Upper

The entire top part of the shoe that wraps around and covers the foot. Made from various materials, including engineered woven fabrics, Matryx, or polyester, depending on the model.

Midsole

The layer between the outsole and the insole/upper. Houses the main cushioning compound (e.g., EExpure, EExpure+, supercritical EVA). Provides shock absorption, energy return, and ride geometry.

Outsole

The bottom rubber layer that contacts the ground. On NNormal shoes, this is a Vibram compound, featuring traction lugs designed for trail grip.

Insole / Footbed

The removable inner layer on which the foot rests. Provides additional cushioning and step-in comfort. Materials include TPU (Tomir/GTX) and ETPU (Cadí).

Strobel

A thin layer sewn or glued to the bottom of the upper, forming the base on which the midsole is attached. NNormal uses an EVA strobel in some models (e.g., Kjerag Brut: 2 mm soft EVA strobel).

Last

The 3D foot-shaped form used to construct a shoe. Determines the overall volume, width, and fit of the finished shoe. NNormal offers different lasts per line (e.g., Cadí uses a wider Kjerag-adapted last with wider toe box).

Tongue

The strip of material on the top of the foot, below the lace opening. NNormal innovations include a one-piece knitted tongue (Kjerag 02) and a neoprene tongue (Kjerag Brut).

Heel Collar

The padded rim at the back top opening of the shoe where the foot enters. Affects step-in comfort and heel retention.

Toe Box

The front section of the shoe that accommodates the toes. Width of the toe box varies by model — Cadí has the widest in the NNormal range.

Toe Cap / TPU Toe Protection

A reinforced protective layer over the toe area. NNormal uses a double TPU layer construction, described as lighter and more durable, offering protection especially when running downhill.

Heel Counter

A rigid or semi-rigid structure at the back of the shoe that cups and stabilizes the heel. Kjerag Brut features an external molded counter as part of its sock collar construction.

Lug

The protruding rubber knobs or teeth on the outsole that grip soft or uneven terrain. Lug height is measured in mm and varies by model (3.5 mm Kjerag 02, 5 mm Tomir 02, 6.5 mm Kjerag Brut, 4 mm Cadí).

Stack Height

The total thickness of material under the foot, measured in mm. Calculated as: Footbed + Strobel + Midsole + Lugs. Reported separately for rearfoot and forefoot (e.g., Tomir 02: 33 mm rear / 25 mm front).

Drop

The height difference between heel stack and forefoot stack (heel-to-toe offset). Expressed in mm. Lower drop promotes a more natural, midfoot strike. NNormal range: 6 mm (Kjerag/Cadí) to 8 mm (Tomir).

Rocker

A curved geometry in the midsole/outsole profile that promotes a smooth rolling motion from heel to toe during the gait cycle. Increased rocker shape is a key upgrade in Kjerag 02 and Tomir 02.

Gusset Tongue

A tongue attached at the sides to the upper, preventing debris from entering the shoe. Referenced in Tomir 02 as part of its anti-slip lace system.

Lining

The interior fabric layer of a shoe. Kjerag 02 features a soft heel lining for improved step-in comfort and long-lasting heel support.

Eyelet / Eyestay

The holes or loops through which the laces pass. Tomir GTX 02 features a straight eyestay construction to work with the GTX invisible fit membrane.

Instep

The top arch area of the foot. Used as a fit measurement point — circumference around the instep affects overall volume and how the shoe hugs the foot.

Ball Girth

The circumference measurement around the widest part of the forefoot (across the metatarsal heads). A key fit dimension — Cadí has the widest ball girth in the NNormal range (+3–4 mm vs Tomir/Kjerag).

Metatarsal

The group of five long bones in the midfoot. 'Ball girth' is measured at the metatarsal heads. Relevant to toe box and forefoot fit.

Bootie / Internal Bootie

A sock-like construction sewn inside the shoe upper that wraps the foot for an improved fit, foothold, and step-in comfort. Used in the Cadí.

Sock Collar Construction

A shoe construction method where the collar is built like a sock opening for lightweight fit and minimalist heel structure. Used in Kjerag Brut.

