A Stable, Versatile Trail Endurance Shoe
Image: official product image from thenorthface.com
Is the The North Face VECTIV Enduris 4 good for ultrarunning?
Yes, the The North Face VECTIV Enduris 4 is a cushioned, stable trail trainer suited to long runs and many ultra-training miles. Its 32mm heel, rocker and plate support a smooth ride, while 4mm lugs grip across varied conditions. It is less suited to highly technical routes or races beyond 50 kilometres.
Key facts
| Category | Trail shoes |
|---|---|
| Release | Announced 26 February 2025; on sale March 2025 |
| Price | $180 / £145 |
| Key specs |
|
| Best for | Ultrarunners seeking a cushioned, stable daily trainer for long runs and varied trail conditions, rather than a lightweight specialist racer. |
| Consensus score | 8.7 out of 10 |
What changed in the Enduris 4?
The North Face VECTIV Enduris 4 is a plated trail endurance shoe designed for steady training and varied terrain. Its midsole pairs DREAM nitrogen-infused TPU foam with a VECTIV 3.0 3D TPU plate and forefoot wings. The listed stack is 32mm at the heel and 26mm at the forefoot, with a 6mm drop. Reviewers describe the rocker and plate as creating a smooth, stable ride. Weight reports vary by source and sizing: Engearment lists 9oz per shoe, while iRunFar reports 291g for a US men’s size 9.
How does it handle ultras?
Reviewers broadly found the cushioned ride comfortable over long runs, with the rocker helping maintain a steady stride and the plate adding stability. The 4mm lugs on the SURFACE CTRL rubber outsole offer reliable grip on wet and dry trails, though one reviewer found traction less assured in loose terrain. The shoe can handle quicker training, but its weight and fit variability make it less of a race-day specialist. The consensus is that it suits long-distance training and varied trails better than highly technical routes or races beyond 50 kilometres.
Who should buy the Enduris 4?
This shoe makes sense for ultrarunners who want cushioning, stability and a versatile daily trainer for long runs, rather than a lightweight specialist racer. Several reviewers found the heel secure, but reports on forefoot room differ: some describe a roomy toe area, while others report a pointed shape or pressure over the foot. Insoles or wider feet may make that pressure more noticeable. Try the fit with your usual running socks and insoles if possible. Choose another option if precise fit, low weight or confident grip on loose, technical terrain is your priority.
What reviewers agree on
Strengths
- Cushioned, comfortable ride for long runs
- Stable, smooth rocker-assisted stride
- Reliable grip across many trail conditions
- Secure heel lockdown reported by several reviewers
- Versatile for daily training and some faster workouts
Weaknesses
- Fit and toe-box comfort vary between reviewers
- Some pressure over the foot, especially with insoles
- Heavier than some competitors
- Less assured traction in loose terrain
- Not a specialist choice for highly technical trails or longer races
Frequently asked questions
How does the VECTIV Enduris 4 fit?
Fit reports are mixed. Some reviewers describe a secure heel and roomy forefoot, while others found the toe shape pointed or experienced pressure over the foot. Insoles may increase that pressure, and wider feet may need particular care. Try your usual socks and insoles before committing if you can.
Is the VECTIV Enduris 4 durable?
The available reviews describe a SURFACE CTRL rubber outsole with 4mm lugs and report reliable grip on wet and dry trails. The consensus data does not establish a lifespan or mileage limit, so there is not enough evidence here to make a firm durability prediction.
Is the VECTIV Enduris 4 suitable for longer races?
It is a capable option for long training runs and varied trails, but reviewers do not consider it the first choice for highly technical routes or races beyond 50 kilometres. Its cushioning and stability favour endurance training over lightweight race-day precision.
Sources behind this review
How this review works: the consensus score of 8.7 out of 10 condenses the verdicts of the independent reviews and lab tests listed above, compiled by endurance coach Paul Forrest. Prices and specifications are those quoted by reviewers at the time of testing and may have changed.
Training for an ultra? See endurance coaching with Paul Forrest.
