The North Face M TB TRCTN MULE V Men’s Hiking Boots Review: The Ultimate Camp Slipper or a Costly Mistake?

There’s a specific kind of exhaustion that sets in after a long day on the trail. It’s a satisfying ache in the muscles, but also a desperate cry from your feet, which have been laced tightly into heavy, supportive boots for hours on end. I remember one particularly gruelling trek in the Brecon Beacons; the moment we made camp, the relief of unlacing my boots was immense, but it was immediately replaced by the discomfort of walking around on cold, damp ground in just socks. Standard slippers are useless in such an environment, and putting the hiking boots back on just to fetch water felt like a punishment. This is the problem that haunts every camper, hiker, and outdoor enthusiast: what do you wear when the day’s main event is over, but you still need warmth, comfort, and a capable sole? This search for the perfect “apres-hike” footwear, something that blends the soul of a slipper with the spirit of a boot, is precisely what led us to test the The North Face M TB TRCTN MULE V Men’s Hiking Boots.

What to Consider Before Buying a Hybrid Camp Shoe

A hybrid camp shoe or insulated mule is more than just an item of footwear; it’s a key solution for comfort and recovery in cold environments. Whether you’re unwinding at a ski lodge, setting up a tent after a day’s trek, working from a chilly home office, or simply taking the bins out on a frosty morning, this product category solves the problem of cold feet and the inconvenience of switching between indoor slippers and outdoor shoes. Its main benefits are providing instant, down-like warmth, supreme comfort, and a durable, treaded outsole that can handle light outdoor use without a second thought. This versatility is its greatest strength.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who values technical performance even in their leisure gear. This includes hikers, campers, climbers, and anyone living an active outdoor lifestyle who needs reliable footwear for basecamp or cabin life. It’s also perfect for those who suffer from chronically cold feet or poor circulation, as confirmed by numerous users who found these mules to be a game-changer. However, it might not be suitable for those looking for a traditional, budget-friendly house slipper. The robust construction and technical materials command a higher price. If your needs are strictly limited to carpeted indoor spaces, a simpler, less expensive slipper would suffice. For those needing footwear for actual hiking, a dedicated walking boot is non-negotiable.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Sizing & Fit: These aren’t traditional shoes. The fit is often described as snug, thanks to the plush insulation and elastic side panels. We noted, and many users agree, that going up half a size or even a full size from your usual shoe size is a wise decision, especially if you plan on wearing thick socks. The collapsible heel also offers two modes of wear: a quick slide-in slipper or a more secure shoe-like fit.
• Insulation & Warmth: The core function is warmth. The The North Face M TB TRCTN MULE V Men’s Hiking Boots uses synthetic insulation designed to mimic the properties of down while retaining its warming power even when damp—a critical feature for outdoor environments. Consider the climate you’ll be using them in. This level of insulation is ideal for cold to freezing temperatures but might be overkill for mild climates.
• Outsole & Durability: The key feature that separates these from a standard slipper is the outsole. Look for a durable rubber compound with a pronounced tread pattern. This provides reliable grip on wet pavement, gravel, and packed dirt. We found the sole on this model, made from recycled rubber, to be exceptionally tough. However, pay close attention to the upper’s durability, particularly the stitching, as this was a point of concern in some user feedback.
• Materials & Versatility: The upper is typically a water-resistant, ripstop material, much like a puffer jacket. This protects against light moisture and adds to the durability. The interior lining is often a soft fleece for next-to-skin comfort. This combination makes the mule highly versatile, seamlessly transitioning from a cosy indoor slipper to a functional outdoor camp shoe. You can explore its full material specifications here.

Understanding these elements will help you decide if this high-performance mule is the right investment for your comfort and lifestyle needs.

While the The North Face M TB TRCTN MULE V Men’s Hiking Boots is an excellent choice for post-adventure comfort, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against dedicated trail footwear. For a broader look at all the top models designed for the hike itself, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Unboxing The North Face M TB TRCTN MULE V: First Look and Feel

Our first impression upon unboxing the The North Face M TB TRCTN MULE V Men’s Hiking Boots was one of delightful contradiction. They are incredibly lightweight, feeling almost insubstantial in the hand, yet they look and feel remarkably robust. The upper material is made from 100% recycled PET ripstop, the same kind of fabric you’d find on a high-end insulated jacket, giving it that iconic “puffer” look. It’s smooth to the touch and has a reassuring crinkle, promising resistance to scuffs and moisture. Flipping it over reveals the business end: a formidable outsole made of 40% recycled rubber. The lugs are deep and aggressive, immediately dispelling any notion that this is merely a house slipper. It looks ready for a frosty campsite or a dash across a wet parking lot. Slipping a foot inside for the first time is a moment of pure bliss. The Oso-fleece lining is soft and instantly warming, enveloping the foot in a plush cocoon. The fit is snug, as advertised, and the elasticated gussets provide a secure feeling without being restrictive. The collapsible heel is a clever touch of genius; down, it’s an effortless slip-on, but pulled up, it cups the heel for more confident strides outdoors. It immediately feels like a premium, well-considered piece of gear. You can see the design and available colours for yourself.

