The 9 Best Altra Running Shoes in 2023
Altra running shoes have quickly become a favorite amongst runners, walkers, and hikers.
Because there are many options in the Altra lineup, this article will break down the best Altra running shoes in 2023.
What This Article Will Cover:
- 3 Best Altra Running Shoes For Men
- 3 Best Altra Running Shoes For Women
- 3 Best Altra Running Shoes For Speed
- 3 Best Altra Running Shoes For Distance Running
- 3 Best Altra Running Shoes For Trail Running
- Details About Altra Running Shoe Models
- Frequently Asked Questions About Altra Running Shoes
3 Best Altra Running Shoes For Men
- Altra Provision 7 (Highest Rated)
- Altra Escalante Racer
- Altra Via Olympus
3 Best Altra Running Shoes For Women
Best Altra Running Shoes For Speed
Best Altra Running Shoes For Long-Distance Running
Best Altra Running Shoes For Trail Running
About The Best Altra Running Shoes
Here we will dig deeper into each Altra Running Shoe model mentioned.
Altra Provision 7
The Altra Provision 7 is an excellent choice for runners seeking a shoe that prioritizes natural foot positioning, comfort, and injury prevention. The Altra Provision 7 is Altra's highest-rated running shoe, as it provides support and cushioning without being too clunky.
The Altra Provision 7 features the Altra EGO foam, InnerFlex groove technology, GuideRail technology and is certified by the America Podiatric Medical Association for promoting good foot health.
In addition, the Altra Provision 7 also features Altra's signature FootShape Toe Box, which gives your toes space so you don't feel cramped when running.
Overall, the Altra Provision 7 is the best Altra running shoe for most recreational runners.
Check it out if you want good support and cushioning in a running shoe under $150.
Altra Provision 7 Product Details
- Weight: 9.6 oz / 274 g
- Midsole: Altra EGO™
- Outsole: FootPod™ Outsole
- Cushion: High
- Stack Height: 28 mm
- Drop: 0 mm
- Upper: Breathable Engineered Mesh
- Customer Rating: 4.7/10
- Price: $140
Altra Escalante Racer
Look no further than the Altra Escalante Racer for a running shoe that delivers an exceptional blend of speed and comfort. This shoe provides a lightweight, responsive ride that will keep you comfortable and fast on race day.
One notable feature of the Altra Escalante Racer is its unique Altra EGO midsole, which provides a comfortable but firm feeling as you run. This midsole technology balances cushion and spring, allowing you to run efficiently and feel fast.
The Altra Escalante Racer uses Altra's standard Footshape Fit, making these running shoes appropriate for most runners' feet. The Altra Escalante Racer is also lightweight, with a static mesh upper that provides superior comfort and breathability.
Overall, the Altra Escalante Racer is an exceptional running shoe that is best for runners who prefer to have a responsive and bouncy shoe that leaves you feeling connected to the ground.
With its low weight and InnerFlex technology, the Escalante Racer is be a shoe that can take you to your next personal best.
Altra Escalante Racer Details:
- Weight: 6.8 oz / 193 g
- Insole: 5 mm Contour Footbed
- Midsole: Race-tuned Altra EGO™ with InnerFlex™
- Outsole: FootPod™ Technology
- Cushion: Low
- Stack Height: 22 mm
- Drop: 0mm
- Upper: Engineered Static Mesh
- Customer Rating: 4.6/5
- Price: $140
Altra Via Olympus
For road runners looking for a shoe that can handle high impact, the Altra Via Olympus is the thick-soled shoe of choice. This shoe provides exceptional support and protection, ensuring a comfortable and safe running experience on even the most rugged trails.
A notable feature of the Altra Via Olympus is Altra EGOMax foam, which gives cushion and bounce on every step of your run.
Additionally, the Altra Via Olympus features Altra's signature FootShape Toe Box, which allows your toes to spread out naturally, reducing the risk of bunions, hammertoes, and other foot-related issues. It also features Altra's zero-drop platform, which ensures a more natural foot position, reducing the risk of injury and encouraging proper running form.
The Altra Via Olympus is best for runners who prefer a thick sole that gives ample cushioning. With the thick sole of the Via Olympus, it is well suited for long runs on hard surfaces such as asphalt or concrete, as well as at the track. Overall, the Altra Via Olympus is a quality running shoe that delivers unmatched support, comfort, and protection.
Check out the Altra Via Olympus if you want maximum support and cushioning in your running shoes.
Altra Via Olympus Details:
- Weight: 11 oz / 312 g
- Midsole: Altra EGO™ MAX
- Outsole: Rubber
- Cushion: Max
- Stack Height: 33mm
- Drop: 0mm
- Upper: Ultra-lightweight & breathable
- Customer Rating:
- Price: $170
Altra Vanish Tempo
If you're in the market for a lightweight, performance-oriented running shoe, the Altra Vanish Tempo may be just what you need. This shoe is designed to deliver a fast, responsive ride that will keep you moving quickly and comfortably.
