Article by Dom Layfield, Jeff Valliere and Sam Winebaum
Norda Run 001A ($295)
Introduction
Sam: The Norda 001A is an evolution of Norda’s original and I would say now iconic 001. Norda of Quebec has grown by carefully balancing high performance and elite level trail running products, worn to win many races, with high fashion “sportstyle” vibes and distribution.
The 001A shares the same super durable Dyneema fibers upper material (tweaked with learnings and since 2023 from a European supplier), midsole geometry, stack height, and Cambrian Shield design Vibram MegaGrip outsole but gets a very significant performance upgrade via a new midsole.
Although not visually obvious, but clearly felt on the run, the big big upgrade is an all new Arnitel blend TPEE midsole derived from the Norda’s 005 race shoe 100% Arnitel midsole foam which had a road super shoe grade resilience of 80% (rebound/energy return) rate,.
The 001A’s new midsole has a 70.8% resilience, up 30% from the Vibram SLE midsole foam used in the 001. The increased performance of this new midsole is clearly felt.
For me, it dramatically enhances the versatility and ride quality of the 001. Norda claims this tuned foam should deliver solid performance retaining resilience for more than 1000km. These are all important considerations given the shoe’s $295 pricing.
Pros:
All day comfort, Plush cushioning: Jeff/Sam/Dom
Protective, Responsive,Agile: Jeff/Sam/Dom
Secure but accommodating upper: Jeff/Sam/Dom
Traction: Jeff/Sam/Dom
Reasonably lightweight for all that it offers: Jeff
Versatile: any terrain, any distance and more versatile than version 1: Sam/Jeff/Dom
While priced at the top of the market, given the environment, new foam, and expected increased durability the $10 increase in pricing is commendable: Sam
Cons:
Price (though I will note that if this shoe is in your budget, it is among the best, if not the best at any price point): Jeff/Dom/Sam
Weight: On the heavier side, and negligibly lighter than the original. (Disappointing after the impressively light 005.) Though weight is not noticeable on the foot. Dom/Sam
Stats
Approx. Weight: men's 10.37oz / 294g US9
Sample Weights:
men’s: 11.10 oz / 314 g (001:11.22 oz / 318g US10.5),
10.37 oz / 294g US9 (size equivalent to a US8.5
men’s: 10.6 oz / 302 g US 10
Midsole Stack Height: 26 mm heel / 21 mm forefoot
Approximate Full Stack Height: 34mm heel / 29m forefoot, 5mm drop
Platform Width:
001A: 80 mm heel / 70 mm midfoot / 110 mm forefoot US M9
001: 80 mm heel / 70 mm midfoot / 110 mm forefoot US M9
First Impressions, Fit and Upper
Dom: The Norda 001A takes the phenomenal Arnitel midsole that debuted in the race-oriented Norda 005 (RTR Review) and transplants it in a blend with EVA and something secret “extra” into their original 001 trail shoe.
I did not review the original 001 but Sam did, so I can’t say how much difference the new midsole compound makes compared to the “Vibram SLE” foam (EVA) used in the original shoe. However, I can say that the updated shoe is another delightful shoe to run in.
Dom: Everything other than the midsole is apparently unchanged with the 001A compared to the 001. So you get the same roomy fit, bulletproof Dyneema upper and laces, and eTPU insole. This is a shoe that is built to withstand serious mileage, and has been around plenty long enough for any weaknesses to have surfaced and been dealt with. Norda also tells us that over the last few years, they made many incremental tweaks to the 001 upper based on customer feedback and their own experience.
Dom: As with all Norda shoes, sizing is slightly different to other brands. Most runners are advised to order a half size larger than usual.
Dom: Immediately, from the first few steps, I could tell this was a lovely shoe. The Arnitel midsole provides not only bounce, but also nice progressive compression and surprising rock protection.
Dom: Now that I’ve got the gushing hyperbole out of the way, I feel that I have to nitpick a little – particularly given the premium price of Norda shoes, which leads to sky-high expectations of near perfection.
Firstly, while the forefoot is a generous width across the ball of the foot, thereafter the toebox tapers quickly, limiting toe splay, and specifically on the medial side not allowing the big toe to straighten out. (I will concede that a more ‘anatomical’ shape might make the shoe less stylish.)
Secondly, I’m not a fan of the little flap of suede-like material at the back of the shoe. The heel of the 001A is notably soft and unstructured, with no heel counter to speak of, and it requires a little extra care when putting on the shoe to prevent the heel from collapsing. You have to hold the flap in order to slide your heel into the shoe, and though this is a workable solution, the flap is a little hard to grip, and I think a full loop would have been preferable.
Thirdly, the beefiness of the construction can seem excessive in places, most notably around the forefoot, where both the tongue gusseting and the underlay loops that directly connect the sole to the laces are thicker than I expected. Midfoot security is undeniably excellent, but the burly construction results in a shoe that is a little hotter and heavier than the competition.
