Customer Reviews Arc'teryx Norvan SL 3 W

I used for the first time this weekend and it is the best.

Used the 2L model of this shoe for years as my go to travel hiking shoe, but its lifespan was only about 3 years with normal use due to one design flaw: the back has padding on either side of the heal but not the true back of the heal. As others have mentioned this is a not an easy shoe to get on and off and so the back portion gradually puckered due to the manipulation it takes to get the shoe on and off. Because there is no padding at this section the thin lining wears away over time and exposes the cracked hard structural components directly to your heal. Still gave full stars because you don't expect shoes to last a lifetime and if you're the type of person that doesn't mind taking the time to fully sit down, loosen laces, slide shoe onto you foot w/o compromising the heal it is a great option.

Excellent foot wear, bought them for my son for Christmas very light to wear excellent would highly recommended thank you.

Bought these when they came out and have been thrilled with the combination of lightweight and durability. I have taken these on many summer hikes and these can live up to some tough terrain. Trail running is what I would recommend these for as they are built for speed and breathability in the backwoods. Definitely not built for the rain, but can handle wet ground and small puddles.

I absolutely love the Norvan SL 3. They are grippy, great ankle support, provide stability & I appreciate the lace cover to keep them from coming undone. These fit true to size, if not big - I would not recommend going up 1/2 a size to accommodate for higher mileage, swelling, etc. If anything, the possibility is to go down 1/2 a size. I also recommend the lace lock to keep out debris or wearing a gaitor.

It is a lightweight, flexible, grippy running shoe. I can feel the ground without sacrificing comfort, and my foot is able to bend naturally. The grip is good on rocky trails, and I have even used them as an approach shoe in fourth class terrain. Shoes like these are hard to find with the maximalist Hoka-inspired trends, so please keep making them! Using flexible shoes like these helps me run with good form and keeps me injury free. I like the stretchy tongue compared to the SL 2 model they go on much easier. HOWEVER I do not like the built in gaiter. It rubs my ankle bones and gives me blisters. Please keep these minimalist shoes simple!!