What are your thoughts on Kilian's favorite shoe, the Kjerag from Nnormal? I also have a Trail Tested episode and full review of the Tomir from Nnormal coming soon!
Hey there. What is your weight actually? Sorry for the intrusive question but with my 85-87kg I often have the impression some of the reviews from very light runners are not so valid for me.
Hello, does it now come with an insole? I saw another video where it said it didn’t. Maybe they changed that. Also, Allie O is one of the sponsored athletes, so it made me interested in this shoe.
I have tried and unfortunately it didn’t suit my wider feet. I felt it was very narrow in both the mid foot and the forefoot. It was a shame as I really like the concepts of the shoe and I wanted it to work for me. Shame..
Agree. Any show designed for ELITE runners really has no purpose for mid pack runners. We are typically not tiny light humans. The production thoughtfulness is really cool though.
@@OneTouch1980 I would say some shoes are designed for light runners like Kilian and some for heavier ones and I would say kjerag is typical Kilian shoe as sense series was, but Tomir on other hand is perfect for bigger persons in my opinion.
This is a great show indeed. I’m already close to 400km with it in a short span and feel excited to use it each time. Great stability on technical trails, lightweight, enough bounce and it looks to be durable. 400km in and not a single wear / tear issue.
I ran a technical trail marathon with these strait out of the box and had zero issues. Not a hotspot, niggle, or rub. As far as fit. I cannot do Salomon shoes..too narrow. These are surprisingly accommodating in the toe box while still maintaining great lock down. You might like the Tomir better Ethan.
Interesting that you found the toe-box narrow, I agree the shoe is snug around the mid-foot and putting it on seems to the most uncomfortable part of the shoe for me, but at least for me the toe-box was surprisingly roomy. So far I have yet to fit my toes into any of the Salomon or Hoka shoes, so having these fit perfect was a nice surprise.
I definitely found them wider than Salomon's. It seemed like a fit that works a bit better for runners with a less pointed toe shape. They're not a very wide shoe but I didn't find them as uncomfortable as say a regular size Speedcross.
Loving the review. Definetly on my radar. So much so i bought the Tomir. Got about 50 miles in them so far and totally loving the ride fit and experience. Awsome grip and comfortable. At first thought the lock down was strange but after a couple of runs I proved not to be an issue. Keep up the good work Sir 👍
Very interested now and love their mission. Going to at least try them on. I'm a Samwise kind of guy, so Legolas's kicks might not work out. 😂 Really loving the new sound queues and transitions in this year's reviews.
Love there mission statement and that contract they gave you!.. I am a brooks ambassador and so get gifted a lot of shoes.. (so grateful that they support me).. and that is the contact I made for myself too.. I ensure I use the shoes to the max and then recycle or gift to someone if they can make use of them. So cool to see this brand and it's mission statement in the running space 💚 definitely it needs to be the new normal for all brands
One of the best new shoes in years, surpassed only by the Naked T/r for technical Mountain terrain here in the Colorado Rockies. Highly recommend. As for the Tomir: used for the last 75 miles of a 200-mile race. Work well with the Inov-8 Boomerang insoles (otherwise a tad harsh) for long slower miles when your feet are really swollen.
How does the VJ Ultra fare against those shoes? (Kjerag, T/r, Tomir) Someone said with Boomerang insoles, the VJ Ultra is wonderful and has incredible grip. Seems like I should just pick up a few pairs those insoles regardless!
@@MadLadsAnonymous I have only run in the VJ Ultra version 1. The lockdown on the VJ is better in my estimation, plus the Kjerag lacks an eyelet for a runner’s knot (weird to me). But the Kjerag has a more comfortable upper and, amazingly, as comfortable underfoot despite being lighter and more agile. Remarkable as it has no insole! Grip is also about the same. VJ runs 1/2 size small whereas Kjerag is true to size.
@@MadLadsAnonymous I have only run in the VJ Ultra version 1. The lockdown on the VJ is better in my estimation, plus the Kjerag lacks an eyelet for a runner’s knot (weird to me). But the Kjerag has a more comfortable upper and, amazingly, as comfortable underfoot despite being lighter and more agile. Remarkable as it has no insole! Grip is also about the same. VJ runs 1/2 size small whereas Kjerag is true to size.
Hi from Asturias, Spain, very rocky region and quite a paradise for trail running. Here the Tomir is a best seller, in the last race i saw tons of people wearing them. That model Is killing other best seller like speedgoat or mafate or cascadia. So waiting for your review!
I really like my pair of Kjerag’s. But I’m also used to running in Salomon shoes. The grip is so good in the NNormal shoes. And I actually went a half size down compared to my Salomon size.
Thanks for the review of the Kjerag and giving us the proper pronunciation. Looking forward to the Tomir review as I've had them since last October and have really mixed feelings about them.
Maybe try the nnomal Tomir, got mine 5 weeks ago, they feel just great! Roomy toebox, top foot lockdown, nicely cushioned but still great groundfeel, top grip even in muddy conditions, just love that shoe 🤩 perfect for 🇨🇭conditions 👌
I was ready to pre-order these until the price was released, then decided I'd hold back for some reviews. Still on the fence but leaning towards giving them a shot. And I nnormally don't care about elite/celebrity endorsements, but I was happy to see them sign Allie Ostrander. Good choice both ways.
Love what the company stands for around sustainability and transparent supply chains, looks great, and I'm actually fine with the price point if the build quality is there. My issue (and same with Solomon) is the width, with wide feet these just wouldn't work. I'll stick with Altras, but if they ever come out with a wide toe box option I would give this brand a try. Great review as always GR.
