The Nortiv8 DualStride Armadillo FieldLite Waterproof Hiker footwear collection is available in both male and female styles, as well as in a shoe and boot version. The aim of the collection is footwear that can be used both on the trail and for daily life.
The shoe won “Hiking Shoe Product of the Year” at the Outdoor Innovation Awards, recognised for its balance of protection, durability, waterproofing and everyday comfort.
Features include:
DualStride cushioning system: Soft impact absorption and stable base for uneven ground
4-in-1 rebound technology, designed to combine cushioning, energy return, stability and all-terrain control in a lightweight platform.
Sole: EVA, Rubber
Outer material: Nylon,TPU
Wider fit
Waterproof membrane
Breathable
Weight: Women’s UK9 shoe is 440g per shoe.
Sizes: Women: UK3.5 to UK9 (half sizes except for UK8.5); men: UK7 to UK13 (strangely there is a UK8.5 for men!)
A range of colours
Budget conscious price tag of: £49.99 to £51.99 for Nortiv8 hiking shoes for boots.
My thoughts: Nortiv8 DualStride Armadillo FieldLite Waterproof Hiker shoe
First off, I had to go for the UK9 because the women’s shoes do not have a UK8.5. This means the shoes are quite roomy, although not massively so. It would be great if there was a women’s UK8.5. Strangely, I notice, there is a male UK8.5.
The width is quite generous so the shoes will suit people with normal to wider feet. There is also a good amount of volume in the forefoot. If you prefer a shoe that fits neatly and you have a narrow or flat foot, these shoes are probably not for you. However, most people have a normal to wide foot and so the shoes are likely to fit the majority of walkers.
Straight out of the box, they feel comfortable. The sole is supportive at the arch and cushioned. There is a nice amount of cushioning underfoot and the shoes are stable on the trails. The grip is good in dry to medium-wet conditions. These are not the sort of shoes I would wear in the Scottish mountains because the grip is not aggressive enough, but for lower-level trails, such as forest paths and tracks, and dry hill paths, they work well.
The shoes also seem comfortable when walking on pavements and tarmac.
The laces tie easily and stay tied. I’d like to see a slightly wider tongue at the top of the laces because the edge sometimes gets tucked under, so you need to pay attention to keep the tongue flat when tying the laces.
The shoes are comfortable and supportive around the ankle. If you want more ankle support, choose the boot.
The upper design and fabric of the shoe seems durable although you should note I have not tested for numerous miles. Leather or suede would be more durable, for sure, but many modern hiking shoes are now designed with man-made materials.
The shoes are waterproof and quite breathable although not fully breathable on hot days. When it’s a hot day, I want more mesh on the uppers and less in the way of waterproofing, so I think this footwear is better when temperature are lower and you are likely to encounter rain and puddles.
I would describe the shoes as medium weight, rather than lightweight but they are certainly not heavy on the feet. Overall, for the price, these seem to be a great choice of footwear. Time will tell how long they last.
- I was sent the shoes in exchange for an honest review.