Arc'teryx Spring running collection
Photo : Arc'teryx official release
From the game-changing Sylan 2 shoe to the PFAS-free Norvan jacket update — Arc'teryx goes all-in on trail for Spring/Summer 2026
Arc'teryx has spent years building a reputation in climbing harnesses, alpine shells, and technical mountain gear. But Spring 2026 marks a clear statement of intent for the Canadian brand: trail running is no longer a secondary category. With a comprehensive footwear overhaul, a head-to-toe apparel refresh, and sustainability upgrades across the entire Norvan line, Arc'teryx is making its most serious play yet for a spot in every trail runner's kit.
The headline act: Sylan 2 trail shoe
The Sylan 2 is not an incremental update. Arc'teryx has rebuilt the shoe almost entirely from the ground up, bringing it into line with the current super-shoe era that has transformed elite road racing — and is now rapidly changing trail too.
What changed from the original Sylan:
· Supercritical midsole foam The original foam has been replaced with a new supercritical compound — the same class of material found in elite road racers like the Nike Alphafly. A first for Arc'teryx footwear.
· Carbon-fibre composite plate Like the new Nike ACG Ultrafly, the Sylan 2 features a forked, three-quarter-length carbon-fibre composite plate for propulsion and stability on uneven terrain. Another category first for Arc'teryx.
· 20g lighter Arc'teryx shaved 20 grams from the shoe — no small feat in a category where designers obsess over single-digit weight savings — while upgrading nearly every other component simultaneously.
· Redesigned rocker geometry The original Sylan's midfoot rocker was polarising, particularly for overpronators. The Sylan 2 moves the rocker forward into the forefoot for a smoother roll and a more balanced ride across more running styles.
· Revised outsole The outsole has been revised for improved grip and durability across mixed trail conditions.
Colourways & pricing
The Sylan 2 launches in two colourways for both men and women: Graphite/Graphite (understated, classic Arc'teryx) and Mantis — a vivid lime green that will divide opinion but certainly won't get you lost on the trail. Priced at $220, it undercuts the new Nike ACG Ultrafly ($260) while matching it technically almost point for point.
Our take: The Sylan 2 feels like the culmination of years of footwear development at Arc'teryx. The brand has finally closed the gap with rivals who have quietly benefited from Arc'teryx lagging behind in the trail super-shoe race. If the outsole grip holds up to long-term testing, this could be one of the most complete trail shoes of 2026.
Norvan Jacket: a PFAS-free overhaul
Arc'teryx's flagship trail running jacket gets its most significant update in years for Spring 2026, with the brand making good on its commitment to remove PFAS — the controversial 'forever chemicals' used in water-repellent treatments — from its performance running line.
· New GORE-TEX ePE fabric Upgraded to lighter, more durable, PFAS-free 15D GORE-TEX ePE. The new ePE membrane is lighter and thinner than the previous generation while maintaining full waterproof and windproof protection.
· Improved ventilation Added ventilation under the arms to improve breathability at high output — a common criticism of previous Norvan jackets.
· Reflective branding Large reflective branding for low-light visibility — useful for early morning and evening trail sessions.
· Wrist-watch window New cuff construction with wrist-watch window, so you can check your GPS without pushing up the sleeve mid-run.
· Packable pocket The jacket now packs into its own pocket — keeping it ultralight and easy to stash in a running vest.
This PFAS-free transition is part of Arc'teryx's wider sustainability push — FC0-DWR finishes now appear across the Norvan apparel line, and the brand is targeting 80% Fair Trade Certified production across its range.
The full Norvan trail apparel system
Beyond the headline shoe and jacket, Arc'teryx has refreshed its complete Norvan trail running system for Spring 2026. Here's the full picture:
Norvan Short 5" $90 · Men's & Women's
Made from 100% recycled Diem polyester, the Norvan 5" is Arc'teryx's go-to short for longer trail days. Lightweight and stretchy with a DWR finish to shed light rain, a secure bounce-free back pocket for gels, and a comfortable waistband designed for extended running. Produced at a Fair Trade Certified facility.
Norvan Liner Short 7" $100 · Men's
Built to fight odours, wick sweat, and provide comfort over big mileage. Lightweight ripstop fabric, moisture-wicking mesh briefs, and low-profile seam construction to reduce chafe. The 7" cut suits runners who prefer more coverage on technical terrain.
Norvan Pant N/A · Men's & Women's — New for SS26
A new addition for Spring 2026: a lightweight, stretchy, packable running pant made from Arc'teryx's Fortius Air 50 nylon. Designed specifically for long trail runs in unpredictable weather — ideal for Nordic conditions where temperatures can shift quickly. A direct response to demand from runners who wanted a full-leg option that didn't compromise on weight or packability.
Taema Crew Neck Shirt SS $70 · Women's
A slim-fit technical tee with articulated patterning and gusseted underarms for unrestricted movement. Marrow-stitched seams reduce chafe. FC0-DWR treated to repel light moisture without compromising breathability. Available in black, white, and a blue colourway, sizes XXS–XXL.
Calidum 5 Panel Cap $70 · New for SS26
A functional cap with enhanced breathability for summer running, but designed with a clean enough aesthetic to wear beyond the trail. Part of the broader Spring Rising arrivals lineup.
The sustainability angle
Arc'teryx's Spring 2026 running collection is arguably its most sustainable to date. Several themes run through the entire lineup:
· PFAS-free: PFAS-free FC0-DWR treatments across the Norvan apparel line
· Recycled materials: 100% recycled Diem polyester in the Norvan shorts
· Fair Trade: Fair Trade Certified production — Arc'teryx is targeting 80% of all products
· GORE-TEX ePE: GORE-TEX ePE membrane uses recycled content and eliminates intentionally added PFAS
· ReBIRD resale: ReBIRD trade-in programme continues — previous season gear available at near-half price
The verdict
Arc'teryx has long been trusted for outerwear and alpine gear. What Spring 2026 shows is a brand that has done the hard work to earn the same trust in trail running. The Sylan 2 is a genuine leap — not a marketing refresh. The Norvan jacket update addresses real-world complaints while ticking the sustainability boxes that matter to younger runners. And the new Norvan Pant shows Arc'teryx is listening to what trail runners actually want.
At premium price points ($70–$220 across the range), Arc'teryx won't be for everyone. But for runners who invest in gear that lasts — and who want a kit that performs as well at kilometre 80 as it does at kilometre 1 — this collection deserves serious consideration.
All pictures and information is from Arc'teryx.