As a light weight mountain runner, this Kjerag shoe is perfectly fine and the firm foam play its role in my playground. Nonetheless it is very demanding on muscular level for the feet and calves: maybe not for beginners.
Bought it for 180 in french boutique ... wich is the typical slab price. Feel awesome in terms of fit with a toebox that is roomy % salomon slab. Basically this shoes is a rectification of slab, the grip is great, the midsole is protective and stable, the upper is super durable... And still 200g with great sensations ! Best shoe ever for me ! Because il love this kind of shoes and the ethos of NNORMAL. For people not interested in very technical, ultralight the Tomir is much more logic as it is wider and softer. They suit everybody with only a few shoes, another testament to the ecologic comitment !❤
This is my new favorite trail shoe for (ultra) trail races. For fun sessions on technical terrain, I like the HOKA speedgoat, even though it’s almost too comfortable to be fun. Also I often get dirt or little stones in the shoe with the speedgoats. With Kjerag, that’s not an issue at all. In a training, taking off the shoes now and then is not a problem and I welcome the few minutes of rest, but for races, I will probably always go for the Kjerags. Considering the extreme durability of the shoe, I expect the price to be no issue. In the long run,it’s more expensive to replace a shoe every few years. I thrashed two pairs of Salomon SLab Ultra’s in 5 years. And those were not cheap either.
I received mine last week and have done two short runs in them, and I love how they feel. I miss some of the bells and whistles, like quick lace and a sock-like collar, but I also really love the eco-consciousness and long lastingness of Nnormal. It’s important to me. These are gonna be my training shoe for a long while, I think. Granted, I’m still newish to trail and working up to my first ultra. But I’ve tried so many shoes out there and having a narrow foot, I’m so psyched about these.
Thanks for reviewing this shoe, it deserves it. I own a pair. It's not made of simple materials, full cover Vibram megagrip outsole (go home Hoka..) & Kevlar woven into the upper, that's next level. It maybe has a simple (Scandinavian?) styling. Killian tested a pair for a 1000km (I think he said Km not Mls..)& it held out, I don't know of any running shoe that can do that, especially at this weight. It's true you need strong feet for this shoe.
Great shoe, snug comfortable fit, feels very secure and stable, the ground feel is superb, and I love the responsive feel and feedback. As a forefoot/midfoot foot striker being quite firm on landing I found after around 10 miles especially after a long 3 mile decent the sole and foam is quite firm and my legs started to feel they were taking a bit of a pounding. The maximum distance I have run in them to date is Half Marathon distance 21 k on a variety of terrain. Overall I’m really impressed, they are also very stylish….👍👍 Definitely go down Half Size or more I’m usually a 9uk I went down to an 8uk and the sizing is perfect for me…
Nnormal in a way kinda reminds me of tracksmith. Tracksmith they ain't cheap about anything price wise, however their apparel for fit, feel, function and durability for what it is for what I have, is the best I've ever worn. Back to this shoe, i've been eyeing it for months as my "mountain running shoe" I'd like to see a US base of operations before getting a shoe that may not fit me they way I thought, I've seen so many say returns from the US back to Spain is an absolute nightmare and as expensive as the shoe it's self almost.
Thanks, that was a really helpful review. Interesting that you are comparing it with the Brooks Catamount 2, because during the review I thought that the Catamount 2 looks a bit similar. Looking forward to that review as well!
I tossed some insoles from some Pulsar’s in and they make this shoe perfect. I have narrow feet and I was glad to see a brand catering to my foot shape. Love them.
Disagree on midsole being a negative. It’s a major plus for me. Despite only having 23mm at the heel, it never feels bottoming out, unlike other shoes with bigger stack. It’s actually quite remarkable how cushion it offers. I ran 2 50Ks in them, including one today with 3000m of elevation in super rocky terrain. And feet don’t feel overly beaten. Agree with rest, outsole is crazy grippy and the upper is simple. That’s a one shoe quiver. Can any type of run in them. I’m super they’ll do a great job for road speed session too 😅
Agreed with the review with the exception of the toe box. I asked Nnormal direct when mine arrived and the toe box is a half size larger to accommodate foot swell - this is also why the rest of the shoe has to fit snug. Ran a 35mi/60km race across gravel tracks and granite cliffs in them. The review is accurate they gripped they didn’t rub but they aren’t pillows.
Correct, fit is precise, toe box has space, more than most Salomons...toe box maybe Lacks a bit of space vertical, if insole needs to be added to add cushion. For me this worked ( half US size down) when trying, but in the end I sent the shoe back as it's too minimal for me
After trying them I actually think it's a wider and more forgiving version of the S/LAB Pulsar SG. I still think the S/LAB Pulsar SG is a faster shoe but at the end of the day they are both short/mid distance shoes of us mortals.
Very surprised by the shoe. For how low the stack height is you get a amazing foam that’s able to take the punishing down hills extremely well just size down as I had to go down a full size for them to fit well. Ran two separate runs back to back, totaling 10 miles and my legs don’t feel beat up.
I liked that you hinted at price per mile concept. Surely 200usd is not expensive if you only replace the shoe half as often as e.g. salomon shoes. That should be understood as a 50% cheaper shoe. Still an outlay of money at the time of purchase, but one has a full year to save up for it. So I'm not sure whether the price at the point of purchase is the right indicator of "expense". I would much prefer it normalized by the lifetime of the shoe, e.g. price per mile, as you mentioned.