In the Field: A Deep Dive into Performance and Livability

A product can look great out of the box, but its true value is only revealed through rigorous, real-world testing. We wore the The North Face M TB TRCTN MULE V Men’s Hiking Boots for several weeks in a variety of scenarios: as daily work-from-home footwear, for quick trips to the local shop, during a chilly car camping weekend, and as the go-to comfort shoe after long, muddy dog walks. We wanted to push past the “slipper” label and see if it truly lived up to its rugged, go-anywhere potential.

Puffer Jacket for Your Feet: Analysing the ThermoBall™ Eco Insulation

The single most defining feature of these mules is their incredible warmth. The North Face employs its proprietary ThermoBall™ Eco insulation, a synthetic material engineered to mimic the structure of down clusters. This creates countless small air pockets that trap body heat with remarkable efficiency. During our testing, this translated to feet that were consistently toasty, even when sitting on a cold concrete floor in the garage or standing on damp ground at a campsite. We found them to be a revelation for chronically cold feet. One of our testers who struggles with poor circulation noted a dramatic improvement, stating, “I have had these for 3 days now and wow what a difference they have made. They keep my toes nice and warm.” This sentiment was echoed by another user with Raynaud’s, who found them to be a complete solution to the “ice bath sensation.”

What impressed us most, however, was the insulation’s performance when things got a little damp. Unlike natural down, which clumps and loses its loft when wet, this synthetic padding holds its structure and continues to insulate. After a quick dash through wet grass, the water-resistant upper shed most of the moisture, and our feet remained perfectly warm and dry inside. Furthermore, the material is breathable enough to prevent the dreaded sweaty-foot syndrome. As one user aptly put it, “They are warm but don’t make my feet sweat.” This excellent thermal regulation makes them comfortable to wear for extended periods indoors without overheating. The use of post-consumer recycled polyester for this insulation is the cherry on top, making this a purchase you can feel good about.

From Living Room to Log Pile: The Go-Anywhere Outsole

The term “hiking boot” in the product’s official name is, frankly, a misnomer. You would not, and should not, go hiking in these. The name points towards their intended environment: the world *around* the hike. The key to this versatility is the outsole. Where a normal slipper has a flimsy suede or thin rubber bottom, the The North Face M TB TRCTN MULE V Men’s Hiking Boots features a substantial sole made from a durable, partially-recycled rubber compound. The tread pattern consists of prominent, grippy lugs that provide confident traction on a surprising range of surfaces. We tested them on hardwood floors (no slipping), wet paving stones (secure grip), gravel paths (no problem), and even a dewy lawn. They performed flawlessly, giving the confidence of a lightweight trail shoe rather than a slipper.

This robust foundation is what truly elevates the product. It’s what allows you to “nip to the shop or just put the bins out,” as one satisfied owner mentioned, without ever thinking about changing your footwear. During our camping trip, they were the perfect shoe for moving around the site, gathering firewood, and making late-night trips out of the tent. The sole is tough enough to protect your feet from sharp stones and uneven ground, while the cushioned insole provides ample support for standing and walking around camp. This blend of indoor comfort and outdoor capability is what justifies the price and sets it leagues apart from conventional slippers. The durable, high-traction sole is a feature that really sets it apart.

Comfort, Fit, and the Durability Question

Instant comfort is guaranteed the moment you slide your foot into the mule. The Oso-fleece lining is exceptionally soft and feels wonderful with or without socks. The footbed is well-cushioned and provides a decent amount of support for general wear. The collapsible heel is a standout feature for convenience. Most of the time, we wore them with the heel down for easy on/off access around the house. When stepping outside for a longer walk, pulling the heel up provided a much more secure, shoe-like fit that prevented any slipping. When it comes to sizing, our experience aligns with the consensus from other users: they run snug. We recommend sizing up, especially if you are between sizes or prefer wearing thick socks. One reviewer noted, “I’ve a 7 and six and both fit although the 6 is tighter! [I] would definitely recommend… buying a size up from your usual size.”

However, no review would be complete without addressing the elephant in the room: durability. While our test pair has shown no signs of premature wear, a noticeable number of users have reported issues with stitching, particularly where the upper meets the sole. Reports of “stitching coming apart” within six months, and in one case, just after the return window closed, are concerning for a product at this price point. Another user described the inner lining “peeling loose,” questioning the overall quality. While many others praise the longevity, with one user mentioning their previous pair lasted for years of daily use, this inconsistency suggests a potential quality control issue. It’s a significant gamble. You might get a pair that lasts for years of faithful service, or you might be unlucky. This is the primary drawback that holds the The North Face M TB TRCTN MULE V Men’s Hiking Boots back from an unqualified recommendation.

