Engineered to help you move faster and farther on the trail, the Arc'teryx Sylan 2 pairs ultra-responsive cushioning with a propulsive design that keeps every stride feeling smooth and energized. Lightweight, breathable, and equipped with Vibram® Megagrip traction, it delivers the confidence to push the pace across challenging terrain.
REVIEWS
31 Reviews
Gabby
These are great shoes for all conditions! So comfortable, flexible, and breathable. Great in muddy conditions, running on rocky trails in the woods, and going uphill. Also, easy to clean after. Highly recommend!!
Stitch
The Sylan 2 has quickly become my favorite trail running and hiking shoes. The rocker geometry provides excellent propulsion, making every stride feel smooth and efficient. Cushioning is responsive while still offering enough protection for long mountain days. Traction is outstanding on dirt, rock, and mixed terrain, giving me confidence to move fast and the new spread out tread pattern does't trap rocks or debris. I love that the Sylan 2 has a trimmed back heel shape! It makes it less bulky than the Sylan 1 with the same great stability.
Tiffanie
I received this product for free in exchange for my honest review. I’ve never owned Arc’teryx shoes before, so I had no idea how they’d perform. On my first wear, they intensely rubbed at my Achilles, but some crew socks solved the problem entirely. I come from Altras, but this toe box did not feel at all restrictive. The Sylans are really responsive, springy, cush yet sensitive, but my feet never feel fatigued. The laces tuck away easily into the knit pouch at the top of the shoe. Coming down hills is a bit ouchie on the big toe, my feet do slide a bit in these shoes. The rubber on these sticks to everything in the best way: step up and over rocks, climb rocks, grab and push off loose dirt, and not once have they slipped even a little. I’m so happy with them.
Meliz
I wear a 6.5 in all my other Arc'teryx shoes, so I wasn't expecting a sizing surprise, but these felt noticeably tighter right out of the box. I was convinced I'd have blisters by the end of run one. After 3 runs on light trails, that hasn't happened. Still, try going a half size up to compare if you're on the fence. The heel collar looks thin, but there's enough padding that your ankle feels held without any rubbing. The toe box is snug but I'd prefer a little more room for longer efforts, however, no issues so far. Haven't gone beyond 10K yet, so the jury's still out on long-distance comfort. On trail, the grip is confident on dry and dusty surfaces and there's a noticeable forward push through each stride. These shoes want to go fast and feel best when you let them. I received this product for free in exchange for my honest review.
Scubaaa
Average 3mi/day, 5-6x/week on trails with the Sylan 2. 7.5/10 ascents, descents, technical sections: Excelled in momentum when climbing up grassy, rocky and wet hills. The large stack height made it a bit difficult to navigate quick twists and turns filled with tree roots and rocks. I prefer a lower drop like the ALTRA Lone Peak 9+ to give me more control over technical sections and so I can feel the ground better. Wish the collars weren't so tight. Although they kept my ankles locked in which was great, I think there could be some more give in them. Despite the big drop, I appreciate the foam and how responsive it feels. I can push off quickly and the foam helps a ton with hard stops. Not too breathable. Make sure to wear merino wool socks with these to improve sweat wicking and airflow. They have great traction though and I felt very supported running through dirt and rocks. Would love a Wide line
Emma V
Having previously enjoyed the Arc’teryx Norvan SL—the “Superlight”—as well as the Norvan LD—the “Long Distance”—I was disappointed to have missed out on the previous Sylan. I was especially excited, then, to be able to test out the new Sylan 2. I will admit that I had to go down a half size from my usual US shoe size. I think it is important to order based on your usual EU size rather than relying solely on the American size conversion. Despite, the intentions of the heel bolster, I still experienced some heel slippage out of the box though I was able to mitigate it with a heel-lock lacing technique. In terms of overall fit, however, I really appreciated the wider shape, which worked well for my wider-than-average C-width foot. The TPU woven upper provided structure without being overbearing. Perhaps my least favorite aspect of the shoe was the shoelaces. Even when secured with a double knot, they still somehow managed to work themselves loose during runs. Fortunately, the lace pocket built into the tongue helped mitigate the issue by keeping the laces contained and out of the way, even if it did not completely solve the problem. I also appreciated the knit collar, which did an excellent job of keeping out rocks, dirt, and trail debris. However, I found that I needed to wear quarter-length socks or taller to prevent the collar from rubbing against and occasionally irritating my ankle. I did sometimes find myself wishing for a heel tab to help me slip into the collar. Despite these two minor drawbacks, I thought the collar