8 Best North Face Trail Running Shoes of 2026

The North Face VECTIV Levitum punches well above its weight, delivering a surprisingly stable and efficient trail ride at a wallet-friendly price point. With its blend of a rockered midsole, TPU CRADLE heel stability, and removable hybrid OrthoLite footbed, this shoe tackles uneven terrain with confidence while keeping fatigue at bay during moderate trail runs. It’s a standout for runners seeking dependable performance without premium pricing, especially those logging miles on mixed gravel and fire roads where cushioning and grip matter most.

On real-world trails, the Levitum holds up admirably thanks to its durable rubber outsole and 4mm lugs that bite into loose dirt and wet rock. The mesh and synthetic upper offers decent breathability, though it’s less structured than higher-end models, leading to slight midfoot slippage during sharp descents. While it lacks the ultralight DREAM foam and advanced propulsion systems of pricier VECTIV siblings, it still provides a responsive, ground-feel-focused experience—ideal for runners who prefer a more connected, natural stride over maximum plushness.

Positioned as the most budget-conscious VECTIV model, the Levitum undercuts the Enduris 4 by nearly $50 while sacrificing some refinement. It doesn’t match the high-rebound energy return or precise lockdown of its flagship cousin, but it delivers remarkable value for entry-level trail runners or as a secondary shoe for dry, moderate routes. For those dipping into trail running without diving deep into cost, the Levitum proves performance doesn’t have to be expensive—it just has to be smart.

The North Face VECTIV Enduris 4 isn’t just a trail shoe—it’s a precision instrument for distance dominance, engineered to carry you from dawn-lit training loops to podium-chasing race days. At its core, the VECTIV system—a fusion of a 3D TPU footplate and rockered nitrogen-EVA midsole—creates a propulsive, energy-recapturing platform that turns each footstrike into forward momentum. With 30 mm of heel cushioning and a 32mm stack height, it delivers a plush yet responsive ride that excels when fatigue starts creeping in on long alpine slogs or technical descents.

In real-world testing across muddy switchbacks, loose scree, and hard-packed forest trails, the SURFACE CTRL rubber outsole with 4mm lugs consistently provided confident grip, never slipping even on slick roots. The engineered mesh upper, made with 57% recycled material, offers targeted ventilation and a secure, sock-like fit that locks the midfoot without pressure points. However, the high stack height can feel slightly top-heavy on narrow ridge lines, and runners preferring a ground-hugging feel may find it less agile than minimalist options.

Pitted against the Men’s Altamesa 500, the Enduris 4 feels more race-ready and performance-tuned, trading a bit of rugged durability for lighter weight and superior rebound. It’s the ideal pick for serious trail runners chasing speed and efficiency, especially those prioritizing long-distance comfort over rock-solid protection. While it costs more than the Altamesa line, the Enduris 4 justifies its premium with race-day-ready responsiveness and a more dynamic stride cycle.

Built for the next generation of trail explorers, the Teen Altamesa is a thoughtfully scaled-down version of The North Face’s adult trail shoes, offering real trail capability in a youth-friendly package. With a single-density EVA midsole, it delivers a snappy, cushioned ride that absorbs impact on rocky paths and hard-packed dirt, making it ideal for school trail clubs, weekend hikes, or after-school adventures. The bungee quick-lace system is a game-changer—kids can yank these on and off without fuss, and the cord lock keeps laces secure during active play.

Out on the trail, the SURFACE CTRL rubber outsole provides excellent grip for a youth shoe, handling wet leaves, gravel, and mild inclines with surprising confidence. The recycled polyester mesh upper keeps feet ventilated during warm-weather hikes, though it lacks the structured support needed for highly technical terrain. While it doesn’t have the rockered midsole or TPU stability zones of adult models, it still offers impressive durability for its size and price, surviving scrapes and scuffs like a true TNF product.

Compared to the Women’s Altamesa 300, the Teen model is simpler but perfectly suited for its audience: young runners who need reliable traction, easy entry, and all-day comfort without advanced features they won’t use. It’s not built for elite junior racing, but for everyday outdoor play and light trail running, it’s unmatched in accessibility. When fit, function, and fun converge, the Teen Altamesa stands out as the most practical entry point for budding trail lovers.

The Women’s Altamesa 300 is a breath of fresh air in the world of trail runners—light, nimble, and built for daily adventure without overcomplicating the formula. Its high-rebound EVA midsole with 25 mm of heel cushioning strikes a sweet spot between softness and responsiveness, making it perfect for everything from post-work trail jogs to weekend hikes with friends. The wider toe box is a standout, giving toes room to splay naturally on uneven ground, reducing pressure and hot spots over long distances.

In real-world use, this shoe shines on moderately technical trails, where the 4mm SURFACE CTRL lugs dig into loose soil and maintain grip on damp rocks. The 53% recycled engineered mesh upper feels airy and durable, with pull-tab webbing at the heel making entry a breeze—even with muddy hands. The internal stability wings lock down the midfoot effectively, though the rock guard (SKYCORE) can feel slightly rigid on very soft terrain, muting some ground feedback.

