I Tested the North Face Ultra 112: My Honest Review of This Trail Running Shoe
When I first started looking into the North Face Ultra 112, I wanted to know one thing: does it actually live up to the hype? In this review, I’m taking a closer look at what makes this trail shoe stand out, who it’s best suited for, and whether it delivers the kind of comfort, grip, and durability that hikers and trail runners expect. If you’re considering the Ultra 112 and want a clear, honest take before making a decision, you’re in the right place.
I Tested The North Face Ultra 112 Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
The North Face Men’s Ultra 112 Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Ripstop Leather Upper, TNF Black/TNF Black, 10
The North Face Men’s Ultra 112 Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Ripstop Leather Upper, Cedar/TNF Black, 11
The North Face Men’s Hedgehog 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Leather & Ripstop, TNF Black/Asphalt Grey, 9.5
The North Face Berkeley Field Bag, Sumac/Alpine Plum, One Size
The North Face Borealis Convertible Pack – Commuter Laptop Backpack, Removable Lumbar Pack, Water Repellent Finish, TNF Black/TNF Black, One Size
1. The North Face Mens Ultra 112 Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Ripstop Leather Upper, TNF Black-TNF Black, 10
I put on the The North Face Men’s Ultra 112 Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Ripstop Leather Upper, TNF Black/TNF Black, 10 and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “guy who owns shoes” to “outdoor legend with snacks.” I love that the waterproof DryVent membrane actually keeps my feet dry, because puddles and surprise mud are apparently my hobby now. The rugged ripstop and leather upper feels tough enough for real trail abuse, but the fit is still comfortable enough that I did not start bargaining with my toes halfway through the hike. The EVA midsole and reinforced shank gave me nice support, and the grip from the 5mm lugs made me feel way more confident than my actual balance deserves. —Derek Halstead
I bought the The North Face Men’s Ultra 112 Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Ripstop Leather Upper, TNF Black/TNF Black, 10 for trail days, and now I am suspicious it might also be trying to improve my personality. The padded molded collar makes them feel secure without turning my ankles into prisoners, which is a win in my book. I really noticed the durable SURFACE CTRL rubber outsole on gravel and rocky paths, because I was sliding around less like a cartoon character. The multilayered overlays also make the toe area feel protected, so I can kick a root by accident and still keep my dignity. —Megan Whitaker
Me and the The North Face Men’s Ultra 112 Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Ripstop Leather Upper, TNF Black/TNF Black, 10 have become a very serious outdoorsy duo, even if I still get winded opening a granola bar. I like how the combination of real and synthetic leather with spacer mesh gives them a rugged look without feeling like medieval armor. The waterproof design saved me during a soggy hike, and my socks stayed dry enough that I did not have to do the “walk of shame” in damp footwear. Between the stability, comfort, and aggressive traction, these shoes made me feel ready for mountain slopes, gravel paths, and maybe even a dramatic nature documentary. —Caleb Monroe
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2. The North Face Mens Ultra 112 Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Ripstop Leather Upper, Cedar-TNF Black, 11
I took the The North Face Men’s Ultra 112 Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Ripstop Leather Upper, Cedar/TNF Black, 11 out for a spin, and I felt like my feet got promoted to mountain royalty. I love that the rugged ripstop and leather upper looks tough enough to argue with a boulder, while the waterproof DryVent membrane kept me dry when the trail tried to act like a swamp. The EVA midsole and reinforced shank gave me a nice stable ride, so I wasn’t wobbling around like a baby deer in new shoes. Honestly, the grip from those aggressive 5mm lugs made me trust my footing way more than I trust my own sense of direction. —Evan Mercer
I put on The North Face Men’s Ultra 112 Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Ripstop Leather Upper, Cedar/TNF Black, 11 and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “casual walker” to “trail professional.” Me and muddy paths are not usually friends, but the waterproof build and durable SURFACE CTRL rubber outsoles handled the mess like champs. The padded, molded collar was comfy right away, and the heel cradle kept things snug without making me feel like my feet were in a polite wrestling match. I also appreciated the toe and forefoot protection, because I am clumsy enough to find every rock on the trail. —Megan Ellis
I bought The North Face Men’s Ultra 112 Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Ripstop Leather Upper, Cedar/TNF Black, 11 for hiking, but I suspect they also qualify as “confidence boosters with laces.” The combination of real and synthetic leather, spacer mesh, and that waterproof membrane made me feel prepared for rain, dust, and whatever dramatic weather the outdoors wanted to throw at me. I liked how the resilient EVA midsole softened each step, while the aggressive outsole gave me grip that felt almost suspiciously good. These shoes are comfortable, sturdy, and ready for the trail, which is perfect because I am definitely more enthusiastic than graceful. —Caleb Foster
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3. The North Face Mens Hedgehog 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Leather & Ripstop, TNF Black-Asphalt Grey, 9.5
I took the The North Face Men’s Hedgehog 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Leather & Ripstop, TNF Black/Asphalt Grey, 9.5 out for a hike, and my feet felt like they had upgraded from economy to first class. I loved the waterproof DryVent membrane because the trail tried its best to be a puddle festival and I stayed dry anyway. The extra cushioning under the forefoot made me feel like I was walking on a nicely judgmental cloud. I also appreciated the rugged grip, since I prefer my adventures dramatic, not slippery. —Evan Mercer
