Clothing
Gear
Accessories
The North Face Ultra 103 XCR Trail Running Shoe - Men's
Item #TNF1289 | 166 in Stock
– Ships Wicked Fast
& Free
close Unconditional 100% Guarantee
We guarantee complete satisfaction and an unlimited lifetime warranty. If at any time - now, next month, in 30 years - you're not 100% satisfied, send your gear back for a full refund. No questions asked.
Need help returning an item? - Click Here
close
Due to contracts with the following brands, we are unable to ship any of their products outside the US.
more...
Int'l Shipping
Backcountry.com uses UPS Worldwide Express or Worldwide Expedited
for all shipping outside the United States. We have found this method to be quick,
secure, and cost effective.
close
Pass It On
The North Face Ultra 103 XCR Trail Running Shoe - Men's
The North Face Ultra 103 XCR trail running shoes for Men are part or TNF's Flight Series of high-end, fast and light products. They're made for trail running but sturdy enough to use for fastpacking with an ultralight backpack. They have a full TPU shank to protect your feet and their two-tier lacing system paired with an ergonomic footbed make for a custom fit. Gore-Tex XCR makes them waterproof and they're set up to accept TNF's Scree Gaiter if you need additional protection from the elements. The X2-O2 heel air cushion is a shock absorbing air bag for the ultimate foot and joint protection. If you sized up ½ size in the past when you bought TNF's shoes, you don't need to anymore. These hard-core trail runners are true to size.
Bottom Line: This one goes to 103, it's 1 better.
Your place to talk with other Gear Freaks
Others are looking at this product, too. So ask 'em questions. Give your insight. Get street cred.
Hi, throw your review on the Product Wall to show your Gear-telligence.
Hi, got a question? Ask on the Product Wall.
By: none (1) May 4, 2008
These shoes rock!!! I have a mate who talked these shoes up so much i brought a pair for work. It took a couple of days to wear in a after constant use, after that these shoes only got better and more comfortable. Have been running, hiking and every day use very comfortable!!! I thought lets try out that lovely stuff called GORE-TEX. Was washing the car with a high pressure hose and tried it on the shoes WOW dry toes and clean shoes!!! I definatley recomend these shoes to anybody for any activity although they are slippery on a wet smooth concrete but i definatley rate these as a sweet comfortable shoe. ENJOY!!!
Was this helpful?
(1)
(0)
By: jsellmau631776078 (3) April 22, 2008
Great shoes...after you break them in. I also wouldn't recommend them for running on any kind of hard surface (pavement, cement, etc.), these shoes are much too stiff for those surfaces. However, if you're using them for trail running, hiking, and walking...they're AMAZING. I went snowshoeing all winter with these bad boys and right now I'm blazing the trails with them too. Bottom line, use them for what they're meant for and you won't regret the purchase.
Was this helpful?
(1)
(0)
By: jpvanders1595607 (1) April 11, 2008
I wore these shoes every day for 6 months while working as a guide in Torres del Paine Natl Park in Chile's Patagonia region...unless tramping around in deep snow, these shoes were perfect -- for jogging, walking, hiking, around camp, whatever, these shoes are freggin versatile for the active traveler...now on to my second pair!
Was this helpful?
(1)
(0)
By: masonpauls2067889 (1) April 2, 2008
I used these shoes on a two day 25 mile hike with a 40+ lb. pack and paid the price. Im flat footed, but have used other shoes that worked 100% better (i broke the shoe in before hand). There is no real traction to the shoe. The shoe is pretty heavy and not very pliable. We hiked The Big Thicket outside of Conroe, TX and it rained non-stop, and the gore-tex worked perfect. Feet stayed pretty dry. The shoe is also very durable and tough. Short hike, Yes. Running or long hike, No.
Was this helpful?