Sam: Resplendent in a very slightly off White Gum color (other colors see end of review) with all gray accents highly reflective, one might say “city shoe” and be scared to take it to the trails.
Well it does look stunning worn casually but the 001A is a full on, totally modern high performance trails (and more) running shoe. It is a shoe that does a tremendous number of tasks very well, and with refinement. It will get dirty and has but that is OK. Will report later on how it “cleans up” after I find some mud.
The upper is, as before Dyneema, a very high strength light woven material with the fibers often used in sailcloth. Dyneema fibers are up to 15x stronger than steel at the same weight.
The fibers are woven and the upper is since 2023 assembled in Europe with the final assembly (lasting, midsole, outsole) done in China.
Norda shared with us a long list of refinements to improve durability and comfort. Among them we now have a lighter more resilient TPU beads insole which is clearly felt.
The fit is very secure yet at the same time light, easy and with no binding or constriction anywhere.
The combination of dense, thin Dyneema mesh, a wide higher volume toe box and the very judicious use of pliable yet effective overlays all come together as one comfortable shoe.
It is the kind of trail shoe (unlike most trail or road shoes) that you literally see no need to take off after any run. Just keep going and In a recurring theme here, including its ride and traction, versatility is top of the game here.
My pair is a US9. I am usually a US8.5 in most shoes (and Norda) and was a snug US8.5 in the Satisfy edition of the 001 and could have sized up. Here I am not so sure as the toe box volume seems higher and broader. While hold is good, I think I could go my usual size for general running but for long, long runs and trekking I would stay at a US9, half size up.
Jeff V: At first I was a bit confused when the 001A arrived, wondering why I received what I thought to be an older shoe, but a quick text to Sam confirmed that this is an all new shoe with blend of the new Arnitel TPEE midsole as found in the absolutely amazing 005. Now I am excited!
I did not review the standard 001, but instead the 001 G+ Spike (RTR Review),and really found them to be a relatively light, quick and dynamic shoe, with some water resistance and metal studs for icy, snowy trail conditions (which are still a favorite shoe of mine after 3 years and at the forefront of my winter rotation).
The 001A is one of the best looking shoes out there that can easily transcend trail running, being just as much at home worn for a night out on the town, to the office or many other “dress” occasions. The 005 has a similar classy look in white, which I recently wore for a 4 day work conference in Salt Lake City, as they paired well with slacks, yet were amazing for the door to trail runs from the hotel (I would have worn the 001A had they not arrived after my trip.
Back to the 001A, the Dyneema mesh upper is amazing, very light, flexible and pliable, but simultaneously quite durable and well held in technical terrain.
Comparing side by side with the 001 G+ Spike, the upper looks and feels quite similar, but Norda has informed us that there have been subtle changes over the years since 2021 (since my 2022 model though, I would not outwardly recognize or detect these differences).
While not particularly airy, I found the upper to be reasonably breathable and strikes a good mix of keeping out trail dust and not overheating.
Fit for me is true to size in my typical size 10 and consistent with the 001 G+ Spike. I will say though that if you are borderline on sizing, going up a half size might be prudent. For my foot, the upper strikes an exceptionally good balance between precise, race ready fit and security, with enough comfort and wiggle room in the forefoot for swelling and splay. As Sam mentions, this is a rare shoe where I do not really think about taking them off at the end of a long day.
I find that foothold is fantastic on steep downhills and sidehilling (no matter the speed), from my usual runs in the local foothills, to an especially steep and rugged off trail line on 13,508 foot Mt. Fairchild, which alternated between tundra, talus, scree and highly angled rock hopping for several thousand vertical feet. I was moving quickly and never once felt my feet slip, slide or move around to the point of needing to back off.
Truth be known, I actually never thought of the shoes on my feet at all, which is the ultimate testament to how well they perform.
Midsole & Platform
Sam: According to Norda, the new 001A Arnitel TPEE/ EVA blend with a “secret” extra ingredient leads to the 70.8% resilience (AKA rebound/energy return) rate, up 30% from the Vibram SLE midsole used on the 001 which had a 55.30% resilience and was 100% CMEVA. The 005 with 100% Arnitel had around 80% resilience or in the general range of road marathon super shoes.
Dom: All of the RTR reviewers were ecstatic about the Arnitel midsole that Norda debuted in their 005 race shoe. With the 001A, we get another opportunity to experience this superfoam here in a blend, and again, it feels fantastic. The 001A is bouncy, energetic, and provides plenty of underfoot protection from rock strikes. The just right’ firmness absolutely nails the Goldilocks zone: soft enough to make the shoe feel plush and comfortable, yet firm enough to maintain exemplary stability and protection.
Dom: Probably worth mentioning too that the 001A (like the 001 and 002) comes with a now lighter TPU-beaded footbed. This type of footbed is my favorite type, providing a range of benefits: they do not absorb water; they last a very long time without losing their shape to any discernable extent; and they can also provide extra bounce to shoes with less energetic midsoles. With the springy Arnitel midsole used in the 001A, though, this last positive is probably moot.