I would definitely try them if you are going to donate them 😆😆. I would train in them till they are definitely done. I’m intrigued by this brand, even though you just told us that we are not going to be exactly like Kilian 🙁😔🤣😂. Great review as always 👍🏼
I have these, and I keep trying them because the performance is so good but they just don't really fit my foot right. they are incredible. I can run roads and trails easily and I like a minimal shoe and this ticks a lot of the boxes.. however.. the midfoot is to narrow for me. it feels like the base arch and ball of foot rides over the last. But, the heel lock down is off the charts good - going uphill the shoe is the best i've ever used. They are not for a mellow trail run tho because they are its down right tight. I have yet to find a minimal but rugged trail shoe that fits my foot. La sportiva karacal is close but has massive limitations and doesn't lock the heel down like Kjerag. If Kjerag had a wider US last it would be my shoe for everything. altra lone peaks are to tippy and not enough structure in the heel. I actually am using the superiors more than LPs. really hoping that Jackal II BOA works for my foot...
I like ginger runner, but I have to disagree here ( reminds me on Seth DeMoor saying he couldn’t run in the SLab Ultra 3 more than 20k … ). And I think its unfair always to say only Kilian can run in this shoe. So my review ( I have it since November, living in Austria ): For me is this the perfect shoe up to 30k, I dont really need any other anymore. It is comfortable enough, but still fast, its bouncy in a very nice and subtle way, and the grip is perfect, and its dourable ( and repairable ). For me, even to this pricepoint, a definitie buy ( and I normally dont pay that much for shoes ).
My road running days peaked in the 80s, my trail running days in the 2010s and in between their was little to no progress in durability. I could easily push my Asic Excalibir GTs to 700 to 1000 miles by putting duct tape or shoe gue on my main wear points in the early miles. Now a days, you are lucky to make 500 and in some cases I had to limit my break in mileage so they wouldn't wear out before racing a 50k. So to call a running shoe "sustainable" you would need to make it last much longer than 1000 miles. There is one shoe maker that guarantees this but I don't see a 2000 or more guarantee. Sustainable is just another word used by advertisers to con people into paying more. Here is a thought to chew on, most Americans have three waste management bins to the street each week with a combined volume of 296 gallons or about 15,000 gallons of waste. If you run 2000 miles a year you would toss out 4 pairs of shoes per year which would reduce your waste stream by something under 1%. Personally, I wear my retired running shoes as casual shoes and then use them for dirty work like painting and lawn work and I run them down until the outsole is worn down to the midsole. Again, consider whether sustainable is a boutique, advertising gimmick to jack prices or does it really reduce the waste stream.
It was on my radar until I found out the price. Trail shoes are getting so expensive now, that most of the time I wait for a new model to come out, then buy last year's at a big discount.
Have tried these in the UK for about 2 months now. Definitely don't use these in slippery mud they don't have enough lug depth. I would say the toebox is wider than expected. That being said since this is a low profile shoe I only use it for 1. Speedwork 2. Races where maybe you want to feel fast. I am curious about the longevity of the shoes as well. I have heard these can last 500-800 miles which is longer than your typical trainer but we will see.
Regarding longevity, the other Nnormal shoe, the Tomir lasted… 21 km for me. The midsole have detached from the last because of cut stitching. I have seen other people with the same problem. I hope I was unfortunate to pick a problematic batch. A pity because they look like very nice all-rounder yet technical trail shoes.
My issue recently is when we say an outsole is firm, would it have actually felt firm 5 years ago before the giant marshmallows became the new average of comparison, or would it have been called plush then? I’m so confused on what a firm shoe is anymore. Anyway, for 200 bucks I’m out.
I get all the focus on the Kjerag, but I am far for interested in the Tomir. The Tomir should be a shoe better suited to the masses, with the same sustainable philosophy behind it.
Tried the Tomir. Very Normal shoe for me. Stiff upper, stiff ride. For the money just not worth it. I would size down for sure if you pull the trigger.
@@RodRanDusted Actually ordered it myself and ran a 30k trail race with it straight out of the box. The shoe doesn't feel stiff to me, although I don't like deeply cushioned shoes personally. It certainly isn't a shoe that shines in a particular field. It's very much a shoe that can do it all but is master of none. The exception might be the grip, the shoe is really very grippy. The sizing is iffy, agreed there. My regular shoe size worked... but only just. It's on the verge of requiring sizing down half a size. Anyhow, ran a 30k race straight out of the box. No complaints. Ran through hilly terrain with a lot of water (including a stream crossing) and deep mud (halfway up the calf). The shoe drains well, clears mud well, and was just an enjoyable shoe. I focus on running trail ultras. In the end, I want a shoe that I can wear for hours on end without complaint. This shoe will do that for me I think.
What you basically see, is that Killian dont prefer a high stackheight shoe. Its probably very similar to his Salomon racing shoes. This together with the difference of shoes on UTMB etc shows its a very individual preference even among athletes. But I am quite suprised how many of them prefer "normal" trail shoes even for races.
İ feel i need a tad more cushion myself... İ like the hoka EVO speedgoat. İt has that cushion and huggy feel upper ,which i love . With great grip . Lightweight and just sooooo comfy. Cheaper too. They just don't make them anymore 😂😂😂😂 Good job i had insight and still have 4 perfectly good pairs 😅
Narrow fit is not a dislike, that is a qualifier to me, ha ha. Unfortunately a quick check (I am in Germany) found it goes up to size 13. I need 15. So... nope.
I usually run barefoot, so the idea of a narrow shoe is just too uncomfortable to me. I'm still looking for a option for technical stony trails where I'm not prepared to run barefoot. Maybe in the future, when I may find a NNormal show in Brazil for an affordable price.
