New Vectiv technology, by The North Face, maximises the energy efficiency by combining a bi-density midsole with 3D stability plates. Designed for trail running, this technology is fast-becoming a reference point for the ultra-distance runner.
Ask any trail runner which features they would expect from a trail running shoe and most would say comfort, grip and breathability, for example.
Ask any trail runner to name the features they long to be included, however impossible it may seem, and we are sure many would request a shoe that is able to reduce fatigue and improve performance.
The North Face found that these features really were the aspiration of trail runners and decided to take on the challange.
The numbers are compelling:
The energy that goes into every stride is lost when contact is made with the terrain and energy is absorbed by unnecessary cushioning. Finding a technology that converts this energy into forward momentum is something sports brands have been aspiring to for many years.
Until now, the solutions to runners’ requirements have consisted of special elastomers and plate designs which are mostly flat and two dimensional.
The North Face has created a technology to provide an effective solution to the problems detected, with three main advantages:
The main diference with other systems is that the inner plate is 3D. The benefits mentioned above are achieved by providing greater lateral stability, a huge improvment of reception and return of energy in each stride and a notable reduction of impact with each step.
Another benefit derived from this innovative system is that, by placing the plate immediately under the insole and above the midsole, it achieves greater cushioning throughout the race.
In theory, all the shoes with Vectiv technology are designed for ultra-distances, although we observed slight distintions between the models. Some offer more pop while others, with the same technology, offer greater cushioning. This is determined by the material used to make the plate and by the composition of the midsole.
The common feature in all Vectiv models is the 3D plate. But depending on the terrain each model is designed for, the plate is made either of carbon fiber, Pebax® or TPU, which means certain models will perform well on shorter, more explosive distances or on longer distances where greater help is required.
The women’s model’s are not only different in design; the lace system has also been moved upwards by 5mm to allow a tighter top adjust. The thickness of the foam in the tongue and cuff has also been increased by 5mm and the plate is more flexible than in the men’s models.
The Vectiv Enduris is the perfect shoe for long distance trail running, thanks to its two main features: exceptional cushioning throughout the shoe and forward propulsion. The 3D plate is made of TPU and is the most flexible of the three plates used in Vectiv trail running competition shoes. It provides multi-directional stability and maximises the transformation of energy to forward momentum.
Vectiv Enduris, cusioning for long distances
A shoe designed for long distances. The mesh is highly breathable and details such as the ultra-soft and cushioned tongue manage to provide comfort even after running for hours, when everything hurts.
Featuring the Ortholite X55 insole, which complements the benefits of Vectiv technology, providing extra energy return and stability. This insole is extremely lightweight and partly made of recycled materials.
The weight of the men’s shoe is 316 grams and the women’s is 278 grams.
La Vectiv Infinite has technical features for ultra competition, providing high comfort and durability. The Pebax plate offers exceptional stability and impulse without adding overall weight.
Vectiv Infinite, highly durable. Entire upper in Matryx.
The entire upper of the Infinite is made with Matryx®, to offer the highest level of durability and abrasion resistance in the Vectiv range. Matryx fabric is a combination of high tenacity polyamide and Kevlar, which provides exceptional durability and breathability with a minimum amount of fabric. It also wicks body moisture away from your skin.
The combination of Pebax with Matryx provides ultra-protection, regarding both the wear resistance and the stability and cushioning provided. Like the Enduris, this shoe comes with the Ortholite X55 insole.
The men’s shoes weighs 307 grams and the women’s weighs 273 grams.
The Flight Vectiv is the fastest and most reactive shoe in the Vectiv range, designed to favour the forward momentum of each stride. Thanks to the carbon fiber plate, this shoe achieves a reactivity unheard of before. This is the first mountain running shoe with a carbon plate on the market. In the women’s version, the plate is designed with a 45º altered angle to allow greater flex.
Flight Vectiv, the first trail running shoe with a carbon fiber plate.
The Matryx® lateral panels provide durability without compromising on weight, just like the Vectiv Infinite, thanks to the combination of Kevlar® and polyamide. The rest of the upper is made with reinforced mesh fabric to maintain a high level of breathability and durability.
The men’s model weighs 288 grams and the women’s weighs 247 grams.
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