Nnormal Tomir 2.0 Review. The Ultimate Trail Tank!

We're a bit of a split decision when it comes to the Nnormal Tomir 2.0. As always, what might not work for one could be great for the other, which is why we have a conversation about the shoes we test!
Shop Men’s Nnormal Tomir 2.0
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Shop Women’s Nnormal Tomir 2.0
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Chapters:
0:00 Intro
1:00 Disclaimer
1:28 Shoe stats
2:00 Upper
3:33 Midsole
5:15 Outsole
5:45 Finn testing mileage
7:02 Brett testing mileage
8:06 Upper and fit analysis
15:33 What is the asymmetrical lacing for?
16:55 Midsole and outsole analysis
22:39 Comparison to Tomir 1.0
25:47 Would you race in it?
27:09 Competitor shoes
30:22 This is a great thru-hiking shoe
30:37 You have to pick one. A question for the viewers
Music provided by Argofox:
Noxive - Bacon Sandwiches
• Noxive - Bacon Sandwic...

[@nnormal_official]

Thanks for the (authentic) review, team! 🤜🤛

[@ConversationalPace]

Appreciate it! That's always going to be the goal of the channel, and we appreciate all Nnormal does within the trail community!

[@nnormal_official]

@@ConversationalPace 💚

[@randmcnally.]

I just broke my ankle but the soothing sounds of your voices talking about a shoe I can only wear one of is something I am still super excited about today.

[@scalp22]

Keep it up with the globes 🌎

[@randmcnally.]

@@scalp22 🌍

[@ConversationalPace]

Hopefully that ankle heals up soon! I guess getting to wear one Tomir is still better than wearing zero 😖

[@randmcnally.]

​@@ConversationalPacewell, for some future review statistics I can tell you the Bondi 8 stack height aligns perfectly with the LDK2 air boot 😅

[@evanstcyr5558]

Initially, I had a similar experience to Brett but threw in the Saucony PB insole from Peregrine and now LOVE this shoe. I just ran a 50 miler in them last weekend with happy feet. Def worth trying a thicker insole. I think Inov8 sells a Boonerang insole that would be similar to Saucony’s PB from Peregrine or Xodus Ultra.

[@ConversationalPace]

I know I've got one of the PB insoles somewhere. I'll give that a try! Thanks for the feedback!

[@morganflockhart942]

You guys are the best reviewers on YT my go to for shoes I’m considering buying just so informative techy & long ! It’s a good POV from a runners aspect also ! Sometimes it feels like two blokes down the pub just talking about a the shoes they bought 😂

[@ConversationalPace]

Hugely appreciated! Our goal has always been to nerd about shoes in a conversational style that could have been had at the pub! Man, how cool would it be to record an episode at a pub😂

[@morganflockhart942]

@@ConversationalPace😂 That would be great probably triple your subscriptions 😂

[@TrailrunnerTroy]

Excellent dialogue. Tomir 2.0 is a shoe I really want to like, but there’s nothing special about it vis a vis major competitors. Definitely better than the 1.0, especially the midsole, but the upper and fit don’t compare to its rivals. The LaSportiva Prodigio, to give just one example of a less expensive alternative, is superior in comfort, balance, traction, versatility (including even stretches of tarmac) and arguably style, but is probably less durable. Still love the NNormal brand! Their apparel is terrific. Expecting greater things in future shoes.

[@ConversationalPace]

Agreed, this shoe lands in a very competitive market for sure. I'm excited to log more miles in the Prodigio!

[@Lag10]

An interesting point on the prodigios - lots of the negative reviews stem from the ankle collar and heel counter. According to a rep, what has been on the market wasn’t built to the intended spec, so La Spo is quitely sending out new production batches that should have this area tweaked. Likely explains the recent significant discounts to the inventory already out in the market

[@jeremiahjmartin]

@@Lag10 I want to love the prodigios but the sharp angle collar is a no go for anything that has any off camber uneven terrain. It pretty much cuts my ankles. Otherwise best shoe of the year. (that's a really big downside though). Note I have the Tomir 2.0s as a replacement, I really like a lot about them but can't get a great lockdown with them, esp. noticable on steeper descents. Prodigio is a better fit.

[@MarcusHaug]

I have the Tomir 2.0 and it´s the best shoe I ever had. I say that after 15 years with most Salomon shoes. I also have the Kjerag and it´s also a great shoe! If I only should have one shoe for walking, hiking, running trail, singel track in the woods, long running or short races. It´s the ultimate tank...... but it´s realy light and fast to run in, I love it!