I don't care for the amount of emphasis placed on the fact that Jornet won wearing them. He'd have won whether he was in these or whether he was sponsored by another brand. Jornet winning a race in a shoe for which he has a financial stake says absolutely nothing about the shoe. Not touching them personally. The lugs are too short to be of interest.
I like the Kjerag. I don't love the Kjerag. Put a piece of ZoomX in the midsole and you'd have a winner. As it stands it's simply not worth the asking price.
I am curious if the Megagrip outsole can really withdstand such high milages as the brand claims. From my experience, Megagrip is grippy but it also wears fast. Does anybody have any experience in how well the outsole of the shoe can withstand wearing off?
Hello Ethan. Last few years I have been running in Salomon s Sense ride 3/4, Slab ultra 3 and Inov8 Trailfly g 270. Can you compare Kjerag and Tomir to them? THX.
Anyone wanna comment on sizing I just ordered a pair and I think I’m gonna have to return them if I have to go down a half a size etc. I’m a 10 1/2 and almost everything and now I’m wondering if I should’ve ordered the 10😢
It's hard for me to understand white, or very light colored trail shoes. They get dirty a lot, and then you have to wash them a lot to maintain the look. If sustainability is their motto, then saving water by washing them less number of times will definitely help the cause.
The white likely is not dyed like shoes in various colors, meaning takes less expenditure of resources to produce them. Aka more sustainable. My shoes are covered in mud all the time, they are trail shoes that’s the way they are supposed to be. Rinse them off when you are crossing a creek on the trail. Tossing them in the wash is just going to decrease their lifespan.
@@kristianandres7647 very valid point, but I've seen this trend (white/light colored trail shoes) with all the manufacturers - even Nike. My only point is - mud and other stains are less visible on a darker color as compared to the lighter one - so that's one reason to wash them less.
You’re the 1st one who says it’s narrow ,it is on the heel but not comparatively with other brands on the toe box ,you haven’t mentioned the drop either ,bad review
Nnormal shoes are junk. The soles of both types came loose within 50 miles. The company said they were under warranty and to send them back for a full refund. They just kept the shoes without the refund. First they said there was a delay in it, then they said they said that it was not guaranteed that they would issue a refund. They just kept my shoes and quit replying to my emails.
My Kjeraks are bomb proof. Hundreds of miles and no wear other than the dirt and grit in the fabric of the upper. Did I say no wear? Yeah - no wear on the outsole and minimal deformation/compression in the midsole.
So basicly, sustainability....WOW.. they sent you shoes via airplane. They want to take your old shoes and gear and make it new, but you have to sned them via plane again. Than they want you to use their shoes until they are completly worn out(risking injury). I mean, lets not be honest, they are not so sustainable company nor they can be. In these times when everything we order and buy is shipped there in not one chance they will change anything. Good for them to try to change it ... but nope. Nice shoes and all that story behind Killian ... but nothing else behind these shoes holds water! ;)
What are your thoughts on Kilian's favorite shoe, the Kjerag from Nnormal? I also have a Trail Tested episode and full review of the Tomir from Nnormal coming soon!
Hey there. What is your weight actually? Sorry for the intrusive question but with my 85-87kg I often have the impression some of the reviews from very light runners are not so valid for me.
Hello, does it now come with an insole? I saw another video where it said it didn’t. Maybe they changed that. Also, Allie O is one of the sponsored athletes, so it made me interested in this shoe.
@@seatownfan no it does not have a insole - and I think it’s really good that way, nothing that can move inside the shoe. (I have a pair)
@@seatownfan it doesn't, so you wanna take half size smaller
I have tried and unfortunately it didn’t suit my wider feet. I felt it was very narrow in both the mid foot and the forefoot. It was a shame as I really like the concepts of the shoe and I wanted it to work for me. Shame..
Lets be honest, He could run in any shoes and have the same result it is Killian
Agree. Any show designed for ELITE runners really has no purpose for mid pack runners. We are typically not tiny light humans. The production thoughtfulness is really cool though.
@@OneTouch1980 I would say some shoes are designed for light runners like Kilian and some for heavier ones and I would say kjerag is typical Kilian shoe as sense series was, but Tomir on other hand is perfect for bigger persons in my opinion.
This is a great show indeed. I’m already close to 400km with it in a short span and feel excited to use it each time. Great stability on technical trails, lightweight, enough bounce and it looks to be durable. 400km in and not a single wear / tear issue.
I love them. Amazing ground feel and feels like it really moulds to the bottom of your feet. Can’t wait to see if it lasts for 2000miles!
I ran a technical trail marathon with these strait out of the box and had zero issues. Not a hotspot, niggle, or rub.
As far as fit. I cannot do Salomon shoes..too narrow. These are surprisingly accommodating in the toe box while still maintaining great lock down.
You might like the Tomir better Ethan.
Vibram Megagrip is also much better than any Contragrip compound.
I love mine. Just wished the foam was a little softer but the ground feel is perfect
Interesting that you found the toe-box narrow, I agree the shoe is snug around the mid-foot and putting it on seems to the most uncomfortable part of the shoe for me, but at least for me the toe-box was surprisingly roomy. So far I have yet to fit my toes into any of the Salomon or Hoka shoes, so having these fit perfect was a nice surprise.
I definitely found them wider than Salomon's. It seemed like a fit that works a bit better for runners with a less pointed toe shape. They're not a very wide shoe but I didn't find them as uncomfortable as say a regular size Speedcross.
