The GGR team knows a thing or two about shoes. We’ve tested a plethora of the best road running shoes, trail running shoes, workout shoes, and more. In our tests, certain brands have routinely stood out, including Altra—a minimalism-focused footwear company offering low- or zero-drop running shoes for training, running, trails, and more. The best Altra running shoes offer up performance-ready features underfoot with sizable notes in terms of comfort, traction, and style.
Our team of certified personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, CrossFit Level-1 instructors, and avid runners tested nearly a dozen pairs of Altra shoes to find the best picks for everything from marathon training to technical trail running and beyond. When evaluating the best Altra running shoes, we analyzed the following factors according to our five-point equipment testing methodology:
- Construction and Durability: How do the shoes hold up after miles and months of runs? To earn at least a 3 out of 5, shoes had to exhibit minimal wear and tear after several weeks of use.
- Outsole Traction: Are these suited to pavement, trails, or both? How’s the grip on various surfaces? Shoes that left us feeling super-secure and confident in wet and dry conditions earned the maximum 5 points.
- Stability: Are there guiderails for over-pronation? Is the midfoot secure? To earn a perfect score (5 out of 5), there had to be no slippage in the heel or midfoot with ample room for toe splay along with a supportive midsole.
- Cushion: Is the midsole plush or firm? Does it absorb shock and return energy? Shoes that earned at least a 3 out of 5 were comfortable to wear for long outings and left our feet feeling fresh. Since these are all minimal sneakers, it was a hard category to win.
The 6 Best Altra Running Shoes
- Best Altra Running Shoes Overall – Altra Experience Flow 2
- Best Altra Running Shoes for Daily Training – Altra Experience Form
- Best Minimalist Altra Running Shoes – Altra Escalante 4
- Best Altra Running Shoes for Long Runs – Altra Torin 8
- Best Altra Running Shoes for Stability – Altra Provision 8
- Best Altra Running Shoes for Trail Running – Altra Lone Peak 9
Best Altra Running Shoes Overall: Altra Experience Flow 2
The Experience Flow 2s from Altra can be a dedicated daily training silhouette for your running endeavors thanks to a lightweight frame, springy yet cushioned Altra EGO P35 midsole, and accommodating 4-millimeter heel-to-toe drop. It’s not a true “barefoot” shoe, but it could be a good introductory model for those interested in the category.
What our tester says:
These look good and feel good enough to wear everyday. I also enjoy the wide toe box—no complaints at all, really.
At a Glance
- Amazingly lightweight
- High cushion
- Low heel drop
- Great for daily training and everyday wear
For a pair of quality shoes that can easily take you from tempo runs to running errands, go with the Altra Experience Flow 2s. Weighing just over 8 ounces per shoe, you’ll barely notice they’re on your feet. You’ll look great, too, according to our tester. Product tester Kristen Geil, USATF-certified running coach, appreciates their aesthetic, noting, “I think you could wear any colorway with everyday clothes.” All said, the Experience Flow 2s easily earned our top overall spot.
Cushion: 5/5
Appearance: 5/5
Outsole: 4/5
Why We Like the Altra Experience Flow 2
The Experience Flow 2 impressed our testers with its neutral yet supportive midsole and wide toebox. Designed with Altra’s Standard FootShape geometry, the forefoot is roomy, but the midfoot feels more snug and secure. Kristen gives the shoes 5 out of 5 points for the toebox, saying, “This allows your toes to splay out so you can move more naturally. This is an area in which these shoes really excel.”
Our other tester, Rob Davis, a runner and triathlete, awards the Experience Flow 2s a 5-out-of-5 rating for the grippy outsole. “I’ve tried these on pavement in both wet and dry conditions and the traction is nice,” he says. “They even squeak sometimes on the concrete if I turn quickly…solid!”
These are neutral running shoes with a slight rocker shape that pushes the runner forward. During my runs and walks, my stride felt very natural, without any blisters or hot spots developing from running differently.
Kristen Geil, CPT, USATF running coach
Alternatives
Kristen rates the cushion with a score of 5 out of 5, but notes that the website description may not be totally accurate. “In my experience, it feels more neutral. I would recommend this cushioning for short, casual runs or walks—nothing too long or too demanding,” she says. “I wouldn’t have minded a little bit more underfoot.”
For a max-cushion experience, try the Altra Torin 8, which our tester, a 15-time marathoner, enjoyed for long runs.