360 Nylon Stitch

A continuous stitched bond running around the perimeter where the midsole meets the upper. Used in Tomir 02 for added durability, with a channel at the outsole for further protection.

Anti-Slip Laces

Laces with improved grip or surface texture to prevent loosening during activity. Featured in Tomir 02 with a perforated tongue to improve lace hold.

Matryx Jacquard

A high-performance woven upper material developed by Matryx® (Chamatex) using a para-aramid fiber structure. Known for being lightweight, strong, and abrasion-resistant. Used in Kjerag 01.

Matryx EVO 1 Layer / Matryx Light Jacquard

The updated single-layer version of Matryx Jacquard used in Kjerag 02. Described as 3x more breathable than the two-layer version, with improved flexibility and reduced weight while maintaining equivalent durability.

Matryx Micro

A micro-opening woven variant of the Matryx technology used in Kjerag Brut. Features very small perforations ideal for water drainage, making it suited for wet and muddy conditions.

TPEE (Thermoplastic Polyether Ester Elastomer)

The base polymer family used in EExpure/EExpure+ midsole compounds. A thermoplastic elastomer offering high rebound, resilience, and durability — lighter than traditional EVA at performance compression levels.

EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate)

A conventional foam used in midsoles and strobels. Lightweight and cost-effective with moderate cushioning. Used as a strobel layer (2 mm) in Kjerag Brut and as the base for supercritical foam processing.

Supercritical EVA Foam

EVA foam processed using a supercritical fluid (typically CO2) expansion technique. Creates a lightweight, highly cushioned, and responsive foam with improved energy return compared to standard EVA. Used in Tomir 02 and Kjerag Brut midsoles.

ETPU (Expanded Thermoplastic Polyurethane)

An expanded foam bead material used in the Cadí footbed. Offers excellent cushioning durability, extra rebound, and zero water absorption — more resilient than standard EVA over long use.

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)

A versatile polymer used for structural shoe components including toe caps, heel counters, and footbeds. Offers a balance of durability, flexibility, and low weight. Used throughout NNormal footwear.

TPU Foils

Thin TPU film overlays bonded to the upper for structural reinforcement, shape retention, or aesthetic detailing. Kjerag 02 reduces the number of TPU foils from 360 separate pieces to a simplified construction to save weight and materials.

Neoprene

A synthetic rubber fabric used in the Kjerag Brut tongue. Fully hydrophobic (water-repellent), breathable, and provides improved foot hold. Chosen for its performance in wet and cold conditions.

Recycled Polyester (RPET)

Polyester derived from recycled plastic (e.g., PET bottles). Used in NNormal apparel (Rain Jacket, T-shirts, Tanks) and shoe components. Reduces virgin plastic consumption.

Recycled Nylon

Nylon derived from post-consumer or post-industrial waste. Used in Race Shorts (73% recycled nylon) and the Trail Wind Jacket (100% recycled nylon). Offers durability and stretch characteristics.

Merino Wool

A natural fiber from Merino sheep. Naturally temperature-regulating, odor-resistant, and soft against the skin. Used in NNormal's Merino Long Sleeve and Merino Socks.

Elastane / Spandex

A highly elastic synthetic fiber that enables stretch and recovery. Used in apparel such as the Trail Crop Top (25% elastane) and Race Tights (25% spandex) for a form-fitting, flexible garment.

Pertex Revolve

A specific technical fabric by Pertex is used in the Trail Rain Jacket. Designed for breathability and sustainable performance. Listed as 100% recycled polyester.

DWR (Durable Water Repellent)

A chemical finish applied to the outer surface of fabrics to cause water to bead and roll off rather than soak in. Used on the Trail Wind Jacket. Extends waterproofing without the need for a full membrane.

Airmesh

An open-knit mesh fabric with high breathability. Used on the back panel of the Race Vest 5L to keep the wearer cool during high-output activity.

Engineered Woven

A fabric constructed on a programmable loom allowing precise placement of properties (e.g., zones of stretch, reinforcement, ventilation) in a single textile piece. Used in Cadí upper for breathability and durability.