was a nice addition that contributed not only functionally but also aesthetically. In terms of overall appearance, I appreciated the sleekness of the Arc’teryx design language. As is often the case with Arc’teryx products, the Sylan 2 manages to combine technical performance with a refined aesthetic. I took the Sylan 2 on several different trail runs in a wide variety of weather conditions. The supercritical foam underfoot gave it a lively, energetic ride, while the TPEE foam added stability that complemented the rocker geometry well. Although it is not technically waterproof, I found that the upper had a somewhat hydrophobic effect, helping it perform well in colder and wetter conditions that I experienced in the shoulder season of New England. Meanwhile the TPU woven upper and jacquard knit created a light upper that drained well. I appreciated the 3/4-length carbon fork, which added an extra spring to my stride without making the shoe feel overly rigid. Despite incorporating a carbon element, the combination of the supercritical foam and TPEE midsole kept the ride remarkably comfortable over longer distances. My feet never felt overly fatigued, even on extended runs, and the shoe maintained a pleasant balance between responsiveness and comfort. I tested the Sylan 2 on a variety of New England terrain, including root-covered trails, steep descents, granite slabs, and uneven singletrack common throughout New Hampshire. Across all of these conditions, the shoe performed admirably. Despite its rocker geometry, I never felt disconnected from the trail. Instead, the ride remained predictable and stable on uneven surfaces, off-camber sections, and technical terrain. While the geometry naturally sacrifices a small amount of ground feel compared to lower-stack trail shoes, I still maintained good proprioception throughout my runs. The modest toe bumper provided welcome protection from rocks and trail debris, while the midsole absorbed the impact of sharp roots and rocky terrain effectively. On sustained climbs, the rocker geometry and carbon fork encouraged an efficient stride and helped maintain momentum. On descents, the stable platform inspired confidence and made it easy to carry speed while still feeling in control. I never found the shoe unstable or disconnected from the trail beneath me. The Vibram outsole, meanwhile, provided excellent grip. It handled well in mud, on wet rock, and across bog boards. I do wish the lugs were just a little deeper or more numerous, however, for better performance on looser terrain. The shoe truly shined on more groomed terrain, such as local rail trails or less technical singletrack, though it remained capable when the trail became more demanding. In terms of who I would recommend this shoe for, I would especially recommend the Sylan 2 to trail runners looking for a race-day shoe or a speed-focused trainer that excels on groomed singletrack, gravel paths, and other more predictable trail surfaces. That said, the Sylan 2 is far more versatile than its aggressive geometry might initially suggest. It remains capable on more technical terrain when needed, making it a strong option for races that feature a mix of smooth and demanding trail conditions. Beyond its performance, the Sylan 2 embodies what Arc’teryx has become known for: a thoughtful blend of technical performance and refined design that doesn’t sacrifice the versatility needed for a wide range of trail conditions. I received this product for free in exchange for my honest review.
macpete
I gave the Arc'teryx Sylan 2 a 4 out of 5 because, while the shoe ultimately performed very well, there were a few aspects that required an adjustment period. The extended heel tab caused some irritation during my first several runs, and the substantial ankle padding initially felt bulky and unusual. Both issues improved significantly as the shoe broke in, but they impacted my first impressions. I was also not completely sold on the recommendation to size down by a half size. While the fit was secure, I would have preferred my normal size to allow room for a thicker cushioned running sock, particularly on longer trail runs. That said, once broken in, the Sylan 2 excelled where it mattered most. The fit felt secure, the knit upper was comfortable, the lace garage worked exceptionally well, and the outsole provided reliable traction in muddy, rocky, grassy, wet, and dry conditions. The ankle cushioning that initially concerned me ultimately became a benefit by providing support and reducing foot fatigue as my mileage increased. As someone who is 8mo postpartum and working my way back into running, I appreciated having a shoe that felt versatile and dependable. It handled a variety of terrain types with confidence and performed equally well on shorter 2-3 mile runs and longer outings in the 6-10 mile range. Having a shoe that provided support, comfort, and traction while rebuilding my endurance made the transition back to running much more enjoyable. For me, it's a strong performer and a shoe I enjoy reaching for, but the break-in period and sizing considerations kept it just short of a perfect score. I received this product for free in exchange for my honest review.
