Unparalleled Winter Performance, Sustainable Innovation
On first glance, the norda™ 001 G+® Spike appears to be a superhero among its peers in the world of trail running shoes. In the wild, treacherous winter landscapes it's built for, it's like a rough-and-ready sherpah of footwear, ready to lead you through ice and snow without hesitation.
Let's talk specifics. The woven bio-based Dyneema® upper promises superior performance and strength, a lightweight touch that's meant to withstand anything your journey might throw at you. It’s the kind of trust you need when you’re out there, miles away from civilization. And with this material's eco-friendly sourcing and Bluesign® approval, your conscience can breathe as easy as your feet.
The laces, also made with Dyneema®, have been designed for strength, giving the boots an old school fighter’s spirit but with the durability of a modern day titan. And they're 100% recycled, too.
The G+® Graphene membrane lining of this shoe seems to be the star of the show. Like a meticulously planned expedition, this membrane was two years in the making. It's claimed to be the lightest, strongest, and most conductive natural material on Earth. Its job? Keeping your feet comfortable and dry through sleet, snow, or freezing rain. That's a tall order, but if it can deliver, it could revolutionize the way we dress our feet for the winter wilds.
The Vibram exclusive sole is another standout feature, like an all-terrain vehicle for your feet. With its carbide-tipped steel spikes, it's been designed for ultimate traction, so even on icy trails, you've got a firm footing. This isn't a feature you'll want for a Sunday stroll in the park, but for the brave souls who crave adventure on icy trails, this promises security and stability.
One feature that raises an eyebrow is the norda™ Lock System—an ultra-light and comfortable sock, designed to keep the foot in place, no matter what. This is the sort of feature you don’t appreciate until you’ve had it. That secure fit can mean the difference between gliding across an icy trail and losing your balance in a snow drift.
All these technicalities aside, let's take a moment to appreciate the aesthetics, too. It sports a hi-vis reflective design for visibility, adding a safety touch without compromising on style. And the weight? Quite lightweight, even with all the features and tough materials packed in.
The caveat, however, is the permanently embedded spikes. They're perfect for ice and snow but not so much for hardwood floors or city sidewalks. It's clear that these shoes have a very specific purpose: tackling the toughest of winter trails. If that's your game, the norda™ 001 G+® Spike might just be your next best companion.
Sustainability and performance appear to have found a harmonious balance here. The company's commitment to leave the lightest footprint possible is admirable. If it can meet these lofty claims, then it's not just making a shoe—it's paving the way towards a more sustainable future in performance footwear.
In conclusion, the norda™ 001 G+® Spike comes off as a trailblazer in more ways than one. It's like a winter warrior, daring the cold and ice to try and stop it. This shoe isn't for everyone, but for the trail runner with a taste for the wild side, it could be just the ticket.
Pros:
- Performance: With features like the G+® Graphene membrane for exceptional thermoregulation and the Dyneema® upper for strength and durability, this shoe is designed for high performance in challenging winter conditions.
- Traction: The Vibram exclusive sole with 20 carbide-tipped steel spikes offers incredible grip, crucial for icy and snowy trails.
- Lightweight: Despite its sturdy construction and range of features, the shoe manages to maintain a relatively lightweight profile, which can be beneficial during long runs.
- Sustainability: The use of bio-based Dyneema® and recycled materials aligns with a commitment to environmental responsibility.
- Visibility: The 360° high-visibility reflective design is a major plus for safety, especially during those low-light winter days.
Cons:
- Price: At $354, the shoe is a significant investment and may not fit within everyone's budget.
- Specific Use: With spikes that cannot be removed, this shoe is designed for use in icy and snowy conditions only. It's not versatile for different terrains or seasons, potentially limiting its use.
- Comfort: While the shoe is designed with several comfort features, like the norda™ Lock System, some users may find the permanent spikes uncomfortable or cumbersome during prolonged wear.
- Wearability: The permanent spikes also mean the shoes are not suitable for indoor use or on delicate surfaces.
In summary, the norda™ 001 G+® Spike appears to be an excellent choice for serious winter trail runners who prioritize performance, durability, and sustainability and are willing to invest in specialized footwear. However, it may not be the best choice for casual runners or those looking for a more versatile or budget-friendly option.
The Norda 002 is now available but only in non-spiked version.