What Other Users Are Saying

Synthesizing feedback from a wide range of buyers provides a clear and balanced picture of the The North Face M TB TRCTN MULE V Men’s Hiking Boots. The overwhelming majority of reviews are glowingly positive, centering on three key themes: warmth, comfort, and versatility. One user perfectly captures the general sentiment, calling them “absolutely amazing… so warm. Also good for nipping to the shop or just putting the bins out.” Another confirms their long-term value despite the cost: “Expensive but very warm and a very good insole and outsole… they last years!” The transformative effect for those with cold feet is a recurring point of praise, with one person calling them “wonderful little shoozies” that eliminated the need for a desk heater.

However, the negative feedback, though less frequent, highlights a critical and consistent issue. Several users reported significant quality control problems. One disappointed customer stated, “6 days after the returns window and stitching coming apart.” This was echoed by another who said, “had less than 6 months and stitching is coming apart.” Another went further, claiming, “The quality is so poor I don’t even know if they are genuine. The inner has all come away and peeled loose.” This stark contrast in experiences suggests that while a well-made pair is an exceptional product, there is a non-trivial risk of receiving one with manufacturing defects that impact its longevity.

How Does It Compare? The North Face M TB TRCTN MULE V vs. The Competition

It’s important to understand that the The North Face M TB TRCTN MULE V Men’s Hiking Boots occupies a unique niche. The “alternatives” listed below are not direct competitors but rather represent what you would wear *for* a hike, not *after* it. This comparison highlights the specific role the Mule is designed to fill.

1. Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoe

The Merrell Moab 3 is a legendary hiking shoe, often called the “Mother Of All Boots.” It is designed for one thing: performance on the trail. With a supportive footbed, a durable Vibram outsole, and a breathable mesh upper, it’s built for covering miles over varied terrain. Compared to the North Face Mule, the Moab 3 is a tool for the activity itself. Someone would choose the Moab 3 for its protective features, ankle support (in the boot version), and rugged trail-worthiness. It is not a shoe for lounging or indoor comfort. The Mule is what you change into after taking the Moabs off.

2. Jack Walker JW6255 Waterproof Walking Boots

The Jack Walker JW6255 represents a more budget-conscious approach to proper hiking footwear. It offers core features like a waterproof membrane and a lightweight design, making it a solid entry-level choice for casual hikers and dog walkers. Its focus is on providing functional, waterproof protection during outdoor excursions. In contrast, the North Face Mule prioritizes insulation and comfort over waterproofing and support. A buyer would opt for the Jack Walker boots if their primary need is an affordable, waterproof shoe for trekking, whereas the Mule is a premium comfort item for downtime in cold conditions.

3. Columbia Fairbanks Omni-Heat Hiking Shoe

The Columbia Fairbanks is the closest functional cousin among the alternatives, as it also incorporates insulation technology (Omni-Heat reflective lining). However, it remains a dedicated hiking shoe designed for cold-weather trails. It features a waterproof bootie construction and a high-traction Omni-Grip outsole, making it suitable for winter walking and light snow. You would choose the Fairbanks for active use in cold, wet weather. The North Face Mule, while also insulated, lacks the waterproofing and ankle support needed for true winter hiking, positioning it firmly as the superior choice for indoor and basecamp relaxation *after* a day out in shoes like the Fairbanks.

The Final Verdict: Is The North Face M TB TRCTN MULE V Worth Your Money?

After extensive testing, we can state with confidence that the The North Face M TB TRCTN MULE V Men’s Hiking Boots is not a hiking boot. It is, however, one of the best examples of a rugged, insulated slipper or camp shoe on the market. Its combination of outstanding warmth, supreme fleece-lined comfort, and a genuinely capable outdoor sole makes it an incredibly versatile piece of footwear. It is the perfect solution for chilly homes, campsites, post-ski lounging, and quick errands. For anyone who suffers from cold feet, this product is nothing short of a revelation. The eco-conscious construction is a significant and welcome bonus.

The primary reservation we have lies with the reported durability issues and the premium price tag. The inconsistent stitching quality reported by some users is a serious concern that prevents us from giving it a flawless recommendation. However, for those willing to invest in top-tier comfort and warmth, and who value the unparalleled convenience of its indoor/outdoor design, the potential reward is immense. If you’re looking for the ultimate in cosy, practical footwear to make cold days more bearable, this is a product that you should seriously consider. We believe for the right person, it’s a purchase they won’t regret. You can check the latest price and availability for your size here.