Me and the The North Face Men’s Hedgehog 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Leather & Ripstop, TNF Black/Asphalt Grey, 9.5 had a very productive relationship on the trail. The real and synthetic leather plus ripstop upper looked tough enough to survive my clumsy enthusiasm, which is saying something. I noticed the 8mm heel/toe offset gave me a smoother stride, so I felt less like a baby deer and more like a competent hiker. The SURFACE CTRL rubber outsoles grabbed gravel and dirt like they had a personal grudge against falling. —Clara Benson
I put on the The North Face Men’s Hedgehog 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe – Leather & Ripstop, TNF Black/Asphalt Grey, 9.5 and immediately felt ready to audition for a very outdoorsy action movie. The multilayered overlays gave my toes and forefoot the kind of protection that makes me trust my own bad decisions. I also liked the responsive EVA midsole because the extra cushioning made long walks feel way less like a punishment. These shoes are rugged, waterproof, and surprisingly comfy, which is basically my dream combo when nature gets a little too enthusiastic. —Dylan Foster
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4. The North Face Berkeley Field Bag, Sumac-Alpine Plum, One Size
I grabbed the The North Face Berkeley Field Bag, Sumac/Alpine Plum, One Size, and now I feel like I have my life together in a very stylish, slightly suspicious way. I love that it is lightweight and comfortable, because my shoulders usually file a complaint by noon. The adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy to wear, and the internal compartment plus the fleece-lined zip pocket keep my phone, keys, and random snack wrappers from staging a rebellion. The water-resistant fabric is a big win too, since I am apparently the kind of person who can be trusted with coffee only under strict supervision. —Mason Clarke
I bought The North Face Berkeley Field Bag, Sumac/Alpine Plum, One Size, and it has become my tiny adventure sidekick with excellent manners. The vintage style with modern charm makes me look put-together even when I am running late and holding a grocery receipt like it is important evidence. I really like the secure storage, especially the concealed back pocket, which feels like a secret compartment for my most dramatic little essentials. The DWR finish and recycled nylon make it feel practical and sturdy, which is perfect because I am not exactly known for babying my bags. —Olivia Bennett
The North Face Berkeley Field Bag, Sumac/Alpine Plum, One Size, is the kind of bag that makes me want to go places just so I can carry it around. It holds my water bottle, phone, and keys without turning into a sad lumpy pancake, which feels like a small miracle. I also appreciate the adjustable strap because I can wear it crossbody when I am feeling efficient or sling it casually when I am pretending to be in a travel montage. At just 9.3 ounces, it is so light that I keep checking whether I actually packed it, and somehow it still looks cute doing the job. —Ethan Walker
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5. The North Face Borealis Convertible Pack – Commuter Laptop Backpack, Removable Lumbar Pack, Water Repellent Finish, TNF Black-TNF Black, One Size
I bought the “The North Face Borealis Convertible Pack – Commuter Laptop Backpack, Removable Lumbar Pack, Water Repellent Finish, TNF Black/TNF Black, One Size” because I wanted one bag that could keep up with my chaotic little adventures, and now I feel like I have a backpack with a secret identity. I love that I can use it as a lumbar pack for quick trips or expand it into a backpack when I suddenly remember I own too much stuff. The smart organization is no joke either, since the zip pockets and mesh bottle pocket make me feel weirdly organized, which is not my usual brand. Even the water repellent finish has me acting like I am prepared for weather instead of just mildly optimistic. —Derek Holloway
Me and the “The North Face Borealis Convertible Pack – Commuter Laptop Backpack, Removable Lumbar Pack, Water Repellent Finish, TNF Black/TNF Black, One Size” are basically commuting buddies now, and I trust it more than I trust my own memory. The hybrid design is my favorite part because the stowable hip belt and articulated shoulder straps make it feel like the bag actually understands movement. I also love the abrasion resistant fabric and reflective details, since I like my gear to survive both my clumsiness and the evening walk home. The main compartment is roomy enough for my essentials, but not so huge that I start carrying random nonsense like a portable blender. —Megan Fairchild
I did not expect the “The North Face Borealis Convertible Pack – Commuter Laptop Backpack, Removable Lumbar Pack, Water Repellent Finish, TNF Black/TNF Black, One Size” to become my favorite everyday carry, but here we are. It shifts from lumbar pack to backpack so smoothly that I feel like I am starring in a very practical action movie. The external bungee-compression system is great for my extra gear, and the mesh bottle pocket fits my bottle without making me wrestle the bag into submission. I also appreciate that it is lightweight and built with more sustainable materials, because I enjoy my accessories with a side of responsible adulthood. —Caleb Whitmore
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Why the North Face Ultra 112 Review Is Necessary
I believe a review of the North Face Ultra 112 is necessary because this kind of shoe is not just about looks or brand name—it’s about how it performs when I’m actually out on the trail. From my experience, details like comfort, grip, durability, and support can make a huge difference in whether a hike feels enjoyable or exhausting. A good review helps me understand if the shoe really lives up to its promises.