EExpure

NNormal's proprietary midsole foam compound based on a TPEE (thermoplastic polyether ester elastomer). Delivers high energy return and rebound. Used in the original Kjerag and Kjerag Brut (supercritical formulation).

EExpure+

The upgraded version of EExpure used in Kjerag 02. Achieves 35% higher rebound and resilience versus the previous compound, 40% more cushioning durability, and is 12% more resistant to tears and abrasion.

Vibram Megagrip

Vibram's premium outsole rubber compound, known for exceptional grip on both wet and dry surfaces. Used across Tomir and Cadí lines. A benchmark compound in trail running.

Vibram Litebase Megagrip

A lighter version of Vibram Megagrip offering reduced weight while maintaining durability and traction. Used in Kjerag 02, Kjerag Brut, and Tomir 02 outsoles.

GORE-TEX (GTX) Invisible Fit

Gore's waterproof-breathable membrane technology construction method that laminates the membrane directly to the upper fabric for a true fit (no bootie layer). Provides waterproofing, windproofing, and breathability with minimal added weight or bulk. Featured in Tomir GTX 02.

GORE-TEX ePE Membrane

The specific Gore-Tex membrane used in Tomir GTX 02. Made with expanded polyethylene (ePE), it is light, thin, PFAS-free, and has a reduced carbon footprint compared to traditional PTFE-based membranes.

PFAS-Free

Refers to the absence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) — a group of man-made chemicals used in waterproofing treatments that persist in the environment. The ePE membrane in Tomir GTX 02 is PFAS-free.

GTX Invisible Fit Construction

The specific assembly method used for Tomir GTX 02, where the Gore-Tex membrane is integrated without a full internal bootie, resulting in a glove-like fit, high flexibility, quick-drying properties, and total windproofing.

Supercritical Foam Processing

A manufacturing technique in which a gas (often CO2) is dissolved into molten polymer under high pressure, then released to form a fine-cell foam structure. Produces lighter, more cushioned, and more energy-efficient foams than conventional methods.

Last (Fit Context)

Beyond construction, the last determines the fit profile of the shoe. NNormal uses different lasts across its range — Cadí has the widest last (wider toe box and instep), while Kjerag has a more performance-oriented, narrower last.

Instep Circumference

The girth measurement around the top of the foot. Cadí has the biggest instep circumference in the NNormal range (+8–10 mm vs Tomir/Kjerag).

Ball Girth Circumference

The girth measurement at the widest point of the forefoot. Cadí has the widest ball girth (+3–4 mm vs Tomir/Kjerag).

Volume (Shoe)

The overall internal space inside the shoe. Affected by last width, instep height, and toe box dimensions. Women's Cadí has slightly less volume than Men's from size 6.5 UK onward.

Heel Width / Narrower Heel

The width measurement at the heel of the last. Women's version of Cadí from size 6.5 UK features a narrower heel to better accommodate female foot anatomy.

Lower Instep

A last modification for women that reduces the height of the upper across the foot arch. Women's Cadí from size 6.5 UK has a lower instep compared to men's.

Snug Fit

A fit where the shoe closely conforms to the foot without excessive movement or pressure points. The one-piece knitted tongue of Kjerag 02 is designed to wrap the foot with a snug fit.

Step-In Comfort

How comfortable the shoe feels the moment the foot is placed inside — influenced by the heel collar, tongue, lining, and footbed softness.

Foothold

The degree to which the shoe keeps the foot from sliding or shifting internally, especially during lateral movements or descents. Improved by fit, tongue design, lacing, and heel counter.

Body Measurements (Apparel Sizing)

NNormal apparel is sized by body measurements (chest, waist, hip) rather than product measurements. This approach reduces returns by allowing consumers to self-measure and find their correct size directly.

Rebound

The energy returned to the foot after each footstrike — the 'springiness' of the midsole. Higher rebound means more energy returned with each stride, reducing fatigue over long runs.

Resilience

The ability of a foam to return to its original shape after repeated compression without degrading. A resilient midsole maintains its cushioning and rebound properties over many kilometers.

