Saucony Ride VS Guide: The Winner Is…
Saucony Ride 18 vs. Guide 18: A clear look at how these daily trainers compare, with a goal of helping you decide which one is best for you.
Welcome to another side-by-side comparison, this time of two of my favorite trail racing shoes that deliver lightweight performance and fast responsiveness on technical terrain.
In this comparison, I break down the key specs, share what I like about each, and wrap up with my final thoughts on which type of running and runner each shoe suits best.
Both the Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx and The North Face VECTIV Sky 2 were designed with fast, technical trail running in mind.
The Merrell offers a secure, lightweight package aimed at rapid changes in direction and steep mountain terrain, while the TNF VECTIV Sky 2 focuses on a race-tuned feel with a carbon-fiber plate and equally aggressive traction for steep gnarly terrain.
If you’re looking for a shoe that can handle sky running or intense trail racing, read on – these are two of the best available right now.
Key specifications comparison table
| Specification | Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx | The North Face VECTIV Sky 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $160 at merrell.com | $200 at REI.com / £180 in the UK |
| Weight | 8.9 oz (252g) | 8.4 oz (238g) for US Men’s 9 |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 4mm | 6mm |
| Midsole | Dual-density FloatPro™ Foam | TPU foam with full-length carbon-fiber plate |
| Outsole | Vibram Megagrip with 5mm lugs | SURFACE CTRL™ rubber with 5mm lugs |
| Fit | True to size; medium width | True to size; medium width |
| IN-DEPTH REVIEWS | Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx review | The North Face VECTIV Sky 2 review |
RELATED POST: Trail Running Shoes Buying Guide (My Top Picks Right Now)
What’s Good
Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx
- Secure, Agile Fit: The innovative Matryx upper (a blend of Kevlar and high-tenacity polyamide) keeps your feet locked in place for quick changes in direction – it’s also supportive, breathable and incredibly durable.
- Responsive Ride: The dual-density FloatPro™ Foam offers a balanced ride that’s responsive on steep climbs and technical descents, and fast on the flats without the need for a carbon plate.
- Reliable Traction: The Vibram Megagrip outsole, with its aggressive 5mm lugs, grips confidently on rugged surfaces – it’s unbeatable right now.
The North Face VECTIV Sky 2
- Lightweight and Quick: Weighing in at just 8.4 oz, this shoe feels light and nimble. The full-length carbon-fiber plate helps with forward propulsion on rolling terrain but in my opinion plates are never great when it comes to navigating technical terrain – however these performed admirably.
- Firm, Race-Tuned Response: Its nitrogen-infused TPU foam, combined with the carbon plate, delivers a firm ride that’s built for speed on technical trails.
- Strong Grip: The SURFACE CTRL™ outsole with 5mm lugs provides consistent traction whether the trail is dry, muddy, or rocky.
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What’s Not So Good
Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx
- Minor Heel Slip: There can be a slight heel slip initially. It usually settles after a few kilometers, but it might be distracting for some.
- Firm Midsole: If you prefer extra cushioning on long, flat sections, the firm midsole might not offer the plush ride you’re looking for.
The North Face VECTIV Sky 2
- High Collar Feel: The higher ankle collar might feel intrusive, especially for those with lower ankle bones or if you prefer a lower-cut shoe.
- Stiff Ride for Some: The firm setup, thanks to the carbon plate, is great for racing but might take some getting used to if you favor a softer ride over longer distances.
Final verdict
Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx is best suited for runners who thrive on dynamic, high-intensity trail runs with plenty of changes in direction and steep climbs. It’s a strong pick for skyrunners or anyone looking for a secure, agile shoe on rugged terrain.
The North Face VECTIV Sky 2 is a better match for runners who need a lightweight, responsive shoe for race-day efforts and technical sections. If you’re focused on speed and can handle a firmer ride, that will give a fast output (better for less technical racing), this shoe is a solid option.
Looking for other options?
If neither of these trail racing shoes seem like the perfect match for your running style, I recommend checking out my trail racing shoes buying guide.
There’s a range of alternatives out there that might offer the right balance of cushioning, responsiveness, and fit for your specific needs.
Happy running, and I hope this comparison helps you find the best trail shoe for your next adventure!
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