Arc'teryx  Vertex Speed Low Hiking Shoes - Women's

These run a full size too large. You may be able to get away with buying a half size smaller. I’m a solid 9 and the 8’s for the best but the toe box then shrinks. This shoe requires a break-in period, one I’m not used to with hikers. No way these would work for a through-hike or many miles for me. I came from the Salomon Sense Ride that was discontinued. This shoe has potential with the short gator to keep debris out but it also causes a hot spot where the two materials meet just above the ankle bone. The shoe itself feels very stiff and blocky and my arch hurt right away. I have a lower volume foot with a narrower heel.

I have always worn size 7.5 in shoes with other sports brands. I was surprised to find out that I had to size down. Not that it changes the performance of the shoes. I broke this on the treadmill. It did well on my first run. - I like the snug fit around my ankles. - i like the vibrant color. - I can see this being used outside more (road running versus trail running). The front has a rubberized overlay of the fabric which is a great asset. I feel like this contributes to the snug fit so if that is your preference, then it's a bonus. I think over time, it will loosen the snug feeling. - The darker orange color will hide the dirt on my shoes and the rubberized overlay will make it easy to wipe away any debris. It gets quite muddy here in Nunavut spring time. - I have only done one run on them but I will predict they are go-to on the gravel roads of the Canadian Arctic.

So far so good, purchased these for hiking and trail running on steep rugged trails in Colorado. Took them up a 14er to break them in, very stable, responsive and comfortable shoe on the way up and down. Definitely better for people with more narrow feet. Was unsure due to lack of reviews, did not disappoint!

These shoes - I’m intrigued. I bought them in orange. I love the look and I love the color. The treads look amazing. The shoes are narrow. They can be tough to get on, but once they’re on, they fit like a glove. They’re super comfortable. I feel zero arch support - the center of the shoe feels empty. Because they’re narrow, I think my foot struggles to fully spread which can lead to an achy arch at the end of the day. I haven’t tried to add a different insole yet, which might solve the problem. I do really like them, though, and I’m very happy with my purchase. I bought these as an everyday shoe, not specifically for hiking or running. I like something stylish but versatile in case I end up on the trails. I’m an ultrarunner, mom of 4, and live in Colorado - these shoes seem perfect for my lifestyle.

I have worn the Norvans in size 39 the last 2 years and ordered the new version along with a couple other pair in that same size they and were way too big. My foot size hasn’t changed, I still wear same size in all my runners and shoes and boots - did something happen to the sizing? It wasn’t even close. A full inch gap. Returned every pair. :( I loved the original Norvans.

I only give honest feedback to those who are interested. I loved the look and narrow foot, however I am yet to wear a shoe with built-in gators that do NOT give me hotspots and/or blisters. Unless you wear ankle length socks, which I do not- I prefer shorter socks or no show socks, then do not waste your time, even if they are on sale!

[Employee of arcteryx] I used this shoe to go on an easy hike and on trail runs and I absolutely LOVE IT! It fits true to size and is quite sturdy. I found it a bit 'stiff' before I got used to it but found that it was actually a positive thing for me since I tend to roll my ankle easily, even with ankle boots, it gave me more support. I also ran in the pouring rain in them and they had a wonderful grip on the wet loose rocks, I felt confident in every step. They we're not as padded/cushy as the runners I normally purchase but that was not an issue for me like I thought it may be. I have narrow feet and I loved that the fit was narrow or at least 'hugging' my foot more than shoes I've purchased and worn before. One of my favourite feature was the little pocket on the 'tongue' where I could tuck my shoelace in, as I like being able to keep going without stopping to re-lace my shoe. Overall great shoe but if you have flat feet/wide feet you may want to try them in store first.

I've put the Arc'teryx Vertex Speed through its paces, and I have to say—I'm impressed. This shoe hits that sweet spot between lightweight agility and solid support, which is exactly what you want in an approach shoe. The sticky rubber outsole grips confidently on everything from wet rock to loose scree, giving you that extra bit of trust on technical terrain. What really stands out is the fit—it hugs your foot without feeling restrictive, so you get both precision and comfort. The upper is tough enough to handle abrasion but still breathable enough for long days on the move. Whether I’m scrambling up a ridge or moving quickly through mixed terrain, the Vertex Speed feels dialed in. Arc'teryx nailed the balance of performance and comfort with this one. If you’re looking for an approach shoe that can keep up with long days and varied conditions, this is it. The low version is easier to get on and off, if your concerned with gravel/etc getting in the shoe, I recommend the high version.

These shoes are awesome!! As a hiking/trail running shoe, I love how the sturdy “ball-of-foot” traction you are able to get with these while still having the flexibility towards the heal to make it easy to run in. Reminds of a combo of my Vertex Alpine’s and my Norvan’s!

I’ve taken these on quite a few hikes and trail runs now, and they always blow me away! They are the most lightweight shoes I own, and the tread on them is super grippy. The heel brake is also super helpful on the descent!