Loving the review. Definetly on my radar. So much so i bought the Tomir. Got about 50 miles in them so far and totally loving the ride fit and experience. Awsome grip and comfortable. At first thought the lock down was strange but after a couple of runs I proved not to be an issue. Keep up the good work Sir 👍
Very interested now and love their mission. Going to at least try them on. I'm a Samwise kind of guy, so Legolas's kicks might not work out. 😂 Really loving the new sound queues and transitions in this year's reviews.
If Aragorn falls in between Legolas, Gimli and Samwise, then I'm an Aragorn type of runner
Love there mission statement and that contract they gave you!.. I am a brooks ambassador and so get gifted a lot of shoes.. (so grateful that they support me).. and that is the contact I made for myself too.. I ensure I use the shoes to the max and then recycle or gift to someone if they can make use of them. So cool to see this brand and it's mission statement in the running space 💚 definitely it needs to be the new normal for all brands
One of the best new shoes in years, surpassed only by the Naked T/r for technical Mountain terrain here in the Colorado Rockies. Highly recommend. As for the Tomir: used for the last 75 miles of a 200-mile race. Work well with the Inov-8 Boomerang insoles (otherwise a tad harsh) for long slower miles when your feet are really swollen.
Naked -- another company I can ignore, since there's no size 13
How does the VJ Ultra fare against those shoes? (Kjerag, T/r, Tomir)
Someone said with Boomerang insoles, the VJ Ultra is wonderful and has incredible grip.
Seems like I should just pick up a few pairs those insoles regardless!
@@MadLadsAnonymous I have only run in the VJ Ultra version 1. The lockdown on the VJ is better in my estimation, plus the Kjerag lacks an eyelet for a runner’s knot (weird to me). But the Kjerag has a more comfortable upper and, amazingly, as comfortable underfoot despite being lighter and more agile. Remarkable as it has no insole! Grip is also about the same. VJ runs 1/2 size small whereas Kjerag is true to size.
@@MadLadsAnonymous I have only run in the VJ Ultra version 1. The lockdown on the VJ is better in my estimation, plus the Kjerag lacks an eyelet for a runner’s knot (weird to me). But the Kjerag has a more comfortable upper and, amazingly, as comfortable underfoot despite being lighter and more agile. Remarkable as it has no insole! Grip is also about the same. VJ runs 1/2 size small whereas Kjerag is true to size.
Hi from Asturias, Spain, very rocky region and quite a paradise for trail running. Here the Tomir is a best seller, in the last race i saw tons of people wearing them. That model Is killing other best seller like speedgoat or mafate or cascadia. So waiting for your review!
I love that shoe too, best shoe I have run for quite some time, cheers from 🇨🇭
I really like my pair of Kjerag’s. But I’m also used to running in Salomon shoes. The grip is so good in the NNormal shoes. And I actually went a half size down compared to my Salomon size.
what is your salomon size and other brands size?
@@gudboyngdisyerto 42 2/3 EU (US 9) for Salomon and 42 EU (US 8.5) for Kjerag.
@@gudboyngdisyerto and HIOKA / NB also 9
Thanks for the review of the Kjerag and giving us the proper pronunciation. Looking forward to the Tomir review as I've had them since last October and have really mixed feelings about them.
Great and honest review as always. Interested to see if you review the Tomir now (an NNormal shoe for those of us who are not Kilian)
Maybe try the nnomal Tomir, got mine 5 weeks ago, they feel just great! Roomy toebox, top foot lockdown, nicely cushioned but still great groundfeel, top grip even in muddy conditions, just love that shoe 🤩 perfect for 🇨🇭conditions 👌
Already in rotation :)
@@TheGingerRunner super-cool 👍🙏😎
I was ready to pre-order these until the price was released, then decided I'd hold back for some reviews. Still on the fence but leaning towards giving them a shot. And I nnormally don't care about elite/celebrity endorsements, but I was happy to see them sign Allie Ostrander. Good choice both ways.
Love what the company stands for around sustainability and transparent supply chains, looks great, and I'm actually fine with the price point if the build quality is there. My issue (and same with Solomon) is the width, with wide feet these just wouldn't work. I'll stick with Altras, but if they ever come out with a wide toe box option I would give this brand a try. Great review as always GR.
Was waiting for someone to review this! Thanks sooo much!
Worth noting this shoe has no insole, I put Inov-8 boomerangs in them and much improved
I freakin love those inov8 boomerangs
As a light weight mountain runner, this Kjerag shoe is perfectly fine and the firm foam play its role in my playground. Nonetheless it is very demanding on muscular level for the feet and calves: maybe not for beginners.
Bought it for 180 in french boutique ... wich is the typical slab price. Feel awesome in terms of fit with a toebox that is roomy % salomon slab.
Basically this shoes is a rectification of slab, the grip is great, the midsole is protective and stable, the upper is super durable...
And still 200g with great sensations !
Best shoe ever for me ! Because il love this kind of shoes and the ethos of NNORMAL.
For people not interested in very technical, ultralight the Tomir is much more logic as it is wider and softer.
They suit everybody with only a few shoes, another testament to the ecologic comitment !❤
This is my new favorite trail shoe for (ultra) trail races. For fun sessions on technical terrain, I like the HOKA speedgoat, even though it’s almost too comfortable to be fun.
Also I often get dirt or little stones in the shoe with the speedgoats. With Kjerag, that’s not an issue at all. In a training, taking off the shoes now and then is not a problem and I welcome the few minutes of rest, but for races, I will probably always go for the Kjerags.
Considering the extreme durability of the shoe, I expect the price to be no issue. In the long run,it’s more expensive to replace a shoe every few years. I thrashed two pairs of Salomon SLab Ultra’s in 5 years. And those were not cheap either.
