Recovery slides have become part of the daily wear of serious runners everywhere, but most options on the market feel like glorified flip-flops. The preponderance of lackluster designs almost begged Norda — the Montreal-based brand that turned heads a few years back with the first trail shoe made entirely from Dyneema fiber — to come out with its own. The result is the 008, and it might just be the best slide around.
Beyond the Fibonacci Sequence
Following Norda’s love of the Fibonacci sequence (where each number represents the sum of the previous two), the 008 follows the 005 trail runners that debuted back in March.
But the brand’s attention to detail extends beyond nomenclature. Since launching in 2020, founders Nick and Willa Martire have approached footwear like scientists more than just footwear designers. Their breakout 001 model introduced Dyneema to trail running. The UHMWPE fiber is so advanced it’s used in bulletproof vests and yacht rigging. And while the 008 marks their first departure from this signature material, the technical thinking remains the same.
Engineered Comfort Without Compromise
Where most recovery slides prioritize cushioning over everything else, the 008 aims to strike the balance between softness and structural integrity. Underfoot, the dual-density foam construction provides immediate relief while maintaining enough stability so your tired muscles don’t have to overcompensate on a surface that’s too soft.
Instead of simply building on an existing sole, Norda developed a bespoke Vibram Ecostep EVO plate specifically for the 008. Made of recycled rubber compound, the outsole promises better traction and stability than most slides you’ll find out there.
Showing Intentional Restraint
Available in four monochromatic colorways (Sage, Oud, Hinoki, and Névé), the 008 simply looks better than the competition too. The minimalism extends to the branding, with only an embossed logo on the forefoot.
Featuring elevated arch contouring, the foam footbed features a topographic pattern that serves the dual purpose of lightly massaging your feet and channeling sweat away from them. It’s inspired by the Canadian Shield, a massive pre-Cambrian rock formation in northern Canada, falling in line with Norda’s geological design language, fusing form and function in their own way.
Spec Sheet
Model: Norda 008 Recovery Slide
Construction: Dual-density foam footbed with elevated arch contouring
Outsole: Custom Vibram Ecostep EVO plate (recycled rubber compounds)
Strap: Foam
Footbed Pattern: Canadian Shield-inspired topography for massage and moisture management
Colorways: Hinoki, Oud, Sage, Névé
Price: $145
Pricing & Availability
Priced at $145, the 008 slide launches June 12 exclusively through nordarun.com. The four launch colorways will be available from day one, with the brand’s typical limited production approach likely meaning these won’t sit around long.
Recap
Norda 008 Recovery Slide
Canadian footwear favorite Norda debuts its first-ever recovery slides, noting a departure from its signature Dyneema construction but for good reason. These stylish sandals also happen to buck tradition by not only focusing on the cushioning but stability as well.