Testing Breakdown
Two of our product testers tried the Experience Flow 2s and rated them highly in almost every category, with particularly high remarks for stability, cushion, and durability.
Vs. The Average
Compared to other running shoes the GGR team has tested, the Altra Experience Flow 2 is slightly less expensive with a lower drop and lighter weight per sneaker.
| Altra Experience Flow 2 | Average Running Shoe | |
| Price | $140 | $151 |
| Weight per shoe | 8.15 oz | 9.35 oz |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 4 mm | 6.1 mm |
| Midsole cushion | High | Moderate |
| Trial period | 30 days | 56 days |
Best Altra Running Shoes for Daily Training: Altra Experience Form
The Altra Experience Forms feature the brand’s GuideRail system for improved stability and a more neutral ride. However, the compression-molded EVA foam midsole does create a firmer underfoot experience than other compounds, which may be a detriment to those seeking a plusher running experience.
What our tester says:
These have GuideRail technology, encouraging natural foot placement with gentle guidance for a stable run. It has a roomy toe box that is useful for someone like me who has wide feet.
At a Glance
- Low heel-to-toe drop
- Moderate cushioning
- Guide rails for pronation support
- Forward-stride feel
If your weekly run schedule includes recovery runs, tempo runs, speed work, and even some cross-training for runners, the Altra Experience Forms may be a great fit for you. I spoke with our tester, Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CSCS, who says that, even after a month of use, the cushion is supportive enough for long runs and the shoes are versatile enough for various types of workouts, making them a fantastic daily trainer.
Stability: 5/5
Construction & Durability: 5/5
Cushion: 4/5
Why We Like the Altra Experience Form
The Experience Forms really shine in two areas: versatility and stability. Lightweight enough for speed runs yet plush enough for long runs, these shoes can be suitable for an entire training cycle, whether you’re a marathoner or a 5K-er. Stephen gives them 5 out of 5 points for stability, calling out Altra’s patented pronation support. “These have GuideRail technology, encouraging natural foot placement with gentle guidance for a stable run,” he says.
Additionally, Stephen appreciates the outsole design, giving the Experience Forms a score of 5 out of 5 here, as well. “The tread pattern is a conventional road-shoe tread with shallow grooves and flex cuts that emphasize grip on pavement,” he points out.
It has a roomy toebox that is useful for someone like me who has wide feet. I’m not an experienced runner, but I’d say that this shoe is fairly neutral yet can still provide adequate support.
Stephen Sheehan, CSCS, CPT
Alternatives
The Experience Form is one of Altra’s low-drop—not zero-drop—shoes. They feature a 4-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, which creates a slightly forward-striding feel. This isn’t a bad thing (Stephen rates the midsole with 4 out of 5 points) but he points out that a low drop is better for those who haven’t run in zero-drop shoes before. If you want maximum stability, a zero-drop platform may work better. Additionally, Altra’s GuideRails may be overkill for those who supinate or experience a more neutral running gait.
If you want the stability of the Experience Form but with a zero-drop sole instead of a 4-millimeter drop, check out the Altra Provision 8, our top pick for Altra stability shoes.
Testing Breakdown
The Experience Form is one of the highest-rated Altra running shoes tested by our team, with near-perfect scores across the board.
Vs. The Average
The Altra Experience Form costs a few bucks less than the average price of running shoes and is pretty on-par for weight with a slightly lower offset.
| Altra Experience Form | Average Running Shoe | |
| Price | $145 | $151 |
| Weight per shoe | 9.6 oz | 9.35 oz |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 4 mm | 6.1 mm |
| Midsole cushion | Moderate | Moderate |
| Trial period | 30 days | 56 days |
Best Minimalist Altra Running Shoes: Altra Escalante 4
If you’re looking for a minimally-cushioned running shoe for speed sessions, the Escalante 4 can be beneficial thanks to its low stack height of 24 millimeters and responsive Altra EGO midsole foam. The engineered knit upper also improves over-the-foot comfort and provides flexibility across other paces like jogging, walking, or simply running errands.
What our tester says:
The cushioning is noticeable…I wouldn’t compare it to a barefoot shoe like Xero shoes, but it is noticeably minimal in its cushioning. I’m more used to minimal running shoes, so it felt OK to my usual run.
