Since 2020, Norda has built quite a reputation for creating trail shoes that can handle whatever punishment you throw at them. Their secret weapon? Dyneema — a bio-based fiber that’s somehow 15 times stronger than steel while still light enough to float. Now, four years after the groundbreaking 001 put them on the map, Norda is back with the 001A to improve what was already one of the best outdoor sneakers around.
The Midsole Revolution
The most significant change happens where your foot meets the trail. Norda has swapped out their original EVA-based foam for Arnitel TPEE, which is the same material they introduced in their race-focused 005 earlier this year. The new compound delivers 30% more energy return while cutting 10% of the overall weight. For context, that resiliency rate tests at 70.8%, meaning you’re getting back more than 70% of the energy from each footfall.
What separates this from other TPEE compounds is longevity. While most start losing their bounce around 186 miles, Norda’s version is engineered to maintain performance past the 600-mile mark. That’s serious mileage for any trail shoe, let alone one built for technical terrain.
Built Different
The rest of the 001A maintains the formula that made the original a standout. That seamless Dyneema upper remains untouched, because why mess with perfection? The proprietary weave offers abrasion resistance that’s frankly absurd for trail running, while the bio-circular construction keeps things sustainable. Underfoot, you’re still getting Norda’s collaboration with Vibram, featuring both Litebase and Megagrip technologies in an exclusive tread pattern with 5mm lugs.
The geometry stays reasonable too. At 26mm stack height with a 5mm drop, this sits comfortably in daily trainer territory rather than the maximalist trend currently dominating shelves. Norda positions this as their “daily workhorse trainer” compared to the more race-oriented 005, and that positioning feels spot-on.
Spec Sheet
Model: Norda 001A
Upper: Seamless bio-circular Dyneema
Midsole: Arnitel TPEE foam (exclusive compound)
Outsole: Vibram Litebase + Megagrip
Lug Height: 5mm
Stack Height: 26mm heel
Drop: 5mm
Lacing: Bio-circular Dyneema blend
Release Date: August 27
Price: $295
Pricing & Availability
Priced at $295 ($10 more than the original 001), the 001A will drop August 27 from Norda’s website in seven colorways, including White Gum, Core Black, Stealth Black, Cinder, and seasonal variants Pewter, Calcite, and Loam.
Recap
Norda 001A
The Norda 001A upgrades the brand’s flagship trail runner with tech from the recent 005, including a new Arnitel TPEE midsole that delivers 30% more energy return and 10% less weight while maintaining the original’s legendary Dyneema upper durability.
