12 best altra shoes for runnings
Altra is a well-known brand in the world of running shoes, especially for road running and athletic activities. They are known for their unique approach to shoe design, which focuses on providing a more natural and comfortable fit for runners. Here are some key features and information about Altra shoes for running:
Zero Drop Platform: One of the distinctive features of Altra shoes is their "zero drop" platform, which means that the heel and forefoot are at the same height. This design promotes a more natural and balanced running posture, potentially reducing the risk of injury.
FootShape Toe Box: Altra shoes are designed with a spacious and anatomically-shaped toe box. This feature allows your toes to splay naturally and provides ample room for your feet to move, reducing the chances of discomfort and blisters.
Cushioning Options: Altra offers a variety of cushioning options to cater to different preferences and running styles. Whether you prefer a plush and cushioned ride or a firmer and more responsive feel, you can find Altra shoes to suit your needs.
Durability: Altra uses high-quality materials and construction techniques to ensure the durability of their shoes.This is important for runners who put a lot of miles on their shoes and want them to last.
Gender-Specific Models: Altra offers both men's and women's versions of their shoes to provide a more customized fit and comfort based on gender-specific differences in foot shape and biomechanics.
Range of Models: Altra offers a wide range of running shoe models to suit various running terrains and conditions, including road running, trail running, and racing.
Natural Ride: Altra's design philosophy is centered around providing a shoe that allows for a more natural and efficient running experience. This can help runners feel more connected to the ground and improve their running form.
Breathability: Many Altra shoes are designed with breathable uppers to help keep your feet cool and dry during your runs.
Size and Fit: Altra shoes come in a variety of sizes and widths to accommodate different foot shapes. It's important to ensure you get the right size and fit for your specific needs.
Style Options: While Altra primarily focuses on performance and comfort, they also offer a variety of stylish designs and color options for those who want a fashionable look while running.
It's important to note that the specific features and models of Altra shoes may vary over time, so it's a good idea to check their official website or visit a local store to explore the latest offerings and find the best shoe for your running needs.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best altra shoes for runnings on the marketProduct description
Believe it or not, the popular Escalante just got even better. With increased decoupling in the midsole and outsole for more flexibility on the run, and added perforations for breathability in the upper, this Escalante 2 has a better fit and better performance. We've also added an updated insole that is less susceptible to compression and offers a better step-in feel.
- Rubber sole
- Heel measures approximately 1"
- ZERO DROP PLATFORMS - 0mm heel-to-toe drop place heel and forefoot the same distance from the ground for natural alignment and low-impact landing
- UPDATED VERSION - Altra Escalante 2 keeps its Altra EGO midsole, but the addition of flex grooves in the midsole and outsole allow for a smoother, more performance-driven ride
- REDESIGNED UPPER - The upper provides a more secure fit through the midfoot while the FOOTSHAPE design still allows for natural toe-splay
- WOMEN-SPECIFIC FIT - The running shoes are a bit narrower than the previous model, so we recommend to order 1/2 size up for a better fit
User questions & answers
Question: | What level of cushion |
Answer: | It’s pretty minimal. Since they are “zero drop,” there’s simply not room for much cushion. I love them, but I like to be close to the ground, so it just depends on what sort of shoe you like to run in. |
Question: | How do these compare to the Escalante 1.5 for cushioning and heel support |
Answer: | I can't compare because I bought only the E-2 but I can tell you that I wouldn't wear this shoe for a run longer than 6 miles on the streets. It's light and flexible (greater in the forefoot than the heel area). I'm 5'8" and weigh 132lbs. I love Altras - the best shoe ever for me. |
Question: | Is the sole rigid enough for hallux limitus? (Have pain in joint with movement |
Answer: | These are comfortable, supportive shoes (great for my bad knee) that do not have a rise from heel to toe (it’s a flat shoe). I run and walk in them. I don’t think of the soles as rigid per say. This is my 4th pair of Altras. I’m not sure what you need with your condition but maybe the above will help. |
Question: | How do these compare to the Altra Esclalante 1.5 shoes |
