Hardwired for trail running – ultralight, compact, comfortable on the move – the Norvan protects when you need it and packs small when you don’t. Its 13d GORE-TEX fabric delivers complete waterproof, windproof protection, the C-KNIT backer elevates breathability, and a low-profile hood adds coverage. An embedded RECCO reflector can aid in backcountry search situations, and the minimalist design, lightweight materials, and advanced construction techniques help shave every gram possible.
Hardwired for trail running – ultralight, compact, comfortable on the move – the Norvan protects when you need it and packs small when you don’t. Its 13d GORE-TEX fabric delivers complete waterproof, windproof protection, the C-KNIT backer elevates breathability, and a low-profile hood adds coverage. An embedded RECCO reflector can aid in backcountry search situations, and the minimalist design, lightweight materials, and advanced construction techniques help shave every gram possible.
in 3 offers
The lowest price for Arcteryx Norvan Shell Jacket GTX (Men's) Vitality/ Black Sapphire / M right now is $446.25.
Prices last updated 29 Nov 2025.
Arcteryx Norvan Shell Jacket GTX (Men's) Vitality/ Black Sapphire / M
Hardwired for trail running – ultralight, compact, comfortable on the move – the Norvan protects when you need it and packs small when you don’t. Its 13d GORE-TEX fabric delivers complete waterproof, windproof protection, the C-KNIT backer elevates breathability, and a low-profile hood adds coverage. An embedded RECCO reflector can aid in backcountry search situations, and the minimalist design, lightweight materials, and advanced construction techniques help shave every gram possible.
Hardwired for trail running – ultralight, compact, comfortable on the move – the Norvan protects when you need it and packs small when you don’t. Its 13d GORE-TEX fabric delivers complete waterproof, windproof protection, the C-KNIT backer elevates breathability, and a low-profile hood adds coverage. An embedded RECCO reflector can aid in backcountry search situations, and the minimalist design, lightweight materials, and advanced construction techniques help shave every gram possible.
Last updated at 29/11/2025 23:16:48
originally posted on arcteryx.com
Terrible quality as moisture penetrates the neck area after a couple of long runs in the rain when the jacket was only 1 year old. I care for the jacket as recommended as the rest of the jacket is like new. No washing can remove darken area. It's simply getting worse after each outing in the wet. I am very disappointed in the quality of the jacket; otherwise it's very packable, comfortable to wear and my goto jacket for long alpine hikes and runs.
originally posted on REI
This jacket is a wow item!Use: This is an excellent jacket for backpacking and climbing where every ounce matters, excellent for running in mixed weather conditions, and usable for casual everyday activities where you don’t want to carry a lot of bulk.I’d suggest the black colorway for casual use, but the Sprint / Graphite colorway (essentially a nice variation of bright yellow) is perfect for outdoors use and mixed lighting scenarios (road running where you want good visibility or remote wilderness).Fit: I am 5’10” 210lbs, large chest, wearing a size Large, I would consider the jacket body to be fitted, with plenty of arm space for high movement activities. The arm length is perfect, not too short, not too long, and able to support running or activities where ... MoreThis jacket is a wow item!Use: This is an excellent jacket for backpacking and climbing where every ounce matters, excellent for running in mixed weather conditions, and usable for casual everyday activities where you don’t want to carry a lot of bulk.I’d suggest the black colorway for casual use, but the Sprint / Graphite colorway (essentially a nice variation of bright yellow) is perfect for outdoors use and mixed lighting scenarios (road running where you want good visibility or remote wilderness).Fit: I am 5’10” 210lbs, large chest, wearing a size Large, I would consider the jacket body to be fitted, with plenty of arm space for high movement activities. The arm length is perfect, not too short, not too long, and able to support running or activities where you have high reach (e.g. climbing) while keeping you dry as possible. I can easily layer the jacket with a nano type down puffy to add additional warmth, and while I am able to fit larger down puffys, the aesthetic look isn’t as great and the jacket looks too tight on me. Given that, I’d still recommend a large, as going up to an XL would be too big, given this jacket should mostly be worn with light layers or no layers if running. I also have a large head and found the hood to be a perfect size for me. The hood is also adjustable (pull cord in the back) and I believe would work perfect for a variety of head sizes.Details: The details on the jacket are top notch and its clearly designed with excellence in mind. Some details of note: ultra-light Gortex fabric with wonderful soft feel on the body, sleeve cuff design is longer on top of wrist but shorter and fitted under to help control moisture, easy to use front zipper, jacket contains a passive RECCO device to help locate you in emergency situations (adding peace of mind), strategically placed reflective strips on the jacket body and arms creating visibility in early morning / late night scenarios.I am generally very gentle on my gear, and the fabric choice seems plenty durable. I would only consider something more durable for heavy bushwhacking or if you expect to be wedging between rocks on a climbing type ascent. You can easily wear a backpack - everything from a school bag, travel bag, or 20-60lb backpacking bag will be no problem.Lack of pockets is the biggest con for me, but I understand given the desire to have an ultralight offering. For someone counting ounces (or grams), this jacket is perfect.I do recommend purchasing this jacket.