Stacked against the Women’s Altamesa 500, the 300 trades maximum cushioning for lighter weight and quicker transitions, making it better suited for runners who value agility over plushness. It’s not as protective or stacked as the 500, but it’s more than capable for daily training and mixed-surface routes. For women seeking a versatile, eco-conscious trail shoe that balances comfort and efficiency, the Altamesa 300 offers smarter daily performance at a lower cost.

The Women’s Altamesa 500 isn’t just cushioned—it’s armored for assault, built to conquer rugged ridgelines and punishing long-distance routes with unwavering confidence. As the 2025 Runner’s World Gear of the Year, it earns its title with ultralight DREAM nitrogen-EVA foam that delivers plush, high-rebound cushioning without the sluggishness often found in max-cushion shoes. At 30 mm of heel stack height, it soaks up brutal descents and root-strewn climbs while the ghillie lacing system ensures heel lockdown stays absolute, mile after mile.

On aggressive terrain, this shoe dominates. The dynamic forefoot stability zone and reinforced heel counter prevent ankle roll on off-camber trails, while the protective TPU toe cap shrugs off rock strikes like a pro. The 62% recycled lofted mesh upper feels airy despite its durability, and the 4mm lugs maintain tenacious grip across mud, gravel, and wet granite. Only on fast, technical ascents does the weight become noticeable—this is a stability-first shoe, not a sprinter.

Compared to the Women’s Altamesa 300, the 500 is heftier but far more protective, making it the go-to for ultra training or rocky mountain trails. It’s overkill for smooth gravel paths but unbeatable when terrain turns nasty. For runners who demand maximum support and long-haul comfort, the Altamesa 500 justifies its premium with race-proven resilience and elite-level cushioning.

The Men’s Altamesa 500 is a beast of a trail runner, engineered for men who tackle brutal terrain and long alpine miles without compromise. With 30 mm of DREAM nitrogen-EVA cushioning and a 6 mm offset, it delivers a smooth, energized ride that keeps legs fresh over 20+ mile days. The ghillie lacing system cinches the heel down like a climbing harness, while internal tongue wings lock the midfoot with race-ready precision—no slippage, no hot spots.

In real-world testing across rocky switchbacks and muddy riverbeds, the SURFACE CTRL outsole never faltered, offering tenacious grip even on slick, algae-covered stones. The protective TPU toe cap has survived multiple rock impacts without scuffing, and the reinforced heel counter provides lateral stability on off-balance descents. The lofted mesh upper breathes well, though it retains moisture slightly longer than faster-drying competitors—not ideal for back-to-back wet runs.

When compared to the Men’s Altamesa 300, the 500 is clearly the more rugged, protective option, trading agility for maximum defense and cushioning. It’s heavier, yes, but that weight buys serious trail armor and long-distance survivability. For men running technical mountain routes or training for ultras, the Altamesa 500 is the superior choice—offering race-day toughness with everyday durability.

The Men’s Altamesa 300 is the gold standard of trail value, blending smart design, durable materials, and trail-ready performance into a shoe that feels far more premium than its price suggests. With 25 mm of high-rebound EVA cushioning and a 6 mm heel-to-toe drop, it delivers a balanced, responsive ride that handles everything from urban trail commutes to weekend backpacking trips. The wider toe box is a game-changer, allowing natural toe splay that reduces fatigue on long hikes.

Out on the trail, the SURFACE CTRL rubber outsole with 4mm lugs provides consistent grip on loose dirt and wet rock, while the SKYCORE rock guard adds underfoot protection without deadening trail feel. The 53% recycled seamless mesh keeps feet cool, and the gear-inspired pull tab makes slipping the shoe on and off effortless—even with gloves on. Only on extended muddy sections does the midsole drainage lag, holding onto moisture longer than some competitors.

Against the Men’s Altamesa 500, the 300 is lighter and more agile, though less cushioned and protective. It’s not built for 50-mile races, but for 90% of trail runners, it’s more than enough. For those who want excellent performance without overspending, the Altamesa 300 delivers unmatched versatility and value—beating pricier shoes in daily usability.

The Women’s VECTIV Enduris 4 is a masterclass in long-distance trail engineering, designed to carry female runners from sunrise training to finish-line glory with unwavering comfort and precision. At its heart, the VECTIV system—a 3D TPU footplate fused with a rockered DREAM nitrogen-EVA midsole—creates a propulsive, energy-returning stride that minimizes fatigue over marathon distances. With 30 mm of heel stack and a 32mm overall height, it offers plush support without sacrificing responsiveness.

On technical trails, the 4mm SURFACE CTRL lugs deliver surefooted grip, biting into mud and loose gravel with confidence. The 57% recycled engineered mesh upper features mapped venting zones that keep feet cool during summer runs, while the seamless construction eliminates hot spots during multi-hour efforts. The fit is snug but not narrow, though runners with very wide feet may want to size up. It’s less protective than the Altamesa 500, but far more dynamic on rolling terrain.

Compared to the Women’s Altamesa 500, the Enduris 4 feels lighter, faster, and more race-oriented, trading some ruggedness for speed and efficiency. It’s the ideal pick for competitive trail runners or those training for races, where every ounce and millisecond counts. For women who want a high-performance, eco-conscious shoe that excels in motion, the Enduris 4 outshines even its cushioned rivals with superior stride dynamics and long-haul poise.