The North Face Men's Arnuva 50 Boa Trail Running Shoe

John - 2009-06-16

Great shoe
It is very comfortable and light. The Boa system works great.

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Debbie Barbarita - 2009-06-11

This is a great shoe
Not only is the shoe great looking. The Boa system on this shoe pulls the strings around your entire foot making it very comfortable and supportive.

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Anonymous - 2009-06-01

excellent running shoes!
these are very comfortable shoes and of course I bought it mainly for th BOA lacing system, and it doesn't disappoint. No more stopping & tying shoes during runs. The shoes are very breathable(I could feel the the air brushing through the top of my feet when I run), and they offer good stability for trail running. I like it so much that I'm also wearing it as my everyday sneakers.

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> Read All 56 Reviews

John - 2009-06-16

Great shoe
It is very comfortable and light. The Boa system works great.

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Debbie Barbarita - 2009-06-11

This is a great shoe
Not only is the shoe great looking. The Boa system on this shoe pulls the strings around your entire foot making it very comfortable and supportive.

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Anonymous - 2009-06-01

excellent running shoes!
these are very comfortable shoes and of course I bought it mainly for th BOA lacing system, and it doesn't disappoint. No more stopping & tying shoes during runs. The shoes are very breathable(I could feel the the air brushing through the top of my feet when I run), and they offer good stability for trail running. I like it so much that I'm also wearing it as my everyday sneakers.

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John Doss - 2009-05-26

This shoes has it all for offroading or on
Great fit. No down side. Durable, confortable, and super trail technology. I love these shoes.

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James White - 2009-04-26

A frequent flyer MUST!!!
If you're a frequent flyer like myself, then you MUST get these shoes. These days when passing through airport security you have to remove your shoes. Quick on and off with those ratchet shoe laces. Then, not to mention the stares you get when putting these bad boys on or off. I bet I've sold a dozen pair of TNF Boa's just at security check-in. And comfortable? Like a previous reviewer, David Blanchard said: "it's like putting a glove on your feet". Great analogy Dave. Then the fantastic customer service from Altrec. What are you waiting for, it's a no-brainer. GET EM!!!

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Cindy - 2008-12-28

Great Shoe!!!
My son only has use of one hand, he has always worn slip-on shoes. These are the first pair of non-slip-on shoes that he can put on himself. He is also very pleased with the quality and styling of the North Face Brand. They fit true to size, and are very comfortable.

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David Blanchard - 2008-11-17

Best Shoes that I have Worn
I really like the feel of these shoes. When you tighten the laces it is like putting a glove on your feet. I ran the OBX Marathon in them without even breaking them in and had no problems at all. They are very easy to adjust on fly. GREAT SHOES.

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John Gianitsis - 2008-09-06

No Tying
I love these sneakers they fit great, they stay tight while running and they are the best pair of running sneakers I have owned in a long time

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Dakkky - 2008-08-27

Great overall shoe! LOVE it!
I've been wearing the Boa 50's for a few months now and simply love it. The traction is superb and the dial technology is unbeatable. I have nearly 50 shoes and I use these the most now. Its a great everyday shoe and I wont hesitate to buy another one. The only problem I have is that I wish I got a half size smaller. All my shoes are 9.5 but they're tennis shoes (Air Jordan's). Since my other shoes are for fashion and collecting purposes I like them to be a bit spacious. I will definitely get a size 9 next time though. Its a tremendous shoe overall. Would recommend it to anyone!

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Mitchell Chan - 2008-08-07

Very comfortable and very light!!!
These shoes are amazing light, I feel like I was wearing a pair of sandals with extra cushioning on my feet. I feel like I am walking on air!! The lacing system was very easy to adjust, just pull it out to loosen up and push it back in and turn the dial to tighten. Sometimes I would just play around with the dial even thought I am not walking or running. GREAT SHOES!!!

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Darwin - 2008-07-08

Awesome shoe
Fell in love with this shoe the moment I put them on. Of course the real test was how they performed. I was thoroughly impressed on the fit, no break in period, unique and easy lacing system. Perfect for trail hiking, running and treadmill training.

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Singletrack Dog - 2008-07-08

Run Steep run Wet--it's all OK.
Excellent traction on steep, loose dirt and gravel. Joined my dog Bodhi for a couple of creek cooldowns on + 105 degree day and was able to just get out and keep running w/out heavy, soggy feet.