originally posted on REI
I used this jacket on a hike/trail run in the Gore Range Wilderness during a typical Colorado summer day that included wind, rain, sun, and everything in between. My first impression is that this is an extremely high quality, durable jacket that weighs like a feather. I was astonished about how I didn't feel it at all in my running pack or tied around my waist when needed - it is by far the best durability for a lightweight jacket.In terms of use, I would consider this a lightweight 'active' jacket. It is not your bombproof rain jacket that you would layer with several pieces like a puffy and fleece. It is perfect for being on the move, short breaks, and staying dry when the weather turns and being breathable. For active pursuits like fast hiking, running, ... MoreI used this jacket on a hike/trail run in the Gore Range Wilderness during a typical Colorado summer day that included wind, rain, sun, and everything in between. My first impression is that this is an extremely high quality, durable jacket that weighs like a feather. I was astonished about how I didn't feel it at all in my running pack or tied around my waist when needed - it is by far the best durability for a lightweight jacket.In terms of use, I would consider this a lightweight 'active' jacket. It is not your bombproof rain jacket that you would layer with several pieces like a puffy and fleece. It is perfect for being on the move, short breaks, and staying dry when the weather turns and being breathable. For active pursuits like fast hiking, running, climbing, biking, etc. it is ideal. For sitting around at camp when it's cold in the rain, maybe not so much. I loved the visibility and feel of the hood. My two downsides are that 1) I wish it had one small pocket for a phone or gels, and 2) I wish the waist had a cinch for when things get really cold/windy.Towards the end of the day it dumped on us and I felt literally none of it - the jacket repels water just as good as my full-size rain jacket. The GORE-TEX is wonderful and it performs that side. well.Overall a great lightweight jacket for active days in the mountains, highly recommend!
| Variant | |
| color | Vitality/ Black Sapphire |
Terrible quality as moisture penetrates the neck area after a couple of long runs in the rain when the jacket was only 1 year old. I care for the jacket as recommended as the rest of the jacket is like new. No washing can remove darken area. It's simply getting worse after each outing in the wet. I am very disappointed in the quality of the jacket; otherwise it's very packable, comfortable to wear and my goto jacket for long alpine hikes and runs.
This jacket is a wow item!Use: This is an excellent jacket for backpacking and climbing where every ounce matters, excellent for running in mixed weather conditions, and usable for casual everyday activities where you don’t want to carry a lot of bulk.I’d suggest the black colorway for casual use, but the Sprint / Graphite colorway (essentially a nice variation of bright yellow) is perfect for outdoors use and mixed lighting scenarios (road running where you want good visibility or remote wilderness).Fit: I am 5’10” 210lbs, large chest, wearing a size Large, I would consider the jacket body to be fitted, with plenty of arm space for high movement activities. The arm length is perfect, not too short, not too long, and able to support running or activities where ... MoreThis jacket is a wow item!Use: This is an excellent jacket for backpacking and climbing where every ounce matters, excellent for running in mixed weather conditions, and usable for casual everyday activities where you don’t want to carry a lot of bulk.I’d suggest the black colorway for casual use, but the Sprint / Graphite colorway (essentially a nice variation of bright yellow) is perfect for outdoors use and mixed lighting scenarios (road running where you want good visibility or remote wilderness).Fit: I am 5’10” 210lbs, large chest, wearing a size Large, I would consider the jacket body to be fitted, with plenty of arm space for high movement activities. The arm length is perfect, not too short, not too long, and able to support running or activities where you have high reach (e.g. climbing) while keeping you dry as possible. I can easily layer the jacket with a nano type down puffy to add additional warmth, and while I am able to fit larger down puffys, the aesthetic look isn’t as great and the jacket looks too tight on me. Given that, I’d still recommend a large, as going up to an XL would be too big, given this jacket should mostly be worn with light layers or no layers if running. I also have a large head and found the hood to be a perfect size for me. The hood is also adjustable (pull cord in the back) and I believe would work perfect for a variety of head sizes.Details: The details on the jacket are top notch and its clearly designed with excellence in mind. Some details of note: ultra-light Gortex fabric with wonderful soft feel on the body, sleeve cuff design is longer on top of wrist but shorter and fitted under to help control moisture, easy to use front zipper, jacket contains a passive RECCO device to help locate you in emergency situations (adding peace of mind), strategically placed reflective strips on the jacket body and arms creating visibility in early morning / late night scenarios.I am generally very gentle on my gear, and the fabric choice seems plenty durable. I would only consider something more durable for heavy bushwhacking or if you expect to be wedging between rocks on a climbing type ascent. You can easily wear a backpack - everything from a school bag, travel bag, or 20-60lb backpacking bag will be no problem.Lack of pockets is the biggest con for me, but I understand given the desire to have an ultralight offering. For someone counting ounces (or grams), this jacket is perfect.I do recommend purchasing this jacket.