At a Glance
- Minimal midsole cushioning
- Zero-drop platform
- Prioritizes foot flexibility
- 24-millimeter stack height
While I wouldn’t call this a true barefoot running shoe, the Altra Escalante 4s are equipped with Altra’s lightest midsole cushioning and roomiest toe box, along with a 0-millimeter heel-to-toe drop. When I chatted with product tester Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1, he said that despite the shoes’ minimal nature, cushioning is neutral and is supportive enough for long training runs. It’s one of Altra’s most minimal road models.
Outsole: 5/5
Cushion: 4/5
Construction & Durability: 5/5
Why We Like the Altra Escalante 4
I’ve always been a big fan of Altra’s low-profile shoes, and now they’ve impressed our product tester Caine, as well. He highlights the engineered mesh upper and how, despite little reinforcement, “they’re holding up quite nicely, especially for how lightweight and minimal they feel.” Caine gives the Escalantes 5 out of 5 points for durability and construction.
The shoes also earn a 5-out-of-5 rating for stability, despite their minimalist design. In fact, the minimalism is what prompted the high score from Caine. Due to the low profile and flat base, Caine found they encouraged a strong stride pattern.
The cushioning is noticeable. I wouldn’t compare it to a barefoot shoe like Xero Shoes, but it is noticeably minimal in its cushioning. I’m more used to minimal running shoes, so it felt OK to my usual run.
Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-1
Alternatives
Let’s face it—minimalist shoes aren’t for everyone. While Caine rates stability at 5 out of 5 points, he calls out that the design is particular. “There’s very little support anywhere on these shoes, but there’s not supposed to be any,” he says. “I’ve learned more recently that I prefer a bit of support and cushioning for running, so these weren’t my favorite for running workouts, but they did feel great as an everyday shoe or as a walking shoe.”
Looking for that roomy toe box and zero-drop sole, but with more cushion? Try the Altra Torin 8—a neutral shoe with a plush 30-millimeter stack height.
Testing Breakdown
The Altra Escalante 4s earned high marks across all categories with the exception of the toe box, which our tester didn’t love for his foot anatomy.
Vs. The Average
With a 0-millimeter offset and low midsole cushioning, the Altra Escalante 4 is more minimalist than the average running shoe. It also costs about $20 less.
| Altra Escalante 4 | Average Running Shoe | |
| Price | $130 | $151 |
| Weight per shoe | 9.5 oz | 9.35 oz |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 0 mm | 6.1 mm |
| Midsole cushion | Low | Moderate |
| Trial period | 30 days | 56 days |
Best Altra Running Shoes for Long Runs: Altra Torin 8
The Altra Torin 8s offer some of the brand’s most comfortable midsole cushioning in the Altra EGO MAX foam. Additionally, the jacquard mesh upper cloaks the foot well and helps promote breathability—ideal for training in warmer climates.
What our tester says:
The midsole is stacked high and well-cushioned, but didn’t feel like it was losing any of its bounce, compression, and firmness over time the way a lot of these shoes with maximalist midsoles tend to.
At a Glance
- Durable mesh upper
- Plush midsole cushion
- 0-millimeter drop
- FootPod technology supports sole flexibility
Marathon runner and GGR senior editor Cait Giddings wore the Altra Torin 8s for a block of marathon training and raved about their durable upper, versatile midsole, and grippy outsole—all must-haves when you’re logging 40+ miles per week. I spoke to Cait about the Torin 8, and she said, “The cushioning is very plush but bouncy and geared toward both tempo runs and long runs. It felt fast, but with lots of forgiving cushion for 20-milers.” It feels right at home as the “best for long runs.”
Cushion: 4/5
Outsole: 5/5
Construction & Durability: 5/5
Why We Like the Altra Torin 8
The Torin 8s earned a perfect 5-out-of-5 score for durability from Cait. “I wore these shoes pretty heavily for a few months and didn’t notice any durability issues at all. The upper stayed in pristine condition,” she says. “The midsole is stacked high and well-cushioned, too, but didn’t feel like it was losing any of its bounce, compression, and firmness over time; the way a lot of these shoes with maximalist midsoles tend to.”
Cait also raved about the outsole, saying it’s what impressed her most. She gives the outsole another perfect 5-point rating. “I found it to be plenty grippy for paved roads and crushed gravel trails,” she says. “The biggest thing that impressed me about the outsole, though, is that it showed almost no sign of wear after over 100 miles.”
