Weight: 6.8 ounces (Men’s 9), 5.9 ounces (Men’s 9)
Trail Use: Good (if you have narrow feet)
Off Trail Use: Excellent to Very Good (if you have narrow feet)
Stack Height Heel/Toe: 22mm / 15mm
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7mm
Width: Narrow
Fit: Men’s: Small (order up 1/2 size), Women’s: True to size
Waterproof: Yes

MSRP: $150.00
Weight: 6.8 ounces (Men’s 9)
Traction: 5
Support: 3
Long-Distance Comfort: 3.5

For runners and hikers who are looking to venture off trails and into uncharted terrain, the Arc’teryx Norvan SL trail runner will get you there. This shoe is extremely lightweight, which provides a feeling of freedom and speed without delving fully into the world of minimalist shoes like the New Balance Minimus Trail 10v1. The low stack height gives extra stability and precision without extra features or construction. Though there is minimal cushioning in the shoe, for athletes with narrow feet these trail runners fit comfortably right out of the box. The Vibram outsole gives runners and hikers extra grip while flying through tricky terrain.

With a 7mm heel-to-toe drop, these shoes will work for either a low or high drop preference. We’ve found Arc’teryx shoes to be inconsistent in their sizing, and highly recommend trying on a pair before purchasing. Without a comfortable fit, these shoes won’t perform as well as intended. We recommend these shoes for ultralight backpackers and trail runners who thrive in technical, off-trail areas where traction and speed are key.

Read our complete guide | Best Hiking Shoes

PROS:

• One of the lightest non-minimalist shoes on the market
• Excellent for off-trail travel, while still having enough stability for trails
• Moderate drop will be comfortable for athletes who are used to either a low or high drop shoe
• Low stack height creates lightweight stability and precision for footing

CONS:

• Significantly more expensive than other brands
• Only works for runners and hikers with narrow feet
• The outsole is not very durable, will wear under a heavy pack
• Inconsistent sizing, recommend trying on a pair before purchasing

BEST FOR:

• Extremely technical travel, scrambling, and canyoneering
• Athletes with narrow feet who want an ultralight shoe to match their ultralight setup
• Moving quickly on technical trail runs or backpacking trips