The Definitive Anti-Hoka Trail Runner Is Now More Versatile than Ever

Norda evolves one of our favorite shoes from last year.

Close-up of a beige and black sneaker with woven fabric and "norda" branding on the side.

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Norda’s highly-anticipated 005 trail runner was markedly one of the biggest performance footwear releases of 2025 (and even nabbed a spot on our annual GP100 last year).

Our editor Jack Seemer has dubbed it the “definitive anti-Hoka” shoe, and he couldn’t be more right. With just a 28.5mm heel stack, it aggressively rejects the max-cushion, highly-rockered and carbon-plated trends that Hoka popularized in favor of a ground-connected feel and minimalist aesthetic.

Beige and black athletic shoe with mesh fabric and thick sole, labeled "norda" on the side. — Norda took the hit 005 from last year and made some small changes to increase its range as a trail runner.

But with its latest evolution of the 005, Norda proves it can still stand apart from the pack without being quite as disruptive.

Higher ground

The reality is, max stack runners aren’t merely for show but serve to take you farther on your feet. While some don’t love the absence of ground feel, especially on the trail, others have appreciated the added shock absorption, especially on longer, slower runs through the woods.

Beige and black Norda running shoes with thick soles and mesh fabric uppers. — The heel stack boosts to 36mm while the overall weight increases by 2.6 ounces.

Pair of beige and black sneakers with mesh uppers and black laces viewed from above. — The increased cushioning underfoot gives runners more protection underfoot while helping them stay on their feet longer outdoors.

With Norda’s 055, the brand takes what fans absolutely loved about the 005 and tweaks some things. For starters, the heel stack is increased to 36mm, also bumping weight up to 10.1 ounces (from 7.5 ounces) in a US men’s size 8.5.

Most noticeably, the new silhouette provides you with extra coverage at the ankle, thanks to a seamless one-piece knit collar. This serves to keep out dirt and debris while also locking-in your foot. According to Norda, there are “no hot spots or weak points.”

Close-up of a sneaker with black knit collar, beige and white mesh side panel, and black laces. — Another huge addition is the new seamless knit collar, which helps keep out debris and dirt.

Small adjustments have been made elsewhere, such as the slightly deeper lug height, from 4mm to 5mm. Likewise, the heel drop is steeper here, from 6mm to 7mm.

So the 055 doesn’t replace the 005 but simply provides another option.

Pair of beige and black athletic shoes shown from the back with textured beige soles and black heel tabs. — Returning here is the 100% Arnitel midsole, a premium cushioning known for its durability, support and energy return.

Playing the hits

Fortunately, the 055 doesn’t change too much. Its calling card is still the 100% Arnitel midsole. This is an ultra-premium thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPEE) material known for its incredible durability, support and energy return.

A Vibram Megagrip Elite outsole provides traction on any terrain.

Norda

The midsole sits atop a custom Vibram outsole, pairing the brand’s Litebase tech with its Megagrip Elite rubber for all-terrain traction.

Close-up of beige and white woven fabric with a textured pattern and a smooth beige border. — Of course, Dyneema makes an appearance here as well. Norda wraps the upper in the lightweight yet durable material.

Close-up of black braided shoelaces threaded through black eyelets on a beige and black sneaker with "norda" branding. — Dyneema is also used for the laces.

One reason why fans get so passionate about Norda is the brand’s use of Dyneema. Known as the world’s strongest fiber, the lightweight synthetic wraps the upper here as well. It’s an open-mesh recycled version of the fabric that’s both waterproof and breathable. The laces are also made of Bio-Dyneema to make them resistant to abrasions.

Pair of beige and black trail running shoes with textured soles on sandy ground. — The 055 won’t replace the 005, but simply gives you another option.

Availability and pricing

Debuting in a stunning Strato colorway, the 055 is available now from Norda’s website. These are premium trail runners, which is reflected in the $325 price tag.

Beige and black athletic shoe with thick sole and knit ankle collar, featuring "norda" branding on side and sole.

Norda 055

$325 at Norda

About the Author: Ethan Brehm is an associate editor at Gear Patrol writing about footwear, watches, spirits, EDC and more. When he’s not shopping for his next G-Shock, he spends his time watching movies and planning a future road trip with his family. He firmly believes CDs sound better than vinyl.

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