The North Face Flight Series Vectiv
£180, thenorthface.co.uk
The first carbon-plated trail shoe, it has a three-part sole design that follows the road carbon shoe formula quite closely. The Vectiv pairs a carbon plate with a high stack of responsive midsole foam and a tougher outsole for added traction. The ride is light, agile and responsive, but best suited to dryer, firmer trails. Comfort ★★★★★ Cushioning ★★★★★ Responsiveness ★★★★ OVERALL ★★★★★
KEY FEATURES
• Toughen uppers – The Vectiv features important protective details, such as foot-hugging Kevlar-strengthened booty-fit uppers and reinforced toe caps.
• Double down – The dual-density midsole combines ultra-lightweight and high-rebound foams for protection and response.
• Rocker and roller – The midsole has a now-familiar curved rocker for rolling through each step, to improve efficiency.