Dom: This is an immensely competent, comfortable shoe that can genuinely go any distance on any terrain.
Sam: The 001 was classic EVA, well baked. Light, with a relatively firm and stable feel it was at home on trails. The 001A with its new supercritical Arnitel blend, right in line with the specs above, has dramatically more “energy return”, a more forgiving cushion feel, absorbs vibration far better than the 001 making it also an excellent road shoe while losing none of its trail chops.
In fact, the more resilient foam is far more forgiving on the legs and seems to now conform to terrain better and more smoothly blend with the outsole on firm surfaces.
The feeling of a blocky flat heel of the 001 is reduced as well although I do wish the 001A, as with the 001, had more of a rear rocker.
Norda did not go all the way to 100% Arnitel TPPE, a non gas infused injection molded processing but went with a blend. While not quite as springy and airy light in feel and weight as the 2.5 mm higher heel stack height 005, the extra density here makes them a touch more stable, more rock protective and Norda expects this midsole to lperform more than 1000km based on its testing.
Jeff V: Sam and Dom cover the details of the midsole well. The dual density combination does a phenomenal job providing a high level of balance between response, underfoot protection and stability.
While not as airy/bouncy/light as the 005, the 001A is more appropriate in my opinion for longer distances on rough terrain and still feel quick and lively on the ascents.
On a recent 17.5 mile/5,300 vertical foot run to 13,500 (in just under 5 hours), featuring a long trail approach that alternated between smooth and rocky singletrack, then a steep sustained off trail climb above treeline that had a lot of talus, scree and rock hopping, the 001A did an amazing job, providing really good cushioning, protection underfoot on the climb, especially on the prolonged descent at higher speeds. After the long day out, my legs felt surprisingly fresh, especially after a fast, near 9 mile, 5,300 foot rugged and demanding descent.
Outsole
Dom: The Vibram Megagrip Litebase outsole is unchanged from the original 001. That sole performed well in all conditions, and has solid durability. We expect the 001A to perform similarly, and it has been feeling great in early testing. As with many aspects of Norda shoes, this outsole is an adaptable, capable all-rounder: well-mannered both on-road and off.
Dom: The only other point I would make is that, like all Norda shoes, the 001A is built with super-durable materials in the upper and midsole, so it is the outsole that will likely be the limiting factor in the lifetime of the shoe: Chances are that the lugs will be completely worn away long before the upper blows out. How long this will take depends a lot on your gait and the surface you run on, but it is worth noting that in the RTR review of the original 001, Jason Schlarb included a photo of the outsole of his shoes after around 500 miles of use, and the lugs were heavily eroded, but still visible.
Sam: I concur with Dom regarding the outsole, including its feel. Any terrain grip with a notably smooth and quiet feel on firmer smoother surfaces where most of my testing has occurred. A quiet and smooth outsole always makes me look at flex and here after 4 runs we have a quite pronounced flex point in the area of the last lace up. And that flex point also makes them outstanding climbing.
Jeff V: Traction is very good overall, with the 5mm lugs providing very good bite in loose terrain, steep off trail, mud, snow, etc… I have 
The small nubs in the photo above share an outsole mold with the spiked version and hence the near identical look (except for the difference of nubs here made of rubber). After about 50 miles of rough use though, those superfluous nubs are starting to wear off.
Ride, Conclusions and Recommendations
Release Date:
Review due date:
Embargo: August 19 updated!
Reviewers: BOLD here if you have received strike through if you have not.
Sam Jeff Dom
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Immensely competent, any distance, any terrain.
Article by Dom Layfield, Jeff Valliere and Sam Winebaum
Norda Run 001A ($295)
Introduction
Sam: The Norda 001A is an evolution of Norda’s original and I would say now iconic 001. Norda of Quebec has grown by carefully balancing high performance and elite level trail running products, worn to win many races, with high fashion “sportstyle” vibes and distribution.
The 001A shares the same super durable Dyneema fibers upper material (tweaked with learnings and since 2023 from a European supplier), midsole geometry, stack height, and Cambrian Shield design Vibram MegaGrip outsole but gets a very significant performance upgrade via a new midsole.
Although not exactly visually obvious, but clearly felt on the run, the big big upgrade is an all new Arnitel blend TPEE midsole derived from the Norda’s 005 race shoe 100% Arnitel midsole foam which had a road super shoe grade resilience of 80% (rebound/energy return) rate,.
The 001A’s new midsole has a 70.8% resilience, up 30% from the Vibram SLE midsole foam used on the 001. The increased performance of this new midsole is clearly felt. For me it dramatically enhances the versatility and ride quality of the 001 while Norda claims this tuned foam should deliver solid performance retaining resilience for more than 1000km. These are all important considerations given the shoe’s $295 pricing.
