THE NORTH FACE Men's Thermoball Traction Mule V - Insulated Slip-On

In this review of the Men's Thermoball Traction Mule V from THE NORTH FACE, the bottom line is simple: this is a warm, easy-to-wear winter slipper built for people who want insulated comfort and reliable grip for quick trips outside or long evenings in camp. The shoe's standout is the ThermoBall Eco insulation, which retains warmth even when damp, and the collapsible heel with stretchy side panels makes slipping them on effortless for everyday use. It performs well where you need both cozy warmth and weather resistance without the bulk of a heavy boot.

Key Features

• Slip-in comfort: The collapsible heel and stretchy side panels let you slide the mule on and off quickly for errands, cabin wear, or campsite duties.
• ThermoBall Eco insulation: Recycled polyester insulation provides consistent warmth and holds heat even in wet conditions so feet stay comfortable in damp weather.
• Oso fleece-lined collar: A soft fleece collar adds next-to-skin comfort around the ankle to reduce rubbing and increase warmth.
• Water-resistant ripstop upper: The durable ripstop made from 100% recycled polyester with a non-PFC DWR sheds light moisture and snow to keep the interior drier.
• Grippy outsole: A rubber outsole with up to 20% recycled rubber delivers steady traction on slick decks, icy walkways, and cold cabin floors.
• Sustainable construction: Multiple recycled materials in the upper, insulation, and outsole reduce environmental impact while maintaining performance.

Who It's For

This mule is ideal for hikers, campers, and anyone who spends time outdoors in cold conditions but wants a low-effort shoe for quick transitions between inside and outside. It suits people who value warmth, lightweight packability, and the convenience of a slip-on that still offers weather-resistant performance.

Those who should look elsewhere include users who need a fully waterproof boot for prolonged immersion, or people wanting a structured hiking shoe with ankle support for technical trails. If you need precise fit for narrow or wide feet, note there are mixed reports on sizing that may require trying a half size up or down.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Warmth from ThermoBall Eco insulation that performs even when damp.
• Easy to slip on with a collapsible heel and stretchy panels for quick wear.
• Durable, water-resistant ripstop upper with a soft fleece collar for comfort.
• Secure traction from a rubber outsole containing recycled rubber for grip on slippery surfaces.

Cons

• Sizing can run small or feel tight for some wearers, so fit may be inconsistent across feet.
• Not a fully waterproof boot, so it is less suited for extended wet or deep-snow conditions.

Specifications

Brand	THE NORTH FACE
Model	Thermoball Traction Mule V
Upper	Ripstop, 100% recycled polyester with non-PFC DWR
Insulation	ThermoBall Eco, 100% recycled polyester
Lining	Oso fleece-lined collar
Outsole	Rubber outsole with up to 20% recycled rubber
Design	Slip-on mule with collapsible heel and stretchy side panels

Our Verdict

The Thermoball Traction Mule V is a practical, well-made winter slip-on that offers real value for anyone needing portable warmth and easy on/off wear. It excels for casual outdoor use, camping, and quick outdoor chores where traction and warmth matter more than full waterproofing. For its combination of recycled materials, insulation performance, and user-friendly design, it represents a smart, sustainable choice for everyday winter wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes waterproof?
They are water-resistant with a non-PFC DWR on a ripstop upper but not fully waterproof for prolonged immersion in deep water or heavy, sustained wet conditions.

Do they provide good traction?
Yes, the rubber outsole with up to 20% recycled rubber offers steady traction on slick decks, icy walkways, and cold cabin floors.

How do they fit?
Fit is generally comfortable, but some customers report they run small or feel tight, so trying your usual size or a half size up is recommended if you have wider feet.