too many times. Overall they are a firm shoe, with a sturdy sole, great for covering rough terrain. I have stood in puddles that were about 1/2 inch from the top of the shoe as a test, and it would take about 2 minutes for any signs of water to enter into the shoe.

Pros: Gore-Tex works like it should; super grip; great comfort (all day).

Cons: laces were way too long (looks like there were streamers on my feet).

This Gore-Tex Shoe is phenomenal. If you love the regular 102s, these are for your wet weather needs. This shoe is beefier than its non-Gore counterpart, but still aren't as cumbersome as the 103s. I didn't like the 103s on account that they are a lot bulkier than their predecessor.

I purchased these shoes after trying The North Face M Ultra 103 XCR (which are also good shoe except for premature sole separation from shoe). I have had no troubles with wear and tear. And with The North Face Scree Gaiter, it makes a really great trail shoe for extreme trail conditions. An A+ Trail Shoe!!!

I am very pleased with the Ultra Gore-Tex XCR Trail Running Shoe; I've been running in them for approximately one month and I love them. I have been running in snow, rain, and slush puddles, and my feet have stayed dry thanks to the Gore-Tex! I normally wear a size 9.5 and ordered a size 10 because I heard they run a 1/2 size small. The 10's fit comfortably. My next purchase is the North Face Gore-Tex gaiters that are designed for the shoe.

I also have a pair of la sportiva cardiff shoes and rotate wearing both. The cardiffs are a little lighter fitting but don't seem as solidly built. I haven't truly tested the XCR but it does look like the Gore-Tex will cause them to work better in wet weather. I noticed that sole allows more rubber to make more contact to the surface of the ground. This make result in faster wear but we'll see

I have had two pairs of The North Face XCR trail running shoes. Compared to other companies, these shoes maintain strength and stability. These shoes last the longest and maintain the most stability. I run in horse bridle paths in relatively hilly country.

This shoe never fails me on any trek to any kind of trail. Excellent comfort especially when it rains. They keep your feet dry and never fail to make others gawk at this amazing shoe. Beautifully designed as well as excellent in durability and comfort. Better try to fit first before you buy, because this shoe comes in a smaller size than your usual shoe size.

These shoes are well worth the price. I work in and around water all day and they hold up wonderfully. In addition the don't hurt my feet following the typical 14+ hour days I have. The AGion is another touch worth mentioning, the smell factor is gone due to the AGion and everyone is grateful for that!

I've used these shoes now for a while and can conclude that they are one the most comfortable shoes ever to wear. I´ve used them on long hikes and running in bad weather. They do get wet, even though they have water resistant material your going to get wet, there´s no getting away. But for the comfort its worth the price alone, great soles that gets you where you want to go and you don't feel any pain or discomfort after a long time walking or running. The good part is also the shoelaces, running with other shoes like Asics or others have laces that open or break after a "crazy run" but these are treated and wont go up!

These are the some of the best shoes I've ever owned. They are very comfortable when they are broken in. Once your heel gets use to the height of the shoes, they are very comfortable. I would advise anyone to get these shoes, just make sure to order a size larger than your regular size.

It is essential to size up if you plan on wearing thick socks with this product because it runs a size small. However, it is water resistant against small puddles and has a tough sole.

I purchased this shoes for a mountain bike/trail run race so that I did not have to change shoes. So far, I have been very pleased with them and the staff here was extremely helpful in assisting with my choice.

If I could give it 4.5 stars I would, but I can't so I'll have to go with 4. The shoes are great, I love them so far. I've had some opportunities to use them in wet, snowy weather and they worked great. The only issue I have is that they don't lace up very well. Its difficult to get a great secure feel around your ankle, sometimes it feels like they're not even tied. I've caught myself double and triple checking that they haven't come untied.

I bought 3 pair of these shoes and had to return each one since they systematically broke. Each time the shoe was only worn 1 time, and was only under very light hiking. Two pair broke in the same way which was the straps that go around the ankle to attach the very nice ankle gators, broke after only 1 day of hiking. the other pair the sole starting peeling up after one day of hiking. I say buy at your own risk.

To my astonishment, putting these shoes on and starting to lace them up made the sky rumble and clouds part. I thought nothing of it until I was done. I stood up, fully shoe-thed, which must have summoned a blinding beam of light from heaven that focused on me filling my body with limitless power. It was tingly, I liked it. Then an epiphany struck. It's the shoes! They are that bad-ass. Strong as boulders, light and water-proof as if I strapped two otters to my feet! Sexy little otters.

Now, in the future, I tear ass all over the woods. It's definitely more like tearing ass than running because with these shoes it's more like fifty foot double jumps smashing through trees and camp cottages. Those campers looked pissed. One things for sure, I'm out there kicking bikers and wildlife with nary a care in the world. God bless you shoes.

I live in cold, wet, and muddy Michigan. I bought the North Face shoes for running on trails. The Gore Tex to keep my toes dry until summer arrives. They have performed as promised. I have run in mud, rain, and slushy "crud."

They are stiffer than my summer running shoes (Asics) - but that is expected in a trail runner.

The size I wear (8) was the size I ordered and they fit great. (I heard sizing was an issue for others with NF)

Only complaint is the sole insert is not adequate for my high arches. I have switched them out for more cushioning and arch support. (Minor thing anyway).

Happy buyer - and got exactly what I was looking for. Dry-warm happy feet.

I will be running a trail half marathon next month in them. They will be great especially if it rains, or snows (possible for Michigan in April).

best hiking shoes I have ever owned