Pros:
All day comfort, Plush cushioning: Jeff/Sam/Dom
Protective, Responsive,Agile: Jeff/Sam/Dom
Secure but accommodating upper: Jeff/Sam/Dom
Traction: Jeff/Sam/Dom
Reasonably lightweight for all that it offers: Jeff
Versatile: any terrain, any distance and more versatile than version 1: Sam/Jeff/Dom
While priced at the top of the market, given the environment, new foam, and expected increased durability the $10 increase in pricing is commendable: Sam
Cons:
Price (though I will note that if this shoe is in your budget, it is among the best, if not the best at any price point): Jeff/Dom/Sam
Weight: On the heavier side, and negligibly lighter than the original. (Disappointing after the impressively light 005.) Though weight is not noticeable on the foot. Dom/Sam
Stats
Approx. Weight: men's 10.37oz / 294g US9
Sample Weights:
men’s: 11.10 oz / 314 g (001:11.22 oz / 318g US10.5),
10.37 oz / 294g US9 (size equivalent to a US8.5
men’s: 10.6 oz / 302 g US 10
Midsole Stack Height: 26 mm heel / 21 mm forefoot
Platform Width:
001A: 80 mm heel / 70 mm midfoot / 110 mm forefoot US M9
001: 80 mm heel / 70 mm midfoot / 110 mm forefoot US M9
First Impressions, Fit and Upper
Dom: The Norda 001A takes the phenomenal Arnitel midsole that debuted in the race-oriented Norda 005 (RTR Review) and transplants it in a blend with EVA and something secret “extra”( 3d compound unspecified) into their original 001 trail shoe.
I did not review the original 001 but Sam did, so I can’t say how much difference the new midsole compound makes compared to the “Vibram SLE” foam (EVA) used in the original shoe. However, I can say that the updated shoe is another delightful shoe to run in.
Dom: Everything other than the midsole is apparently unchanged with the 001A compared to the 001. So you get the same roomy fit, bulletproof Dyneema upper and laces, and eTPU insole. This is a shoe that is built to withstand serious mileage, and has been around plenty long enough for any weaknesses to have surfaced and been dealt with. Norda tells us that over the last few years, they made many incremental tweaks to the 001 upper based on customer feedback and their own experience.
Dom: As with all Norda shoes, sizing is slightly different to other brands. Most runners are advised to order a half size larger than usual.
Dom: Immediately, from the first few steps, I could tell this was a lovely shoe. The Arnitel midsole provides not only bounce, but also nice progressive compression and surprising rock protection.
Dom: Now that I’ve got the gushing hyperbole out of the way, I feel that I have to nitpick a little – particularly given the premium price of Norda shoes, which leads to sky-high expectations of near perfection.
Firstly, while the forefoot is a generous width across the ball of the foot, thereafter the toebox tapers quickly, limiting toe splay, and specifically on the medial side not allowing the big toe to straighten out. (I will concede that a more ‘anatomical’ shape might make the shoe less stylish.)
Secondly, I’m not a fan of the little flap of suede-like material at the back of the shoe. The heel of the 001A is notably soft and unstructured, with no heel counter to speak of, and it requires a little extra care when putting on the shoe to prevent the heel from collapsing. You have to hold the flap in order to slide your heel into the shoe, and though this is a workable solution, the flap is a little hard to grip, and I think a full loop would have been preferable.
Thirdly, the beefiness of the construction can seem excessive in places, most notably around the forefoot, where both the tongue gusseting and the underlay loops that directly connect the sole to the laces are thicker than I expected. Midfoot security is undeniably excellent, but the burly construction results in a shoe that is a little hotter and heavier than the competition.
Sam: Resplendent in a very slightly off white color with all gray accents highly reflective, one might say “city shoe” and be scared to take it to the trails. Well it does look stunning worn casually but the 001A is a full on totally modern high performance trails (and more) running shoe. It is a shoe that does a tremendous number of tasks very well and with refinement. It will get dirty and has but that is OK. Will report later on how it “cleans up” after I find some mud.
The upper is, as before Dyneema, a very high strength light woven material with the fibers often used in sailcloth. Dyneema fibers are up to 15x stronger than steel at the same weight.
The fibers are woven and the upper is since 2023 assembled in Europe with the final assembly (lasting, midsole, outsole) done in China. Norda shared with us a long list of refinements to improve durability and comfort. Among them we now have a lighter more resilient TPU beads insole which is clearly felt.
The fit is very secure yet at the same time light, easy and with not binding or constriction anywhere.
The combination of dense, thin Dyneema mesh, a wide higher volume toe box and the very judicious use of pliable yet effective overlays all come together as one for one comfortable shoe. It is the kind of trail shoe (unlike most trail or road shoes) that you literally see no need to take off after any run. Just keep going and In a recurring theme here, including its ride and traction, versatility is top of the game here.