Cushioning Durability

How long a midsole compound maintains its cushioning performance over time and distance before degrading. EExpure+ offers 40% more cushioning durability than EExpure.

Energy Return

The proportion of impact energy given back to the runner as propulsive energy. Related to rebound — higher energy return reduces the effort needed to maintain pace.

Running Economy

The oxygen cost of running at a given pace — a measure of efficiency. Better shoe geometry (e.g., rocker shape, optimal stack) can improve running economy by reducing energy expenditure.

Stack Height

See Shoe Anatomy. In performance terms, a higher stack offers more cushioning and protection for long-distance running; a lower stack provides better ground feel for technical terrain.

Drop (Performance Context)

A lower heel-to-toe drop encourages a more natural, midfoot or forefoot strike pattern. Higher drop can aid heel-strikers and reduce calf/Achilles strain on uphills.

Rocker Geometry

The curved profile of the midsole/outsole that promotes efficient rolling through the gait cycle. Can reduce joint stress and improve forward propulsion.

Lug Depth / Lug Height

The height of the outsole knobs in millimeters. Deeper lugs (e.g., 6.5 mm on Kjerag Brut) provide better grip on soft, muddy terrain. Shallower lugs (3.5 mm on Kjerag 02) are more efficient on hard-packed trails.

Drainage

The ability of a shoe to expel water quickly after immersion. Kjerag Brut is specifically designed for drainage — its Matryx Micro upper features micro openings for rapid water expulsion, and its non-absorbing upper material dries quickly.

Hydrophobic

Water-repelling. Kjerag Brut's neoprene tongue is described as fully hydrophobic, meaning it resists water absorption to maintain a lighter weight in wet conditions.

Waterproof / Waterproofing

A shoe's ability to prevent water from penetrating the upper. Achieved via membranes (e.g., GORE-TEX in Tomir GTX 02) rather than hydrophobic treatments alone.

Breathability

The ability of a shoe or garment to allow water vapor (sweat) to escape. Critical for comfort — Matryx EVO is 3x more breathable than previous two-layer Matryx. GTX ePE membrane also allows high breathability while waterproofing.

Windproofing

A material's resistance to wind penetration. GTX Invisible Fit construction provides total windproofing in the Tomir GTX 02.

Weight (Shoe)

Measured per single shoe at a reference size (usually 7.5 or 8.5 UK). Kjerag 02: 214 g; Kjerag Brut: 230 g; Tomir 02 / GTX 02: 284 g; Cadí: 270 g.

Technical Terrain

Trail running terrain characterized by rocks, roots, steep gradients, and unpredictable footing. Requires shoes with firmer midsoles, lower stack heights, and aggressive outsole patterns. Kjerag is NNormal's benchmark technical terrain shoe.

Rolling / Easy Terrain

Smooth, even, or gently undulating trails. Cadí targets this terrain with maximum cushioning and a wider last for all-day comfort.

Fast Pack

A running style combining speed with the ability to cover rugged, technical terrain efficiently — typically associated with elite or experienced trail runners. Kjerag 02 and Kjerag Brut target this runner profile.

Midpack Runner

A runner in the middle of the competitive field. NNormal positions Tomir 02 for midpack runners on long, technical terrain.

Kjerag

NNormal's flagship racing shoe line. Named after the iconic Norwegian mountain. Designed for speed on technical terrain. Key attributes: lightweight, low stack, high rebound, technical grip. Current models: Kjerag 02, Kjerag Brut.

Kjerag 02

The second generation of NNormal's race shoe. Key upgrades over Kjerag 01: EExpure+ compound, increased rocker and stack (+2.5 mm), one-piece knitted RPET tongue, single-layer Matryx EVO upper, reduced component count.

Kjerag Brut

A terrain-specific variant of the Kjerag line for cold, muddy, and wet conditions. Features Matryx Micro upper for drainage, deeper 6.5 mm lugs, neoprene tongue, and sock collar construction. Inspired by the Mallorcan dish 'Arròs Brut' (dirty rice).

