This New Arc’teryx Shoe Proves the Brand Is Quickly Mastering Technical Mountain Footwear

It’s not enough to go far or even fast. This upcoming Arc’teryx runner can also travel high.

Published February 26, 2025

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Updated February 26, 2025

When it comes to footwear, Arc’teryx wants to be a three-dimensional brand. It’s not enough to go far … or fast. An Arc’teryx shoe must also be capable of traveling high.

“We’re a climbing brand,” said Ovidio Garcia, a vice president of the company’s footwear division, when unveiling two new Arc’teryx shoes debuting this spring.

That much is evident in the brand-new Vertex Speed, which brings a nimble twist to the Vertex Alpine that released as part of Arc’teryx’s first in-house shoe collection just last year.

Made for the mountains

Whereas the Vertex Alpine was billed as a true approach shoe for steep terrain, the Vertex Speed is designed to scale the same mountain faces with velocity.

A dual-density midsole features a firmer forefoot for climbing rocky terrain, while the softened heel brings comfort for flatter traverses that can comfortably transition to the road.

As for the upper and outsole, both bring technical prowess with no extra ounce taken for granted.

The upper utilizes Matryx fabric for a dose of lightweight durability, while laminated TPU overlays bring zonal protection without the weight or bulk.

Further down the shoe, a Vibram Litebase outsole efficiently delivers grip and stability that combines with a unique lug pattern: large lugs in the forefoot for grip and open lugs in the midfoot for traction.

Finally, a built-in knit gaiter acts as a shield against trail debris, without the weight that traditionally comes with a mid- or high-top upper.

That said, a low-top version will also be available for runners who want to shed every ounce possible.

Pricing and availability

The Vertex Speed clocks in at just 8.5 ounces for a men’s size 9.5, and 8.1 ounces for the low-top version.

Both variants will be available for purchase from April 2, starting at $180. An update to the Norvan LD trail running series will precede their release with a drop on March 5 for $170.