Humble Running Newsletter #25
Feeling Good! Running! norda 055 is here!
The title image from my last newsletter was “We’re Back”, but for real.. I really am back right now. Back to running, back to action in my review videos. I have to say, the inactivity period wasn’t so bad in the end. Once I came to terms with it, the thought of not having an upcoming event on the calendar was actually quite freeing.
It was fun to dabble in some other activities - indoor cycling, inline skating, hiking, walking the dog. Also catching up on some projects around the house - my yearslong bathroom renovation saga, van(s) buildout, yard work, etc.
The North Face Altamesa 300 V2
For my first review back, and actually my first few reviews back, I leaned into more comfort oriented models. Shoes that I got a chance to use casually and put a lot of walking time into over the past month or so. First up, the 300 V2
This is one of those all-around-models that will suit all runners, especially those looking for a wide or high volume fit. This one is pretty much the definition of a “daily trail trainer”.
Salomon Aero Glide 4 GRVL
Kind of, sort of another daily trainer option - with a lot of BOUNCE. The Aero Glide 4 GRVL’s eTPU midsole is incredible here, a really fun and bouncy (there’s that word again) ride that just puts a smile on your face.
The upper is quite different from the road model though - more "trail space” leading to comfort, but is there enough foothold to go beyond “GRVL”?
ACT Running C.1
ACT’s description for the C.1 say it all, accurately - “high enrgy return and consistent cushioning, combining soft impact absorption with a controlled rebound.” *Bold/italics added by me.
I use that description as a basis throughout my review, because it just feels so on point. As you can imagine, that’s not always the case with the marketing materials that come with a running shoe. But ACT Running has hit the mark here with the C.1 - this is a serious performance shoe - with the sustainability cred to match!
Scarpa Golden Gate LT
European “light trails” are not the same as American “light trails”, see outsole below -
Whenever I see “LT”, “lite”, “light”, or “door-to-trail” etc. in a shoe’s name or description, a certain idea comes to mind. That idea certainly does not match the burly outsole you get underfoot with the Scarpa Golden Gate LT.
Surprisingly, Scarpa has some really good “door to trail” options - this one and the Golden Gate ATR 2. They don’t skimp on solid foothold either - that plus the outsole gives them range to get into more “real” trails.
Pao Labs Energy Jellies
Asian-American inspired energy jellies! Check those flavors - Yuzu, Lychee Oolong, Strawberry Matcha.. mmmmmm.. The playful and colorful branding caught my eye at TRE this year. I suspected that my daughter would love these - and she does!
My samples were gobbled up by my daughter and wife, but I did get to sample the flavors. All three are absolutely amazing, with Lychee being the consensus favorite (IYKYK). *Lychee not pictured below as my daughter likes to “save the best for last.”
The jelly-like consistency is also unique - not runny and syrupy like a lot of gels. The texture seems to enhance the flavors. If flavor fatigue is a thing in your gel rotation, or you have a little ripper in your household, give Pao Labs jellies a try! Humble Running Household recommended!
Topo Pursuit 3 x Trado Trail Gaiters
Sometimes reviews just fall into place. I was just about to wrap up my testing and film a Pursuit 3 review, when I got a chance to try out the new Trado Trail Gaiters. Perfect timing as Topo has now switched to a standard rear velcro attachment with the Pursuit 3.
This is a long one, but the route was worthy of it - and it was my first long-ish / adventure run since my injury. Fantastic Idaho scenery here!
Trail Gaiters Galore!
I of course need to test out Trado’s velcro/Future Glue setup, so I figured I’d create a setup that you’ll see later on (in some future race), and film the process.
Also fun to dig around in my gaiter bin and look at the different options that I personally use. I know gaiters can be a polarizing topic, but my thought is - if you need them, you need them.
Btw, the Trado gaiter design is very reminiscent of the most effective integrated ankle collar designs on the market.
Just some Hoka Testing
Very early stage Hoka Zinal 3 testing here, plus Hoka’s new 10L vest I’ve been itching to get into. I had Memorial Day weekend all to myself, so I planned a fun route and figured I’d just share some thoughts as I go.
What started out as a steamy 90F+ day turned into thunder and lightning pretty quickly. Hey, Humble Running is an ACTION channel! I managed to stay safe and dodge the worst of it. This video showcases the “greener” side of Boise trail running.
norda 005 vs NNormal Kjerag 02
Perhaps a bit of a refresher ahead of the hugely anticipated 055 release (see below). A comparison that has been heavily requested, so I figured it was the perfect time to do it.
The 005 is a given, but I have to say that the more I run in the Kjerag 02, the more I like it. The extra 2mm of midsole from V1 plus the switch to TPE foam makes a HUGE difference.
Leki Ultratrail FX.One Superlite poles
I was actually holding my testing of the Hoka 10L vest (with awesome integrated pole quiver), while I was waiting for these poles to arrive. I’m a huge fan of Leki and their signature Trigger Shark system. I haven’t raced with another pole in many years at this point.
My schedule is allowing my to get some daily steep reps in, so I’ve been using these almost daily. You’ll see these in a few upcoming videos (Speedland GS:BLK), and keep an eye out for a full review with some pole running tips later on!
norda 055 - has arrived!
Likely the most highly anticipated trail running shoe of 2026 - the norda 055 has arrived in the Humble Running mailbox! Thanks to norda for getting me this early test pair.
NOTE: The release date has not been finalized yet (you can ask, but I can’t answer, sorry). Once we get closer to the finalized date, look out for a full review on the channel.
I will do a “First Look” shortly - doing just that - going over the key features and also the specs on my test pair. So please follow/subscribe/sign up for notifications etc. so you’ll get that update ASAP. I know this is a big one, so I will keep all platforms up-to-date with the latest info that I have.
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So 055 vs M1 vs Kip Race ... we need that video!