Arc'teryx Norvan LD 3 review

Who should buy the Arc’teryx Norvan LD 3

Additionally, one expert recommends the LD 3 as a gateway trail shoe for f:

• Need a If wearing longer socks to protect your ankles isnt your thing, the that will keep you comfortable over long distances.
• Are looking for a cushioned trail shoe that has excellent shock absorption.
• Want a running shoe that performs well on both slippery trails and hard roads.

Additionally, one expert recommends the LD 3 as a gateway trail shoe for fans of the ASICS Gel Cumulus or Brooks Ghost.

Who should not buy it

If you like feeling more connected to the terrain as you’re running, the Saucony Peregrine 12 has a firmer midsole that doesn’t totally block out ground feel while remaining protective underfoot.

If wearing longer socks to protect your ankles isn’t your thing, the Hoka Speedgoat 5’s padded and flexible heel won’t cause you any problems.

Hoka Speedgoat 5

With stack heights of 29mm heel, 23mm forefoot, the Arc’teryx Norvan LD 3 really does look and feel like the cushioned trail shoe it is. Experts felt that its hefty cushioning—which they say rivals some road-running shoes—allowed it to take the brunt of impacts and spared their joints.

Lugs that can log trail AND road miles

Reviewers reported that the Norvan LD 3’s Vibram MegaGrip outsole was “incredibly reliable on both dry and wet surfaces,” even “in thick mud and down slippery slopes.” They also added that while the 4-mm lugs were “so sharp that they would sometimes slice leaves on the ground,” they weren’t too hard and too taxing to use on pavement.

Comfy, but can rub you the wrong way

Testers loved the comfort, protection, and support incorporated in the LD 3’s upper. Given its copious amount of padding, they noticed that the material used still had decent breathability.

Though some runners appreciated the added support the heel collar provided, others thought it was too high and were annoyed at how it kept rubbing their ankles during runs.

Can keep your feet dry or really wet

While the LD 3 isn’t waterproof, one expert noted that the TPU wrapping around the shoe gave it some level of water resistance. Consequently, it also prevented any moisture from “draining out of the mesh.”

A bit water-resistant

Users said that the Norvan LD 3 fits true-to-size. Its roomy fit is “great for runners with a larger volume foot,” and the slightly wide-ish toe box can accommodate splaying and swelling.

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it

Users loved the shoe’s tried-and-true laces and lacing system which, in the words of one expert, is now “shocking for a trail runner.” Coupled with a lace garage and a well-padded, gusseted tongue, they felt that the LD 3 offered a snug, secure, “cocoon-like” lockdown.

It’s not for everyone

Running experts said that the Norvan LD 3’s thick cushioning and noticeable 6-mm drop make it a bit restrictive to forefoot strikers and those who prefer to feel the terrain more. 

On the other hand, those looking for this kind of ground protection and comfort are surprised at how light, springy, and agile the shoe can get. One runner who took it on a 35-km run noted that it was able to “pick up the pace nicely” and feel “great the whole way.”

Won’t bog down your tired legs

Thanks to its heavy cushioning, light weight, and versatile outsole, runners have enjoyed using the Norvan LD 3 for long runs on roads and trails. Some experts also believe that it is an ideal shoe “for hikers and those new to, or apprehensive about, trail running.”