The North Face Women's Altamesa 500 V2

A highly cushioned everyday trail shoe built for women who want a fun, energetic ride on varied terrain without sacrificing traction or stability. The Altamesa 500 V2 is approachable enough for newer trail runners and capable enough to satisfy experienced runners looking for a reliable high mileage trainer.

Highlights

• DREAM nitrogen-TPU foam midsole — A full-length ultralight foam that delivers soft cushioning with genuine rebound. The nitrogen-infused construction keeps the foam light without sacrificing the lively, energetic feel underfoot that makes long training runs more enjoyable.
• 36mm heel stack with 6mm offset — A substantial cushioning platform with a low enough drop to encourage a more natural stride. Enough underfoot protection for high mileage training without the dead, compressed feel of a traditional EVA foam.
• Wider underfoot platform for inherent stability — Built with a broader base that provides natural stability on uneven trail without requiring a structured stability device. A confidence-building detail for runners who spend time on technical or unpredictable terrain.
• SURFACE CTRL SC2 rubber outsole with 4mm lugs — Grippy enough for soft dirt and rocky trail while staying versatile on hardpack and mixed surfaces. A well-rounded traction solution for everyday trail running across variable conditions.
• Seamless engineered upper with zonal reinforcements — Reduces irritation and hotspots on long efforts while the reinforced toe cap adds protection against rocks and roots without adding meaningful weight.
• Stay-in-place tongue wings with dual midfoot webbing — Keeps the tongue centered and the midfoot locked down over long distances. A detail that prevents the gradual slippage that causes blisters and discomfort on extended runs.
• Racing laces with serrated edges — Stay tied through technical terrain and dynamic movement without constant readjustment.

Best for

Women trail runners of all experience levels who want a cushioned, energetic everyday trainer for mixed terrain. A strong choice for runners logging consistent mileage who want a shoe that rewards effort with a fun, responsive ride rather than a stiff or utilitarian feel.