Answer: | I really like them! They're kind of a basic/standard shoe. They are zero drop. I'm not a runner, I just walk in mine and they took a little getting used to from the NB runners I wore. They don't lift your heal and tilt your foot forward like typical runners. Instead they encourage your feet to do the work. Having plantar faciatis, it's good for my foot function. |
- Made in USA or Imported
- Rubber sole
- Weight: 10.5 oz / 298 g
- Insole: 5 mm Contour Footbed
- Midsole: Dual Layer EVA / A-Bound with StoneGuard
- Outsole: MaxTrac Rubber with TrailClaw
- Cushion: Moderate
User questions & answers
Question: | Are these shoes waterproof |
Answer: | Altra makes a version that is waterproof but I don’t think these are. |
Question: | Do these have good arch support? I am flat footed and have been Solomon user and have been for years but I am looking for a new shoe |
Answer: | These shoes do not have extra arch support but have lots of width for your toes so they do not rub for lots of walking. I love that they are very light weight also. Great shoes. |
Question: | My toes barely touch the front of the shoe when I lean forward. Do these have a tendency to shrink as you break them in, stretch or remain the same |
Answer: | If your toes are touching the front at all they are to small and need to go up half a size |
Question: | What is the width of these shoes? also, i typically wear a 12 ee and am curious if i should order the same size or go up a size. thanks |
Answer: | They are definitely wide enough for a double E but I would highly recommend you order one or two sizes up. My husband wears a 12 double E and he tried the 13 but his toe was right at the end so he then ordered a size 14. He loves the size 14 and there’s plenty of room for his toes. Hope this helps. |
- Made in USA or Imported
- Rubber sole
- Weight: 9.9 oz / 281 g
- Insole: 5 mm Contour Footbed
- Midsole: Quantic with InnerFlex
- Outsole: MaxTrac with TrailClaw
- Cushion: High
Product features
The Timp has long been a fan-favorite of the trail community, and with the upgrades made to the Timp 2, that won’t change.
The updated model offers an overall trimmed down design with an updated fit for overall better performance, making it an always-ready trail running shoe.
The outsole is designed to improve biomechanics and flexibility while the tweaked fit and lacing system work together to provide a better locked-in feel. The resilient, flexible cushioning in the Quantic with InnerFlex midsole adds comfort at every step while the MaxTrac outsole gives you the extra grip you need for any trail or terrain.
BALANCED CUSHIONING
Places your heel and forefoot the same distance from the ground to encourage proper, low-impact form throughout your run.
FOOTSHAPE TOE BOX
Allows your toes to relax and spread out naturally for more comfort and stability.
INNERFLEX
Grid-like grooves in the midsole allow your foot to flex while being lighter, for more speed and better performance.
GAITERTRAP
Hook-and-loop tab allows strapless gaiter attachment that prevents debris from building up beneath the shoe.
TRAILCLAW
Canted lugs positioned strategically beneath the metatarsals to provide traction at toe off.
MAXTRAC
A perfect combination of grip, traction and durability that will eat up gnarly terrain like a boss.
QUANTIC
Quantic was inspired by a desire to combine the plush feel of Altra EGO with a lightweight ride, it cushions every step and floats over any surface
Product description
The Paradigm 5 is a next-level support shoe that takes everything to the max: max cushion, max performance, and of course, max support. It’s lighter, it’s faster, and it’s loaded with innovative features like the powerfully plush Altra EGO midsole, the medial, there-when-you-need-it GuideRail, and the super-supportive StabiliPods. Level up your road running with the Paradigm 5.
- Weight: 11.2 oz / 318 g
- Insole: 5 mm Sculpted Footbed
- Midsole: Altra EGO
- Outsole: FootPod Technology
- Cushion: Max
- Stack Height: 30 mm
- Upper: Engineered Mesh
- Imported
- Weight: 7.4 oz / 210 g
- Insole: 5mm Premium PU Sculpted Footbed
- Midsole: Quantic
- Outsole: FootPod Technology
- Cushion: High
- Stack Height: 28 mm
- Upper: Breathable Engineered Knit
User questions & answers
Question: | How is the width and toe box size for wide feet |
Answer: | I don’t have wide feet but do have bunions and shoes are very comfortable and have lots of toe box space ( I have long toes) toes can splay |
Question: | I asked about width because i just bought altra locally. the shoes have a w inside the shoe. are all w |
Answer: | Mine have a W inside as well ( I usually wear B or Medium - don’t mind the extra width - can wear thicker socks- not sure about all being wide but I did not request wide but very happy with the Altra shoe |
Question: | How does the size run. I sometimes where a 6.5 and on other running shoes I need a 7. Does the shoe run short or long |
Answer: | I think it runs more short - I would go for size 7 to be careful |
Product features
We’re taking the Torin to new heights.
