The North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR Cross-Training Shoes
The North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR Cross-Training Shoes
My biggest gripe with cross training shoes is that many of them failed to actually be true cross training shoes. Many of them tended to lean more towards one type of activity rather than a wide variety. To me, that is what a cross training shoe should do. It should be designed to handle a wide variety of activities equally and comfortably. That is exactly what the North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR Cross-Training Shoes do.
One feature I feel like makes the North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR Cross-Training Shoes truly a cross training shoe is its sole. The compression molded sole is stiff enough to keep you comfortable on long day hikes, but soft enough to give you the absorption you need for trail running. So many cross training shoes tend to make a sole too soft for longer hikes or too hard to run it, but the North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR Cross-Training Shoes has hit it dead on.
The other thing I like about the North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR Cross-Training Shoes is that they have made them tough enough for even the most serious day hike. The uppers of the North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR Cross-Training Shoes are made up of sythetic nubuck leather and mesh which adds breathability and waterproofing its list of selling points.
The quick & dirty:
Where you can get one:
Amazon.com: $80
Why they rock:
- Synthetic nubuck leather uppers with sandwich-mesh nylon panels are flexible, lightweight and waterproof
- Reinforced toe boxes and molded rubber heel counters protect uppers from abrasion; gusseted and padded tongues keep out debris and add comfort
- Seam-sealed Gore-Tex XCR inserts with wicking nylon linings offer waterproof protection while allowing your moisture vapor to escape
- AgION antimicrobial silver threads in linings help prevent odor buildup
- Removable X-2 footbeds with AgION topsheets add cushioning and odor control
- Lightweight, compression-molded EVA midsoles deliver all-day cushioning and shock absorption
- X-2 O2 air pods in heels provide an added measure of cushioning and protection, soaking up shock with every stride
- Thermoplastic urethane shank plates add torsional rigidity and protection from uneven terrain
- Vibram rubber outsoles supply dependable traction on uneven terrain
Seat-of-the-pants rating: 8 out of 10
If you are looking for a pair of cross training shoes that are as versatile as your outdoor activities, then you want a pair of the North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR Cross-Training Shoes. The are affordable, tough, comfortable, and best of all; they are actually made for cross training!
Looking to Buy? Check out these sites:
Amazon.com: $80