Those black stripes are from the rubber on an artificial turf football field. So, better not do that with white shoes anymore ;)
My first kilometers with the Norda 001, Norda's first shoe, are behind me. Below are our findings, broken down into the three components of the shoe.
Table of contents
The Norda 001 is a premium trail running shoe from Canada, designed for long distances and rugged terrain. Featuring a seamless upper made of bio-based Dyneema and a Vibram sole, this shoe offers exceptional durability and grip. Ideal for runners seeking a combination of performance and durability on a variety of surfaces.
From left to right my Norda 001, Norda 002 and Norda 005.
Upper Norda 001
- Fit & comfort: The shoe has a slightly wider toe box, which provides extra comfort during long runs. The upper is seamless and conforms well to the foot, although the material can feel a little stiff at first and takes time to break in.
- Materials & durability: Made of bio-based Dyneema, a material 15 times stronger than steel per unit weight. This ensures an exceptionally durable and lightweight construction.
- Protection: The Dyneema upper offers excellent protection against sharp rocks and branches. The shoe is slightly water-repellent, but not completely waterproof.
- Ventilation & water drainage: Although the material is breathable, it can feel a bit warm in higher temperatures. I have the white Norda 001, and it's spring, so I haven't noticed much of a difference. Water drainage is limited; once wet, it takes a while for the shoe to dry completely.
Midsole Norda 001
- Damping: The midsole is made of Vibram SLE foam, which provides balanced cushioning and responsiveness. An eTPU sockliner adds extra bounce, especially noticeable during longer runs.
- Stability: The shoe offers a stable platform, even on technical terrain. The foot is securely anchored within the midsole's edges, contributing to overall stability.
- Energy return: The combination of Vibram SLE and eTPU provides a responsive running experience with sufficient energy return, ideal for long trail runs.
- Plate or rock plate: There is no specific rock plate, but the combination of midsole and outsole offers sufficient protection against sharp objects on the trail.
Outsole Norda 001
- Grip: Equipped with a Vibram Megagrip Litebase sole with 5mm deep lugs, the shoe offers excellent grip on various surfaces, from wet rocks to muddy trails.
- Lugs: The 5mm deep lugs are strategically placed for optimal traction and mud drainage, providing confidence on both uphill and downhill sections.
- Wear resistance: The outsole is very durable and shows minimal wear, even after hundreds of kilometers on mixed terrain.
- Rubber compound: Made from Vibram Megagrip Litebase, known for its excellent grip and durability, while reducing weight by up to 30% compared to traditional Vibram soles.
Specifications Norda 001
- Men's weight (EU 42): 268 g
- Women's weight (EU 39): 215 g
- Drop: 5 mm
- Stack height (heel/forefoot): 26 mm/21 mm
- Midsole: Vibram SLE foam with eTPU sockliner
- Outsole: Vibram Megagrip Litebase
- Studs: 5 mm
- Sizing advice: The Norda 001 fits true to size – choose your usual sports shoe size
Conclusion and ordering
Conclusion
The Norda 001 is a top-of-the-line trail running shoe that excels in durability, grip, and comfort. Ideal for long distances and technical terrain, this shoe offers reliable performance in a variety of conditions. While the price is a bit higher, the quality and durability justify this investment for serious trail runners.