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Singletrack Dog - 2008-07-05

A lot of money but worth it.
Light(!)really well-ventilated & cool with the Boa adjusted great fit and excellent cushioning make them a hard-to-beat summer trail shoe. I measure at size 10 1/2 D and the size 11 fits perfectly. They don't have the tough forefoot and toe protection (nor the weight) of my 102's but the weight had to come from somewhere. I've yet to try them on really rocky trails so I'll withhold judgment on rock bruise protection. I have some reservations re the durability of the plastic Boa tightening system. I'm working on an emergency backup should the Boa fail to cinch 10 miles out somewhere.

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kathleen lovanio - 2008-06-14

The North Face: Men's Arnuva 50 Boa Trail Running Shoe
These shoe's are so awesome, one of the most comfortable pairs of running shoes I purchased for my husband and the convenient Boa lacing system is second to none. My grandson, fell in love with them too, so like a nice Grandma, I bought him a pair too.

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Christian Lane - 2008-06-09

A little on the tight side
I WISH I could fit into this shoe. It was super light, very good traction, has all the hallmarks of a great trail runner. The lacing system did feel like it provided a better fit than a conventional system, however, it does feel a little 'dodgy' in terms of longevity. It certainly speeds up on/off transitions! Runs on the slightly small size. I am a 14 all day in ASICS and just couldn't make this one work. Although, I did try another pair of NF trail runners, 104 GTX, and they seemed to fit fine. So perhaps the last in the Arnuva;s runs a little smaller? It certainly has all the right elements for a great X country, Triathlon and trail running shoe.

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Dave Barger - 2008-06-07

OUTSTANDING
This is my second pair of running shoes with the BOA lacing system(I also have a pair of North Face hiking shoes w/the BOA lacing system). These shoes didn't even need breaking in! As soon as I got them I put them on and went for a 10 mile run. The lacing system is great that you can adjust them while 'on the run'. Trying to talk my running partner into buying a pair.

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John Peterson - 2008-05-10

Great Shoe/Great Fit
Size 13 was true for me in length and width. Very comfortable right out of the box. Boa system works well with no loosening to date. Highly recommended from this long distance walker!

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Anonymous - 2008-04-11

Great shoe -- Check your size
This is my second pair of Boa lacing North Face running shoes (got my first pair on a visit a year and a half ago in Steamboat Springs, CO -- birthplace of Boa). The lacing system makes it a breeze to put these shoes on and take them off. One note, I found this model to be sized larger than my previous pair. Had to return the first pair for another 1/2 size smaller. Of course, its also possible the first pair ran small.

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Ben Warner - 2008-04-10

Nice Kicks, run on!
Comfortable, but runs a half size small, keep that in mind. The cons first, this shoe can cause some soreness on the heel, fit is strange back there. It breaks in after a little while tho on the first few runs it made me and some others sore. Still they felt great right out of the box, light weight, I felt like i could keep running forever. Good traction. Boa laces are nice.

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Abbey McDermott - 2008-04-02

Very comfortable with a great lacing system
This shoe was extremely comfortable from Day 1 without needing to be broken in. The lacing system is very flexible and makes adjusting the tightness very easy while running. The traction is very good over varying terrains. The shoe also has good support. I would definitely buy this product again.

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Joe - 2008-03-31

Fantistic Shoe!!
Took this backpacking. 20 miles of brush, bushwhacking,river crossing, bouldering and everything in between. Even fell into a river and hiked 8 miles without changing socks. Ran a mile or two with my pack on. These shoes are incredible, and I'm never going to go hiking without a pair ever, ever again. Really, if you do any backpacking/hiking/trail running, these shoes will blow your mind.