The Altra Vanish Tempo is best for runners with normal width or narrow feet, as it utilizes the Altra Slim Footshape Fit. With its Altra EGO Pro midsole foam, you get the best balance of bounce and cushion in the Altra Vanish Tempo.
Overall, the Altra Vanish Tempo is a top-performing running shoe with exceptional speed and comfort. For experienced and new runners alike, this shoe will impress with its unique features and top-performing design.
With its lightweight, responsive feel and natural foot positioning, the Altra Vanish Tempo is an excellent choice for runners seeking a shoe that provides a fast, natural feel without sacrificing comfort or support.
Altra Vanish Tempo Details:
- Weight: 8.2 oz/ 232 g
- Midsole: Altra EGO™ PRO
- Outsole: EVA Rubber
- Cushion: High
- Stack Height: 33 mm
- Drop: 0mm
- Upper: Breathable Engineered Mesh
- Customer Rating: 4.2/5
- Price: $170
Altra Vanish Carbon
For runners looking for the fastest running shoe, the Altra Vanish Carbon is an excellent choice. With its half-length carbon plate, its Slim FootShape design, and the Altra EGO Pro foam, the Altra Vanish Carbon is a great speed running shoe.
The carbon infused midsole helps ensure maximum energy return from each step, allowing you to produce force more effectively when striding through your run.
Some customers complain about durability, but these shoes are built for speed rather than for high mileage.
The upper of the Altra Vanish Carbon is made from a lightweight and breathable material which forms to your feet for a secure fit. This makes the Altra Vanish Carbon comfortable, breathable, and well-fitting.
Overall, the Altra Vanish Carbon is an exceptional running shoe that delivers both speed and support.
If you have never tried a running shoe with a carbon plate, and you keep your milage relatively low, then the Altra Vanish Carbon is a great option to help speed up your running.
Altra Vanish Tempo Details:
- Weight: 7.3 oz / 206 g
- Midsole: Altra EGO™ PRO
- Outsole: EVA Foam
- Cushion: High
- Stack Height: 33 mm
- Drop: 0mm
- Upper: Breathable Engineered Mesh
- Customer Rating: 4.2/5
- Price: $190
Altra Torin 6
The Altra Torin 6 is one of the best running shoes by Altra, as it is remarkably versatile, comfortable, and well-suited for a variety of distances.
The Altra Torin 6 utilizes Altra's EGO MAX midsole foam, which is a lightweight foam with moderate amounts of bounce and responsiveness.
The Altra Torin 6 also boasts a FootPod outsole that maps the bones and tendons of your foot to ensure a natural and comfortable stride. The engineered mesh upper shoe provides a snug and breathable fit.
The Altra Torin 6's Zero Drop platform encourages proper running form. It reduces the risk of injury, while the FootShape Toe Box allows your toes to spread out naturally, providing added comfort and reducing the risk of other foot-related issues.
Overall, the Altra Torin 6 is a top-performing running shoe that is great for runners who want a stable, balanced running shoe.
If you want a shoe that can fit the bill for long and short running workouts, the Altra Torin 6 is a great choice.
Altra Torin 6 Details:
- Weight: 9.9 oz/ 280 g
- Midsole: Altra EGO™ MAX
- Outsole: FootPod
- Cushion: High
- Stack Height: 28 mm
- Drop: 0mm
- Upper: Jacquard Knit Mesh
- Customer Rating: 3.5/5
- Price: $150
Altra Lone Peak 6
The Altra Lone Peak 6 is a rugged and durable trail running shoe that offers exceptional grip and traction on various terrains. This shoe helps you conquer the toughest trails with confidence.
One noteworthy feature of the Altra Lone Peak 6 is its MaxTarac outsole and TrailClaw canted lugs. This feature provides incredible grip and traction for slippery trails, helping to keep you safe and steady as you exercise.
The Lone Peak Six also features the Altra EGO midsole, helping you to bounce along the trail when running or jogging. This foam technology is common in their best running shoes, helping the Altra Lone Peak 6 to be a versatile shoe for slow hikes or rapid trail ascents.
If you're looking for a low-profile, trail-dedicated shoe, the Altra Lone Peak Six is a good option.
Altra Lone Peak 6 Details:
- Weight: 10.6 oz / 300 g
- Midsole: Altra EGO™
- Outsole: MaxTrac™
- Cushion: Moderate
- Stack Height: 25 mm
- Drop: 0mm
- Upper: Quick-Dry Air Mesh
- Customer Rating: 4.4/5
- Price: $112
Altra LP Alpine
The Altra LP Alpine is a versatile and rugged trail running shoe designed to provide exceptional traction and support on various terrains. This shoe is best for runners looking for trail shoes that they can wear while outdoors or walking through town.
The Altra LP Alpine combines Altra EGO foam with the DuraTread outsole, which provides ample traction without being too aggressive for everyday use.
