Arc’teryx Trail Running by Ape to Gentleman

Photography by Ape to Gentleman

With the popularity of trail running seemingly on the increase, our favourite extreme outerwear brand Arc’teryx have entered the market with a shoe that delivers ‘expected’ levels of climbing and scrambling performance. Designed for high durability on steep, technical landscapes the Norvan VT and Norvan VT GTX shoe are built for alpinists and climbers who use trail running to increase their fitness, and dedicated trail runners looking for new extremes.

Ape to Gentleman were asked by Arc’teryx to put the Norvan VT GTX to the test, so we enlisted the help of professional fell runner Kieran Allanson and the Peak District hills in deepest Derbyshire.

Firstly, Arc’teryx offer two pairs of trail running shoe; the Norvan VT and the Norvan VT GTX – the latter, with waterproof GORE-TEX. And both, as you’d expect, are loaded with the latest in shoe technology, designed specifically for trail running.

Key elements include an adjustable 360° support system which switches from a higher volume run mode to a precise-fitting climb mode. Their is also Fixed Adaptive Fit Technology which wraps the foot and seals out debris. Admittedly, it’s not easy to get your foot in to begin with but this close-fit is exactly what is required for trail running. Beneath, you’ll find a custom Vibram® sole which combines a sticky Idrogrip forefoot for traction on slickrock and wet trails and a Megagrip compound for durability.

To wear, the Norvan VT GTX (in Maple/Black) are light thanks to a durable air-permeable stretch mesh, comfortable and above all else- they feel secure, supportive and trusty underfoot. Ideal for ploughing through the rugged Derbyshire terrain. We paired them with black Arc’teryx Aptin Shorts and switched between a black Norvan Jacket and a Norvan SL Hoody– a winning combination, and a winning entry to the trail running market by Arc’teryx with the Norvan VT GTX shoe.

Norvan VT GTX, £150 at ARCTERYX