I received mine last week and have done two short runs in them, and I love how they feel. I miss some of the bells and whistles, like quick lace and a sock-like collar, but I also really love the eco-consciousness and long lastingness of Nnormal. It’s important to me. These are gonna be my training shoe for a long while, I think. Granted, I’m still newish to trail and working up to my first ultra. But I’ve tried so many shoes out there and having a narrow foot, I’m so psyched about these.
Thanks for reviewing this shoe, it deserves it. I own a pair. It's not made of simple materials, full cover Vibram megagrip outsole (go home Hoka..) & Kevlar woven into the upper, that's next level. It maybe has a simple (Scandinavian?) styling. Killian tested a pair for a 1000km (I think he said Km not Mls..)& it held out, I don't know of any running shoe that can do that, especially at this weight. It's true you need strong feet for this shoe.
Good shoes with a famous name behind them and people get hyped up like crazy.
The vibe of your reviews is just incomparably nice!
Great shoe, snug comfortable fit, feels very secure and stable, the ground feel is superb, and I love the responsive feel and feedback. As a forefoot/midfoot foot striker being quite firm on landing I found after around 10 miles especially after a long 3 mile decent the sole and foam is quite firm and my legs started to feel they were taking a bit of a pounding. The maximum distance I have run in them to date is Half Marathon distance 21 k on a variety of terrain. Overall I’m really impressed, they are also very stylish….👍👍 Definitely go down Half Size or more I’m usually a 9uk I went down to an 8uk and the sizing is perfect for me…
Nnormal in a way kinda reminds me of tracksmith. Tracksmith they ain't cheap about anything price wise, however their apparel for fit, feel, function and durability for what it is for what I have, is the best I've ever worn. Back to this shoe, i've been eyeing it for months as my "mountain running shoe" I'd like to see a US base of operations before getting a shoe that may not fit me they way I thought, I've seen so many say returns from the US back to Spain is an absolute nightmare and as expensive as the shoe it's self almost.
Thanks, that was a really helpful review. Interesting that you are comparing it with the Brooks Catamount 2, because during the review I thought that the Catamount 2 looks a bit similar. Looking forward to that review as well!
I tossed some insoles from some Pulsar’s in and they make this shoe perfect. I have narrow feet and I was glad to see a brand catering to my foot shape. Love them.
99% of brands cater to narrow feet. Talk about being self unaware.
I really waited for this review!!! Tnx
Disagree on midsole being a negative. It’s a major plus for me. Despite only having 23mm at the heel, it never feels bottoming out, unlike other shoes with bigger stack. It’s actually quite remarkable how cushion it offers.
I ran 2 50Ks in them, including one today with 3000m of elevation in super rocky terrain. And feet don’t feel overly beaten.
Agree with rest, outsole is crazy grippy and the upper is simple.
That’s a one shoe quiver. Can any type of run in them. I’m super they’ll do a great job for road speed session too 😅
Agreed with the review with the exception of the toe box. I asked Nnormal direct when mine arrived and the toe box is a half size larger to accommodate foot swell - this is also why the rest of the shoe has to fit snug.
Ran a 35mi/60km race across gravel tracks and granite cliffs in them. The review is accurate they gripped they didn’t rub but they aren’t pillows.
Correct, fit is precise, toe box has space, more than most Salomons...toe box maybe Lacks a bit of space vertical, if insole needs to be added to add cushion. For me this worked ( half US size down) when trying, but in the end I sent the shoe back as it's too minimal for me
After trying them I actually think it's a wider and more forgiving version of the S/LAB Pulsar SG. I still think the S/LAB Pulsar SG is a faster shoe but at the end of the day they are both short/mid distance shoes of us mortals.
Yes. It’s much wider than the pulsar sg. And I think the Kjerag is a more stable shoe - at least for my feet/ankles
@@sandstromj yes, I agree. I also have issues trying to run faster downhill with the S/LAB. But I still love how fast it is...
Very surprised by the shoe. For how low the stack height is you get a amazing foam that’s able to take the punishing down hills extremely well just size down as I had to go down a full size for them to fit well. Ran two separate runs back to back, totaling 10 miles and my legs don’t feel beat up.
I liked that you hinted at price per mile concept. Surely 200usd is not expensive if you only replace the shoe half as often as e.g. salomon shoes. That should be understood as a 50% cheaper shoe. Still an outlay of money at the time of purchase, but one has a full year to save up for it. So I'm not sure whether the price at the point of purchase is the right indicator of "expense". I would much prefer it normalized by the lifetime of the shoe, e.g. price per mile, as you mentioned.
Will you review the Normal Tomir, too? Guess that's more the shoe for mid-pack runners like me. Thx Ethan
I would definitely try them if you are going to donate them 😆😆. I would train in them till they are definitely done. I’m intrigued by this brand, even though you just told us that we are not going to be exactly like Kilian 🙁😔🤣😂. Great review as always 👍🏼
Little Editor Ethan was fun :)
NO, not museum. His pair is likely cleaned from dust and there's some new ... killin the trails 😎
I have these, and I keep trying them because the performance is so good but they just don't really fit my foot right. they are incredible. I can run roads and trails easily and I like a minimal shoe and this ticks a lot of the boxes.. however.. the midfoot is to narrow for me. it feels like the base arch and ball of foot rides over the last. But, the heel lock down is off the charts good - going uphill the shoe is the best i've ever used. They are not for a mellow trail run tho because they are its down right tight. I have yet to find a minimal but rugged trail shoe that fits my foot. La sportiva karacal is close but has massive limitations and doesn't lock the heel down like Kjerag. If Kjerag had a wider US last it would be my shoe for everything.
altra lone peaks are to tippy and not enough structure in the heel. I actually am using the superiors more than LPs. really hoping that Jackal II BOA works for my foot...
try the inov8 g270 v2
I like ginger runner, but I have to disagree here ( reminds me on Seth DeMoor saying he couldn’t run in the SLab Ultra 3 more than 20k … ). And I think its unfair always to say only Kilian can run in this shoe.
