The North Face Ultra Fastpack III Mid GTX review
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all hiking shoes.
This shoe has a 7% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is to avoid that shoes with few reviews unjustly receives high scores.
Learn moreVerdict from 4 experts & 100+ users
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comfortable build
- Excellent breathability
- Affordable
- Waterproof
- Precise fit
- Sticky outsole
Cons
- Difficult to keep the tension in the laces
- Lack of underfoot support



88% say it's true to size.
Out of stock in all 30 shops
The North Face hiking shoesRankings
- Our 1st pick in best backpacking shoes
- Top 6% in hiking shoes
- Top 7% in The North Face hiking shoes
Comparison to similar hiking shoes
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Who should buy the North Face Ultra Fastpack III Mid GTX
Getting a pair of the North Face Ultra Fastpack III Mid GTX surely won’t break the bank. It is a solid option if you:
- Prefer a hiking shoe that is designed for users who want to go light and fast on the trails.
- Prefer a hiking shoe that optimizes energy return for fatigue reduction.
- Prefer a hiking shoe that is equipped with a durable outsole and responsive on the trails.
Updates to The North Face Ultra Fastpack III Mid GTX
- From The North Face Ultra Series, the third version of the Ultra Fastpack Mid GTX is designed for those who want to go light and fast on the trails. This iteration has an updated overall look, especially on the upper, while keeping its weight at a minimum. It still comes with a Gore-Tex lining for waterproofing.
- Previously employed with the brand-owned Ultra Protect Cradle technology, this successor wears the FastFoam midsole system which optimizes energy return for fatigue reduction. On the other hand, it is still equipped with a durable Vibram Megagrip outsole. Its facade is updated to be more responsive on the trails.
Size and fit
The North Face Ultra Fastpack III Mid GTX caters to male and female day hikers with a standard-width foot. It is offered in full and half sizes. It relatively runs true to size. A customized fit is achieved through its lace-up closure.
Excellent grip on most types of terrain
The North Face Ultra Fastpack III Mid GTX wears a Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole. It offers grip on most types of terrain, whether wet or dry.
Abrasion-resistant
The grooves in between its abrasion-resistant lugs prevent muck build-up to maintain the sole’s traction.
Excellent ground sensitivity and energy return
This mid-top backpacking and speed hiking shoe comes with the brand-owned FastFoam midsole system which includes a dual-density EVA foam. This feature amplifies ground sensitivity and energy return. Comfort is multiplied through the incorporation of an Ortholite footbed.
Flexible underfoot cushioning
Support comes from the ESS midfoot shank. This element keeps the foot steady while giving a decent amount of underfoot flexibility. A heel cup is added to stabilize the foot.
Waterproof
Featuring a TPU-coated woven mesh upper, the Ultra Fastpack III Mid GTX offers protection while keeping its flexibility. Inside is a Gore-Tex lining that prevents water intrusion and expels moisture out. A TPU toe cap is added to shield the foot against accidental bumps.
Lightweight
Featuring a TPU-coated woven mesh upper, the Ultra Fastpack III Mid GTX offers protection while keeping its flexibility. Inside is a Gore-Tex lining that prevents water intrusion and expels moisture out. A TPU toe cap is added to shield the foot against accidental bumps.
Easy to wear
Its closure system employs combination eyelets, primarily webbing loops. A pull tab is added at the top of its padded tongue and at the heel area to assist on and off.
Additional Info
- This Ultra Fastpack III silhouette also comes in a low-cut GTX variant and woven versions.