[@ConversationalPace]

I'm jealous it worked so well for you! So fun to find a shoe that can truly do it all

[@neilblum8361]

Great review once again. I’ll have to try these with my nordas when my ultra glides kick the bucket in the fall. 400km and half a miler into the 001s now and I went from on the fence to a will be return customer as the shoe has loosened up

[@ConversationalPace]

001s and Tomir is the ultimate durability quiver for sure!

[@bunterkessel]

Thank you, Brett, for verbalizing so well what I experienced running in the Tomir 2. I had high hopes for this one. I ran in the Tomir 1 and Kjerag. I did not understand why my big toes felt sore after the first outing in these shoes. It is the lacing, now I know. Also my feet felt way too tired for a 20 mile run in easy terrain. I guess my feet are too sensitive. I feel the lugs. Not a problem in technical terrain though. Outsole perfomance is outstanding. Bummer!

[@ConversationalPace]

Fingers crossed the third version of the Tomir gets a full upper rebuild!

[@winter46ercmart]

Great discussion and I've been waiting on this review. I've got just about 100 miles on mine. I ordered 1/2 size down (11.5) and my usual size (12), and ended up sticking with my usual one. I think this was a good decision. While I have to tighten the upper almost all the way and use a runner's knot, the lockdown is good and my toes have room to splay. The grip and ride are unreal. I did a 20 mile 7k run on rugged Adirondack trails this past weekend, and they performed phenomenally well. Rock, mud, dirt, slick moss, even 2 road miles - and they devoured it all. I'll be racing a 50k in them in VT later this month. I'm sold.

[@ConversationalPace]

Yeah perhaps that would have been a better call for me as well to just go for my normal size and have tons of room in the front. I really wished this shoe worked out for me as the ride and grip were insane!

[@winter46ercmart]

@@ConversationalPace I was back and forth with the sizes as they definitely run big - such a tough call!

[@javieriglesias6556]

Great reviews on this shoe It's really good to hear both your differing experiences. I would be interested to if your feet shape play a part if the challenges with the upper lockdown. For example does one of you have wider/narrower feet and/or high vs lower arches? I struggled with the upper on the Vaporfly 2 and think in part it was to do with having high arched feet.

[@ConversationalPace]

I (Brett) have a slightly lower volume and narrower foot (C width), whereas Finn has more of a D-E width foot and a higher volume midfoot. We both have medium height arches, but the biggest difference maker for us regarding our feet (that we're learning) is the overall volume of the midfoot and how well it fills the shoe.

[@AlexIonitaCH]

Great midsole and outsole! I was hoping this will be a do it all shoe for me. Unfortunately I have the same lockdown issue and my toes just get hammered on any descent. Luckily, I love how they look in black and will use them for festivals / travel and potentially some flat trails.

[@ConversationalPace]

Hopefully Tomir 3.0 can fix these upper issues. Then this will be a near perfect shoe!

[@HowardWortonjb71]

Had the 1.0 for over 500km and they look as good as new - Slightly too narrow up front over more than 50k but built so well for the long haul. The ride is very firm, I like that. Had the 2.0 in the boot version for about a month. They are significantly different but not a huge deal ‘better’. Upper is similar with more give. They probably suit heel strikers more than forefoot - I find I scuff them on rocks more than most other shoes. For sure the ride is slightly softer and there is more room in the forefoot. They are a bit comfier overall than the 1s. As the guys say these are tanks that are ready for the very long haul over the toughest terrain - They’ll do for me at Ouray 100 next month 🦄🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿😸👍

[@ConversationalPace]

Definitely will need a trail tank for Ouray! Good luck!!!

[@ItsTylerWing]

I had a similar experience as Brett. No matter how tight I tightened the laces my feet still slammed into the front of the shoes. Also had a lot of lace bite because of it. Outsole and midsole were amazing. Fit was all wrong for my foot. Felt really unstable. Hurt eating $170.

[@ConversationalPace]

Yeah it was such a bummer! I'm just going to have to wear like 5 pairs of socks to create some cushion for my toes 😭

[@0eMeF0]

Same here. I have to tie it to a point where I feel it may impact the blood circulation which is really not a great solutions. It is sad because otherwise it is a great shoe.

[@ConversationalPace]

Yeah such a bummer! Shoe would be amazing otherwise!

[@alexphillips4472]

I wonder how they cope with dog bites? definitely want to give it a try! and another great review thanks gents. Trail tank is a great name we all need one!