So my review ( I have it since November, living in Austria ): For me is this the perfect shoe up to 30k, I dont really need any other anymore. It is comfortable enough, but still fast, its bouncy in a very nice and subtle way, and the grip is perfect, and its dourable ( and repairable ). For me, even to this pricepoint, a definitie buy ( and I normally dont pay that much for shoes ).
Oooh, THX for the review! I hope you got a Tomir too? Might be the shoe for you...
Trail Tested with the Tomir coming in a couple weeks!
@@TheGingerRunner awesome to hear and thank you, had the same question - fingers crossed that it’s not as narrow!
It's me guys, happy Friday.
My road running days peaked in the 80s, my trail running days in the 2010s and in between their was little to no progress in durability. I could easily push my Asic Excalibir GTs to 700 to 1000 miles by putting duct tape or shoe gue on my main wear points in the early miles. Now a days, you are lucky to make 500 and in some cases I had to limit my break in mileage so they wouldn't wear out before racing a 50k. So to call a running shoe "sustainable" you would need to make it last much longer than 1000 miles. There is one shoe maker that guarantees this but I don't see a 2000 or more guarantee. Sustainable is just another word used by advertisers to con people into paying more.
Here is a thought to chew on, most Americans have three waste management bins to the street each week with a combined volume of 296 gallons or about 15,000 gallons of waste. If you run 2000 miles a year you would toss out 4 pairs of shoes per year which would reduce your waste stream by something under 1%. Personally, I wear my retired running shoes as casual shoes and then use them for dirty work like painting and lawn work and I run them down until the outsole is worn down to the midsole.
Again, consider whether sustainable is a boutique, advertising gimmick to jack prices or does it really reduce the waste stream.
It was on my radar until I found out the price. Trail shoes are getting so expensive now, that most of the time I wait for a new model to come out, then buy last year's at a big discount.
Wait? These shoes wont turn me into Killian Jornet? I guess ill just get the hoka Tecton x and see if they turn me into Jim Walmsley
Remixed that soundtrack. Well done young man.
Have tried these in the UK for about 2 months now. Definitely don't use these in slippery mud they don't have enough lug depth. I would say the toebox is wider than expected.
That being said since this is a low profile shoe I only use it for
1. Speedwork
2. Races where maybe you want to feel fast.
I am curious about the longevity of the shoes as well. I have heard these can last 500-800 miles which is longer than your typical trainer but we will see.
How about a review of the Nnormal race vest, I haven't found one yet
Are you wearing a Roadid bracelet? That's been one of the single greatest gear purchases in the last 5 years.
Same one since 2010!
Regarding longevity, the other Nnormal shoe, the Tomir lasted… 21 km for me. The midsole have detached from the last because of cut stitching. I have seen other people with the same problem. I hope I was unfortunate to pick a problematic batch. A pity because they look like very nice all-rounder yet technical trail shoes.
Ack, that’s not good! Mine are in rotation now
@@TheGingerRunner Looking fw to the review. Can you remove the insole and have a look? On mine threads are 'glued' to the midsole with standard tape 😭
My issue recently is when we say an outsole is firm, would it have actually felt firm 5 years ago before the giant marshmallows became the new average of comparison, or would it have been called plush then? I’m so confused on what a firm shoe is anymore. Anyway, for 200 bucks I’m out.
I get all the focus on the Kjerag, but I am far for interested in the Tomir. The Tomir should be a shoe better suited to the masses, with the same sustainable philosophy behind it.
Tried the Tomir. Very Normal shoe for me. Stiff upper, stiff ride. For the money just not worth it. I would size down for sure if you pull the trigger.
@@RodRanDusted Actually ordered it myself and ran a 30k trail race with it straight out of the box.
The shoe doesn't feel stiff to me, although I don't like deeply cushioned shoes personally. It certainly isn't a shoe that shines in a particular field. It's very much a shoe that can do it all but is master of none. The exception might be the grip, the shoe is really very grippy. The sizing is iffy, agreed there. My regular shoe size worked... but only just. It's on the verge of requiring sizing down half a size.
Anyhow, ran a 30k race straight out of the box. No complaints. Ran through hilly terrain with a lot of water (including a stream crossing) and deep mud (halfway up the calf). The shoe drains well, clears mud well, and was just an enjoyable shoe.
I focus on running trail ultras. In the end, I want a shoe that I can wear for hours on end without complaint. This shoe will do that for me I think.
Check out the NNormal Tomir. It's more for non elite Runners.
Already in rotation :)
looks a lot like he used the same vibram bottom as Norda 001 (best trail shoe ever IMO)
What you basically see, is that Killian dont prefer a high stackheight shoe. Its probably very similar to his Salomon racing shoes. This together with the difference of shoes on UTMB etc shows its a very individual preference even among athletes. But I am quite suprised how many of them prefer "normal" trail shoes even for races.
solid information…
İ feel i need a tad more cushion myself...
İ like the hoka EVO speedgoat.
İt has that cushion and huggy feel upper ,which i love .
With great grip .
