Norda 005

Lightest trail racer on the market

Buy now for $325
The Norda 005 is the lightest trail racing shoe on the market and a true premium product. At $325 MSRP, it’s priced above competitors like the Hoka Tecton X 3 ($275) and Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide ($250), but the premium materials immediately justify the cost, including a Dyneema upper, TPEE midsole, and Vibram Megagrip Elite outsole. On foot, it feels incredibly light, low to the ground, and peppy—noticeably lighter and faster than most trail shoes, including the original Norda 001. The fit is exceptional, with a perfectly dialed lockdown, excellent laces, and an upper that cinches smoothly without bunching; we recommend going up a half size. The ride is energetic and bouncy without being max-cushioned, delivering great stability and confidence in footstrike on technical terrain. Grip is outstanding, especially in snow and icy conditions, making this a standout option for fast trail running. It’s not built for roads, but as a pure trail racer, the Norda 005 is a lighter, faster, and softer evolution of the 001—and firmly in contention for best trail shoe of all time.
Category
Race Day
Release Date
March 2025
Plated?
No
Type of Plate
None
Foam
Arnitel
Foam Compound
TPEE
Ride
Soft, Responsive, Smooth
Heel Stack (mm)
38.0
Forefoot Stack (mm)
31.0
Drop (mm)
7
Weight (mens size 9)
8.0
Support
Mild Stability
Fit
Snug

Alternatives

Here are some other options to consider. To find the best shoe for you, take the quiz linked below for personalized matches

Trail Running

Hoka Tecton X3

Plated trail racing shoe designed for speed and comfort over long miles
Hoka Tecton X3
Price
$275
Plated?
Yes
Foam
PEBA
Weight (oz)
9.7
Drop (mm)
5
Support
Neutral
BUYdetails

Trail Running

Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed

Speed training shoe designed for the trails
Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed
Price
$160
Plated?
No
Foam
EVA, Supercritical TPEE
Weight (oz)
8.5
Drop (mm)
8
Support
Neutral
BUYdetails

Trail Running

Speedland GS:TAM

Super trail racer with dual-density max stack of bouncy foam
Speedland GS:TAM
Price
$275
Plated?
Yes
Foam
PEBA, PEBA Blend
Weight (oz)
10.7
Drop (mm)
7
Support
Neutral
BUYdetails

Get your personalized shoe matches

Answer a few questions to get matched with the best shoe for you
GET MATCHED

Latest Articles