The North Face has introduced the Summit Vectiv Sky 2, a trail racing shoe positioned to enhance performance for experienced trail and ultrarunners engaged in technical mountain races. Priced at $200, the Summit Vectiv Sky 2 offers a balanced combination of speed, cushioning, and traction, addressing some of the weaknesses noted in its predecessor, the original Summit Vectiv Sky. This shoe is not only lighter but also has improved grip, midsole construction, and overall ride quality, making it an enticing option for competitive runners targeting races up to 50 kilometers.
One of the most important aspects of the Summit Vectiv Sky 2 is its midsole, constructed entirely of Dream foam, a nitrogen-infused TPU material. This latest iteration is touted to provide a more lively and responsive experience than the previous version. While it’s designed for speed over comfort, the cushioning with a stack height of 28 millimeters at the heel and 22 millimeters at the forefoot strikes a balance that allows runners to maintain precision foot placement in dynamic conditions. The inclusion of a carbon plate further contributes to its snappiness while traversing rocky, uneven trails, promoting a propulsive feel ideal for racing scenarios.
The shoe weighs in at 8.4 ounces (238 grams) for a U.S. men’s size 9, positioning it competitively among the lightest trail shoes. Runners familiar with ultramarathons will recognize that weight is of paramount importance, particularly during long races where every ounce counted in your pack or on your feet can affect performance over hard-fought miles. Notably, this shoe has earned its place among the best lightweight trail running shoes currently available, solidifying its reputation as a contender in this demanding market.
An aspect that reflects this shoe’s potential is the thorough redesign of its outsole, featuring 5-millimeter lugs—a notable increase from the previous model’s shallow 3.5-millimeter spikes. This enhancement results in improved grip across various surfaces, notably when descending steep technical terrain, where traction and stability are critical. The outsole employs The North Face’s proprietary Surface Ctrl rubber, strategically designed for exceptional grip on dry rock, loose dirt, and rooty trails—common elements experienced during mountain races.
However, while the shoe performs admirably for short, fast-paced races, it may offer limited comfort during extended wear, particularly on longer training runs or races of 50 kilometers or more. Runners accustomed to extended periods on their feet may find the midsole can become unpleasant during lengthy jogs, introducing an air of caution for those deliberating its use in ultra-distance racing. The upper portion of the shoe has also transitioned from a more complex bootie style to a simpler and conventional design, featuring straightforward eyelets and a gusseted tongue. This change provides a familiar locked-in feel but may not suit every foot shape, especially for runners with broader feet.
Athletes planning to race at high elevations or over rugged coursework should consider the overall fit of the Summit Vectiv Sky 2. The snug fit may lead to discomfort on longer runs, especially as fatigue sets in and foot swelling becomes a concern. Feedback suggests the lockdown may not be flawless—potentially leading to minor rubbing in prolonged scenarios. While such factors can influence trail performance and recovery, finding the right sock combination may alleviate some discomfort during training and racing.
As experienced ultrarunners know, the balance between performance and comfort dictates strategic decisions. The Summit Vectiv Sky 2, while losing a bit of long-distance versatility, seems ideally constructed for those seeking speed in competitive short-distance events or technical mountain paths, where every detail in shoe performance can become an advantage. Runners training for mountain ultras should weigh the significance of grip, weight, and responsiveness of shoes like the Summit Vectiv Sky 2 against their personal preferences and past performance with similar models.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of trail running gear, innovations such as the Summit Vectiv Sky 2 can dictate future performance, especially as races become increasingly competitive. Keeping a close eye on the latest gear developments and incorporating adaptable strategies in gear selection could provide an edge in upcoming mountain races. As the sport continues to evolve, runners preparing for imminent ultras should always consider how their footwear can optimize their capabilities on varying terrain while aligning with their race strategies.
Ultimately, experienced trail and ultrarunners should remain cognizant that the right shoe can significantly affect not only race-day performance but also the overall training experience. Emphasizing the importance of rigorous shoe testing and adaptation to varying race conditions—whether technical descents, uphill challenges, or lengthier courses—will serve athletes well as they prepare for their next mountain races.