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Anonymous - 2008-03-27

Awesome
My husband has had a stroke and has partial paralysis in his right hand, making lace shoes impossible. North Face's Arnuva 50 Boa Trail Running Shoe with their unique Boa lacing system solves this problem AND makes him more independent!! Thank You

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Jim Adams - 2008-03-16

Great Trail Shoe
Upgraded to these from the North Face Ultra 103 XCR model. Would recommend going 1/2 size larger than normal. These are fantastic shoes, very easy to make minor changes in tightness quickly during racing conditions, I have run two marathons in one pair and they are going strong (normally would have to change out the 103's at this point). Works well with my Polar footpod too, I was initially hesitant to buy them because of the footpod and it's requirement for laces. Would have liked to see provisions for gaitors on them, like the 103's, but there are none. The improved "tenacious" tread pattern grips the terrain well, plenty of support on the base, but you can still feel the terrain under your feet better than with the 103's. I will still probably use both shoes based on the gaitors, but these are awesome shoes. They also work well on the road, but the tread seems to wear more quickly on asphalt and concrete.

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Jim Adams - 2008-03-16

Great Trail Shoe
Upgraded to these from the North Face Ultra 103 XCR model. Would recommend going 1/2 size larger than normal. These are fantastic shoes, very easy to make minor changes in tightness quickly during racing conditions, I have run two marathons in one pair and they are going strong (normally would have to change out the 103's at this point). Works well with my Polar footpod too, I was initially hesitant to buy them because of the footpod and it's requirement for laces. Would have liked to see provisions for gaitors on them, like the 103's, but there are none. The improved "tenacious" tread pattern grips the terrain well, plenty of support on the base, but you can still feel the terrain under your feet better than with the 103's. I will still probably use both shoes based on the gaitors, but these are awesome shoes. They also work well on the road, but the tread seems to wear more quickly on asphalt and concrete.

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Anonymous - 2007-11-04

Light weight, very easy on and off the feet
Once you use the BOA you will not want to use laces again. Excellent cushioning in the footbead.

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Anonymous - 2007-11-04

Light weight, very easy on and off the feet
Once you use the BOA you will not want to use laces again. Excellent cushioning in the footbead.

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Alberto Zahoul - 2007-09-30

Great Experience
The Arnuva its an excelent trail shoe and also can be use in the road! and I recieve it super fast !

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Alberto Zahoul - 2007-09-30

Great Experience
The Arnuva its an excelent trail shoe and also can be use in the road! and I recieve it super fast !

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DAVID P MORROW - 2007-08-27

The Arnava 50 Boa running shoe is the best shoe I have ever worn
I have been running for 23 years and have worn them all. When I found out Dean Karnaes wears these shoes, I had to try them. Not only are they light as a feather, but they are so sturdy, I wonder if they will ever wear out? Since the day I got them, I have jogged, ran, and sprinted in them every singe day. I do not have a single ache or complaint about the shoes - they are awesome! The 'no laces' technology - well - I do not plan on buying another pair of shoes with laces ever again! Thanks North Face! Thanks Dean K.!

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DAVID P MORROW - 2007-08-27

The Arnava 50 Boa running shoe is the best shoe I have ever worn
I have been running for 23 years and have worn them all. When I found out Dean Karnaes wears these shoes, I had to try them. Not only are they light as a feather, but they are so sturdy, I wonder if they will ever wear out? Since the day I got them, I have jogged, ran, and sprinted in them every singe day. I do not have a single ache or complaint about the shoes - they are awesome! The 'no laces' technology - well - I do not plan on buying another pair of shoes with laces ever again! Thanks North Face! Thanks Dean K.!

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Clete Toensing - 2007-07-18

Awesome shoe, can't go wrong!!!!
Got these this last X-mas. I run marathons and approx 30 - 50 a week. Getting ready for a 50K which I will be wearing the Boas. Trail shoe yes, awesome for the road also, only draw back is wear on the road increases due to the soft rubber. They went very well and are truly an awesome shoe. Well worth the money.

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Clete Toensing - 2007-07-18

Awesome shoe, can't go wrong!!!!
Got these this last X-mas. I run marathons and approx 30 - 50 a week. Getting ready for a 50K which I will be wearing the Boas. Trail shoe yes, awesome for the road also, only draw back is wear on the road increases due to the soft rubber. They went very well and are truly an awesome shoe. Well worth the money.

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SYSENGR1 - 2007-06-16

Engineering genius
Whoever North Face paid to design these shoes, they made the right choice. These are definitely the best fitting shoes I've ever owned right out of the box. Received them yesterday afternoon when I returned home from work, went straight to the gym and did some leg strength training. I usually take my shoes off as soon as I get home from the gym, but when my girlfriend arrived home hours later from work, I was still wearing them! I almost wanted to wear them to bed. They're that comfortable! And the BOA lacing system is incredible. I'm totally spoiled now and will never be able to go back to laces again. Great shoes, North Face. And super fast shipping from Altrec. Ordered them on Thursday afternoon via next day ship and they were waiting for me Friday afternoon when I returned home from work. Great service, Altrec.