I used this jacket on a hike/trail run in the Gore Range Wilderness during a typical Colorado summer day that included wind, rain, sun, and everything in between. My first impression is that this is an extremely high quality, durable jacket that weighs like a feather. I was astonished about how I didn't feel it at all in my running pack or tied around my waist when needed - it is by far the best durability for a lightweight jacket.In terms of use, I would consider this a lightweight 'active' jacket. It is not your bombproof rain jacket that you would layer with several pieces like a puffy and fleece. It is perfect for being on the move, short breaks, and staying dry when the weather turns and being breathable. For active pursuits like fast hiking, running, ... MoreI used this jacket on a hike/trail run in the Gore Range Wilderness during a typical Colorado summer day that included wind, rain, sun, and everything in between. My first impression is that this is an extremely high quality, durable jacket that weighs like a feather. I was astonished about how I didn't feel it at all in my running pack or tied around my waist when needed - it is by far the best durability for a lightweight jacket.In terms of use, I would consider this a lightweight 'active' jacket. It is not your bombproof rain jacket that you would layer with several pieces like a puffy and fleece. It is perfect for being on the move, short breaks, and staying dry when the weather turns and being breathable. For active pursuits like fast hiking, running, climbing, biking, etc. it is ideal. For sitting around at camp when it's cold in the rain, maybe not so much. I loved the visibility and feel of the hood. My two downsides are that 1) I wish it had one small pocket for a phone or gels, and 2) I wish the waist had a cinch for when things get really cold/windy.Towards the end of the day it dumped on us and I felt literally none of it - the jacket repels water just as good as my full-size rain jacket. The GORE-TEX is wonderful and it performs that side. well.Overall a great lightweight jacket for active days in the mountains, highly recommend!
I know this is marketed as a trail running jacket, but I bought it as a light alternative to my Beta AR jacket which has been a champ for 10 years. Took this on a trip to Ireland where you basically need to prepare for a shower 24-7, and it handled a serious downpour with horizontal coastal winds like a champ! But best feature on this is breathablility- you can where this like a light long-sleeve shirt layer even in high 70s temps and it breathes GREAT. I ended wearing most of my trip in Ireland, and never felt like I was wearing a shell. I use it at home in Arizona during monsoon season now if that isn't enough of an endorsement. Can't say that I ran in it, but would recommend on ease of packability, comfort, and water-tight performance. Only thing better would be ... MoreI know this is marketed as a trail running jacket, but I bought it as a light alternative to my Beta AR jacket which has been a champ for 10 years. Took this on a trip to Ireland where you basically need to prepare for a shower 24-7, and it handled a serious downpour with horizontal coastal winds like a champ! But best feature on this is breathablility- you can where this like a light long-sleeve shirt layer even in high 70s temps and it breathes GREAT. I ended wearing most of my trip in Ireland, and never felt like I was wearing a shell. I use it at home in Arizona during monsoon season now if that isn't enough of an endorsement. Can't say that I ran in it, but would recommend on ease of packability, comfort, and water-tight performance. Only thing better would be this jacket with pockets and some sleeve/hood adjustment, but works very well without.
Like most, I love the lightness and waterproofing of this jacket. It is almost exactly what I needed for my morning runs with the dog in the rain. When I mention "Almost" above, it's missing 2 things that would make it perfect for me. A small pocket for a key or card would have been super helpful but not a deal breaker. The thing that bothers me the most is that the hood does not have a draw string to tighten around the face. I run often in the rain and what comes with running? WIND. Wind that pulls the hood off my head constantly when I run or if it's just windy, like it normally is on rainy days. But please don't get me wrong, it's still a good jacket and I think these would be good additions to a revised version.Great Pros: Light, packable, looks good, ... MoreLike most, I love the lightness and waterproofing of this jacket. It is almost exactly what I needed for my morning runs with the dog in the rain. When I mention "Almost" above, it's missing 2 things that would make it perfect for me. A small pocket for a key or card would have been super helpful but not a deal breaker. The thing that bothers me the most is that the hood does not have a draw string to tighten around the face. I run often in the rain and what comes with running? WIND. Wind that pulls the hood off my head constantly when I run or if it's just windy, like it normally is on rainy days. But please don't get me wrong, it's still a good jacket and I think these would be good additions to a revised version.Great Pros: Light, packable, looks good, waterproof.Small Con: Missing a small pocket for a card or key.Bigger Con: Missing a draw string around the hood to keep it on your head.
