The North Face Summit VECTIV Pro 3 Review
GET VECTIVATED WITH THE NEW PRO 3
(This review originally featured in Trail Run Magazine #55)
The North Face’s Summit VECTIV Pro 3 is engineered for ultra-distance trail dominance, combining cutting-edge propulsion, stability, and comfort to help runners push their limits. In other words, this is a beast of a shoe and is an upgrade from the 2024 VECTIV Pro 2.
In other words, this is a beast of a shoe and is an upgrade from the 2024 VECTIV Pro 2.
With a reimagined design, this athlete-validated trail racing shoe integrates The North Face’s latest VECTIV 3.0 technology, featuring a dual-stacked plate system. The combination of a full-length carbon-fibre propulsion plate and a recycled carbon-fibre stability top plate creates a responsive, forward-driving feel while maintaining crucial support on rugged terrain.
A rockered midsole enhances propulsion, making every step more efficient, especially in long-distance races, so there’s no excuse not to enter that ultra you’ve been eyeing off!
Cushioning takes centre stage with the DREAM nitrogen-TPU foam midsole. The high-rebound PEBA/EVA compound, now with 4mm more cushioning than its predecessor, absorbs impact while delivering an energetic return. The DREAM foam insert further boosts comfort and propulsion, ensuring peak performance over extended efforts.
The shoe’s seamless, breathable upper is designed for both support and speed. Hydrophobic and quick-drying, it keeps feet comfortable in unpredictable trail conditions. Out and about with no clouds above you but then you’re hit with a sudden and unexpected downpour (trust me, this happens!)! This shoe has seriously got you covered.
An internal skeletal support frame and integrated tongue wings provide a precise foothold, reducing movement within the shoe while maintaining lightweight agility.
Traction remains a priority with the durable SURFACE CTRL rubber outsole, optimised for weight and versatility. The 3.5mm lugs grip confidently on varied terrain, from rocky inclines to muddy descents.
Also, the outsole incorporates 10% rubber from smallholder farmers committed to regenerative agricultural practices, reinforcing sustainability without compromising performance.
For those chasing podiums or simply aiming to cover more ground with confidence, the Summit VECTIV Pro 3 delivers maximum propulsion, enhanced stability, and dreamlike comfort. Whether tackling vert-heavy ultras or rolling singletrack, this shoe stands as a premier choice for serious trail runners – and it’s engineered for both men and women, with a unisex design, so head to The North Face website for a size guide, which is plenty easy.
The women’s Summit VECTIV Pro 3 are available in White Ash/Sulphur Spring Green.
This article appeared in Edition 55 of Trail Run Magazine 2025. Grab your copy here