Tomir

NNormal's versatile all-terrain trail shoe. Named after the Tomir mountain in Mallorca. Designed for protection, stability, and comfort on long technical trails. Current models: Tomir 02, Tomir GTX 02.

Tomir 02

Second generation of the Tomir. Key upgrades: supercritical EVA midsole, new midsole geometry with higher rocker, improved stability, 360 nylon stitch at midsole-upper junction, anti-slip laces, wider tongue.

Tomir GTX 02

Waterproof version of Tomir 02 featuring GORE-TEX ePE Invisible Fit membrane. Adds waterproofing, windproofing, and PFAS-free construction while maintaining the flexibility and fit of the non-GTX version.

Cadí

NNormal's maximum cushioning trail shoe. Named after the Serra del Cadí mountain range in Catalonia. Targets easy-to-rolling terrain and longer distances. Features widest last in the range, ETPU footbed, and Vibram Megagrip outsole.

Pertex Revolve

The technical woven fabric used in the Trail Rain Jacket 02. Made from 100% recycled polyester. Provides breathability and packability alongside weather protection.

DWR (Durable Water Repellent)

A surface treatment applied to fabrics causing water to bead off. Used on the Trail Wind Jacket. Not a membrane — still allows breathability but provides a first line of defense against light rain.

Bonded Seams / Bonded Hems

Seams or hems finished with adhesive tape rather than stitching. Eliminates needle holes, creating a more weather-resistant construction and a cleaner aesthetic. Used on the Trail Wind Jacket.

Pack-It-Pocket

A small integrated pocket (often in the hood or a side panel) into which the garment can be stuffed and compacted for storage. Featured on the Trail Wind Jacket hood.

2-Way Zipper

A zipper with two sliders that can be opened from either end. Allows ventilation adjustment — e.g., opening from the hem while keeping the chest closed. Used on the Trail Wind Jacket.

Reflective Branding / 360 Reflective

Logos and graphics made from retroreflective material that bounce light back toward its source at night, increasing the runner's visibility in low-light conditions. Featured on the Race Vest, Run Belt, and Trail Wind Jacket.

Breathable Grid Structure

A woven or knit fabric pattern used in the Race Short 02 that creates air channels, prevents fabric from sticking to skin, and helps regulate temperature.

360 Pocket Waistband

A waistband with elastic storage running around the full circumference (front and back) to carry nutrition (gels), keys, or small items securely without bouncing.

Woven 360 Pocket Waistband

The specific implementation in Race Short 02 — a tight-fitting waistband with 2 flask pockets and 2 gel pockets.

Compression Fit

A garment construction that applies graduated pressure to muscles. Associated with improved proprioception, reduced muscle oscillation, and faster recovery. Referenced in Race Tights and Compression Socks.

Thermoregulation

A material's ability to help maintain a stable body temperature in varying conditions. Merino wool is naturally thermoregulating; compression socks also claim advanced thermoregulation.

Moisture-Wicking

The ability of a fabric to draw perspiration away from the skin and distribute it across a larger surface for faster evaporation. Referenced in the Race Cap.

Laser-Cut Holes

Perforations cut by laser (vs. mechanical punching) for precision and clean edges. Used on the Race Cap side panels to increase airflow and cooling.

Raw Edge Leg Finish

A hem technique where the fabric is not folded or stitched, creating a smooth, flat edge. Used on the Short Tight W to prevent chafing at the thigh.

Pole Loop Attachment

A hardware or elastic loop system on running vests or belts that allows trekking poles to be securely attached when not in use, freeing the hands. Featured on Race Vest 5L and Run Belt.

Bib Attachment

Elastic or hook loops at the front of the Run Belt that hold race number bibs in place without requiring safety pins through the garment.

Flask Pocket

A stretchy pocket sized to hold a soft flask or water bottle. The Race Vest 5L features 2 flask pockets with a durable elastic construction (replacing a mesh panel) for a more secure hold.

Waterproof Pocket

A sealed or laminated pocket that protects contents from rain or splashing. Found on both the Race Vest 5L and Run Belt.

