Nnormal Tomir Review (2024): Is This Trail All-Arounder for You?
Our Verdict
A super solid and grippy all-arounder that lacks panache.
Don’t have time to read the full review? Here’s what you need to know.
For all the Kilian Jornet fans looking for a speedy, fun trail shoe, the Tomir won’t be the answer. If anything, this second pair of shoes in the Nnormal (1) lineup is the opposite of what we’ve come to associate with one of the greatest trail runners of all time – solid and, dare I say it, a little boring. However, reliable all-weather, all-terrain running shoes often feel like that since they’re not meant to wow or for racing.
The Nnormal Tomir trail running shoes are billed as made for “every runner, every level” to provide durable comfort off-road. With an 8 mm drop, super sturdy 5 mm lugs on a Vibram Megagrip Litebase outsole, and a moderately cushioned EVA foam midsole, they deliver just that and nothing more. The ride falls flat, but you know it will never let you down.
Beginners and those looking for a good-value all-arounder will appreciate the solid, no-nonsense feel of these shoes. They also have some interesting aesthetic features, such as the diagonal lacing system reminiscent of mountain biking shoes and the nice map contour design on the upper.
Wider through the forefoot than you’d expect from Kilian (2), the Tomir puts versatility and durability first. Nnormal markets it as good for anything from hiking to running. There’s also a waterproof version for those looking to boost weather protection. In short, it’s a straightforward shoe that can replace your walking boots and take you through an ultra. But it’s not a model most folks would get excited about.
Please read our full review of the Nnormal Tomir for more information.
PROS
- Great durability
- Lighter, more efficient Vibram outsole
- Extremely good grip
- Spare laces to mix and match
- High quality materials
CONS
- Uninspiring ride
- Rigid feel
- Lack of energy return
- Asymmetrical lacing not that great for foot lockdown
Introduction
Like every trail runner in the world, I’ve always held Spanish (Catalan) Kilian Jornet in extremely high regard for his unbelievable exploits and performance in the sport. So, understandably, I had high expectations from his shoe design work when he launched the Nnormal brand in collaboration with Mallorca-based Camper footwear company.
The Kjerag (the other shoe in the brand’s collection) is exactly what we expected from him after his close collaboration with Salomon in producing the S/LAB range while he was sponsored by them.
However, in an effort not to be a one-trick pony, Nnormal created something entirely different in the Tomir. This hiking/running hybrid shoe focuses on support and durability rather than races and speed. Also, the versatility of these trail shoes embodies the low-waste, “Leave no trace” motto of the brand. Indeed, the Tomir aims to last and take you through most outdoor activities beyond just running.
After testing these shoes on all types of trails and a little road for a few weeks, I can vouch for their durability and provide important insights into the trail running experience they provide. Read on to find out more!
Grip
I run on mostly hard-packed trails and rocks, but I took advantage of winter weather to also wear the Tomir on muddy tracks. The grip was just unbeatable. The Vibram Megagrip Litebase outsole adheres to all types of terrain. It’s a premium rubber compound, so you know Nnormal wasn’t messing around on this front.
I’m unsure whether the 5 mm lug depth and super sticky outsole are necessary for an “all-around” type of shoe. However, the high quality of the material will certainly make the Tomir very durable, which is part of its mission.
Unfortunately, I found these shoes to be a little too firm across pointy rocks and roots. I would have preferred a little more flexibility. However, this improved over time as the shoes were more worn in, so it may just be a matter of time.
Terrains
In dry or wet conditions, the Tomir’s outsole sticks to the ground and gives a sense of stability almost unmatched in other trail shoes. The 33 individually spaced lugs feel oversized, but they are excellent in mud, wet grass, gravel, and mossy rocks. Whereas Salomon (Kilian’s previous sponsor) still struggles with wet rock adherence, Nnormal’s outsole excels in all conditions.
Cushioning
The Nnormal Tomir is a no-nonsense shoe for all types of running. You won’t find carbon plates or dual foam technology here – just a simple proprietary EVA foam that provides some cushioning, although it stays on the firm side.
Everything in moderation: the 31 mm stack height under the heel comes down to 23 mm under the toes. This gives a pretty standard 8-mm drop. This configuration makes the shoe accessible, stable, and relatively comfortable.
Because the foam density in Tomir’s midsole is quite high, it doesn’t feel as soft on the landing as the stack size would suggest at first glance. Again, this is something you get used to after breaking in the shoes over 30-40 miles / 48-64 km. The decision to opt for a firmer, denser foam also comes down to durability. Indeed, the foam will likely last longer than on bouncier models with softer materials. However, the result is that there’s not much rebound.
Despite the positive experience of stability and foot protection, the Tomir’s EVA midsole doesn’t feel all that fun or bouncy. There’s little energy return and the sole is quite stiff and straight, without a rocker to push you forward.
Additionally, since they’re designed for both running and hiking, the stiffer EVA midsole and sturdy outsole give the Tomirs a very good sense of protection from obstacles underfoot.
Finally, when it comes to weight, the Tomir feels bulky but doesn’t weigh a runner down. It’s a unisex shoe, and the EU size 40 comes in at 236 g/8.3 oz, which puts it in a “standard” bracket.
Foot Lockdown
Various reviews have praised the Tomir’s asymmetrical lacing. It’s meant to reduce pressure points on the foot and, therefore, make the shoes more comfortable and less likely to hurt over long distances. It’s also a cool style choice. However, I found the laces difficult to lock down properly. I even had to stop to adjust them mid-run a few times, which can become quite frustrating.
