Shoe review: North Face Ultra Cardiac II

All photos by Matt Stetson

MSRP: CAD $149.99
Weight: 8.2 oz (232 g)
Drop: 6 mm

North Face’s Ultra line, intended for maximum durability over long miles, offers some excellent choices for trail runners. The Cardiac Ultra II is particularly good value in a straight-ahead, “door-to-trail,” hard-packed trail shoe. This is a light but super-cushiony shoe, and it has a number of other features that will make it attractive to experienced trail runners and beginners alike.

The shoe’s soft mesh upper has a thicker feel than a road shoe, offering both protection and breathability. The geometric cables cinch down to provide a secure fit when you lace up, and the cording is covered by a thin layer of TPU to protect it on the trails. 

The single-density, compression-molded EVA midsole, generous stack differential and trademarked OrthoLite® footbed are what give the shoe its exceptionally smooth feel on the ground. 

Dedicated trail enthusiasts will also love the Cardiac for some of its other notable features, for example the additional energy-return foam in the forefoot, which allows for maximum speed, while the FlashDry™ collar lining, molded TPU toe cap and gussetted tongue will keep your feet dry and protected from debris while you stride in comfort.

The Vibram® Megagrip non-lugged outsole is both sticky and durable, providing excellent traction on fire roads in all weather conditions. (If you’re out conquering super rocky terrain, you might prefer a model designed for that purpose, such as the Endurus TR.)

The Ultra Cardiac II is an excellent shoe for someone looking for lightness and comfort with a modicum of speed and protection, at a very palatable price point.