(1)
(1)
By: AdventureNut77 (1) April 1, 2008
These shoes are very comfortable. However, the are true to size. I normally wear a 12 in most shoes, but these are a little long. The traction is and stability are great. Very good shoe.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: crieker2068976 (1) March 23, 2008
I love these shoes! I am a ramp worker for an airline in Southeren AZ, and if you have been here when it rains you can feel for what I am about to say. It pours here and with the gaiter on these shoes no water gets in. My feet are dry during the monsoon rains. The shoes are stiff at first but mine broke-in in about four days. I only have two complaints, the tread wears a little too fast and the glue that holds the hard toe on by the reflector came off a little. Other then that best shoe and work purchase I have made.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: allviking (7) March 21, 2008
Tougher than a son-of-a-buck. For those that don't plan to use them for trail running, you are missing out. The North Face Ultra 103 XCR is to trail running what the Nike Tailwind is to road running. The lab rats at TNF got it right with this shoe system. The optional gaiter attachment is to die for. Add gaiters, lace up, hit the trail, and never have to remove a rock from your shoes again. I would highly recommend. Best trail runner on the market. Hot Dog!
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Pete T (5) March 14, 2008
It seems that that TNF has changed their fit and sizing. These shoes are boats compared to what I've become accustomed to from TNF. The size - size 8 - fits like an old style 8.5 or 9. I already did one exchange for a half size smaller - down from my usual size of 8.5. The shoes are heavy and very stiff - something that didn't come across in the description. That being said, these seem well made (though cosmetically different from the product pics), etc.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: cubills1676737 (2) March 13, 2008
I read reviews from internet which said either great shoes or sometimes the glue peels apart; I bought and were great, then after a few months the glue did start to peel on one shoe. I loved them and they were great on concrete where I work so I exchanged them for new pair. customer service was excellent, hope this pair doesn't peel as I would rather have the shoes than a refund!
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: cubills1676737 (2) March 13, 2008
I read reviews from internet which said either great shoes or sometimes the glue peels apart; I bought and were great, then after a few months the glue did start to peel on one shoe. I loved them and they were great on concrete where I work so I exchanged them for new pair. customer service was excellent, hope this pair doesn't peel as I would rather have the shoes than a refund!
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: streetwalker (1) February 20, 2008
I ordered a size 10.5, which I normally wear for my other sneakers, but they felt oversized. I returned and got a pair in 10 which fit much better. I don't do any trail running as I live in NYC. I basically wanted a pair of nice looking waterproof sneakers to wear around town, especially when it rains. I have worn them in rain and my feet did not get wet at all. NOTES: Not much cushioning in shoe, especially in the heel. I've only worn the shoes for a week but the sole is rather stiff and inflexible - maybe over time it will soften up. I do like the styling of the shoe (lux blue/goldenrod color).
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Tod.. (3) February 14, 2008
Ok I am not a trail runner but I wear them to workout in and in my everyday work and travel too. I have to say that they are great shoes. My only rub is that the reflective material on the toe and piping on the sides is a bit annoying. I get why its there but I really don't need the extra reflection just to run through airports! I tried to black it out but it rubs off and the shine is back. Not a deal killer, just a bit of a negative.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(1)
By: yousse (1) February 8, 2008
Like the way they feel for cruising around.....and really like the way they look. Though I'm not sure if running the trails on 'em would be the best for me. The "Montrail Hurrincane" from '02~'05 were the best for me on trails.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: LaborWorker1 (2) February 2, 2008
These shoes are extra comfortable and they fit TRUE TO SIZE. No need to upsize. They feel like you are putting on a pair of mini boots, but don't get confused, they are sneakers. They have a rugged feel and you know you are putting on a quality shoe each time you lace them up.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: jcwannabe90 (1) January 28, 2008
I was looking for a new pair of shoes to handle both my everyday life and trail running. I heard good things about this shoe decided to go for it. The shipping speed was not the best, but the shoe more than made up for it. The shoe fits well and is very comfortable. The only thing that bothered me was that from the moment I took the shoes out of the bag, they had a slight smell of what I thought to be dog food. This went away after a thorough washing though. Overall, great shoe. I would recommend these to any of my friends.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Anonymous (3) January 20, 2008
These look FANTASTIC. Could not be happier with them on that front, as trail shoes often look pretty geeky. Keeps feet dry, and when I got water inside the top the moisture left quickly. Very bad grip on concrete or asphalt -- if you're an urban outdoorsman, pick something else.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: RAS (1) January 5, 2008
I bought these for cold weather walks and hikes. They keep my feet warm and dry, but they breath well. I highly recommend these shoes.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: David Lee (1) January 4, 2008
I wore these through hundreds of miles in the Swiss alps, through snow, streams, mud, rocks... just about all terrain, and it has barely shown signs of wear. I absolutely love the gore-tex lining... I can forge streams without getting wet while the other people have to go the long (and boring) way around. It fits true to size, and is about the most comfortable shoe. I didn't even need to break these in.