It’s a very versatile shoe—I also used it for speedwork nights, and had no trouble dropping my pace in these. I thought the shoe delivered excellent energy return.
Cait Giddings, 15x marathoner and running shoe analyst
Alternatives
While Cait enjoyed her experience in the Torin 8s overall and doesn’t have anything bad to say about the shoes themselves, she does call out the potential pitfalls of suddenly switching to a zero-drop shoe, in general. “I would only recommend a zero-drop shoe to someone who’s used to that or planning to build up mileage slowly with them instead of jumping into 45-mile weeks with a totally different stack height,” she notes.
The Torin 8 also cost more than many of the other Altra models we’ve tested at $150, but when it comes to long-distance running shoes, you really do get what you pay for.
New to zero-drop shoes? Consider easing in with one of Altra’s low-drop pairs, instead, like the Experience Flow 2.
Testing Breakdown
The Torin 8 scored nearly perfectly across all categories, with our tester being particularly impressed with the outsole and overall durability.
Vs. The Average
The Torin 8 is more expensive than average and heavier, but it does feature maximal cushioning and a breathable mesh upper.
| Altra Torin 8 | Average Running Shoe | |
| Price | $150 | $151 |
| Weight per shoe | 10.15 oz | 9.35 oz |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 0 mm | 6.1 mm |
| Midsole cushion | High | Moderate |
| Trial period | 30 days | 56 days |
Best Altra Running Shoes for Stability: Altra Provision 8
In need of some added stability mid-run? The Altra Provision 8s employ the brand’s GuideRail system, serving as a medial support shelf to help protect against overpronation.
What our tester says:
Other supportive shoes I tried feel very cushioned and supportive, but these feel like moderate-cushion with a stiff, noticeable mid-sole brace. It’s supportive, but not that comfortable to me.
At a Glance
- GuideRails offer medial support
- Zero-drop platform
- Moderate cushioning
- Breathable mesh upper
If you need some added stability, you’ve got to try the Altra Provision 8s. I chatted with tester Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC, who found the stability elements—medial guide rails, wide toe box, secure midfoot, zero-drop sole—overbearing for himself. That said, he still gave the shoes a 5-out-of-5 score for stability, noting that the features can be ideal for severe over-pronators.
RELATED: Best Stability Running Shoes
Cushion: 3/5
Outsole: 3/5
Stability: 5/5
Why We Like the Altra Provision 8
According to Matt, the Altra Provision 8s feel very supportive, especially around the midfoot. “I appreciate the GuideRail support, which provides a bit of extra support and stability in the midfoot,” he says. “As someone who overpronates, I could tell that the medial support helped keep my feet from turning inward too much, which kept my foot stable as I was recovering from a midfoot stress fracture caused by overpronation.”
Matt also rates appearance and design with 5 out of 5 stars, saying, “I actually love the style. They are available in a variety of neutral to bright colors, and, personally, I like the look of these more than some traditional running shoes. Simple and sleek.”
Even though these wouldn’t be my personal choice for a daily shoe, if you’re someone who needs extra midfoot support or prefers a wider toe box to increase your stability, the Provision 8s are an excellent choice.
Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
Alternatives
Matt wasn’t a fan of the roomy toe box, so it goes to show that Altra’s wide designs aren’t for everyone. “It’s extremely wide by design. I really don’t like it; the shoe feels narrow and tight in my midfoot but way too wide at the toe box, and I’m someone with naturally wider feet who struggles with narrow shoes,” he says. Knowing its intent, Matt still gives Provision 8 a score of 4 out of 5 for the category. “I don’t want to dock too many points, but the wide toe box is what ruins it for me.”
If you’re interested in Altra’s FootShape but you have narrower feet, look for a pair that has Slim FootShape or Standard FootShape geometry, not Original FootShape. We recommend the Experience Flow 2 for such needs.
Testing Breakdown
The Provision 8s earned a perfect score for stability, thanks to their GuideRails and secure midfoot, but a lower score for cushion, which our tester found a bit stiff.
Vs. The Average
The Altra Provision 8 has a significantly lower drop than average and is about an ounce heavier than your typical running shoe.
| Altra Provision 8 | Average Running Shoe | |
| Price | $140 | $151 |
| Weight per shoe | 10.2 oz | 9.35 oz |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 0 mm | 6.1 mm |
| Midsole cushion | Moderate | Moderate |
| Trial period | 30 days | 56 days |
For more details, be sure to check out our Altra Provision 8 review.