Adjustable Fit System

A system of elastic hems, straps, or cord-locks allowing the garment to be tightened or loosened for different body types or activity levels. Used on the Trail Crop Top 02.

Attached Closure System

The Race Vest 5L's updated closure mechanism where removable loop cords are kept attached to the vest for easy one-handed hooking and unhooking.

Merino Sock

A sock knitted with Merino wool yarn. Naturally odor-resistant, temperature-regulating, and soft. NNormal offers both standard height and low-cut versions.

Race Sock

A performance running sock. NNormal's race socks are described as compression socks with advanced thermoregulation and superior quality, built for long-distance running.

Low Cut / Low-Cut Sock

A sock cut below the ankle, typically at or just above the shoe collar. Offers less coverage but reduced weight and improved ventilation.

B Corp (B Corporation)

A certification awarded by B Lab to companies meeting high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. NNormal is a certified B Corp, committing to use business as a force for good.

1% for the Planet

A global movement and certification where member organizations donate at least 1% of gross annual sales to vetted environmental nonprofits. NNormal is a member.

Kilian Jornet Foundation

A foundation co-founded by Kilian Jornet focused on preserving mountain environments, studying glacier recession, and promoting sustainable practices in outdoor sports.

PFAS-Free

Products free of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a class of synthetic chemicals used widely in waterproofing and non-stick applications that do not break down in the environment ('forever chemicals'). The Gore-Tex ePE membrane is PFAS-free.

Durability-Based Environmental Impact

NNormal's methodology for calculating a product's environmental footprint that divides emissions by distance covered (kg CO2 per 1,000 km) rather than simply reporting manufacturing emissions per pair. This rewards long-lasting products.

Carbon Footprint (per pair)

The total greenhouse gas emissions associated with manufacturing one pair of shoes, expressed in kg of CO2 equivalent. NNormal calculated 7.5 kg CO2 per pair for Kjerag and Tomir, which equates to 5.5 kg CO2 per 1,000 km based on average lifespan data.

Recycled Content

Materials made from post-consumer or post-industrial waste rather than virgin raw materials. NNormal uses recycled polyester (RPET), recycled nylon, and other recycled materials across footwear and apparel.

Overconsumption

The production and purchase of more goods than necessary, driving excess resource use and waste. NNormal's founding philosophy explicitly aims to counter overconsumption by building durable, long-lasting products.

Durability Testing

Structured real-world testing to measure product lifespan. NNormal conducted a durability study with 511 runners to establish the Kjerag's average lifespan (1,350 km), validated by IESE University for Tomir 02 (823 km average).

NNormal

A trail running brand co-founded by Kilian Jornet and Camper. Name derived from Norway (Nor-) and Mallorca (-mal), the two locations where products are designed and tested. Philosophy: authenticity, utility, durability, and environmental respect.

Kilian Jornet

World-renowned mountaineer and trail runner; co-founder of NNormal. Personally tests and validates products (e.g., Tomir GTX 02 in Alpine Connection project; Kjerag Brut).

Alpine Connection Project

A validation project in which Kilian Jornet climbed all 82 four-thousand-meter peaks of the Alps in 19 days using only human power. Used to test Tomir GTX 02 in real alpine conditions.

Your Path, No Trace

NNormal's brand tagline, reflecting the Leave No Trace principle of minimizing environmental impact during outdoor activity.

Franchise Line

A core, continuing shoe model that defines a key segment of the range. NNormal has three franchise lines: Kjerag (speed/technical), Tomir (versatile protection), and Cadí (cushioning/comfort).

Colorway

A specific color combination applied to a product model. NNormal uses nature-inspired color names (Kobber, Mares, Vermut, Albergini, Knust, Nespre) drawn from a seasonal Mallorca/Norway color story.

CO (Carryover)

Indicates a product or colorway being carried over from a previous season without changes. Marked 'CO' in collection overviews.

B2B

Business-to-business refers to products or communication aimed at trade buyers (e.g., retailers, distributors) rather than end consumers.

Selected Fashion Distribution

A distribution channel designation indicating certain colorways are sold exclusively through fashion/lifestyle retail partners rather than core outdoor retail.