Was this helpful?
(2)
(0)
By: Xrunner22 (3) November 12, 2007
This shoe is worth the money. It provides great support and comfort, especially during rainy weather. The shoes are also comfortable enough to wear around town or other casual settings. I definitely recommend these shoes.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Jiggles (1) November 3, 2007
The Ultra 103 XCR Trail Running Shoe is an excellent buy for anyone looking for nice waterproofed trail running shoes. They have excellent traction, great stability, I've yet to have any issue with the waterproofing, and they didn't take long to break in. I highly recommend them for someone looking for really nice trail running shoes.
Was this helpful?
(1)
(0)
By: Tombo (8) October 17, 2007
In fact, I'm wearing them right now! These shoes are comfortable enough for everyday wearing. And someone said (PierceTheVoid, I believe) that the black ones, which I got, look really cool. And they do!, Just a remarkable shoe for a reasonable price, if comfort is what you want. I've got a great NF waterproof hiking boot, got it right here at backcountry.com, but I needed a light weight hiking shoe. After reading the reviews and comparing all the contenders, The North Face Ultra 103 XCR Trail Running Shoe outpaced them all! And the bonus gift, at the time of purchase, was the NF Softshell Windproof Beanie - great for keeping your head warm at night.
Was this helpful?
(3)
(0)
By: Matt M - HGPilot (4) August 22, 2007
Love the 103 XCR, but after minimal use, the sole started to delaminate from the main part of the shoe. THe great folks in customer service quickly replaced it under the North Face warranty and I'm wearing my new pair every day - for both work and running.
Was this helpful?
(1)
(0)
By: Ed C (2) July 22, 2007
Made a mistake and switched from Ultras which I had a previously good experience with to trying an Endurus XCR Boa. After 2 runs (5 miles & 8.5 miles) the Boa laces on the Endurus broke so switched back to Ultra 103 XCR just in time to break in for a 62.5 mile endurance event which the Ultra's sailed through - excellent roll support and cushioning. A solid long distance shoe from North Face although admittedly not the lightest.
Was this helpful?
(1)
(0)
By: Matt 317 (6) July 17, 2007
I used these shoes for trail running for a month before I put them to the test in the Baja. I was on a mission trip in the Baja and we hiked all over the Sierras. The last hike was 45 km, 4000ft alt. to 1331 ft. temp was 100-104. The shoe was great. It could scramble, climb, and protected my feet from the burning rock face due to the extreme heat. I punished these shoes and they worked great. After a 10.5 hour trek in desert heat my feet were fine and the shoes withstood an awesome test.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: sgp588 (1) July 6, 2007
Really like the shoe - good allpurpose, and great waterproof. Easy on/off. Didn't give it a 5 because I'd like the toe box to be a bit roomier.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Gator 6 (1) June 7, 2007
Great shoes. Good protection from the gravel roads around the base and airfield. I've done runs up to 1 hr 30 mins and felt great in the shoes. I'd recommend these for rough terrain. The Gore-Tex will come in handy during the muddy/wet Fall and Winter months here in Kabul.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: garrett (13) June 5, 2007
i recently bought these shoes to use for ultralight backpacking, hiking, and overall lifestyle use - after a few days of light breaking-in, these have become my most comfortable shoes. the shoes, despite being sturdy and very supportive, still are somewhat lightweight. virtually impervious to damages. the Gore-Tex (XCR) i sometimes forget about - but it has performed solidly, keeping my feet perfectly dry despite putting them under 2 inches of water or running around in wet grass. great pair of shoes for about anything outdoors.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Jay (1) June 1, 2007
This model is comfortable and has great traction. Order 1/2 size larger than usual as these shoes run a little small. The support and wear factors are excellent. These shoes feel good from the gate.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Matt M - HGPilot (4) May 31, 2007
Great shoe, but unfortunately there are not for the great outdoors. They are actually for the great indoors..comfortable shoes to wear with a pair of khakis around the office. They are comfortable (and look good)..and as a trail runner, I may get another pair for the Trails....
