Norda - 003

002 is a lower stack height for increased ground feel and more stability. that's it. \[and sure, it has a padded heel collar, but i'm not going to write an essay on here about how that was an unnecessary solution to a non-existent problem\]. i find them so uncomfortable i can't even walk on hardwood with them on. some people \[those with invincible rocks for feet\] love them. the 005 is intended to be a fast / race / super shoe. the 003 is stupid, it's designed by HAVEN \[a multi-brand luxury gorp fashion store in Vancouver\] and marketed as an "approach" shoe \[i hate it\]. reference - i used to be the norda dealer in my area.

Also what size did you go with compared to your normal size? Their sizing doesn't really work for me. Normally I'm 8.5 - 9. I went with a 9 in the 001 and they are a little small. Went with a 9.5 in the 003 and they are small.

I am on the opposite side of the spectrum but in my search I have found a couple of things that might suit you.Altra has a hybrid shoe named the Outroad that has good cushion. Mount to Coast is also coming out with a road to trial show named H1 in September. That looks like it checks all your boxes. I would also recommend the Norda 03. It is really a good Road to Trail show. That is what Inise in the winter betweny road and local trail

I am wore an 11 in every set of Altras I had. I wesr a 12 in 002. Though, they are snug when they are new, after ~100k they break in quite well. I do not wesr the 001 or the 003, the upper design for those 2 models is the same, and it pulls on my achilles (and hypothetically, also fits slightly larger). I found Nordas recommendation to upsize 1 full size for the 002 to be perfect.

Hella expensive, hella worth it

Norda - indestructible Dynema trail shoes,light & great to run in