[@ConversationalPace]

Hope you don't have to figure that one out!🤣

[@harmslijper]

I changed the laces to more elastic ones, that also felt better

[@DSRenner]

Not sure how feasible this would be but I'd love to see how your feet are shaped, so I can compare width and fit. Our local shop has a Volumental scan that shows all the fit elements and shape of the foot. I have duck feet, normal heel, then they get wider and only a minute taper with all my toes basically in line. I need toe box in my shoes. If you could compare how your feet are shaped, even simply a photo of your foot (socks on) on the shoes liner to share on the video so we can get a better idea of how your feet fit the shoes your testing that could be really cool.

[@ConversationalPace]

Yeah It would be more helpful to have more info about our foot shapes other than Brett being slightly narrow and Finn being medium width and higher volume. We'll look into how we can better incorporate!

[@LifeInTheLongRun]

Same here I have duck feet would be useful if you could give more info on the volume of a shoe and width in forefoot and midfoot 👍

[@expatadventureturkey9324]

Sounds like a great through hike trail shoe for the PCT? “Tank” Due to durability and grip with midsole comfort for everyday use over many miles. Along with the upper weave being tight helps keep loose sand out, which may feel hot as a result of the tight upper.

[@ConversationalPace]

I think this would be an awesome PCT shoe. While the weave is tight, it's still going to breathe better than nearly all hiking shoe uppers. Where there will be some warm days in it, It's probably worth it for the durability and extra protection. Outsole would last a ton of miles as well!

[@misterlovenoodle]

Very good analysis guys, thanks. Tomir 2 vs Norda 001 without considering the price tag ? What about the Merrell agility peak 5 ?

[@ConversationalPace]

Without considering price, Brett would go with the Norda and Finn would go with the Nnormal. It really all comes down to upper fit for that decision. Merrell AP5 is a little narrower fit than both shoes and feels closer to a max stack shoe, almost like a Hoka Speedgoat

[@harmslijper]

If you have upper problems with your low volume foot, try a thicker insole. That should solve it.

[@ConversationalPace]

I'll try both the thicker insole and better laces. Thanks for the tip!

[@tookta1140]

Thank you for your review. I just bought Tomir 2.0 (1 size up) I’m very happy the way up-hill but the way down-hill It hurts my toes so bad😢 even I wear trail socks. Any suggestions please let me know 🙏🏽

[@ConversationalPace]

Similar problem to me as well. Some other comments have suggested trying a thicker insole to take up some room in the shoe to provide a better fit.

[@stewartliesnham6417]

I have the same experience with the Tomir 2.0 with the toe bumping. I can bomb steep downhills and not think about my toes in the Kjerag but in the (same size) Tomir 2.0 I was just having to go slow to protect my toes - despite having plenty of space between the end of my toes and the end of the shoe. Otherwise I do like them although they do take a few runs to bed in, they just won't be coming on any runs with steep descents which is a bit disappointing as I'm not sure how far I'd want to run in the Kjerag's.

[@ConversationalPace]

Yeah such a bummer it didn't have the same lockdown as the Kjerag. Hopefully they have it figured out for Tomir 3.0

[@mattheweast5537]

Debating between this and the Tomir 2.0 after my SG's have worn out. Suprised how similar they are with the foam from the Kjerag.

[@ConversationalPace]

This shoe is getting closer to being a thick Kjerag, which I'm absolutely all for!

[@alredalred]

I just got a pair because Backcountry had them on sale for $130. Haven't run in them but they feel like the run long and I am not sold on the laces going into the inside of the foot.

[@ConversationalPace]

Yeah very interesting decision for Nnormal for sure, but for $40 off, definitely worth a try!

[@TrailRunnerReviews]

Kjerag upper with Tomir midsole /outsole all-the-way. 💯

[@ConversationalPace]

The dream do everything shoe!

[@TrailRunnerReviews]

Yes, agreed. That Kjerag is one of my fav of all time…just needed about 5mm more foam across the board, I would just literally buy this shoe over and over and over again. I’d trade a little bit of weight to get a little bit more foam as everything else on the Kjerag is perfect.

[@AlexIonitaCH]

You can swap the outsole on the Kjerag at a cobbler that works with Vibram. Funny enough, you can even see pictures of that in the resole section on the Nnormal website.

[@zacclowes4999]

@@TrailRunnerReviews tried the prodigio? or the VJ maxx 2?

[@TrailRunnerReviews]

@@zacclowes4999love the Prodigio!

[@adramalech707]

I have 145 miles in my pair with all different sort of terrain. I have also went half size down, but the shoe just has been dealing with the upper security misfit that others have mentioned when going downhill. Crowding the toes sliding forward, toebox folding down on the forefoot and the top ankle lace bite from tightening down the shoe with runners knot. I ran some very long runs in max cushioned drymax and thin darn tough and, just as you stated Brett, max cushioned socks felt it just made the crowding toes sooner, perhaps it protects the toes more. Super disappointed! I really wanted this shoe to work. Besides the downhill, everything else is amazing with the shoe. The midsole and outsole are amazing the fit of the width is accommodating, but the lack of secure upper fit makes this shoe not great for me. Synching them down to the point of causing other issues isn't a great alternative. I was going to use this shoe at my next 100 mile race, but I pivoted to the nike zegama 2.

