Introduction
The norda 005, set to release in the first quarter of 2025 at $350, is a groundbreaking ultra trail running shoe designed for those who demand the best in performance, durability, and innovation. Positioned as a faster alternative to norda’s 001 and 002 models, the 005 blends cutting-edge materials with a sleek, lightweight design. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes this shoe a standout.
The upper is where durability meets comfort
Alex: The Dyneema upper on the norda 005 is a game-changer, offering an exceptional combination of minimalism, fit, and durability. The material conforms to the foot like a glove while remaining incredibly resistant to wear and tear. The heel is supported by two bolsters for added stability, and the gusseted tongue ensures a secure lockdown through the midfoot, preventing any shifting during runs. However, the shoe does run small, so going half a size up is advised. In my case, the US11.5 (half a size up) weighed a mere 250g, an impressive feat for a trail shoe.
Esther: The fit of the Norda 005 is truly unique—there’s nothing quite like it. Once laced up, the forefoot stays securely in place, and while the shoe offers a snug hold, there’s still plenty of room for your toes to splay comfortably. A thin, soft, perforated suede tongue wraps over the foot. Gone are the heel counter issues I noted on the 001 model. It’s still thin, yet far more accommodating.
The upper is also incredibly easy to clean. Dirt tends to flick off rather than cling to the woven fabric, which is a nice perk, especially if you want to transition them to casual wear on a Friday. As Alex mentioned, definitely go up a half size.
The midsole brings innovative cushioning and flexibility
Alex: The midsole is made from Arnitel TPEE, the first-ever pure TPE supercritical midsole used in a trail shoe. This cutting-edge material provides a perfect balance of cushioning and energy return, making the ride both soft and responsive. The shoe has no stiffening elements, which allows for a highly flexible and natural feel. However, thanks to the Arnitel midsole and the outsole’s encapsulating design, the 005 doesn’t need stiffening elements—it offers modern performance while maintaining a smooth, flexible ride.
I tested the norda 005 extensively on the coast of Brittany, France, in wet conditions and over a variety of surfaces. The midsole, in combination with the outsole, performed exceptionally well on sand, gravel, sharp rocks, and even wet sharp rocks—arguably one of the toughest conditions for any shoe. This synergy between the midsole and outsole is one of the shoe’s standout qualities, making it versatile and dependable on diverse terrain.
Additionally, I put the norda 005 through a range of sessions, including a very challenging all-out trail run with 200 meters of elevation gain over 30 minutes. During this run, I set multiple Strava segment PRs and personal bests, which speaks volumes about the shoe’s speed and responsiveness. The Norda 005 truly shines as a faster option in norda’s lineup.
Esther: The Arnitel TPEE midsole is hard to describe but it’s the crowning jewel of the Norda 005. It’s a squishy yet non-deforming midsole due to a high degree of elasticity. It’s bouncy, delivering that responsive feel on each footstrike without a loss of energy while dampening. Alex mentions PRs in this shoe, but I want to mention the joy factor when your legs are simply flat out tired. It’s the shoe you grab for a long run. Or when a friend asks you to do a sunrise hill repeat on a weekend. Your legs are given that extra boost, while remaining protected. Take it on the road, a forest trail, a rocky climb, it’s simply always a great run.
The outsole brings Vibram Mega Grip Elite to the party
Alex: The outsole features Vibram’s new Mega Grip Elite compound, a world-premiere innovation (Vibram will release this rubber compound in partnership with other brands later in 2025). With four-millimeter lugs, this outsole delivers exceptional grip, traction, and stickiness. It performed flawlessly on technical terrain, giving me confidence on loose gravel, wet surfaces, and steep descents. The connection to the ground felt secure, enhancing control and stability even in the most demanding conditions.
Esther: To me, the lugs appear closer to 3.5mm than to 4mm. Regardless, this shouldn’t act as a deterrent to those eager to tackle technical terrain. The Mega Grip Elite outsole rubber is tacky enough for wet or dry rocks, come whatever weather. I tested these shoes on terrains as varied as the French Alps and the pre-Atlas in Morocco. Whether in fresh snow, alpine grass or on dusty, sharp rock and scree, the outsole rubber and T-shaped lugs gave me a good deal of confidence on up and downhill sections. The best part is that no aspect of this shoe, including the outsole shows signs of degradation whatsoever after 80km.
Is this shoe worth $350?
Alex: The norda 005 is a top-tier trail running shoe that excels in every aspect. Its Dyneema upper offers a perfect balance of durability and fit, while the Arnitel TPEE midsole delivers unmatched cushioning and energy return. The Vibram Mega Grip Elite outsole enhances the shoe’s versatility, making it a reliable choice across various terrains. As a faster option in norda’s line, it’s built for runners who demand speed without compromising on comfort or durability.
At $350, the norda 005 is undeniably an investment. However, considering the cutting-edge materials, exceptional performance, and lightweight design, it’s a worthwhile purchase for serious trail runners. Whether you’re chasing PBs or simply looking for a high-performance trail shoe, the norda 005 delivers beyond any wildest expectations.