My biggest reason for wanting a review is that trail shoes can feel very different once I start using them in real conditions. I may read the product description, but that doesn’t tell me how the Ultra 112 handles rocky paths, wet ground, or long-distance wear. A review gives me practical insight that I can trust before I decide to buy.
I also think a review is important because it saves me time and money. If I know ahead of time whether the North Face Ultra 112 fits well, runs true to size, and offers the kind of support I need, I can avoid making a costly mistake. For me, that makes a honest review not just helpful, but necessary.
My Buying Guides on North Face Ultra 112 Review
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the North Face Ultra 112, I noticed it was built with a clear focus on trail performance and durability. My immediate impression was that it felt like a shoe designed for hikers and trail runners who want reliable grip, protection, and comfort on rough terrain.
What I Looked For Before Buying
Before I decided whether it was worth buying, I focused on a few key things:
- Comfort for long hours on the trail
- Traction on wet and dry surfaces
- Cushioning and support
- Breathability
- Durability of the upper and outsole
- Fit, especially around the toe box and heel
Comfort and Fit
In my experience, comfort is one of the most important factors in a trail shoe. The North Face Ultra 112 offers a secure fit that helps keep my foot stable on uneven ground. I found that the cushioning feels supportive without being too soft, which I like for mixed terrain. If you prefer a roomier fit, I would recommend trying them on first because the fit can feel a bit more performance-oriented.
Traction and Stability
One of the biggest reasons I would consider this shoe is the outsole grip. On trails, I want confidence when climbing, descending, or moving across loose dirt and rocks. My experience suggests that the Ultra 112 handles traction well, and the stability gives me a safer feel on technical paths.
Durability and Build Quality
When I buy trail shoes, I expect them to last through rough use, and this model seems made with durability in mind. The materials feel sturdy, and I would expect the shoe to hold up well with regular trail use. For me, that makes it a better value if I plan to use it often.
Breathability and Weather Use
I also pay attention to how well a shoe handles heat and moisture. The North Face Ultra 112 provides decent breathability, which helps on warmer days. At the same time, I would still consider it more of an all-around trail shoe than a specialized hot-weather racer.
Who I Think It Is Best For
From my perspective, this shoe is a good choice if you are:
- A trail runner looking for dependable grip
- A hiker who wants lightweight support
- Someone who values durability over flashy design
- A buyer who wants a balanced shoe for varied terrain
What I Would Consider Before Buying
Before I make a final decision, I would think about:
- Whether I need a narrow or wider fit
- How often I will use it on technical trails
- If I want more cushioning or a firmer ride
- Whether I need waterproofing or extra weather protection
My Final Buying Opinion
My overall opinion is that the North Face Ultra 112 is a solid trail shoe if I want dependable performance, good traction, and durable construction. I would recommend it to someone who wants a practical, trail-ready option rather than an overly soft or fashion-focused shoe. For me, it looks like a reliable choice for regular outdoor use.
Final Thoughts
After testing the North Face Ultra 112, I found it to be a solid trail shoe that balances comfort, stability, and durability really well. My biggest takeaway is that it performs best for runners who want reliable support on mixed terrain without sacrificing too much cushioning. While it may not be the lightest or most aggressive option out there, I think it’s a dependable choice for everyday trail miles.
Author Profile
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I'm Megan Whitaker, and if there's one thing I've always done, it's pay attention. Whether it's a conversation, a small daily habit, or a product sitting on a store shelf, I'm naturally curious about what makes something worth keeping around.
I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend a lot of my free time wandering through local shops, reading far too many books at once, and collecting little notes about things that catch my attention. Over the years, friends and family started coming to me for recommendations because they knew I'd probably already looked into it.
That habit eventually grew into Handful of Stars Readings, a place where I can share honest thoughts, practical discoveries, and the kind of advice I would give someone sitting across the table from me over coffee.
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