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SYSENGR1 - 2007-06-16

Engineering genius
Whoever North Face paid to design these shoes, they made the right choice. These are definitely the best fitting shoes I've ever owned right out of the box. Received them yesterday afternoon when I returned home from work, went straight to the gym and did some leg strength training. I usually take my shoes off as soon as I get home from the gym, but when my girlfriend arrived home hours later from work, I was still wearing them! I almost wanted to wear them to bed. They're that comfortable! And the BOA lacing system is incredible. I'm totally spoiled now and will never be able to go back to laces again. Great shoes, North Face. And super fast shipping from Altrec. Ordered them on Thursday afternoon via next day ship and they were waiting for me Friday afternoon when I returned home from work. Great service, Altrec.

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george lukats - 2007-05-19

Great shoe...
I did order my third pair...they are awesome...I do use them for quite a while...when I go to my gym I always get compliments and what is that...no shoelaces...yes indeed and they are very comfy...I do run in in average 50 miles/wk. and they are the best I have...

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george lukats - 2007-05-19

Great shoe...
I did order my third pair...they are awesome...I do use them for quite a while...when I go to my gym I always get compliments and what is that...no shoelaces...yes indeed and they are very comfy...I do run in in average 50 miles/wk. and they are the best I have...

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Anonymous - 2007-05-17

These shoes held up nicely on my first 101 KM...
First, fantastic customer service from Altrec! Very friendly and helpful when I placed my order. I decided on these shoes for my first Ultra-marathon after reading that this was the shoe Dean Karnazes runs in. I must say that, despite being well over $100.00, they are quite a value considering how many miles I have on them already (350+ and still counting). These shoes are very, very comfortable, but there is one thing that I did find a bit annoying. In the forefoot, there is an area where the rubber is much softer than anywhere else (It's red in color) running right up the middle. I noticed a few occasions where I stepped on a rock and felt it through the rubber more than I probably should have. I replaced the insoles with a "Sole" insert and this helped a little bit, but this would be one area I would recommend The North Face take a look at. Other than that, no complaints! Add some good socks and a good insole and these shoes are definite winners!

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Anonymous - 2007-05-17

These shoes held up nicely on my first 101 KM...
First, fantastic customer service from Altrec! Very friendly and helpful when I placed my order. I decided on these shoes for my first Ultra-marathon after reading that this was the shoe Dean Karnazes runs in. I must say that, despite being well over $100.00, they are quite a value considering how many miles I have on them already (350+ and still counting). These shoes are very, very comfortable, but there is one thing that I did find a bit annoying. In the forefoot, there is an area where the rubber is much softer than anywhere else (It's red in color) running right up the middle. I noticed a few occasions where I stepped on a rock and felt it through the rubber more than I probably should have. I replaced the insoles with a "Sole" insert and this helped a little bit, but this would be one area I would recommend The North Face take a look at. Other than that, no complaints! Add some good socks and a good insole and these shoes are definite winners!

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Keith--OU - 2007-03-25

Great Shoe!
I usually have blistering problems, but these shoes are the first I've owned where rubbing and blistering are not an issue. I'm about 300mi into my first pair, and they are still comfortable after 12-15 miles -- and they dry out quick in the rain. Like Greg, I was able to break these in and run on them almost immediately. I couldn't imagine doing anything more than a half-marathon until I got my Arnuva's ... and these guys at Altrec got them to me real, REAL quick.

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Keith--OU - 2007-03-25

Great Shoe!
I usually have blistering problems, but these shoes are the first I've owned where rubbing and blistering are not an issue. I'm about 300mi into my first pair, and they are still comfortable after 12-15 miles -- and they dry out quick in the rain. Like Greg, I was able to break these in and run on them almost immediately. I couldn't imagine doing anything more than a half-marathon until I got my Arnuva's ... and these guys at Altrec got them to me real, REAL quick.