I expected more from Arcteryx and a trail running jacket. I have several that cost much less, and work much better. I'm a huge Arcteryx fan but the Norvan Shell Jacket misses the mark.It's for trail running and running. A single pocket in back or on the chest? Perhaps zip pockets in the front for before your run when it's chilly out or after the run to put your cold numb fingers and hands into to stay dry out of rain and wind? Nope. Zilch.It's marketed as minimalist. That it is. Functional for a trail runner and a runner. Only if you run in a perfect world and it only rains during your run and stops when you're done. Or if you only run in a city out of your apartment/condo and back.
Go-to piece for many activities so far, whether as a rain layer, wind layer, or a bit of extra warmth without the bulk. Lightweight and super compact to tuck away in a trail running vest, hip pack for fly fishing, or along for the ride in a fast pack for paddling adventures. Great length and also appreciate the cut of the wrists to help keep any water out. No doubt am keen to try ski touring as well given its versatility. Especially on days when whether is a mixed bag, small enough to pack as a no brainer extra.
I purchased this jacket the day before running the Fred Lebow Half-Marathon in late January 2024, when it became unmistakably clear that we were in for off and on steady rain, some wind and temperatures no better than 40 degrees. (Some like these conditions, but I'm not a fan. Memories of the 2018 Boston Marathon swirled in my head.) The performance I was counting on from this jacket likely tipped the half hour or so debate in my head on race morning: get up and race, or go back to bed. The conditions ended up pretty much as advertised, but this jacket kept me comfortably dry enough for the entire race to even run a few minutes better than expected. Given its minimalist, packable design, this will be my rainy/windy run go-to jacket for the foreseeable future. (Even ... MoreI purchased this jacket the day before running the Fred Lebow Half-Marathon in late January 2024, when it became unmistakably clear that we were in for off and on steady rain, some wind and temperatures no better than 40 degrees. (Some like these conditions, but I'm not a fan. Memories of the 2018 Boston Marathon swirled in my head.) The performance I was counting on from this jacket likely tipped the half hour or so debate in my head on race morning: get up and race, or go back to bed. The conditions ended up pretty much as advertised, but this jacket kept me comfortably dry enough for the entire race to even run a few minutes better than expected. Given its minimalist, packable design, this will be my rainy/windy run go-to jacket for the foreseeable future. (Even though it has no pocket.)
I bought this jacket as a shell/outer layer for winter running and Nordic skiing. I’ve tried other Nordic ski jackets from different brands in the past, and weirdly, many of them are soft shells that become very damp if it is snowing. With the Norvan shell, I can ski comfortably without overheating and the GORE-TEX keeps me dry in the snow. I can adjust my layers under this shell to accommodate skiing in a variety of temperatures (-5 to -25C). As for running, this is truly a year round jacket. While I initially thought I’d use it most as an outer layer for late fall/winter running, I’ve ended up wearing it WAY more! It’s a great shell to protect from wind and rain whether I’m on a mountain top or running in the city throughout the spring and summer. l can’t ... MoreI bought this jacket as a shell/outer layer for winter running and Nordic skiing. I’ve tried other Nordic ski jackets from different brands in the past, and weirdly, many of them are soft shells that become very damp if it is snowing. With the Norvan shell, I can ski comfortably without overheating and the GORE-TEX keeps me dry in the snow. I can adjust my layers under this shell to accommodate skiing in a variety of temperatures (-5 to -25C). As for running, this is truly a year round jacket. While I initially thought I’d use it most as an outer layer for late fall/winter running, I’ve ended up wearing it WAY more! It’s a great shell to protect from wind and rain whether I’m on a mountain top or running in the city throughout the spring and summer. l can’t recommend this enough!
this worked for me for just 2 years. as with all arc'teryx shell jackets and pants, can last for years if you only use a few times a year. the seam tape came off, and water poured in through the collar. the jacket stopped working after 2 years, the gore-tex layers separated and re-waterproofing did nothing. it was just an expensive windshell. I took this on the PCT, ended up using a trash bag to stay dry. this worked for super light rain, but only for about 10 minutes.
| Variant | |
| color | Vitality/ Black Sapphire |
