Customer Reviews Arc'teryx Norvan LD 3 GTX

I've put in many hundreds of kilometers of technical trail running in both these shoes (Norvan LD3 GTX) and the previous model (Norvan 2 GTX), and thought I would post my thoughts on how they compare. First off, I have a wider forefoot, which can be tricky to fit, but both the last used for both this and the previous model work very well with the shape of my foot. Both have stayed comfortable on long runs (20-40km) without significant hot-spots or chafing. The rubber compound and tread pattern used on both has exellent traction, on everything from wet rock, roots, and logs, to hardpacked snow. Especially impressive sticking to the kind of steep granite slabs we get around Squamish (I've even done some low 5th-class crack climbing in them, with reasonable success). Coming to the differences between the models: the new model uses a closed cell foam on the entire tongue, which even though perforated to help it breathe, is MUCH hotter than the open cell foam used on the tongue of the Norvan 2. My feet sweat dramatically more, even in cool conditions. Along with this is a generally more solid and cushioned feel, very noticeably thicker midsole, and higher voume toe box. This can be a double-edged sword: less sensitivity for sure, and a slightly higher tendency for me to snag my toe on roots and rocks (especially when I first switched from the Norvan 2), but also better protection that has probably saved me from some injuries in trips and stumbles. Another big difference seems to be water resistance. The GTX liner of my Norvan 2 shoes was so poor in terms of water getting through that I almost wondered if I got a bunk pair, or they somehow forget the membrane. Even brushing agaist dew covered grass or leaves in otherwise dry conditions would immediately soak through and cause wet feet. In comparison, the water resistance of the new model (Norvan LD 3 GTX) seems excellent - combined with gaiters, I've recently been putting in long runs in slushy snow, and coming away with almost completely dry feet. I'm slightly concerned to see that the latest iteration of these (Dec 2022) seems to be unisex instead of men's-specific sizing. Hopefully the shape of the last hasn't been changed! Once I find a shoe that fits my foot well, I like to keep buying it. As much as marketing dictates that products should be constantly "new and improved", as a customer I would much prefer you stick with proven designs rather than constantly changing, especially for something as critical and hard to match as foot shape.

I bought these shoes a few months ago to use for some trail and road running. I ended up using them for daily walks and even long days at work because they are SO COMFORTABLE! The sole is the perfect amount of support and the GTX has been amazing for wet winter runs.

100 miles in them since April/May. Not a huge fan of the aesthetic - a bit clunky for me. But the clunk is there for good reason. COmpared to other running shoes I've worn, these feel tremendously padded and soft while running. This feeling has also not worn out so far through all of these miles.

As a 76 year old runner I needed a shoe with a roomy toe box - hammer toes and bunions on both feet. These shoes met my criteria. They fit right out of the box. Very light weight, and comfortable. The only reason I gave them a 4 was that the heel is a bit wide. I'm used to running in Ghosts which has a narrow heel and a wide toe box. But it's not a real big issue. I'll be hiking with the Norvans. Overall a great shoe.

I ordered these online in 8, I fit an 8 but the 8 size is a bit too big, but 7.5 wouldve been too small, but didnt have 7.5 in-store or online anymore, so I'm pretty much stuck with these now since I tried to run in them. Does anyone have insole recommendations?

I've had these for a year or so, and have enjoyed running in them after what felt like a brief break in period. I previously wore altras as they fit my wide feet well, but I've been happy with how the toebox on the Norvan opens up allowing my toes to splay out more. The soles are really firm and supportive, much more so than my previous running shoes, which has been helpful on longer runs. You'd have to apply some serious force to fold these in half. They're also surprisingly light given their size. Another aspect I've been pleased with is their performance on down hills. They seem to absorb a lot of the shock associated with going downhill fast, which is been great for my knees. I was skeptical about how well the Gore-Tex would perform regarding breathability, but they've done a great job dumping moisture from within whether from sweating or outside moisture (puddles, streams, etc.). They also dry out pretty quickly after getting moisture inside whereas other shoes, I've had tend to stay wet longer. Unsurprisingly the Gore-Tex has done its job of keeping moisture out, which has been a huge plus this winter in Northern California (lots of rain). The only consideration I'll add, which is more of a personal comfort thing, is that the shoes feel somewhat high profile or larger than I expected. Not necessarily the fit, but the shoe overall. Most shoes nowadays seem to have adopted the higher platform, which I'm not super used to, but after a couple runs on trail they start to feel pretty natural and comfortable. For what it's worth, I'm not saying it's just the shoes, but my pace has improved since wearing these. Maybe I'm in better shape, maybe the wind has been at my back, maybe it's placebo. Take it as you will. Overall, I really enjoy the shoes and will continue using them as my go to trail running runner.