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Frank - NJ - 2007-02-26

Great All Around Shoe
This is my second pair of these. They fit like a glove right out of the box thanks in part to the Boa lacing system. I ran eight miles in a winter nor'easter the first day I got this pair and my feet felt great. I got these because I run on all sorts of terrain: asphalt, concrete, packed dirt and super rocky trails. Though these shoes are a little pricey for my check book, they make up for it for being so versatile, and allowing you to have one pair of shoes to do it all. Some helpful hints on these: They seem to run a little small (I had to get a 10 when I usually wear 9.5). The Boa cable runs behind the ankle, so make sure it's tightened snugly or you can wear a blister. On a down side, I didn't get the 4-500 out of the first pair that I was hoping for. At 340 miles they started showing major wear. I'll keep them around as backup.

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Frank - NJ - 2007-02-26

Great All Around Shoe
This is my second pair of these. They fit like a glove right out of the box thanks in part to the Boa lacing system. I ran eight miles in a winter nor'easter the first day I got this pair and my feet felt great. I got these because I run on all sorts of terrain: asphalt, concrete, packed dirt and super rocky trails. Though these shoes are a little pricey for my check book, they make up for it for being so versatile, and allowing you to have one pair of shoes to do it all. Some helpful hints on these: They seem to run a little small (I had to get a 10 when I usually wear 9.5). The Boa cable runs behind the ankle, so make sure it's tightened snugly or you can wear a blister. On a down side, I didn't get the 4-500 out of the first pair that I was hoping for. At 340 miles they started showing major wear. I'll keep them around as backup.

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Greg--OU - 2007-01-06

Outstanding
Tried this after both marathon and half marathon distances. Same shoes that Karnazes wore in the E50 series. Great for trails and even long mileage on roads. Provides a great combination for stability and cushioning. The boa system is a huge bonus for endurance and the typical adjustments that have to be made. I did find that it is somewhat more snug (for my usual running shoe size) than my previous shoes (Asics). I see that some other runners have ordered even a half size larger than is normally the case. But I have not had problems. Karnazes indicated that he got some 400-500 miles out of the pair. This is about 150-200 miles more than has been the case for my own running history. So I am looking forward to see how these do. No need for me to break these in. Catapulted right out into longer runs.

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Greg--OU - 2007-01-06

Outstanding
Tried this after both marathon and half marathon distances. Same shoes that Karnazes wore in the E50 series. Great for trails and even long mileage on roads. Provides a great combination for stability and cushioning. The boa system is a huge bonus for endurance and the typical adjustments that have to be made. I did find that it is somewhat more snug (for my usual running shoe size) than my previous shoes (Asics). I see that some other runners have ordered even a half size larger than is normally the case. But I have not had problems. Karnazes indicated that he got some 400-500 miles out of the pair. This is about 150-200 miles more than has been the case for my own running history. So I am looking forward to see how these do. No need for me to break these in. Catapulted right out into longer runs.

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Roberto Ayala-Honduras - 2006-11-21

Great Shoe
Prior to using this shoe I was having knee pain I had a different brand of shoes and I am glad I changed. I like the cushioning and motion control of it, besides they look great and lacing system what a change in lacing. It took me a while to find what kind of shoes Dean Karnazes was using but I am glad that I found them. Thanks,

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Roberto Ayala-Honduras - 2006-11-21

Great Shoe
Prior to using this shoe I was having knee pain I had a different brand of shoes and I am glad I changed. I like the cushioning and motion control of it, besides they look great and lacing system what a change in lacing. It took me a while to find what kind of shoes Dean Karnazes was using but I am glad that I found them. Thanks,

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Anonymous - 2009-05-13

great idea
My boys love them but we have had some problems as the twist mechanisms can get damaged with the kind of wear and tear teenagers put them through.

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Mikel Cox - 2008-08-13

like the shoes
I bought a pair three years ago and they last until March of this year. Then the wheel on the back broke off so I got another pair. The wheel broke on that within a month and then another. This is my 3rd pair this year so I am very hopeful that they last a while. Since the first pair lasted so long, I am hopeful I can get more time out of these. Other than that I love the shoes

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Ben - 2007-03-02

nice
I thought I would give the shoes a try since I had read great things about them and I was able to get them for a steep discount. I can wear 13's but I played it safe with a 14 and found that they are bit more snug and stable than my last pair of asics. I made the mistake of wearing them out and running a little longer than expected and received a nice blister. However, they seemed to hold up quite well throughout my run. I am hoping they break in to an even nicer shoe.