Kennedy
I wore these on New England terrain. A lot of rocks roots and wet leaves! It has been raining on and off so I’ve gotten a chance to try them out in a lot of different weather. One thing I noticed is that they clean off really well after mud which is great. I felt pretty fast in these. The rocker and cushion worked really well together. The overall fit was okay for my foot personally. I have a really narrow heal so I was excited for the upper to all be one piece. I did feel there was a lot of overall volume in the shoe that did not work for my particular foot shape but it would work great for others with a high volume fit. About a mile into my first run I noticed how much I needed the runners loop and that helped lock my heal in to continue for many miles. The fit is long for length. I typically wear a 10 in most other brands but for the arcteryx I needed a 9.5. It fits a bit more performance fit or snugger than the norvans line, so I’d take that into consideration when purchasing. The traction was great also I felt very comfortable on the terrain I was on and even with elevation I still felt like I had control over my step.
Marcel
I tried out the Arc’teryx Sylan 2 on San Diego dirt trails. I run 5–10 miles every other day with some shorter 1–5 mile runs mixed in. This shoe feels fast! The rocker design helps keep you moving efficiently, especially on climbs and rolling terrain. It handled descents well and I felt stable on uneven sections. The traction was great on hard-packed dirt and loose gravel, and I always felt confident on the trails. Comfort stayed solid throughout my runs, though the fit runs a little big. Overall, the Sylan 2 is a lightweight trail shoe and I would definitely recommend especially if you’re looking for speed. I received this product for free in exchange for my honest review.
dk164
I received this product for free in exchange for my honest review. I tested the Sylan 2s on 5 different runs, about 7-8 miles each. Conditions for terrain varied from trails/dirt to mud and wet rocks while the weather was hot (80s) and humid most days. These shoes are extremely lightweight and technically advanced. The rocker shape helps drive momentum and propulsion toward the next step. Perfect for race days. The material for the mesh upper is breathable, easy to clean, and having the ankles covered keeps debris out. The material is odor resistant as well which is great for using multiple days in a row. Cushioning is superb and strategically placed. There’s extra padding above the heel cup (almost on the Achilles) which is crucial for comfort and stability. The grip on the outsole is phenomenal! Not only is it Vibram but the placement of the lugs is so precise. These tore through mud, dirt, wet rocks and pine straw yet nothing slowed me down. Every detail is thought through. The shoelaces even have a garage in the tongue! I recommend these to serious trail runners or anyone looking for comfortable, lightweight, and breathable trail runners with outstanding traction and stability.
flowerchilld
Disclosure: Arc’teryx gave me this free product to try. I've been running and walking in the Arc’teryx Sylan 2 for about three weeks, and this is my first experience with an Arcteryx running shoe. During that time, I've used the Sylan 2 on sidewalks, walking paths, and gravel trails. Across all of these surfaces, the shoe has performed very well. It feels stable and provides excellent grip, giving me confidence whether I'm on pavement or loose gravel. The Sylan 2 offers a comfortable amount of protection without feeling overly soft. The ride feels smooth on hard surfaces while still providing enough comfort for time spent on trails. A small feature that ended up making a big difference is the lace pocket. Being able to tuck the laces away keeps them out of the way and eliminates any concern about them coming undone during a run or walk. It's a simple but thoughtful design element that adds to the overall experience. Beyond performance, the Sylan 2 is also a very stylish shoe. The design has a streamlined look that stands out without being flashy, and it's a shoe that looks just as good walking around town as it does out on a run or trail. I found myself reaching for it even when I wasn't planning to run because of how versatile and good-looking it is. Overall, the Arc’teryx Sylan 2 has been a reliable and versatile shoe during my testing. All of the features make it a strong option for runners and walkers.
