Sustainability Meets Performance with Norda

Norda is a Canadian trail-running footwear brand founded with the dual aim of advancing performance and promoting sustainability. Established by runners with extensive footwear industry experience, the company seeks to innovate in a field where functionality and environmental responsibility often appear at odds.

Origins of the Brand

Norda’s development began on the running trails between Montreal and the Eastern Townships. Founders Willa and Nick Martire conceptualized the brand as a solution to the limitations they observed in existing trail-running shoes. With over 60 years of combined experience in the footwear industry, they assembled a team in early 2020 to develop Norda. Collaborators included Head of Design Louis Martin Tremblay and Brand Development Partner Gerard Cleal.

The result of their efforts was the Norda 001, a trail-running shoe designed to integrate high-performance features with sustainable materials and practices.

Materials and Sustainability Practices

A key element of Norda’s approach is its use of advanced materials. The upper of the Norda 001 is constructed from bio-based Dyneema®, a fiber recognized for its strength-to-weight ratio. This material is sustainably sourced through a mass balance method and holds certifications such as BlueSign® and ISCC. Dyneema® also has a low carbon footprint per unit of strength, with 75% of its manufacturing energy derived from renewable sources.

In addition to its material choices, Norda incorporates circular economy principles. Customers are encouraged to return worn shoes for upcycling, an initiative aimed at reducing waste and promoting product life extension.

Performance Features

Performance remains a primary focus for Norda. The company collaborated with Vibram®, a prominent sole manufacturer, to design a custom sole for the Norda 001. Inspired by the Canadian Shield, this sole features Vibram® Litebase® technology to reduce weight and Vibram® Mega Grip® rubber for traction on varied surfaces. The midsole, made with Vibram® SLE, provides cushioning and rebound to enhance comfort and durability.

These features position the Norda 001 as a high-performance shoe suitable for both elite and recreational runners, offering stability and support on diverse terrains.

Connection to Canada

Norda’s designs reflect the rugged and varied conditions of Canadian trails. The brand’s prototypes underwent testing in temperatures ranging from -35℃ to +35℃, ensuring resilience and adaptability. This connection to local landscapes is central to the company’s identity.

A Broader Mission

Norda’s goals extend beyond creating trail-running shoes. The company seeks to influence how performance and sustainability are perceived within the broader athletic industry. By focusing on innovation and environmental responsibility, Norda aims to encourage athletes to adopt more sustainable practices.

Looking Ahead

As Norda expands, it continues to impact the trail-running and footwear industries. The brand’s approach demonstrates that performance and sustainability can coexist, offering an alternative for runners who value both.