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Ben - 2007-03-02

nice
I thought I would give the shoes a try since I had read great things about them and I was able to get them for a steep discount. I can wear 13's but I played it safe with a 14 and found that they are bit more snug and stable than my last pair of asics. I made the mistake of wearing them out and running a little longer than expected and received a nice blister. However, they seemed to hold up quite well throughout my run. I am hoping they break in to an even nicer shoe.

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Root - 2007-01-04

Great trail runner
I found it to be great on grass, dirt etc. I thought it was way too rigid for running on roads. The plastic piece running through the heel area is really hard. The Boa function is really cool, but you have to make sure the tongue is aligned right when you tighten the shoe or it can rub the top of your foot/ankle alot.

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Root - 2007-01-04

Great trail runner
I found it to be great on grass, dirt etc. I thought it was way too rigid for running on roads. The plastic piece running through the heel area is really hard. The Boa function is really cool, but you have to make sure the tongue is aligned right when you tighten the shoe or it can rub the top of your foot/ankle alot.

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Mark Brown - 2007-01-03

Solid shoe, unique design, not for everyone.
I decided to try this shoe because I heard that the running machine called Dean Karnazes was invovled with the design and wears them when he runs. I have only run 15 miles in this shoe, but will voice some comments, just the same. A disclaimer up front: I wear custom made orthodics, so my experience may be skewed. 1) The lacing system is awesome, I hope other shoes go this route. Infortunately, this probably raises the cost. 2) Recommend if you wear a 1/2 size larger in running shoes, you should order the same for this shoe. 3) If you like the "real" feel of the road/trail/rocks then this shoe is for you. If you want more cushion in the forefront, maybe you need to keep looking. My experience with the lack of cushioning may have to do with using my own insole, instead of the one the shoes came with. The shoe breathes and seems pretty well constructed. The toe box has plenty of room, as long as you don't normally wear a "wide" shoe. I have only run about 15 miles on it, but so far am pretty happy with it. Probably should have given this shoe 5 stars, but I am pretty stingy with praise and they cost a little too much to keep a few pairs in the closet.

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Mark Brown - 2007-01-03

Solid shoe, unique design, not for everyone.
I decided to try this shoe because I heard that the running machine called Dean Karnazes was invovled with the design and wears them when he runs. I have only run 15 miles in this shoe, but will voice some comments, just the same. A disclaimer up front: I wear custom made orthodics, so my experience may be skewed. 1) The lacing system is awesome, I hope other shoes go this route. Infortunately, this probably raises the cost. 2) Recommend if you wear a 1/2 size larger in running shoes, you should order the same for this shoe. 3) If you like the "real" feel of the road/trail/rocks then this shoe is for you. If you want more cushion in the forefront, maybe you need to keep looking. My experience with the lack of cushioning may have to do with using my own insole, instead of the one the shoes came with. The shoe breathes and seems pretty well constructed. The toe box has plenty of room, as long as you don't normally wear a "wide" shoe. I have only run about 15 miles on it, but so far am pretty happy with it. Probably should have given this shoe 5 stars, but I am pretty stingy with praise and they cost a little too much to keep a few pairs in the closet.

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Brian R. - 2007-11-22

Great for running...wore out quickly...
I have 150 miles on my Arnuva Boas. I love the lacing system and they are, bar none, the best shoes I've ever run in. But the upper is falling apart. Ripping right through so that my foot (sock) actually shows when I run. I'm now duct taping the shoes to keep them together. I'd love to buy another pair, but 150 miles on a pair of trails shoes isn't nearly enough.

Was this North Face Arnuva 50 Boa Trail Running Shoe Review Helpful? - Yes - No

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Brian R. - 2007-11-22

Great for running...wore out quickly...
I have 150 miles on my Arnuva Boas. I love the lacing system and they are, bar none, the best shoes I've ever run in. But the upper is falling apart. Ripping right through so that my foot (sock) actually shows when I run. I'm now duct taping the shoes to keep them together. I'd love to buy another pair, but 150 miles on a pair of trails shoes isn't nearly enough.

Is this Handy? - Yes - No

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