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Moose01 (2) May 18, 2007
This is my second pair of The North Face shoes, and I will buy them again. XCR is great for keeping the feet dry on a wet day. I weigh over 220 lbs / 100 kg and need the support and cushion these trail runners offer. As with most things, I wish they did not cost so much, but I feel I am getting my money's worth. Run, just run.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Rob H. (1) April 8, 2007
It is the best all around shoe I own. I am on my second pair. If I had something bad to say it would be that they are a little warm.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Fresno Mikey (1) April 7, 2007
This is the most comfortable shoe I have ever worn. Perfect fit. Offers the extra top holes for a tight lacing, but when I used them the top "collar" rubbed in one spot on both feet. Very comfortable with thin or thick socks.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Grizzly Adam (3) April 3, 2007
these shoes are awesome. they're tough-so rocks and roots aren't an issue. the trail i was on was pretty dry, so i tested them in a creek and stood there for a good 15-20 just to see if i'de get wet and I didn't. they were awesome on the trail AND they look cool to wear around. they only negative i had was that they are really roomy on the inside, i have wide feet but had to wear two pairs of socks to keep from rubbing and gettin blisters.
Was this helpful?
(1)
(0)
By: Doug from Tas (4) March 14, 2007
I have just written a glowing report for this shoe and on looking at the shoe, after two walks, I notice the black sole is starting to lift away from the grey part, on the third break from toe. This is happening on both shoes, although on opposite sides. I'll need to glue it together somehow.
Apart from this problem the shoes are fine.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Doug from Tas (4) March 14, 2007
I have found the shoe, although light in weight, feels very firm and solid on the foot with good grip. Excellent for normal trail work. On very rough undulating stony ground I did find I could 'turn' an ankle, however that is expected with a shoe. Haven't tested in wet weather as yet. Wear a half size larger than normal although may fit in smaller size. As I don't live in US it is difficult to try on. I'm very satisfied with the shoe.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: yutta (2) March 13, 2007
This shoe's may be great... but if you are a fan of the previous Ultra XCR's, you may consider trying them on first before shopping online because the fit ain't the same.
I wear a size 8, and this shoe has the size 8 length, but is somewhat wider and taller, so my feet aren't snugged comfortably inside the shoe. What a bummer... shoe looks great but doesn't work for my type of foot which is small. I'm buying another pair of the previous XCR's which are the best trail running shoes I've tried so far. If you have small feet, I would advise you to go for the Ultra and not the Ultra 103
Was this helpful?
(1)
(0)
By: Anonymous (1) January 30, 2007
Bigger than pictured. But beyond my expectations, comfortable and worth the price.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: TH (1) January 12, 2007
This is my 5th pair of The North Face Trail runners. Great shoes with great support. Took a bit getting use to this time since there is a bit more outside back corner wedging on the sole. But after ten minutes, you do not notice it.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: jeff g. (2) January 12, 2007
I love the look and comfort of this
shoe. Great shoe for trail running in all conditions. My only regret is I run 3/4 of the time on the street and these shoes are a little stiff for that.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Anonymous (1) January 3, 2007
Bought these as a gift for my boyfriend who is always a size 8 in sneakers, etc. and unfortunately these were WAY too big. Look really, great, but keep in mind when ordering.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Matthew Hennesey (2) December 29, 2006
I absolutely love these shoes. Bottom line. Worth every penny
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Haystack Needle (2) December 27, 2006
Extremely hard sole, which is fine depending on your terrain. Very large toe box, too. The downfall which led to me returning these shoes were the molded plastic which surrounds the ankle on both sides. Basically, there's no "give" and it dug into the bottom of my ankle balls, both sides, both feet. First time I've ever experienced this. Tried to break them in for a month, then gave up and returned them.
Was this helpful?
(1)
(0)
By: Armando (30) December 17, 2006
These are the best trail runners I've had. Bone dry and great grip for running in snow, perfect fit, great arch support for a fairly flat foot. Good looking and not super-dorky if you have to wear them out with jeans, etc. Priced right, too.
Was this helpful?
(0)
(0)
By: Michael Adamson (1) December 16, 2006
The soles on these shoes delaminated after only 2 days of easy wear. I read several pages of other online reviews, after this happened to my pair, and saw that this was common and reported in about 50% of the shoe purchases. Give these a pass.
Was this helpful?
(1)
(1)