Preview: Norvan VT2 by Arc’Teryx
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Norvan VT2 by Arc’teryx
Weight: 11.25 ounces
Drop: 25mm to 17mm= 8mm drop
Price: $160.00
Best Features: Great all around running shoe
Room for Improvement: Price point
Release: Fall of 2019
The Arc’teryx Norvan VT2 is an updated version of the original Norvan VT released in 2017. The shoe is described as a high performance trail running shoe with scrambling and climbing capabilities. This is a pretty solid assessment as the shoe is a bit heavier than traditional trail running and racing shoes.
The Norvan VT2 can scramble well and be functional in some easy climbing, making it versatile in a number of disciplines.
There are quite a few new updates to the original, one of which is the lacing system. Arc’teryx went with a traditional lacing design that worked well for me. The laces are long enough and guided themselves easily through the lacing harness. I was able to get the shoe snug and apply an even amount of pressure throughout the upper. The elastic gusseted tongue keeps rocks and debris out and helps to keep the tongue in place while in movement.
The upper provides breathability through the mesh sidewalls and toe and the toe box fit is moderate, neither narrow or wide.
The rubber toe is reminiscent of an “approach” climbing shoe, the reason for the versatility explained above. There is a rock plate in the forefoot that’s adequate and allows for comfortable off-trail navigation. The Vibram Megagrip rubber compound outsole is durable and tacky and the lugs are not overly aggressive and worked well in a variety of conditions and surfaces.
I tested these shoes on wet and dry pavement, dirt roads and wet single track and found them to be responsive. With an Ortholite 4mm insole for a comfortable feel, the Arc’teryx Norvan VT2 is a welcome improvement. This model update is set to release in Fall of 2019.
—Brian Passenti is the owner of Altitude Endurance Coaching, a running and multisport coaching service. A self proclaimed pizza connoisseur, Brian eats most of his pizza in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.