My pair is a US9. I am usually a US8.5 in most shoes (and Norda) and was a snug US8.5 in the Satisfy edition of the 001 and could have sized up. Here I am not so sure as the toe box volume seems higher and broader. While hold is good I think I could go my usual size for general running but for long long runs and trekking I would stay at a US9, half size up.
Jeff V: At first I was a bit confused when the 001A arrived, wondering why I received what I thought to be an older shoe, but a quick text to Sam confirmed that this is an all new shoe with blend of the new Arnitel TPEE midsole as found in the absolutely amazing 005. Now I am excited! I did not review the standard 001, but instead the 001 G+ Spike (RTR Review),and really found them to be a relatively light, quick and dynamic shoe, with some water resistance and metal studs for icy, snowy trail conditions (which are still a favorite shoe of mine after 3 years and at the forefront of my winter rotation).
The 001A is one of the best looking shoes out there that can easily transcend trail running, being just as much at home worn for a night out on the town, to the office or many other “dress” occasions. The 005 has a similar classy look in white, which I recently wore for a 4 day work conference in Salt Lake City, as they paired well with slacks, yet were amazing for the door to trail runs from the hotel (I would have worn the 001A had they not arrived after my trip.
Back to the 001A, the Dyneema mesh upper is amazing, very light, flexible and pliable, but simultaneously quite durable and well held in technical terrain.
Comparing side by side with the 001 G+ Spike, the upper looks and feels quite similar, but Norda has informed us that there have been subtle changes over the years since 2021 (since my 2022 model though, I would not outwardly recognize or detect these differences).
While not particularly airy, I found the upper to be reasonably breathable and strikes a good mix of keeping out trail dust and not overheating.
Fit for me is true to size in my typical size 10 and consistent with the 001 G+ Spike. I will say though that if you are borderline on sizing, going up a half size might be prudent. For my foot, the upper strikes an exceptionally good balance between precise, race ready fit and security, with enough comfort and wiggle room in the forefoot for swelling and splay. As Sam mentions, this is a rare shoe where I do not really think about taking them off at the end of a long day.
I find that foothold is fantastic on steep downhills and sidehilling (no matter the speed), from my usual runs in the local foothills, to an especially steep and rugged off trail line on 13,508 foot Mt. Fairchild, which alternated between tundra, talus, scree and highly angled rock hopping for several thousand vertical feet. I was moving quickly and never once felt my feet slip, slide or move around to the point of needing to back off (truth be known, I actually never thought of the shoes on my feet at all, which is the ultimate testament to how well they perform).
Midsole & Platform
Sam: According to Norda, the new 001A Arnitel TPEE/ EVA blend with a “secret” extra ingredient which leads to the 70.8% resilience (AKA rebound/energy return) rate, up 30% from the Vibram SLE midsole used on the 001 which had a 55.30% resilience and was 100% CMEVA. The 005 with 100% Arnitel had around 80% resilience or in the general range of road marathon super shoes.
Dom: All of the RTR reviewers were ecstatic about the Arnitel midsole that Norda debuted in their 005 race shoe. With the 001A, we get another opportunity to experience this superfoam here in a blend, and again, it feels fantastic. The 001A is bouncy, energetic, and provides plenty of underfoot protection from rock strikes. The ‘just right’ firmness absolutely nails the Goldilocks zone: soft enough to make the shoe feel plush and comfortable, yet firm enough to maintain exemplary stability and protection.
Dom: Probably worth mentioning too that the 001A (like the 001 and 002) comes with a non lighter TPU-beaded footbed. This type of footbed is my favorite type, providing a range of benefits: they do not absorb water; they last a very long time without losing their shape to any discernable extent; and they can also provide extra bounce to shoes with less energetic midsoles. With the springy Arnitel midsole used in the 001A, though, this last positive is probably moot.
Dom: This is an immensely competent, comfortable shoe that can genuinely go any distance on any terrain.
Sam: The 001 was classic EVA well baked. Light, with a relatively firm and stable feel it was atmost at home on trails. The 001A with its new supercritical Arnitel blend, right in line with the specs above, has dramatically more “energy return”, a more forgiving cushion feel, absorbs vibration far better than the 001 making it also an excellent road shoe and loses none of its trail chops. In fact, the more resilient foam is far more forgiving on the legs and seems to now conform to terrain better and more smoothly blend with the outsole on firm surfaces.
The feeling of a blocky flat heel of the 001 is reduced as well although I do wish the 001A as with the 001 had more of a rear rocker.
Norda did not go all the way to 100% Arnitel TPPE, a non gas infused injection molded processing but went with a blend. While not quite as springy and airy light in feel and weight as the 2.5 mm higher heel stack height 005, the extra density here makes them a touch more stable, more rock protective and Norda expects this midsole to last more than 1000km based on its testing.
Jeff V: Sam and Dom cover the details of the midsole well. The dual density combination does a phenomenal job providing a high level of balance between response, underfoot protection and stability.