The Altra LP Alpine also features a protective toe cap that shields your feet from rocks and other debris on the trail. Featuring the Original Altra Footshape design, these are suitable for people with wide feet.
If you are interested in a trail-capable shoe that works just as well on and off the trail, then the Altra LP Alpine is a good option.
Altra LP Alpine Details:
- Weight: 9.8 oz / 279 g
- Midsole: Altra™ EGO midsole
- Outsole: DuraTread™
- Cushion: Moderate
- Stack Height: 25mm
- Drop: 0mm
- Upper: Hemp canvas vamp with suede overlays
- Customer Rating: 4.6/5
- Price: $160
Altra Lone Peak Hiker
The Altra Lone Peak Hiker is a trail running shoe that is capable for running up trails, hiking steep inclines, or cruising around after you get back home. These are the most sturdy trail shoes mentioned in this article.
The Altra Lone Peak Hiker is durable, features more ankle support than other models, and has good grip. With a wraparound toe cap and the high ankle design, these shoes will keep you safe when battling the elements.
Overall, the Altra Lone Peak Hiker is an exceptional hiking shoe that delivers comfort and performance. This shoe will impress with its unique features and top-performing design.
If you want a sturdy shoe that can be used for running or intense hikes, the Altra Lone Peak Hiker is a great choice.
Altra Lone Peak Hiker Details:
- Weight: 11.5 oz / 327 g
- Midsole: Altra EGO™
- Outsole: DuraTread™
- Cushion: Moderate
- Stack Height: 25 mm
- Drop: 0mm
- Upper: Midweight Mesh/PU Overlays
- Customer Rating: 4.1/5
- Price: $120
What is special about Altra running shoes?
Altra running shoes are unique in their design, and they feature several distinguishing features that set them apart from other running shoe brands. Some of the most notable features of Altra running shoes include:
- Wide Toe Box: Altra running shoes have a broader toe box, allowing your toes to splay naturally and providing more stability and comfort.
- Zero Drop Platform: Unlike traditional running shoes with a higher heel-to-toe drop, Altra running shoes have a zero-drop platform, providing a more natural foot position and encouraging proper running form.
- FootShape Toe Box: Altra's FootShape Toe Box allows your toes to relax and spread out naturally, reducing the risk of bunions, hammertoes, and other foot-related issues.
- Balanced Cushioning: Altra's balanced cushioning ensures that your feet land evenly and smoothly, reducing the impact on your joints and the risk of injury.
- Gender-Specific Design: Altra running shoes are designed with specific anatomical differences between men and women in mind, ensuring a perfect fit for each gender.
- Lightweight: Altra running shoes are designed to be light, providing a responsive and comfortable running experience.
- Trail-Ready: Many Altra running shoes are designed to handle rugged terrain, with features such as aggressive outsoles and durable uppers.
Overall, Altra running shoes prioritize natural foot positioning, comfort, and injury prevention, making them a top choice for runners seeking a more natural running experience.
Do Altras have arch support?
The Altra Paradigm provides good arch support.
Are any Altra shoes not zero drop?
Every Altra running shoe features a fully cushioned Zero Drop platform that places the distance between your heel and the ground is the same as your forefoot and the ground.
Are Altras Good For Plantar Fasciitis?
Altra footwear can help with Plantar Fasciosis because the Zero Drop platform and foot-shaped design put the foot in a cushioned but "barefoot" position (thereby mimicking barefoot on grass) to encourage blood flow and help to elongate and stretch the entire Plantar Fascia-Calf complex while relaxing the foot and arch.
Who Are Zero Drop Shoes Good For?
Zero-drop shoes, such as Altra running shoes, are suitable for runners who want to improve their running form and reduce the risk of injury. The zero-drop design encourages a more natural foot strike by placing the heel and forefoot at the same height, reducing joint stress and promoting a more efficient stride.
These shoes are particularly beneficial for runners who have experienced knee pain, shin splints, or plantar fasciitis, as they help to alleviate pressure on these areas. Additionally, zero-drop shoes can help strengthen the muscles in the feet and lower legs, leading to better overall foot health and balance.
Altra running shoes are designed with a wide toe box, which allows your toes to splay naturally and reduces the risk of blisters and other foot-related issues. This feature makes them an excellent choice for runners with wider feet or those who prefer a more spacious fit.
In summary, zero-drop shoes like Altra running shoes are ideal for runners who want to improve their running form, reduce the risk of injury, and promote better foot health.
Are Altra Shoes Good For Walking?
While Altra running shoes are primarily designed for running, many people find them to be comfortable and supportive for walking as well.
The zero-drop design and wide-toe box Altra shoes are known for can help improve your walking form and provide a more natural gait.
The cushioning in Altra shoes can also benefit walkers, providing ample support for your feet and joints during long walks. Some Altra shoe models, like the Altra Lone Peak or the Altra Escalante, even have features specifically designed for trail or urban walking.