Arc’teryx continues to blur the line between footwear and equipment with the second generation of its Sylan trail shoe. The Sylan 2 weighs about 20 grams less than the original and introduces a new supercritical midsole foam that offers greater energy return and softer landings.

A forked carbon‑fiber composite plate is embedded between the midsole and outsole to add propulsion on climbs and stability on uneven terrain. The rocker has been shifted forward into the forefoot to smooth the transition from landing to toe‑off, giving runners a snappy feel on singletrack.

Traction has been addressed with a revised lug pattern that sheds mud more efficiently while maintaining grip on loose surfaces. The engineered jacquard knit upper is lighter and more breathable than before, hugging the foot while allowing airflow.

A thin TPU overlay guards high‑wear areas without adding bulk. According to Arc’teryx, the combination of the rockered midsole, super responsive foam and carbon plate results in less fatigue over long distances.

The Sylan 2 is part of the brand’s Spring/Summer 2026 lineup and will be offered in two colorways—Graphite/Graphite and Mantis—at $220. For runners who require precision and speed on technical trails, it positions Arc’teryx among the few brands using supercritical foam and carbon plates in off‑road shoes.

While road‑racing shoes popularized these materials, the Sylan 2 adapts them to unpredictable terrain, offering a compelling blend of protection and propulsion.