This might seem gimmicky, but I would consider buying these shoes for the Boa lacing system. I can't tell you how many times my laces have come undone, or even gotten in the way while running. I know, I should do a double knot, but the problem is I don't want to do a double knot. They're too difficult to untie. I prefer trail shoes for running, because trails are so much better to run on then the road, and if you happen to go on a road with a trail shoe, no big deal.

A lot of snowboard boots and ice skates are using the Boa system now. If you have ever had to tie up your boots/skates in -20C weather, you know this easy knob-tie system would be a saviour to your fingers.

I've heard good and bad things about the Boa system. The knob tightens the wire and if it breaks, you are pretty much hosed. There are other systems out there that do a better job with regular laces, but in the end comfort is the final factor.

I bought a pair and have really been liking them, as if you are in a hurry, you can just put your feet in and go...tightening them later, or not. The only problem I've had just occurred last week where the screw that holds the knob on the back of one of the shoes came off, and I haven't been able to get in touch with North Face (well, they haven't yet replied to by e-mail). It looks like it could easily be replaced by a regular screw, but I'm not sure. I would be pretty bad if this wasn't fixable. It seems all North Face products are guaranteed for life, whatever that means. I can't really see how the wires could brake unless they got caught in something and you kept pulling...they seem to be made quite strongly. If anyone knows of a place to get them fixed, please let me know. Thanks! UPDATE 11 June, 2007: North Face Customer Service Phone:(866) 715-3223, prompt 7. Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm Pacific time. They will send customers a repair kit or give details about how to send the shoes in to get fixed. The customer service rep said that you can only get the kits through North Face. So if you thought that the shoes would be useless if they broke, there is hope at the end of the tunnel. Good thing I didn't throw mine out!

I've heard a lot of snowboard boots having problems with the BOA lacing system. If they break, you pretty much have to buy new boots. North Face does have a lifetime warranty on all their products. I bought a bag once and a clip broke on it. I got an RMA number, sent in my bad and they returned it fixed.