The upper is made from monofilament polyester and TPE and sewn into the midsole, both choices for a long-lasting shoe. It’s a breathable yet sturdy combination that will stand the test of time.
It’s worth noting that you could buy specific waterproof versions of the Tomir. There’s even a high-ankle version akin to lightweight hiking boots. However, they could potentially feel less breathable, even though most reviews found the Sympatex waterproof membrane to be thin and light.
The Tomir also features a semi-gusseted tongue and a decent level of padding around the ankle. However, the heel can lift out easily on steeper runs, so I wish there were additional eyelets on the upper for better lockdown.
Fit and sizing
In another minimalist move, the Tomir is unisex, with no separate men’s and women’s designs. It fits true to size, and there’s a good amount of width through the midfoot. However, the toe box is on the narrow side. Runners with wide feet may need to size up to find it comfortable enough.
Use
With a moderate to stiff level of cushion from its EVA midsole and a very rigid and adhesive tread, the Tomir can hold its own on lots of different terrain, but particularly more technical and wetter ground. Its upper has good abrasion resistance, while the outsole is deliberately made to offer protection from underfoot impact. This makes it excellent for hiking and running training on rooty, rocky, or muddy terrain. It also suggests that these shoes will be very long-lasting.
I found that the Tomir felt a bit awkward on the road, particularly because of the very grippy lugs. However, as soon as we hit gravel or grass, it would become more comfortable.
Given their stiffness and lack of cushioning, I think these shoes perform better on shorter trail runs of up to 3 hours long. They are also better suited for training over racing, and long hikes or trail adventures done in Kilian Jornet’s “fast and light” style. After all, they feel like a combination of hiking boots and trail running shoes.
Value and Sustainability
The Nnormal brand claims to be all about sustainability, with a firm commitment to low or zero waste and durability. Their ethos is that the better quality and more versatile the products we buy are, the fewer we will need.
The Tomir is an excellent example of this. With its sturdy outsole and robust build, it looks durable and feels even more so. Additionally, for $165, it delivers great versatility for outdoor activities. So, if you’re looking to invest in one pair of shoes to rule them all, they could be the answer.
Carbon footprint and animal welfare
There’s a strong message of sustainability from the Nnormal brand in general, with special attention paid to the durability and high quality of the materials they’ve used to create the Tomir. However, it’s worth noting that the shoes are made in China, so there will be some carbon footprint associated with shipping them around the world.
Still, Nnormal also has a strong commitment to achieving carbon neutrality. This is also reflected in how Kilian Jornet conducts his professional athlete life, so logically it’s visible in the brand’s manufacturing and design process.
You can actually see the specific amount of CO2 equivalent kg per item listed here (3), along with where this comes from (only 5% from transport, as it turns out). For footwear, it’s 8.25 kg CO2e per item, which is 41% lower than the average carbon footprint of a pair of running shoes, according to MIT (4).
As far as we know, these shoes are not vegan.
Conclusion
The Tomir delivers pretty good versatility and extreme ruggedness for “every runner” as their website puts it. It’s designed to be your one shoe for most outdoor activities, not for racing but for training, hiking, and enjoying nature.
Despite a slight awkwardness to the ride, in the end, I found them to be a reliable pair of shoes that takes a bit of wearing in but delivers good quality for the price and unbeatable grip on difficult terrain. In short, the Tomir is the perfect choice for environmentally aware runners and those who embrace the minimalist approach to their apparel.
Facts
Technical Specs
| Terrain | Trail |
| Pronation type | Neutral |
| Drop | 8 mm |
| Heel height | 31 mm |
| Forefoot height | 23 mm |
| Lugs | 5 mm |
| Weight (men) | 236 g/8.3 oz |
| Weight (women) | 236 g/8.3 oz |
| Features | Eco-friendly |
| Athletes | The Nnormal Tomir is a robust trail shoe at ease on the most technical paths for hiking and running. |
| Release year | 2023 |
Cushioning
| Softness | Firm |
| Responsiveness | Low |
Technologies
| Outsole | Vibram Megagrip Litebase |
| Midsole | EVA foam |
| Upper | Monofilament polyester, TPE Ripstop |
Use
| Speed | Slow, Moderate |
| Distance | Mid, Long, Ultramarathon |
| Workout | Daily running |
Comparisons
Nnormal Kjerag
The Kjerag, Nnormal’s first shoe, is a lightweight, nimble racer with excellent specifications and a narrow fit. The Tomir, on the other hand, is a sturdier, wider generalist shoe designed to serve people in everyday outdoor activities as well as for trail runs. The bottom line is that they each serve the sustainability agenda of Nnormal – trying to reduce the number of shoes runners buy, creating multi-activity sneakers that last for a long time and are good for the planet.
Ultimately, the Tomir will suit those who prefer a roomier, more stable shoe for their running and those who are tackling tricky terrain. It’s not a fancy super shoe, but it’s excellent value for money and will stand the test of time.
Did you know?
Since 2017, we have analyzed hundreds of trail running shoes, and thousands of runners trust us to find the perfect pair every month!
Discover our selection of the best 2024 trail shoes.
References
Nnormal Official Site (retrieved on 29/01/2024)
https://www.nnormal.com/en_US
Kilian Jornet Instagram (retrieved on 29/01/2024)
https://www.instagram.com/kilianjornet/
Nnormal – Towards Carbon Neutrality (retrieved on 29/01/2024)
https://www.nnormal.com/en_US/content/mission/commitment/carbon-neutral
Footwear’s (carbon) footprint (retrieved on 30/01/2024)
Jennifer Chu, MIT News Office, May 2023
https://news.mit.edu/2013/footwear-carbon-footprint-0522