While not as airy/bouncy/light as the 005, the 001A is more appropriate in my opinion for longer distances on rough terrain and still feel quick and lively on the ascents. On a recent 17.5 mile/5,300 vertical foot run to 13,500 (in just under 5 hours), featuring a long trail approach that alternated between smooth and rocky singletrack, then a steep sustained off trail climb above treeline that had a lot of talus, scree and rock hopping, the 001A did an amazing job, providing really good cushioning, protection underfoot on the climb, especially on the prolonged descent at higher speeds. After the long day out, my legs felt surprisingly fresh, especially after a fast, near 9 mile, 5,300 foot rugged and demanding descent.
Outsole
Dom: The Vibram Megagrip Litebase outsole is unchanged from the original 001. That sole performed well in all conditions, and has solid durability. We expect the 001A to perform similarly, and it has been feeling great in early testing. As with many aspects of Norda shoes, this outsole is an adaptable, capable all-rounder: well-mannered both on-road and off.
Dom: The only other point I would make is that, like all Norda shoes, the 001A is built with super-durable materials in the upper and midsole, so it is the outsole that will likely be the limiting factor in the lifetime of the shoe: Chances are that the lugs will be completely worn away long before the upper blows out. How long this will take depends a lot on your gait and the surface you run on, but it is worth noting that in the RTR review of the original 001, Jason Schlarb included a photo of the outsole of his shoes after around 500 miles of use, and the lugs were heavily eroded, but still visible.
Sam: I concur with Dom regarding the outsole, including its feel. Any terrain grip with a notably smooth and quiet feel on firmer smoother surfaces where most of my testing has occurred. A quiet and smooth outsole always makes me look at flex and here after 4 runs we have a quite pronounced flex point in the area of the last lace up. And that flex point also makes them outstanding climbing.
Jeff V: Traction is very good overall, with the 5mm lugs providing very good bite in loose terrain, steep off trail, mud, snow, etc… I have not been able to truly test wet traction extensively, but what little wet I was able to find, it felt as though grip is average to slightly above average. As I mentioned, I tested the 001 G+ Spike, primarily in snowy, icy conditions, but spikes aside, the rubber feels sticky and durability has been very good over the 3 years I have used them.
The small nubs in the photo above share an outsole mold with the spiked version and hence the near identical look (except for the difference of nubs here made of rubber). After about 50 miles of rough use though, those superfluous nubs are starting to wear off.
Ride, Conclusions and Recommendations
Dom: The 001A is an exemplary all-rounder. It has enough protection for long days in the mountains, it has excellent grip, a very comfortable roomy fit, and is built to survive nuclear armageddon. For real: I did a bit of digging around the web, and I couldn’t find anyone complaining of any durability issues with this shoe, only reports of continued use at 500, 750 miles. Plan to pass them on to your grandchildren!
Dom: One of the few criticisms of the original 001 was that the midsole could be a little dead-feeling. The new Arnitel midsole elevates an already fine shoe to another level.
Dom: I’m particularly drawn to the 001A as a shoe to bring with me when I travel and have no real idea what kind of conditions, terrain and distance I will run in. No matter where I go, I know the 001A will be a stalwart partner. Personally, I try to avoid wearing running shoes for casual use, but if you’re traveling light with enough space for only one pair of shoes, the 001A also has the striking good looks to keep you looking sharp around Chamonix.
Dom: About the only weakness I can think of is that overall weight is a little disappointing, particularly after the astonishingly light weight of the Norda 005, the 001A seems a little portly at 11.1 oz per shoe (in US mens 10.5). That said, the weight is not really noticeable on the foot. One could also complain that the 001A lacks the heel rocker of speedier shoes. But unless you’re using the 001A for racing, neither of these really matter.
Dom’s Score:
Ride: 9 / 10. Could arguably be improved with lighter construction and a little heel rocker.
Fit: 9 / 10. I would ideally like a little more medial space for my big toe to straighten.
Protection: 9 / 10. Plenty for nearly all purposes, but you might want more after 15+ hours of running on rough ground.
Stability: 9.5 / 10. Zero complaints. These things are hard to tip over.
Traction: 9.5 / 10. Pretty damn good.
Style: 9.5 / 10. I like 'em. Everyone seems to like ‘em.
Durability: 9.5 / 10. Built to survive nearly forever. I expect the outsole to wear out first.
Value: 8 / 10. I’m not sure ‘value’ is a valid way of looking at the Norda shoes. It’s kinda like comparing a Patagonia jacket to a Decathlon jacket: is the Patagucci really two times better? No. But you buy the premium jacket if you can afford it and you like it more, or maybe because you prize their ethical business practices. I believe this is the appropriate way to think about Norda.
Overall: 9.5 / 10. (Yes, that’s more than the average of the above scores.)
And lots of smiles… 😊😊😊😊😊
Sam: Norda tweaks the upper for what I found to be both a more secure and at the same time more comfortable fit. I really enjoy the high and well held toe box and overall security without ever over squeezing the foot.