The updated Torin 4.5 Plush offers premium performance through and through. We’ve retained the same midsole and outsole as the previous Plush model, but at more than an ounce lighter. The new knit upper is lightweight and highly breathable while offering an improved, comfortable locked-in feel. If you’re looking for a road shoe that’s smooth, speedy, lightweight, and responsive, the Torin 4.5 Plush should be at the top of your list.
- Altra EGO midsole sole
- Dynamic support combo of integrated StabiliPods and medial Guide Rail
- Perfect for weak or tired feet
- A natural favorite for ultrarunners
- Stack Height: 30mm
- M | 11.2 oz. / 318 g
User questions & answers
Question: | Have they fixed the fit issues with the 4.0 or not |
Answer: | I have not tried the paradigm 4.0 running shoe but I can tell you that the paradigm 4.5 does not get the inside drop like the altra lone peak |
Question: | How do these size compared to the paradigm 4? i wear 9.5us in paradigm 4 and lone peak 3.5. but i was an 8 or 8.5 in the superior |
Answer: | size the same to me |
Question: | is the sole made of foam or rubber |
Answer: | Hello, thank you for your question. The outsole for the Altra Paradigm 4.5 is made up of FootPod technology, which is rubber based. However, the midsole is comprised of Altra EGO, which is a foam compound. Hopefully, you find this information helpful. |
Question: | What is different from the |
Answer: | Hi, thank you for your inquiry. Both Paradigm 4.0 and 4.5 have the same tooling; however, they differ in terms of the upper (Paradigm 4.5 has an updated upper). I hope this information helps. Please let us know if you have any additional questions or if we can be of any further assistance. |
Product features
ALTRA EGO
Dual-Nature midsole compound with a responsive, yet soft feel for increased energy return.
- Made in USA or Imported
- Rubber sole
- Weight: 7.0 oz / 198 g
- Insole: 6 mm Contour Footbed with removable StoneGuard
- Midsole: Quantic with InnerFlex
- Outsole: MaxTrac Rubber with TrailClaw
- Cushion: Low
User questions & answers
Question: | Do these sites have Wide toe box |
Answer: | Yes, a very accommodating toe box. |
Question: | R they good for Narrow womens feet |
Answer: | Yes I think they are fine for a narrow foot. My daughter wears a 6 to 6 1/2; but read they ran small. She ordered a 7 and said they are perfect; especially when she is running in them, her foot does not hit the front of the shoe; in turn protecting her toes. |
Question: | I see they have drain holes. i run my dogs in agility, i am running in dirt. does the dirt get in the holes? are they flexable for quick turns |
Answer: | I run my dogs every day - theis trail running shoe is light super comfy - Ive had no issues with dirt getting in breathable holes - they come with stone guard soles also 😊 |
Product features
Lightweight. Fast. Grippy. Fast. Responsive. Fast.
There are many words to describe the speedy Superior 4.5. The Quantic midsole offers a lightweight yet responsive ride for high-speed trail days. TheMaxTrac outsole and multi-directional lug pattern brings grippy traction to any terrain. The improved upper brings better breathability and durability. And finally, the removable StoneGuard offers lightweight rock protection for when the trails get extra rugged.