Best Altra Running Shoes for Trail Running: Altra Lone Peak 9
Fan of a zero-drop sneaker yet itching to hit the trails. The Lone Peak 9s from Altra offer impressive durability and traction thanks to a recycled ripstop mesh upper and tacky MaxTrac outsole with 3.8-millimeter lugs.
What our tester says:
I wasn’t really too worried about slipping, even when climbing some steep, rocky inclines. I wore them mostly in dry conditions but did come across some muddy areas and slipped a little bit, but I think that’s to be expected regardless of the shoe.
At a Glance
- Zero-drop trail shoe
- 3.8-millimeter deep outsole lugs
- Altra’s roomiest toe box
- Some signs of early wear-and-tear
With a nearly cult-like following, the Lone Peak series has been a longtime best-seller for Altra. Equipped with aggressive outsole lugs and Altra’s responsive EGO midsole, the Lone Peak 9 shines on most trail surfaces while providing plenty of support, solidifying its title of “best for trail runs.” (It’s also on our list of the best trail running shoes.)
Cushion: 4/5
Outsole: 3/5
Construction & Durability: 4/5
Why We Like the Altra Lone Peak 9
After years of trail running and hiking in Lone Peaks, I’m most impressed by the outsole traction. From pitches steeper than 1,200 vertical feet per mile to muddy post-rain trails, I’ve never felt insecure in my Lone Peaks. Our other tester, Amanda Dvorak, CPT, CNC, feels the same. “The MaxTrac outsole has 3.8-millimeter lugs that I found to be pretty grippy on the trails I hiked,” she says. “I wasn’t really too worried about slipping, even when climbing some steep, rocky inclines.”
Amanda also appreciates the upper construction, rating the Lone Peak 9s with 4 out of 5 points for construction and durability. She docked one point due to some early wear-and-tear on the outsole, but overall, says they’re holding up very well after several outings in nature.
Altra says these have ‘mid’ level cushioning. I’d say that’s fair—they’re not super soft but it’s more than what you’d find in a true barefoot shoe.
Amanda Dvorak, ISSA-CPT, ISSA-CNC
Alternatives
Amanda says she wouldn’t wear these for long-distance running, at least not if you’re new to zero-drop shoes. It does take some working up to. I’ve run up to 20 miles in Lone Peaks, but that’s after years of building up strength in my feet, ankles, and knees with minimalist shoes. Still, Amanda thinks they’re great for shorter trail runs due to their light weight and rates the cushion with 4 out of 5 points.
For a trail running shoe with more cushion and a bigger drop, try the Altra Experience Wild 2, which has a 4-millimeter offset.
Testing Breakdown
The Lone Peak 9s earned above-average scores for appearance, construction and durability, but average scores for some key criteria like stability and outsole design.
Vs. The Average
Compared to the average running shoe, the Altra Lone Peak 9 is heavier with less cushion and a lower heel-to-toe drop.
| Altra Lone Peak 9 | Average Running Shoe | |
| Price | $140 | $151 |
| Weight per shoe | 11.15 oz | 9.35 oz |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 0 mm | 6.1 mm |
| Midsole cushion | Low | Moderate |
| Trial period | 30 days | 56 days |
Other Altra Running Shoes We Researched
We tested and researched other Altras in our search for the best. These models, while also impressive, didn’t quite make the cut for this guide.
- Altra Experience Wild 2: This low-drop, max-cushion shoe can be a good fit for trail runners who appreciate a plush midsole. Our tester found the traction to be lacking for steep and wet trails, though.
- Altra Escalante Racer 2: At 8.8 ounces per shoe, the Escalante Racer is an even lighter version of the Escalante 4. However, it’s slightly more expensive than the Escalante 4, which we think is sufficient enough for most runners.
- Altra Via Olympus 2: Designed with Altra’s max cushion and signature 0-millimeter drop, the Olympus can be a great choice for those who need plush cushioning but love a minimalist footbed.