[@ConversationalPace]

Yeah we definitely had about the same experience and I also much prefer the Zegama 2. Hopefully Tomir 3.0 gets an upper redesign!

[@Lag10]

I got to demo these on a flat group run and they felt awesome so I shelled out the money for a pair. On my first proper trail run they felt great going uphill but I couldn’t keep my foot from sliding forward on the downhill even thought it felt tied tight and secure. Wondering if maybe a thicker insole would help? As a sizing reference, I’m a 10.5 regularly and the 10 felt too tight in the toe box at the demo, 10.5 has the right amount of room but may be slightly long. Makes it even more confusing how I still find my way to from the of toe box.

[@ConversationalPace]

One of the comments here said that a thicker insole helped them out with the lockdown issues, so definitely could be worth trying out! 👍

[@simonkavan4996]

Thank you for the review. I am thinking about going for the Tomir or the Genesis. Do you think the Genesis would be comfortable enough even for hiking? I am a very slow runner and I am looking for a shoe that I can both run and hike in (like all day hikes), so if you have any other suggestions, I would love to hear them. I have to say from my experience with Salomon shoes and the Kjerag, I think I prefer the fit of the quicklace.

[@ConversationalPace]

The Genesis (especially the non s/lab version) is definitely very hike friendly! The Tomir has more width and volume, in the midfoot and forefoot, but if that isn't an issue with you for other Salomon shoes, then the Genesis would be a great hike shoe.

[@simonkavan4996]

@@ConversationalPace Cheers, thanks a lot!

[@berry5954]

I just received them, US size 9. For the first time in at least 2 years and 25 pairs of shoes I have to size up 1/2. Asics, Brooks, Speedland, NB, Hoka etc etc.. all are size 9. I checked the box multiple times in disbelief, it is UK 8.5, US 9, EU 42 2/3.

[@ConversationalPace]

Intersting! You so you went larger than your regular size?

[@berry5954]

​@@ConversationalPace I didnt even dare walking around inthem in the house because they are so small. My Calera 7 I could have bought 1/2 larger for the rest I am a 100% US 9 /42 2/3 in ALL my shoes. (over 20 current pairs) I cant believe you needed to size smaller.. Am worried about the creasing of the upper in the forefoot. That felt, uncomfortable, but this could be an awesome shoe for hiking to trail running when travelling and I don't have 10 pairs to choose from.. A can do all shoe..

[@ConversationalPace]

That's so weird, it almost sounds like you have a sizing defect or something as you're the first person I've heard from that went down a half size. Most were a half size down, and a few were true to size.

[@berry5954]

​@@ConversationalPace I took them out of the resealed box again. label on the shoe is correct 42 2/3, size 9. My large toe hets the shoe on the inside and almost at the top. these are by far the smallest shoes I have in width and in length. The only thing I can think of is that they are large in the US and runner smaller for Europe. Aka different production batches, or NNormal changed course after hearing the feedback in and labelled new batches half a site down. I have the pink ones.

[@berry5954]

@@ConversationalPace kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIS3i6p8id2qerc Seems to have the same issue: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIS3i6p8id2qercsi=BKwN-lhlPzc3_mBA&t=574

[@Lag10]

I know the boomerang and Saucony pb insole adds some thickness but does anyone have a recommendation on an orthotic that would take up similar space but also provide some arch support?

[@ConversationalPace]

The Superfeet Run Cushion model is a fairly high volume insole that has an actual arch under the layer of cushion

[@berry5954]

The moment i receive the update that the shoe is out for delivery, I get the update that the review is out. I want a shoe when I travel that can bring with me for long hikes, and technical running. Let's see.. usually Brett's feedback is spot on for me.. Topo Traverse anyone?

[@ConversationalPace]

The Traverse is definitely an interesting shoe being thru hike specific! I wonder how much firmer it is than something like their Pursuit.

[@berry5954]

@@ConversationalPace Going for the Merrel Agility Peak 5. Seems to be a can do all shoe. Will try the genesis S/lab as well, but size up 1/2.