Lightweight and just sooooo comfy.
Cheaper too.
They just don't make them anymore 😂😂😂😂
Good job i had insight and still have 4 perfectly good pairs 😅
Narrow fit is not a dislike, that is a qualifier to me, ha ha. Unfortunately a quick check (I am in Germany) found it goes up to size 13. I need 15. So... nope.
OOOOHHHH IM SENDING NNORMAL SOME SHOES!
great overview
I usually run barefoot, so the idea of a narrow shoe is just too uncomfortable to me. I'm still looking for a option for technical stony trails where I'm not prepared to run barefoot. Maybe in the future, when I may find a NNormal show in Brazil for an affordable price.
I was interested in this shoe but I have wide feet so sadly I'm pretty sure they will not be good for me. Thanks for the review.
Please review Kilian’s would be racing shoe in 2023 if he stayed at Salomon. The new S/Lab Pulsar Trail 2 🙏
I don't care for the amount of emphasis placed on the fact that Jornet won wearing them. He'd have won whether he was in these or whether he was sponsored by another brand. Jornet winning a race in a shoe for which he has a financial stake says absolutely nothing about the shoe.
Not touching them personally. The lugs are too short to be of interest.
I agree that Kilian could duct tape potatoes to his feet and win UTMB 😂
I like the Kjerag. I don't love the Kjerag. Put a piece of ZoomX in the midsole and you'd have a winner. As it stands it's simply not worth the asking price.
Great review, Ethan! What size did you wear? Based on your previous reviews, you and I have the same size foot so that’s why I’m wondering.
6:11 - not to call them out but it sounds like peedsland….😂😂😂
my thoughts exactly
surprised you didn't mention the no-insole sizing
I am curious if the Megagrip outsole can really withdstand such high milages as the brand claims. From my experience, Megagrip is grippy but it also wears fast. Does anybody have any experience in how well the outsole of the shoe can withstand wearing off?
Hello Ethan. Last few years I have been running in Salomon s Sense ride 3/4, Slab ultra 3 and Inov8 Trailfly g 270. Can you compare Kjerag and Tomir to them? THX.
Shoe Drop?
This looks super similar to the salomon slab pulsar! How do you think about this point?
When I first saw it I assumed was a HOKA looks like one.
I feel compelled to tell all my bigger friends out there the biggest size these come in is a men's 12.
Booooooooo
Hi Ethan, what do you use to track your runs? Noticed you left strava apx 9 months ago.
I still use Strava, just all activities set to private.
There will be a review of the new vectiv enduris 3??
Are these really ginger shoes if they have a sole?
Are we getting a Wildhorse 8 review?
Can anyone knowledgable on Nnromal educate me on the difference between the Kjerag and Tomir?
Anyone wanna comment on sizing I just ordered a pair and I think I’m gonna have to return them if I have to go down a half a size etc. I’m a 10 1/2 and almost everything and now I’m wondering if I should’ve ordered the 10😢
It's hard for me to understand white, or very light colored trail shoes. They get dirty a lot, and then you have to wash them a lot to maintain the look. If sustainability is their motto, then saving water by washing them less number of times will definitely help the cause.
The white likely is not dyed like shoes in various colors, meaning takes less expenditure of resources to produce them. Aka more sustainable.
My shoes are covered in mud all the time, they are trail shoes that’s the way they are supposed to be. Rinse them off when you are crossing a creek on the trail. Tossing them in the wash is just going to decrease their lifespan.
@@kristianandres7647 very valid point, but I've seen this trend (white/light colored trail shoes) with all the manufacturers - even Nike. My only point is - mud and other stains are less visible on a darker color as compared to the lighter one - so that's one reason to wash them less.
Washing trail shoes?! Wear that mud like a badge of honor! My all white Norda 001 are note quite white anymore and I love that look!
@@NicolasCaron you seem to be the kind of person who buys a range rover and actually uses it off-road. Man of culture! 🙂 I meant that as a compliment.
Dark shoes get hot.
Looks? Who is looking at my shoes high in the Alps?
You’re the 1st one who says it’s narrow ,it is on the heel but not comparatively with other brands on the toe box ,you haven’t mentioned the drop either ,bad review
He probably win everything wearing flip flops anyway
Nnormal shoes are junk. The soles of both types came loose within 50 miles. The company said they were under warranty and to send them back for a full refund. They just kept the shoes without the refund. First they said there was a delay in it, then they said they said that it was not guaranteed that they would issue a refund. They just kept my shoes and quit replying to my emails.
My Kjeraks are bomb proof. Hundreds of miles and no wear other than the dirt and grit in the fabric of the upper. Did I say no wear? Yeah - no wear on the outsole and minimal deformation/compression in the midsole.
🔝👟
Pro runners are hired guns. He will say what his favorite shoe is based on that brand alone. In other words ignore them.
So basicly, sustainability....WOW.. they sent you shoes via airplane. They want to take your old shoes and gear and make it new, but you have to sned them via plane again. Than they want you to use their shoes until they are completly worn out(risking injury). I mean, lets not be honest, they are not so sustainable company nor they can be. In these times when everything we order and buy is shipped there in not one chance they will change anything. Good for them to try to change it ... but nope. Nice shoes and all that story behind Killian ... but nothing else behind these shoes holds water! ;)
I wish it wasn’t narrow 🤦🏿♂️
Well I'm out. All the cool shoes are narrow.
No size 13, so I can safely ignore this company for another year.
Jor net 😂
Too expensive, sorry
Top dollar for a minimalist pair of shoes, virtue signaling brow beating included!? What's not to like? Hard pass.