While the improvements to the Dyneema upper are very welcome, it is underfoot at the midsole that Norda took the 001 to another level of ride comfort and versatility. Yes, we have a substantial MegaGrip outsole but the greatly increased resilience of the midsole now delivers a totally modern energetic ride that now bridges far more easily over to the road for me, is much easier on the legs to go, of course, with its beautiful styling.
While the weight is OK I wish it checked in under 10 oz so less than the 10.37oz / 294g in my US9.5 (equivalent in size to a US9) although, agreeing with Dom, the shoe weight is not noticeable on the run due to the energy of the ride.
I always look for shoes that can do many things: road running, trail running, hiking/trekking, single travel shoes..while turning heads in town (it has), just kidding about that last one.. sort of, but it is one beautiful shoe that can go and do just about anything. It will be with me as my second shoe for many of our days during our upcoming trek in France and before and after all kinds of mountain and more urban runs and walks in Switzerland.
This new energetic ride versatility to go with expected leading durability, top to bottom, for sure increases the value of the 001A over its predecessor. Yes, priced at the top of the market but I think earns it yet more than ever before.
Sam’s Score: 9.45 / 10 😊😊😊😊
Ride (30%): 9.5 Slight deductions for weight and blocky rear of shoe
Fit (30%): 9.6 As good as it gets. A tiny touch more heel area support hold would be good
Value (10%): 8.5 despite the versatility, quality and expected durability tough to get past $295
Style (5%): 10 and no matter where and for what
Traction (15%): 9.5 Solid and plays well on any surface
Rock Protection (10%): 9.4 more than sufficient
Jeff V: Echoing Dom and Sam, the 001A is a really impressive all arounder, super versatile, the type of shoe to leave in your car for any run that comes your way, or a single do it all travel shoe where you want something that looks classy AND can tackle any trail or terrain. Be it door to trail, steep high mountain talus, scree, off trail, or anything in between, the 001A has you covered.
The upper and fit are particularly good, at least for my narrow, low volume foot, but there is enough room in the forefoot to satisfy a wider variety of foot shapes and give some wiggle room. As Dom mentions, it takes a little work to get into these shoes (definitely not the type of shoe to quickly slip on for an errand or trip to the mailbox), but the little bit of added work is completely worth it.
The new midsole is very protective, responsive, lively, cushioned, comfortable and overall runs lighter than the weight may imply (though 10.6oz in my US 10 is still not too bad.
Traction is very good, one of the better outsoles out there and is confidence inspiring in most circumstances (though I have not yet confirmed wet traction entirely).
I will pick the 001A for just about any run, be it daily training, recovery, long days, short runs, uptempo runs and would not hesitate to race in it mid to longer distances. Of course with a trip through the washer, I will look forward to wearing them out on the town or to work related functions (I HATE dress shoes).
At $295, the price point is up there and a con for many, but if that is within your budget (or close), it is worth the stretch for the highest level of performance, quality and style.
Jeff V’s Score: 9.6 / 10
Ride (30%): 9.5
Fit (30%): 9.75 Perfect for my foot, very secure, but forgiving
Value (10%): 9 $295 is a lot, BUT, if you have the money, you are getting the very best
Style (5%): 10 The only other comparable shoes in looks are the similar in appearance 005
Traction (15%): 9.5 Very good on any surface
Rock Protection (10%): 10 No issues or pokes despite pushing on some very rocky terrain
😊😊😊😊😊
6 Comparisons
Norda 005 (RTR Review)
Dom: I wore the 005 in my last hundred-mile race, and they are very special indeed: so light, so bouncy, so pleasingly simple, stripped-down and focused. (For the car geeks, they remind me of the Lotus Elise.) But despite the expected long life of 005, I find myself strangely reluctant to take them out for daily training runs lest I wear out the outsole too soon. The 001A, now with a similarly sublime midsole, is more substantial and less race-focused, but generally more capable. The 005 is a clear choice for race day, particularly if you are at the pointy end of the pack. For everything else, the 001A is a shoe that will serve you better.
Jeff V: Agreed with Dom. The 005 is a special sort of shoe for race day and PR type efforts, though I do daily train in them. The 001A is more burlier and rugged, giving the shoe a wider range of versatility and can go anywhere, high mountain, all mountain competency/protection.
Sam: As the others have said the 005 is a faster, far, far lighter shoe, at 228g/ 8.04 oz, a big 66g lighter in my US9. Airy, explosive in energy return it lags the 001A some in stability and maybe traction in certain conditions. For $30 more it is worth it if you want the ultimate for racing and training any terrain but the most technical.
Tracksmith Eliot Range (RTR Review soon)
Sam: The Range, Tracksmith first trail shoe is a dual supercritical foam shoe with a somewhat flexible nylon plate. Firmer, somewhat more agile, it for me will lean more technical trails and shorter runs than the Norda despite its lower profile less aggressive outsole. Its upper made of a combination of non-stretch ripstop with a very thin wicking merino lining is more precise fitting but lower volume than the Norda’s. Priced at $240 it is $55 less than the Norda 001A. Despite that if I was to pick one it would be the Norda for its greater versatility and comfort. I was my usual US8.5 in the Range and half size up in the 001A. In a future pair I would size up a half in the Range and try true to size in the 001A
La Sportiva Prodigio Pro (RTR Review)
Dom: I can’t help but observe that I see the Prodigio Pro everywhere. La Sportiva shoes used to be a rarity. But over the last year, the Prodigio Pro has rocketed to stardom, and are now to be seen at trail races with comparable frequency to familiar favorites like the Speedgoat. Compared to the Norda 001A, the Prodigio Pro is lighter and cheaper. But durability is probably not going to be quite as good as the Norda. Plus, you know, style. And image.
Jeff V: Agreed with Dom but will add that Prodigio Pro is more lively, lighter and competitive in traction, protection and all mountain use, but the 001A is more stable underfoot and has a more fitted upper. 001A wins in style points as well.
La Sportiva Prodigio Max (RTR Review)
Jeff V: Closer in stats, the Max has it all, stability, protection, reasonably good response, protective, predictable, go anywhere build, great traction and all day cushion, at a fraction of the price.
Sam: Agreed with Jeff although for me while not quite as secure the Norda 00!A is far far more comfortable.
Hoka Speedgoat 6 (RTR Review)
Jeff V: Bouncy, well cushioned, protective, stable and amazing traction at a relatively low cost in comparison, the SG is very popular for a reason. I would say the SG 6 feels faster and more race ready, but it is a close call.
Dom: The Speedgoat is a popular shoe for a reason, and the SG6 is one of the best iterations. It has a little more stack height (37/32 mm) but still clocks in a little lighter than the Norda 001A. Norda has better groundfeel and is more stable. Norda forefoot has a little more space. (Although some colors of the SG are available in a ‘wide’ version) . I’d expect the Norda to last longer. And look better – I’m not very keen on the speckled colorways of the SG6.
Altra Timp 5 (RTR Review)
Dom: To my mind, the most comparable shoe from Altra is the excellent Timp 5, which is a well-rounded and capable shoe that is protective enough to go any distance. I like the Altra toebox better than the Norda. But the Norda is more stable and has better ground feel.
The norda 001A will debut in four core colorways (White Gum, Core Black, Stealth Black and Cinder) and three seasonal colorways (Pewter, Calcite and Loam) via nordarun.com and a shop-in-shop at Sanglard Sports in Chamonix, France on August 27 before rolling out to global stockists shortly thereafter. It’s priced at $295 USD/$295 CAD.
Salomon Genesis (RTR Review) & S/Lab Genesis (RTR Review)
Dom: Another very popular and widely-lauded shoe, albeit one that I personally found disappointing. In my opinion the 33/25 mm Genesis is lacking in protection under the forefoot, has too much heel-to-toe drop, and is a little on the narrow side. The Norda 001A is more protective up front and has a roomier toebox. I’d probably give the Norda the edge in traction too, though there’s not much in it. The Salomon is lighter at 9.7 vs 11.1 oz (276 vs 314 g) in size US M10 (10.5 for Norda 001A). Like pretty much every other shoe you can think of, the Genesis ($149 for regular, $199 for S/Lab) is significantly cheaper than the Norda.
Index to all RTR reviews: HERE
Tester Profiles
Sam is the Editor and Founder of Road Trail Run. He is in his 60’s with 2025 Sam’s 54th year of running roads and trails. He has a decades old 2:28 marathon PR. These days he runs halves in the just sub 1:43 range if he gets very, very lucky. Sam trains 30-40 miles per week mostly at moderate paces on the roads and trails of New Hampshire and Utah be it on the run, hiking or on nordic skis. He is 5’9” tall and weighs about 160 lbs, if he is not enjoying too many fine New England IPA’s.
Dom 53, trains and competes mainly on trails in Southern California. In 2017 he was 14th at Western States 100 and in 2018 finished 50th at UTMB and 32nd at the 2018 Los Angeles marathon in a time of 2:46. In 2019, his only notable finish was at the multi-day Dragon’s Back race in the UK. In 2022 Dom finished 4th in the Angeles Crest 100 and was 10th in his age group at UTMB. In 2025 Dom won the Ray Miller 50 Mile in California.
Jeff Valliere loves to run and explore the mountains of Colorado, the steeper and more technical the better. He has summited all of the 14ers in the state, many 13ers and other peaks in Colorado and beyond, plus, he has summited his local Green Mountain over 2,100 times in the past 20 years. He can be found on mountain trails daily, no matter the weather, season, conditions or whether there is daylight or not. On the side he loves to ski (all forms) bike and hike, often with his family, as he introduces his twin daughters to the outdoors. Jeff was born and raised in New Hampshire, but has called Colorado home for over 25 years. He is 5’9” and 145 lbs.
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