[@coryedwards8276]

I have 9.0 Kerag and love the shoe. I want to try Tomir 2.0. I’m a 9.5 in Hoka. Tomir 2.0 in size 9 or 9.5? I love Kerag but need something for longer distances

[@ConversationalPace]

I have the same size Tomir and Kjerag and while the sizing works for both, my Kjerag probably feels a hair longer and narrower. So if you have room in your Kjerag, a 9 Tomir would likely work well, but if your Kjerag is a little snug, the 9.5 in the Tomir would probably be the way to go

[@niclaskullgard9946]

I’ve run in the Tomir 2 for about 80 Miles and really agree about the fantastic mid-and outsole. I have a problem to get a good lockdown especially when running in steep downhills. I also run in the HOKA mafatee speed 4 and in that shoe I got a much better lockdown but not the 5 star midsole. How would you compare the two shoes? Does the profly midsole last for a 100 miles race like Val D’Aran VDA?

[@ConversationalPace]

I'd have no hesitations running in the Mafate for a mountainous 100 miler. Especially when it comes to the fit. Lockdown was just not reliable enough for me (Brett) in the Tomir to consider racing in it.

[@niclaskullgard9946]

Thanks for the answer and for your fantastic program. It’s just awesome conversations to listen to and always great reviews and other topics!

[@ConversationalPace]

Much appreciated! Glad you enjoy!

[@chzlmls]

Surprised how great this shoe was in the Sierra. Wish they drained a little better, though. And I'm not confident these will be comfortable in the middle of summer.

[@ConversationalPace]

The mega durable upper does definitely have the sacrifice of breathability and drainage. It would probably do a nice job of keeping fine dust and dirt out though!

[@HoldenDent]

Very curious which Feetures sock you wore to help with lockdown!

[@ConversationalPace]

I'll double check with Finn, but I'm pretty sure it's the Feetures elite mini crew 👍

[@HoldenDent]

@@ConversationalPace thanks! i’m also having the issue where my foot will move forward but maybe the right sock can help.

[@ilink109]

This is a question totally unrelated to the video, but I noticed that Brett has run the SOB 100k (I think 100k, maybe it was the 50k?) and was hoping to get a shoe recommendation. I love running on non-technical and not-that-steep (rarely >15-20% grade) terrain here in the CA bay area in Saucony Endorphin Speeds. I was wondering if the terrain out on the SOB 50k course is similarly mellow enough to not require a trail shoe. Thanks!

[@ConversationalPace]

Pretty much the entire SOB course is buttery smooth! The only part that has a bit of technicality is the Split Rock section that's around mile 25ish. There are some steep bits, but it isn't technical. I have done the SOB 50 mile and 100k and actually wore road shoes both times. Adidas Boston 6 for the 50 mile and Nike Pegasus Turbo for the 100k. You can really get away with whatever you are most comfortable in and has good enough lock down on steeper descents 👍

[@ilink109]

@@ConversationalPace Thanks!

[@airbromez]

How does this compare to the Caldera 7 or the Zegama 2? I’ve been considering these 3 for my upcoming 100 miler in August

[@ConversationalPace]

This Tomir is lower to the ground and more burly feeling than the Caldera or Zegama. Caldera and Zegama have more plush cushioning. This Tomir would likely handle bigger mountains and more technical terrain better. Hope this helps!

[@airbromez]

Thank you 🙏🏻

[@jlore6344]

I have more than 700 miles on another brand of trail shoes right now ($60 on sale), and the uppers now have three patches and are failing in another spot or two now. But there is still a little tread so I keep runnin in them. These 2.0s look waaaaaaaayyyy more durable. I would love to try em. But $$$$$ :(

[@ConversationalPace]

The Nnormal Tomir 1.0 is on sale for quite a deep discount and still retains many of the great qualities of this shoe.

[@jlore6344]

Thanks, that’s a great idea. I’ll definitely take a look.

[@lolykebrtwv]

Whats the benefit of having such a high drop (8mm) in a trail shoe?

[@ConversationalPace]

For some, it's going to be more comfortable to climb in and run on flats in. The higher drop does allow the heel to touch the ground at slightly steeper inclines than a lower drop shoe. The opposite effect happens though on descents. I'm sure it was largely personal preference and feedback driven from Nnormal athletes during development.

[@matthewmyers7826]

These look like some non-slip shoes I had to buy for my brief stent working at Chili's

[@ConversationalPace]

hahaha they do have a bit of an industry look to them!

[@jeremygreenwood2668]

Based on this review I'd wager that the Asics Trabuco Max 2 is still a better shoe.

[@ConversationalPace]

For Brett, yes. For Finn, he would lean towards this Tomir

[@gothicgorey]

One day nnormal will get close to the perfect shoe. If they carry on.

[@ConversationalPace]

I believe they'll nail it!