I just wore these shoes and they are so comfortable! We hiked Eagle Bluffs and there was a ton of snow. Definitely not the right shoe to wear for the occasion but they held up perfectly and the grip helped so much. I'm looking forward to wearing these again on the right trail!

I used these shoes by first time to run 20km in the Scottish hills today and they kept my feet dry and comfortable. I already have a pair of running shoes from Arc'teryx that are in perfect condition after over a year, even when I put them in the washing machine sometimes. I've tried many brands and Arc'teryx is the one that works for me so far.

I already write a 5-star review for the shoe but now I'm writing for Arcteryx to add a pull loop on many of the shoes it makes. I like your footwear and own 4 pairs currently, two pairs of hiking boots, and two pairs of walking/running shoes. All of them are missing pull loops. My other boots, even my Nike Free Run 5, have pull loops. So I sew pull loops on this pair myself (see picture). Because it's an aftermarket attempt, the loop's position is not ideal. I strongly urge the designers to add this very convenient feature. It's a small thing that will improve your already pretty good products.

I've been wearing these for a month now and have very happy feet. The toebox is great for wider feet that splay, they are supportive and responsive, great traction and the goretex means they handle well in the mud and muck of the PNW. Will buy again.

Im very happy with the shoes, I had a simialr pair before and are really comfy. This ones I like the colors, very trendy

The shoes are so light that I was surprised, when taking them out of the box. Each shoe, size 7W, is about 50g less than a very similar older model Arcteryx GTX shoe. The toe box is roomier than my older model and more comfortable. We just had the first snow so I get to test them on snow and ice. They feel equally secure to my older Arcteryx pairs (generally very good for winter conditions), if not better. The arch support could be higher for me but it's not a problem, for I keep the inner soles of my older shoes to replace the inserts I don't like.

They feel very confortable, are resistant and have a good grip. The only down side is the laces untie easily.

This is my 3rd pair of Norvan running shoes. But my 1st GTX version. My 2 original pairs were Norvan LD's and while both have over 500 miles on them, they are still going strong in the training gym. This new LD3 GTX pair replaces them for the track and trail. The LD3 have lighter but more cushion in the soles so I hope these do not breakdown earlier - time will tell. The LD's were perfect - so not sure why the need for change. Norvan LD's are near perfect for short to middle distances. The LD 3's have more cushion and still good stability and rigidity in the sole. These will handle uneven surfaces as well as the track. Purchased when on sale so more reasonable.

Look good, feel good, and build good. Well done. I'm thinking these may be my new favorite runners. Amazing support and cushion. Wide and equipped with a decent arch support. Can't see how these could be improved.

I just got home from my third walk with these guys and I'm pretty impressed. I do agree with others that the laces have a bad habit of coming undone even when double tied. I am feeling a bit of a pinch on the outside of the left shoe, not sure why, I hope that disappears soon. The cushioning is great, the toe box is spacious and adapts to my orthotics well. I have had compliments on the shoes already both on the style and the two tone black/bright baby blue. I wasn't sure I would like the bold colour combination but I do. I am a big Arc'teryx clothing fan, these are my first pair of shoes and I may order the non Gortex ones for spring/summer.

I love this shoe so much, I bought 2 pairs. One for cutting the grass and the other for everything else. I live in WI and wear this shoe year round. I love the GTX option as I am always getting wet and my feet stay dry in these.

I bought these shoes a little under a year ago. They have quickly become my favorite trail running shoe. Gore-Tex was a must for me due to the swampy area where I run. They are so comfortable, lightweight, and the quality is amazing. They are so easy to clean so they look almost brand new after a year of wear.

These are my favourite trail shoes to date. Super light and supportive yet waterproof and dry quickly.