North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR III Review
As summer blends into autumn, I naturally start thinking about long rugged walks along the coast, strolls through the woods and hiking up the nearest hills. Don’t ask me why. It must be some kind of seasonal brainwashing, which dictates that I must get outdoors and do the activities best suited to the time of year. To aid my outings on to the autumnal trails this year, I decided to get a new pair of hiking shoes.
I didn’t have to look very far as these North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR III hiking shoes stood out by a long mile on the Snow+Rock website. Having worn a pair of these very fine looking shoes on several walks over the last few weeks, I can report that they have all the markings of a great lightweight hiking boot.
These North Face shoes are very comfortable, and act like shock absorbers for the feet over rocks and rough terrain. Apparently this is due to the Northotic™ Pro footbed and X-2™ dual density compression moulded EVA midsole w/Heal Cradle™ Pro, should you be interested in the technical credentials.
Despite being billed as light-hiking shoes, they are built to protect your feet in all weathers. They have a GORE-TEX® waterproof and breathable membrane, with a Vibram® rubber sole for extra grip and stability. I’ve used these boots in sun and rain on dusty paths, in slippy mud and over wet rocks and I have not come a cropper once. They are great for all kinds of activities in the outdoors.
As well as being great technical shoes, they also look very good and would have no problems wearing them about town. The only sticking point is the price. At £110 they are at the expensive end of the scale for this type of shoe. But for quality and comfort they might just be worth the price.
The North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR III gets 5/5 stars for quality and comfort, and 4/5 stars for value for money.
See the Snow+Rock website for more details.
Looking for some inspiration to get out on the trails in Cornwall this autumn? Watch this video.
