At Allday Magazine, we’re driven by the pursuit of adventure, whether that’s navigating on multiple cycling trails or forging a path through the wilderness. Our gear choices demand performance that doesn’t compromise on comfort or versatility. This philosophy aligns perfectly with The North Face, a brand that has consistently equipped explorers for every kind of journey imaginable. So, when the Men’s Offtrail Hike LT Mid GORE-TEX boots arrived, I was excited and eager to see if they could truly live up to their “offtrail” promise.
About The North Face
For over five decades, The North Face has been a beacon for adventurers worldwide. What began in 1966 as a small retail shop in San Francisco, founded by two avid hikers, quickly grew into a global powerhouse synonymous with exploration and innovation. Named after the coldest, most unforgiving side of a mountain, their mantra “Never Stop Exploring™” isn’t just a catchy phrase; it’s the DNA of the brand.
Men’s Offtrail Hike LT Mid GORE-TEX
The North Face markets the Men’s Offtrail Hike LT Mid GORE-TEX as a rugged yet nimble boot built for “technical and unpredictable terrain,” encouraging you to “chart your own course.” It’s designed for both day hikes and multi-day adventures, offering a blend of protection and lightweight agility. Key features:
- GORE-TEX 3L Waterproof Membrane (PFAS-free): The gold standard in waterproof breathability.The PFAS-free aspect speaks to a more environmentally conscious design.
- Cordura® Overlasted Forefoot: Provides enhanced durability and abrasion resistance in a high-wear area, crucial for off-trail ventures.
- Integrated SKYCORE Rock Guard: A hidden plate designed to protect your feet from sharp rocks and roots, offering peace of mind on technical trails.
- SURFACE CTRL™ Rubber Outsole: Optimized for weight and versatility, this durable outsole is made with 20% rubber from smallholder farmers committed to regenerative agricultural practices, contributing to both performance and sustainability.
- 5 mm High-Traction Lugs: Aggressively designed lugs for superior grip on diverse and challenging terrain.
- Reinforced Heel Cup and Padded Collar/Tongue: Engineered to provide a secure lockdown and long-distance comfort, even on extended treks.
- Ballistic-Rubber Toe Cap & Nubuck-Leather Reinforcements: Additional layers of protection and support in key areas.
- Ghillie-Lace Loops and Metal Eyelets: A combination lacing system for a customizable, secure fit.
- Pull Loop at Heel: A small but welcome detail for easy on/off.
The Testing
From the moment I slipped on the Offtrail Hike LT Mid GORE-TEX boots, two things were immediately apparent: their impressive lightness and surprisingly comfortable fit. Often, robust hiking boots can feel cumbersome, but these truly embody the “LT” (Light) in their name. There’s a noticeable agility that encourages quicker footwork, which is a huge asset on uneven or technical terrain.
The fit is snug and supportive without feeling restrictive. The reinforced heel cup and padded collar do an excellent job of locking the foot in place, minimizing heel slip,a common culprit for blisters on longer hikes. The lacing system allows for precise adjustment, ensuring a custom fit that adapts to your foot shape.
I put these boots through their paces on several wet, muddy trails, crossing streams and splashing through puddles. My feet remained completely dry, a testament to the effective waterproofing. Critically, the breathability was also impressive; even during more strenuous climbs, I didn’t experience excessive heat buildup or clamminess inside the boot. This is a fine balance to strike in waterproof footwear, and The North Face has largely succeeded here.
When I climbed Sentry Mountain in Crownest Pass, Southwest Alberta, it was very technical terrain. The integrated SKYCORE rock guard was a noticeable benefit. Stepping on sharp rocks felt less jarring, and there was a palpable sense of protection underfoot. The SURFACE CTRL™ outsole, with its aggressive 5mm lugs, provided exceptional grip on everything from loose gravel and slick roots to muddy inclines. I felt confident taking on challenging descents and scrambling over rocky sections, knowing these boots had my back (or rather, my feet).
While these boots offer serious protection, their mid-height cut provides a good balance between ankle support and freedom of movement. For those who prefer a less bulky feel than a full high-cut boot but still desire ankle stability, this is an excellent compromise.
To conclude
The North Face Men’s Offtrail Hike LT Mid GORE-TEX boots are an outstanding choice for hikers who demand a versatile, protective, and surprisingly lightweight boot. They excel in keeping your feet dry and comfortable in challenging conditions, while providing excellent grip and underfoot protection on varied terrain. Whether your adventures take you on well-trodden paths or into the truly “off-trail” wilderness, these boots offer the confidence and comfort to explore further and push your limits. They’re a testament to The North Face’s ability to blend innovative technology with practical design, empowering you to embrace every step of your journey.
You can have more information about The North Face here:
