I am super impressed by the Norvan line of trail running shoes Arc'teryx has compiled over the past couple of years with something for every kind of trail runner, and the LD's are the perfect shoe for me! The LD is super versatile for both mid and long-distance running, with a balance between being lightweight but also extremely durable. I like how the upper material is all one piece of mesh with laminated bits, this seamless construction proves to be super durable over pretty significant wear and tear. The shoe is breathable and dries fast, and I think unless you are in extremely wet conditions the LD works fine when wet. The shoe is really comfortable, fits true to size, and hugs the heel really well. It may be a bit narrow fitting, which isn't a problem for me but something to consider if you have a wide foot. The LD feels light, there are definitely lighter shoes out there, even within the Norvan line, however, I think the extra weight is worth it when it comes to durability.

One awesome thing about this Arc'teryx line is if you want something a bit lighter, go with the SL, if you want something more rugged, go with the VT, and if you need waterproofing, go with the GTX.

If you are a trail runner running long to ultra distances I think that the Norvan LD's are an awesome option for a minimalist shoe that performs and most importantly lasts!

Very narrow fit. Probably the most narrow mid foot shoe ive ever tried on. Not sure why/how this is a "long distance" shoe as there is zero cushioning or any feeling of foam or support in the fore foot at. Ive read nothing but positive reviews on these so maybe it's just me. For reference, my go to trail shoe is a saucony perigrine 7 or a topo terraventure. I've never thought my feet were wider than average and I can wear fairly narrow shoes. I'm a huge Arcteryx fan and love their clothing and packs but these shoes miss the mark for me. I couldnt even wear them around the house comfortably so I'd guess there is not way I'd make it 40 miles. If you have tiny ballerina feet and like to feel a hard rock plate under foot with every step then I suppose they might work for you. Lenght is spot on in terms of sizing.
I am really surprised this is a $160 shoe, even more surprised that anyone could run "long distances" in it.

This is the ultimate long distance shoe for technical terrain. What looks like a standard lacing system really combines with the reinforced overlays to lock down your foot without being constrictive. Upper is very breathable in hot weather while keeping debris out. Toe bumper is perfect for preventing rock strikes. The outsole is composed of probably the best compound out there: Vibram Megagrip. Sticks perfectly to everything except sloppy mud or snow conditions. I've worn this shoe for several ultras including a very technical 50 miler and it's outperformed everything else. Not sure why others have said this fits narrow, I have a very wide foot and this fits perfectly after breaking in for ~20 miles. I hope Arc'teryx doesn't change anything about this shoe, it will be my long distance go-to for many years to come.

I just used these shoes to Hike/Climb the Grand Teton. I can honestly say I love this shoe. I weigh 210 and with a 50lb. pack these shoes made the trip so comfy on my feet. They grip well too, making scrambling easy over all the boulders. They will get a little wet not being the GTX crossing streams but overall they are awesome!

With so many running shoes out there is hard to pick one that works best for you. These shoes appealed for several reasons, they're about the same weight (few ounces heavier than some) as other shoes in their class yet they have less drop than most rugged trail shoes. And the colors available were hard to beat.

What sets this shoe apart to me is the tread and the fit. While I feel its right in line with Salomon sizing the fit feels more natural and supportive around the heel. There is a nice cushioned pocket that the heel set inside that really feels locked down!

The sole of the shoe is quite stiff with what feels like solid rock plate combined with the aggressive but firm Vibrim lugged tread help this shoe crush loose rocky trails while keeping stability that I feel gets lost with soft rubber. When on firm packed gravel and occasional side walk the tread doesn't feel like running on marshmallows. The "rocker" shape diverts the energy from heel strikes and rolls off the toe very smooth.

The only down side I've encountered thus far is the color, I love loud colors! The Venom (Bright green) show dirt and mud off like they're proud of it.

All in all this is a great all round trail running shoe, quiver of one if you will. Better suited for packed trails to variable terrain than soft dirt. Think the Enchantments loops, granite slab and loose rock to packed dirt in old growth forest. In a quiver (mine anyway) I'll take the Norvan for longer run over mixed terrain at a higher cadence. While keeping my minamalist or more aggressive shoes for more "training" type runs.
I'll spring for a Goretex pair for Autumn for sure!
For sizing, I wear La Sportiva in 43.5, Scarpa in 43, Salomon in 9.5 and Arc'teryx in 43.5(9.5) I feel like these brands fit close to the same for me.

They don't make them small enough. They run large.