The North Face Back to Berkeley Hiking Boot is a mid range hiking boot. While it does not have the highest levels of functionality, it does have its own. This boot is designed for moderate to tough hikes such as the Alum Rock Loop in San Francisco or the Cathedral Span Loop in San Jose, California.
This boot is also very popular among trail runners as it has enough stability to be used for runs. Runners typically get into their desired position of sitting or standing up in an instant with this boot!
Since this boot is not designed for rock climbing, there are no vents or automatic climbing features. However, if you are interested in those, then the Cathedral Spang is your next upgrade! These features include a low heel lift and an anti-microbial lining that prevents stone dust and dirt from getting inside the boot.
Contents:
Durable
Durability is a big reason why The North Face Back to Berkeley Hiking Boot is such a long-lasting boot. The leather is sourced from horseback riding saddle leather, which is very durable.
This boot was designed with long days in the mountains in mind, so they make sure the leather is treated properly to last you a long time. Even though this boot was designed for hiking, we would not suggest it for casual hiking as it may not withstand some little bumps and feet slipping. However, if you are looking for an aggressive boot that will last you a long time, this is the one!
Pulling on and off the Back To Berkeley Hiking Boot is very easy. You pull the left side of the belt loop towards you and then push down on that side of the boot to remove. You do the same with the right side of the Boot.
Versatile
Despite their prominence, ankle supports are one of the most common foot woes feet suffer from when on the trail. The Back to Berkeley is a versatile hiking boot that can be used for stream crossings, or full-on mountain trails.
The Back to Berkeley is also an excellent choice if you suffer from arthritis in your feet, as this boot has an open toe that makes it easy to put on and remove with minimal effort. This is important for someone with such a demanding lifestyle.
Another bonus of the open toe is that people with weak ankles can easily use this boot. The width of this boot allows enough space for the bottom of the foot to spread and grow. This helps prevent pain and stress on the foot, as it allows natural motion and comfort.
Finally, people who suffer from hypermobility can use these without being worried about breakage.
Waterproof
Despite being water resistant, these boot features a soft, flexible lining that retains its shape even while immersed in water. This creates the opportunity to walk through knee-high water without having to remove the boot to do so.
Similarly, because of the rubber heel counter, surface protrusions such as waves or ski runs are impossible to slide into the boot. This keeps you safe and dry!
When swimming or other aquatic activities, this is an important feature to have. Since this is not a true boot with a sole, it makes such an easy transition from day to night!
Other features that make this a quality waterproofing system are the two semi-circular ridges on top of the boot that act as pressure points for the liner to retain its shape, and double stiched reinforcements in places where it stretches.
Insulated
ype of insulation these shoes have is a thermal compound. This compound is spread under the sole and around the inside of the boot. This insulation helps keep your feet warm and protected.
This is important because many downhill trails are cold and snow covered. As such, you will need this protection!
This boot is made for snowboarders, so you can be confident in its snow capability. The boot has a removable and adjustable thermal footbed to ensure a perfect fit.
If you are looking for versatility in your hiking shoes, look no further.
Sizing
As mentioned earlier, these boots are half a size small. If you are typically a size small in North Face boots, you would likely want to buy a pair of these.
They are not very noticeable on the foot, so if you get a big boot, it would be easy to go up the size. You would just have to take into account that when you sit or stand in them, the shape of the foot may change a little more.
You would have to get used to that though if you have small feet! This is something to keep in mind if you are going to buy a second pair because one set of feet might not fit well in the other pair!
The two biggest differences between these and standard North Face hiking boots is that these are light-colored and that they are half a size smaller on the boot.
Style
These lightweight, durable boots are a staple in many backpacking and hiking style collections. They are also very popular in fashion now, too.
They are sleek and simple, with just a line of logo on the front and a slight curve of the boot on the heel. This style is very easy to get into, as it is almost like slipping on sneakers!
It is hard to get wrong with this style as once you have it, you will have it. You will never have to buy it again! It is still evolving today as fashion trends move forward, so there will always be new ones to fall in love with.
Those that can’t get enough comfort with this model may want to look at other models on the range.
Price
At $150, the Back to Berkeley is a very expensive pair of hiking boots. This price point is considered high for hiking boots, but they are manufactured by North Face so they know what it takes to make them.
They are made from sturdy leather and are laser-cut for optimal fit. These shoes have been sold at high price points, making them more cost effective than a low end model that may not last as long.
However, this premium quality does come at a higher cost! Luckily, the longevity and quality of these shoes is worth it.
Pros
A lightweight, durable material is used to make this Back to Berkeley hiking boot. This material is called Nubuck, and it is resistant to both water and weather. This ensures that you are able to enjoy your boot on the trail even if it is a little wet season or winter time!
Another nice feature of this boot is the fact that there are two different sizes available. These include a European and an American size. The European size is slightly smaller than an English size, so be aware of that when choosing which one you want.
The shape of the tread on this boot makes it very easy to walk in. It also has soft, cushioning foam inside so you do not burn your feet when you sit down for long periods of time. Since this boot is on the longer side, be careful not to put too much pressure on the footbed.