Eheunisch
Wow. I don’t know why I wasn’t expecting a lot from these shoes, but I truly love them. I love how they have extra cushion on both sides of my heels and how snug the shoe fit on my foot! I feel like in my other pairs of trail runners, my foot slips and slides and I end my long runs with blisters. I did not experience that at all! The carbon plate as well kept pushing me to keep going on my run and I could definitely tell the difference with the rocker! I felt a lot of power not only from my running but with the assistance of the shoe. And the material didn’t make my foot too hot! I love the airflow and how light these shoes are and are perfect for hikes and runs on the trails! Arc’teryx did an amazing job on these shoes and I will definitely be investing in more of their footwear:) I received this product for free in exchange for my honest review.
Danielle
I received this product for free in exchange for my honest review. I've been testing the Arcteryx Sylan 2 on mostly dry, rocky Southern California trails frequent windy with plenty of steep climbs, descents. My typical runs are between 2 and 4 miles, a few times each week, on terrain that ranges from loose rock and hard-packed dirt to uneven technical sections. One of the first things I noticed was the built-in gaiter. It did an excellent job keeping dirt, dust, and small debris from entering the shoe, even on loose and dusty trails where I would normally expect to feel rocks or have to stop and fish out the intruder. This feature alone made a noticeable difference in comfort during runs. The shoe has a very pronounced rocker design visually, but it doesn't feel exaggerated on the trail. In fact, if you're concerned about the rocker, don't be. It feels surprisingly natural and relatively flat underfoot while still providing a subtle forward-driving feel. On climbs, the rocker encouraged a smooth stride without feeling forced or unstable. Traction has been solid. The shoe feels supportive. Side-hilling, rocky sections, and uneven footing never felt sketchy, and the platform inspired confidence throughout my runs. The toe box is roomy without feeling sloppy, allowing my feet to spread naturally. The upper also breathes better than I expected. The fit was mostly secure, although one of my feet is slightly smaller than the other, and the size I tested felt a bit large on that foot. I noticed some creasing in the upper as a result. Those who are between sizes may want to pay close attention to sizing. That said, overall lockdown and foot security remained good during technical sections and descents. After repeated runs through abrasive, rocky conditions, the upper shows very little wear, and it feels like it will hold up well through a full season of trail use. Overall, I’ve found the Arcteryx Sylan 2 to be a stable, protective trail shoe that performs well on dry, rocky terrain. Its built-in gaiter, roomy toe box, and supportive platform make it something I’d encourage others to try.
Jamm
While this shoe is very different for me, rocker style and sock like fit at the top. It took a while to get used to those differences and I still don’t know if I like the sock like top. I felt a little more sensitive to the laces than I normally do with there being no padded tongue under them but the minimalist style shoe did feel light and ready to rip in. I enjoyed putting some miles on them and the confidence I had it descending technical terrain and running along scree and loose rocks. I cannot believe how great my traction was on these shoes especially just looking at the bottom lugs. They don’t look like much but wow they perform. I’d pick to run in these shoes again solely for the confidence in going down loose trails. I even did a technical scramble in these in submitting a peak and had no issues.
Ang2
I tested the women’s Sylan 2 trail shoes on some hot, sunny, Southern California dirt trails. The first thing I noticed right out of the box was the potent rubber smell. These shoes smell very strongly of rubber! They do perform pretty well, though. They are lightweight and the Vibram soles are great for downhill trail runs - they make me feel secure in the fact that I won’t slip. The terrain I ran on was pretty rocky, so that is an important feature. I do think these shoes could use a bit more breathability though, and could definitely benefit from a lighter color sole. They got pretty hot while I ran in them. They have a good amount of cushion, but overall I wouldn’t choose these shoes again. I prefer the shape and stability of my Topo Athletic Ultrafly 6 running shoes. They are not trail runners but they are comfortable! Note: I received these shoes for free in exchange for my honest review.
Read All Reviews (31)
*Online only. First-time subscribers only. Returning subscribers will be resubscribed for marketing/promo emails.
*Online only. First-time subscribers only. Returning subscribers will be resubscribed for marketing/promo emails.
© 2026 Public Lands
If you are using a screen reader or other assistive technology and are having problems using this website, or if you have any other difficulties accessing this website, please call 1-844-890-0896 for assistance
*Donations are based on purchase price, excluding taxes or other charges. The Public Lands Fund is a program of the DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charity. Learn more at publiclandsfund.org.