- Imported
- Altra EGO midsole sole
- Increased breathability
- Secure fit
- Updated insole that is less susceptible to compression
- Better step-in feel
- Stack Height: 24mm
- M | 8.8 oz / 249 g
User questions & answers
Question: | Where it is??? Why never got my shoes |
Answer: | call amazon customer service |
Question: | How much room should be between the big toe and tip of the toe box |
Answer: | It depends on 1) your arch length and 2) whether your foot shifts forwards when you stand, walk, or run. Measure your arch length, then worry about toe-space. (There are printouts online for measuring arch length that match the Brannock devices found in shoe stores.) If your arch length measures longer than your whole foot length, simply appreciate the extra toe room provided by wearing a shoe that matches your arch length. (Many foot issues are caused by folks wearing shoes a bit too small.) Now, regarding whether your foot shifts forward, here's one fix/test: Trace your foot as closely as possible, tilting the pencil underneath your foot. Then, without moving your foot, trace your foot with the pencil vertical (pencil perpendicular to the paper) to produce a wider trace. Now, remove your foot and compare the two traces at the outside edges of your foot pad (usually at the ball of the foot). IF the widest part at the ball is more forward on the wider trace than the close trace, THEN you add the distance shifted to the recommended half inch. (Remember, IF the fit of a shoe is not perfect, THEN a little too BIG IS BETTER than a little too small.) |
Question: | Is this a zero drop shoe |
Answer: | Yes |
Question: | Do these have a wide toe box |
Answer: | Yes they are |
Product features
- Made in USA or Imported
- Weight: 6.9 oz / 197 g
- Midsole: Altra EGO
- Outsole: Neutral Innerflex
- Cushion: Moderate
- Stack Height: 26 mm
- Upper: Engineered Mesh
User questions & answers
Question: | The description says "women's" but when i put them in my cart, it says they are men's? i really don't want to waste time on the wrong size. help |
Answer: | Mine were women’s even though they said mens |
Question: | Do these shoes run small |
Answer: | No..I always size up by 1/2 for extra room |
Product features
ALTRA WOMEN'S RIVERA
The FootShape you love with a slightly snugger fit. The Rivera is ready for all your road-running needs, from training blocks to that weekly long run and everything in between. The soft responsiveness of an Altra EGO midsole pairs with the light and breathable engineered mesh upper, and the Neutral InnerFlex is creased to help provide flexibility, so you can be one with the road.
FEATURES
- Weight: 6.9 oz / 197 g
- Midsole: Altra EGO
- Outsole: Neutral Innerflex
- Cushion: Moderate
- Stack Height: 26 mm
- Upper: Engineered Mesh
- Altra Ego midsole sole
- Max cushioned shoe
- Integrated StabiliPods
- Stack Height: 30mm
- 9.2 oz. / 261g
User questions & answers
Question: | Would these shoes be good for hallux rigidus |
Answer: | Most likely these athletic shoes would help Hallux Rigidus because there is ample room in the front of the shoe to provide comfort and space to breathe. Also, consider the roominess prevents the toes from rubbing each other m. |
Question: | Women's size 11 or 12, why no 11.5 size |
Answer: | That is a good question. Most pairs of shoes do not come in half sizes anymore. With whole sizes, as a person ages, the feet grow, so having whole sizes are an advantage. |
Question: | How can dirt spots be cleaned |
Answer: | You can put shoes in a washer, but not a dryer. They take many days to dry out. |
Question: | Are these shoes waterproof |
Answer: | No, they are not waterproof. I wish they were. If you wear them daily for walks, the soles will wear out. They are comfortable as heck , but the quality isn’t that good and price is too high in stores and online. They are made in China. |
Product features
ALTRA EGO
Dual-Nature midsole compound with a responsive, yet soft feel for increased energy return.
- Rubber sole
- Weight: 8.1 oz / 229 g
- Insole: 5 mm Contour Footbed
- Midsole: Max-LT
- Outsole: FootPod
- Stack Height: 33 mm
- Upper: Knit
User questions & answers
Question: | Is this shoe true to size, last altra I ordered I had to get a half size bigger |
Answer: | I usually wear mens 11. I ordered a men's 11.5. They were .5 too big. |
- Quantic Midsole sole
- Weight: 9.1 oz / 258 g
- Insole: 5 mm Sculpted Footbed
- Midsole: Quantic
- Outsole: FootPod
- Cushion: Moderate
- Stack Height: 26 mm
- Upper: Engineered Mesh
User questions & answers
Question: | Which trail shoe has the most cushion |
Answer: | Hi, thank you for your inquiry! The Olympus is a high-cushion trail shoe from Altra. We hope this information helps. Please let us know if you have any additional questions or if we can be of further assistance. |
Question: | Have 4w size |
Answer: | I don'know about that. Check their web site, not Amazon. They are very helpful. Somehow I doubt they go that wide like New Balance, but the large foot shape helps with the width for me. |
Question: | can these be used just for walking and treadmill |
Answer: | Why not, super plush shoe, I don't actually use mine for running (Many better shoes for that) but they are my go to everyday walking around shoes |
Question: | are these shoes good for neuropathy |
Answer: | If you hope to wear this shoe will improve the symptoms. It won't make it better. It's not related at all. |
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