ARC'TERYX Norvan SL Review
Super Light Meets Super Fast
Likes
- Incredibly lightweight
- Secure fit
- Great traction
Dislikes
- Not suited for long runs
- Sloppy heel collar
- Laces are too long
What's New
As one of the lightest trail running shoes on the market, the ARC'TERYX Norvan SL is designed to fly across technical trails with ease. Super-light EVA midsole foam, specially designed for this shoe, provides just enough cushioning, and the forefoot TPU plate adds lightweight impact protection that's ready for the trail. The TPU mesh upper is both highly breathable and highly durable while delivering excellent drainage through the almost translucent mesh. Rounding out the package is the hard-wearing Vibram Megagrip outsole, which grips well on both wet and dry terrain.
The Bottom Line
When your mountain adventures demand the most technical and lightweight equipment, the Norvan SL should be on your gear list. ARC'TERYX balances trail protection with minimal weight, giving the Norvan SL the features it needs to excel on short, fast adventures. The lightweight rock plate and exclusive EVA foam combine to deliver underfoot protection and sensitivity oriented towards swift performance rather than cushioning. This shoe is a great option for those that prioritize fast and light. ARC'TERYX didn't skimp on the details either, like the attachment point that allows you to clip the shoes to your harness or backpack when not in use.
Shoe Performance
Softness i
Ride/Energy Return i
Underfoot Protection i
Flexibility i
Upper Support i
Specifications & Fit
How It Fits
| Toe Box | Width: Medium to narrow | Height: Medium to low (Both Medium in Women's) | |
| Midfoot Volume | Low | |
| Heel Width | Men's: Narrow | Women's: Medium to narrow | |
| Arch Height | Men's: Medium to high | Women's: Medium to low |
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 6.8 oz (size 9) | Women's: 5.9 oz (size 8) | |
| Stack Height | 22mm (Heel), 15mm (Forefoot) | 7mm heel-toe offset | |
| Terrain | Trail | |
| Stability | Neutral | |
| Sizing | Men's: Fits small; purchase 1/2 size bigger than standard running shoe length | Women's: True to size |
Our In-Depth Look
Shoe Softness i
Developed just for ARC'TERYX, the Norvan SL's ultralight EVA foam delivers just the right amount of cushioning without adding weight. It makes for a firmer running shoe that's better suited to shorter runs than ultra distances.
Erik: "The forefoot plate, minimal cushioning, and low stack height combine for a firm feel. This shoe isn’t for the long haul; it’s built to be fast and efficient."
Ride/Energy Return i
The Norvan SL features a responsive platform that is thin enough to allow the wearer to feel the ground underfoot. Our tester found that the shoe rolled easily through his stride for an efficient running experience.
Erik: "The forefoot plate and firm midsole provide a platform that feels lively when moving at fast speeds on the trail."
Underfoot Protection i
A forefoot TPU plate protects against sharp rocks and debris while maintaining the shoe's minimal design. Combined with the lightweight EVA, it is best suited for short or fast-paced trail endeavors.
Erik: "The forefoot plate provides solid protection for the minimalistic structure of the shoe. It isn’t going to handle the gnarliest terrain out there, but it will perform just fine for most trails."
Underfoot Flexibility i
The Vibram Megagrip outsole and rigid TPU rock plate make scrambling over technical terrain a breeze. The stiffness helps spring the runner forward and enhances the fast feel of the shoe.
Erik: "The forefoot TPU plate helps provide a stiff ride."
Upper Feel i
The ultra-light TPU mesh upper is durable yet highly breathable. It provides adequate adaptable support for its minimal design. Those who prefer light structure over a very secure fit will appreciate the Norvan SL.
Erik: "Plain and simple — there isn’t much to the Norvan SL's upper. If you want a truly lightweight shoe, you are going to sacrifice a little support. The upper does a great job with what it has, but if you are expecting a very secure fit, this shoe isn’t for you."
Men's ARC'TERYX Norval SL
Women's ARC'TERYX Norval SL
Individual Thoughts
The Norvan SL is a very lightweight, low-profile shoe designed for short, fast runs. The stiffness of the underfoot coupled with the minimally designed upper makes for a speedy package that's ideal for technical trails.