In a sea of overtly tactical footwear and outerwear, it’s refreshing to see 5.11 Tactical adopt a more covert look within their line of products. Don’t get me wrong, you can still purchase tactical boots, cargo pants and backpacks laden with Molle webbing at 5.11. But you can also find some sneaky tactical products as well. We’ve reviewed some of these items like the Defender Flex Jeans. Now we’ve found the perfect compliment in footwear, the Norris Sneaker.
Appearing more like an old-school canvas high top, the Norris cleverly hides its true identity. Starting at the bottom is the Vibram Marbrani outsole. At first glance, I didn’t give this sole much thought. Nor did I think it would grip as well as it does. Vibrams use of multiple rubber compounds coupled with a pattern of tiny sipes allow the Norris to keep you sure-footed in wet urban conditions. Additionally, the Norris Sneaker is ASTM certified for puncture resistance. With a super-strong Welmax board that withstands up to 1,200 newtons of force. A perfect option for undercover work or a security contractor trying to maintain a low profile.
5.11 Tactical Norris Sneaker Video Review:
The upper features an Ortholite upper cuff. Moderate padding around the cuff allow all day comfort and great ankle support as well as optimal heel hold. Stylish suede-like material is used on the upper and keeps the look pretty low-key. The use of climbing grade rubber to protect the toe area is more in line with my approach shoes from SCARPA or Mammut. A nice touch if you ever find yourself trying to dig in to a toe hold on a rock ledge. On a more practical note, when I shoot in the prone position, I find myself pushing into the bipod of my rifle with my inner big toe. This were the rubber toe is clutch in preventing premature wear.
The Norris Sneaker handles off pavement use better than expected. As a range shoe, I’ve spent hours hiking up and down a hill in loose sand. The Norris performed well and provided good ankle support in these conditions. Loose stones are no issue as well. Although the suede upper seems to shed light water, I wouldn’t walk through deep puddles expecting to keep my feet dry. It’s not that kind of shoe. Getting in and out of the Norris is more like a work boot due to it’s mid height. Fortunately, 5.11 used a low friction inner material that aids dawning and doffing. Plus the triple stitched nylon heel loop won’t fail when pulling these on.
5.11 Tactical Norris Sneaker Feature Set:
- Vibram® Marbrani outsole with XS Trek
- New full length Ortholite® footbed
- Climbing grade rubber toe protection
- Ortholite® upper cuff for comfort, heel hold & protection
- ASTM certified for puncture resistance
- MSRP $99.99
I’ve been using the Norris Sneaker for a couple of months now and have no major complaints. It’s an urban warrior with a retro stylish appearance. Several friends have complimented the shoes and inquired where to get them. The material used, plentiful stitching and hidden tactical features make the Norris a great choice.
Norris Sneaker Sizing
My only hiccup is not actually the shoes fault. I have a foot that is slightly wider than most standard width footwear. The Norris foot bed is clearly comfortable enough for all day use. But for me, the slight pressure on the widest part of my foot causes a bit of discomfort after a full day. No fault of the manufacture, the sneaker is a great piece of kit, I just wish a wide option was available.
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