THE NORTH FACE Men's Ultra 112 Waterproof Hiking Shoes - Rugged Trail

In this review the Men's Ultra 112 Waterproof Hiking Shoes are presented as a rugged, trail-ready option for hikers who want reliable comfort and protection without the bulk of a full boot. The bottom line: these shoes are best for day hikes, trail runs and active workouts where a waterproof, cushioned shoe with confident outsole grip is important. The review finds the Ultra 112 WP stands out for its visible technical details and fit, offering a balance of durable construction and supportive cushioning for users who value comfort over heavyweight mountaineering protection.

Key Features

• Waterproof construction: The ripstop mesh upper paired with a DryVent membrane keeps feet drier than a standard mesh shoe on wet trails.
• Cushioned midsole: The EVA midsole and padded molded collar deliver day-long comfort and reduce fatigue on extended miles.
• Protective build: Multilayered overlays and a reinforced heel and shank help prevent stone bruising and add stability on uneven ground.
• Surface control: A high-traction rubber outsole with 5 mm lugs provides confidence on loose, muddy or rocky surfaces.
• Secure fit: Outdoor-inspired webbing and laces let you dial in a snug, supportive fit for varied foot shapes.

Who It's For

The Ultra 112 WP is aimed at recreational hikers, trail runners who prefer a low-cut shoe, and gym-goers who want a rugged cross-trainer that doubles for outdoor use. It suits people who prioritize comfort and a stable platform for long walks and moderate off-trail exploration.

Those who need aggressive, mountaineering-level traction, heavy-duty ankle support for backpacking, or guaranteed long-term waterproof warranties should look elsewhere - the Ultra 112 WP is an excellent midweight option but not a specialized alpine boot.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable EVA midsole and padded collar make long days on the trail less tiring.
• Durable ripstop mesh and overlays offer good protection against brush and trail debris.
• High-traction outsole with 5 mm lugs provides secure footing on a wide range of terrain.
• Waterproof DryVent membrane helps keep feet drier than standard mesh shoes.

Cons

• Some users report mixed results on long-term durability and waterproofing in very wet conditions.
• A few customers dislike the traction in certain situations, so performance can vary by terrain.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Men's Ultra 112 Waterproof is a strong choice for day hikers and active users who want a comfortable, protective shoe with reliable waterproofing and a grippy outsole. It offers solid value for anyone seeking a midweight trail shoe, though those needing specialized traction or heavy-duty durability for extended backpacking trips should consider purpose-built alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes fully waterproof?
They use a DryVent membrane and ripstop mesh to provide waterproofing for typical wet-trail conditions, but some reviewers report mixed long-term waterproof performance in very wet environments.

Can I use them for running?
Yes, they work well as a trail running or workout shoe for moderate distances thanks to the EVA midsole and secure fit, though they are heavier than dedicated racing shoes.

How is the traction on technical terrain?
The 5 mm lug outsole gives good grip on most trails, but traction can feel less aggressive on very loose or steep technical ground according to some customers.