Arc’teryx is well known for its tough, stylish apparel, shoes and gear, much of it in the popular Norvan line that spans all seasons.
The Norvan lineup has been around for several years. From comfortable clothing to tough trail-running shoes, thoughtful design and testing goes into each product. I’ve worn the Norvan LD 3 shoe for several trail runs over the last year. Some trails have been technical, such as those for the Grand Viduta finale. Others have been greenway-clean. They’ve been through sweaty summer days, creeks, slickery clay spots and rock, and are among my favorite trail shoes.
One thing I like about the Norvan LD 3 is you get what you see: a damned good trail shoe without frills or fluff. The uppers are tough enough to take on the scrapes and pokes of roots, rocks and sticks. My laces have stayed tied once I cinched the knot, unlike some other shoes with floppy clown laces I’d double-knot. There’s just enough cushion and support in the soles without being too much, and grippy lugs that still look good. I can wear my ankle brace, too, without any issues from the just-enough-padding around the top. I’ve considered buying some black ones to wear as knockaround kicks and light hiking.
Why Arc’teryx?
If I sound like an Arc’teryx fanboy, I am. I appreciate quality gear and don’t mind paying for it.
I like Benelli, GPO, Danner, Sitka and Kuiu hunting gear and Shimano and St. Croix Rods fishing gear. I’m happy in my Gleerups boots and comfy socks, and always enjoy good bourbon. Sometimes you can get away with inexpensive items. But when you need the good stuff IMO it’s when the best really shines. The Beta jacket from Arc’teryx is a prime example; great for blocking the wind, as a layering outer shell, and when rain-ice-mess hits. Can you get by with a dollar store poncho? Perhaps. Would you really really really appreciate that Beta in terribly crappy conditions? Yes.
If you’re going to be out and about this year in cold weather, either on the trails or biking or chillin’ out, consider this lineup. Arc’teryx has some old standbys and new items that will keep you warm on your outings.
Norvan 7
Trail runs and ambitious hikes require hydration, fuel – and sometimes gear. The Norvan 7 ($160) comfortably carries it. Designed with multiple adjustments for a precise fit, it holds a light shell, calories, water, plus a helmet and technical mountain tools. Its light, durable stretch mesh pack cloth wraps contents tight to minimize bounce. Easily accessible on the move, multiple front pockets include two flask holders – 500mL flasks are included. Dump pockets at the top and back are sized for larger gear.
Norvan T-Shirt
Made for all these runners, the Norvan T-Shirt ($90) leverages a hybrid construction to maximize moisture management, airflow, and comfort. Made with wicking fibres, its Phasic™ FL fabric is soft next-to-skin. An ultralight mesh on the back improves airflow. Merrow seams and laminated finishes minimize chafe, the design rides comfortably under a hydration vest, and articulated patterning removes restriction.
Norvan Crew Neck
The Norvan Crew Neck ($90) leverages a hybrid construction to maximize moisture management, airflow, and comfort. Made with wicking fibres, its Phasic™ FL fabric is soft next-to-skin, while an ultralight mesh on the back improves airflow. Merrow seams and laminated finishes in key areas minimize chafe, the design rides comfortably under a hydration vest, and articulated patterning removes restriction.
Norvan Shell Pant
Diligently designed to shed weight and pack small, the Norvan Shell Pant ($250) frees you to go deep into the backcountry without fearing sudden shifts in conditions. An ultralight GORE-TEX fabric seals out wind, rain, and snow, and a C-KNIT™ backer elevates softness and breathability. A heavier weight GORE-TEX reinforces high-wear areas. Articulated patterning provides outstanding freedom of movement, and the long ankle zip makes it easy to pull on over your shoes when weather hits.
Essent Legging
Fall hikes and winter runs, chilly days at the crags – our warmer Essent legging ($140) is perfect for all-mountain adventures in the colder seasons. Constructed from a nylon and elastane interlock with a brushed backer, it’s warm, breathable, and has excellent stretch. A wicking finish speeds moisture transfer. Two thigh pockets are easy to access on the move, and the wide waistband is comfortable all day long.
Norvan Hybrid Tight
Thermoregulation, stretch, weather protection – the Norvan Hybrid Tight ($180) keeps you running all year. The hybrid design starts with a durable, breathable nylon with a warm brushed backer and outstanding stretch, then places highly breathable four-way stretch GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ at the thighs to block wind and repel water and snow. The articulated patterning and ergonomic features are fine-tuned for mountain running, and the design layers easily with our Norvan shorts. The Norvan Hybrid Tight offers the same performance as the past season’s Norvan Hybrid Pant in a more efficient fit.
Venta Glove
Lightweight warmth and windproof protection – the Venta ($70) is a go-to glove for cross-country skiing, winter trail runs, and cold-weather hikes. The GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ softshell fabric blocks wind, repels rain and snow, and breathes. The fleeced interior adds light warmth, dexterity is built into the patterning, and TPU palm reinforcements enhance durability and improve grip. Sensors let you use your touchscreen devices, and a reinforced tab makes it easy to pull them on. Redesigned with a more durable reinforced leather tab and breathable Octa Loft™ insulation.
Norvan SL 3
Weightless, supportive, and confident underfoot, Norvan SL 3 ($160) brings improved durability and fit while maintaining its status as one of the lightest trail running shoes ever made. The highly abrasion-resistant Matryx® Micro upper delivers outstanding flex and breathability for minimal weight. A knit collar seals out debris and integrates with the tongue for a fit that wraps the foot, and the surefooted Vibram® Megagrip™ outsole’s LITEBASE technology delivers durable performance while shedding every gram possible.
Norvan LD 3
The Norvan LD 3 ($165) delivers the optimal blend of comfort, light weight, support, and grip for your longest trail runs. High-abrasion mesh upper is breathable and durable, and the dual-layer internal construction minimizes friction. The toebox is sized to accommodate splay, and the heel and forefoot stack absorbs shock. Advanced materials – Vibram® Litebase sole, INFUSE® midsole – shed grams, and the grippy Vibram® Megagrip outsole’s aggressive 4mm lug pattern delivers a confident bite.
Norvan Nivalis GTX
The Norvan Nivalis GTX ($220) is the trail running shoe for long-distance runs in wet, cold, wintery conditions. Designed for weather protection and confident grip – without sacrificing ride, response, and cushioning – it’s made with a durable, flexible upper lined with a GORE-TEX bootie for waterproof, breathable protection. A highly breathable water-repellent stretch gaiter with a front zip closure extends to the ankle for added protection from snow, water, and mud entry. The internal construction minimizes friction, the toe box is sized to accommodate splay, and the heel and forefoot stack absorbs shock.