- Altra Solstice XT 3: This one is more of a training shoe for the gym than a running shoe, but it could work for short runs or hybrid workouts with running sets.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Altra Running Shoes
We ordered and tested eight pairs of shoes from Altra’s most popular options. Our testers, who are marathon runners, triathletes, trail runners, and fitness experts, collectively logged hundreds of miles in the shoes. While we ran, we evaluated each shoe for the following attributes in accordance with our equipment testing methodology:
- Construction and Durability: We monitored the upper for signs of abrasion and tearing; the outsole for wearing down; seams for fraying; and any glued components for separation. Shoes scored a 3 or higher if, after several weeks of use, wear was minimal.
- Stability: We analyzed how supportive (or not) the shoes felt in comparison to our typical running gait, and if any components like guide rails altered our stride form. To earn a 4 or 5, our testers had to feel confident in their foot strike and ankle support.
- Cushioning: We noted midsole plushness or firmness for short and long runs alike, and checked for premature compression of the foam. To earn at least a 3, testers felt supported but not weighed down by the midsole, and didn’t notice any unusual wearing-down of the foam.
- Outsole: We wore the shoes in various weather conditions and on a variety of terrain to evaluate outsole grippiness and wear. Shoes earned a 5 out of 5 if they left us feeling confident on any terrain and without worry of slipping.
- Value: Based on performance, comfort, and customer satisfaction, we determined whether or not the shoes were priced fairly. To earn at least a 3, shoes had to feel like a fair value for the price—an incredible value to earn a 5.
Benefits of Altra Running Shoes
Altra is known for its minimalist running shoes with zero-drop soles and wide toe boxes, which may promote healthy running biomechanics1 without the risks associated with barefoot running. Here are some of the benefits you can expect from Altra running shoes.
Zero-Drop Platform
Not all Altra shoes have a zero-drop platform, but most do. And those that don’t still have a low drop relative to running shoes from other brands. Studies suggest2 that lower drops can force the wearer to adopt a forefoot-striking pattern as opposed to a midfoot or heel-striking pattern. A forefoot-striking pattern has been linked to a lower risk of running-related injury3 and is thought to be more economical4 in terms of running efficiency.
Minimal Cushion
Though Altra does have some max-cushion shoes, its first models focused on minimal cushion. Research shows that doing daily activities in minimalist shoes can promote foot strengthening5.
Wide Toe Box
All Altras have a roomy toe box to allow for maximum toe splay, which can promote balance during movement. It may also prevent the formation of bunions, according to some research6. Anatomical benefits aside, wider toe boxes can feel more comfortable for many runners, especially on descents and during long runs when feet can begin to swell.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Altra Running Shoes
These are the top factors to keep in mind as you browse Altra shoes.
Toe Box Type
Altra’s shoes all feature one of the brand’s signature FootShape designs. These designs are built with ergonomics that intend to mimic the natural curvature of the foot: wider at the toes, narrowest at the midfoot, and slightly wider at the heel. There are three available options: Original, Standard, and Slim. The Original FootShape is the widest, Standard FootShape falls in the middle, and Slim FootShape is designed for narrower feet.
All three designs feature a wide toe box relative to the rest of the shoe. The Standard FootShape is known for its roomy toe box with a more secure midfoot and can be a good choice for those who have narrower feet but still want maximum toe splay. Be sure to read through your shoe’s details and opt for a FootShape that suits your preferences best.
Stack Height and Cushioning
Altra offers four cushioning categories: low, mid, high, and max. The low options have the smallest stack height at 25 to 29 millimeters. The max options have the thickest stack height at 33 to 37 millimeters. The thicker the stack height, the more plush the feel, while thinner midsoles can offer a more grounded feel. With more cushion, you can enjoy more shock absorption and energy return but lose some perception of the ground beneath your feet—not a huge deal on pavement, but worth noting.
Heel-to-Toe Drop
Most Altras have a 0-millimeter drop, but not all do. If you’re new to Altras, you may want to consider starting with one of the brand’s low-drop models, like the Experience Form. These often have a 4-millimeter drop, which is a good transitional starting point. It can be wise to work your way up to logging miles in zero-drop shoes to avoid pain and potential injuries like stress fractures.
Pronation Support
If you struggle with overpronation (arches collapsing) when you run, look for one of Altra’s stability shoes. The Paradigm, Provision, and Experience Form series all have GuideRails to help keep your feet from over-pronating. GuideRails offer a more rigid base and extra support along the inside of the foot to prevent your arches from collapsing while you walk or run.
FAQs About the Best Altra Running Shoes
Are all Altra shoes zero-drop?
No, not all Altra shoes are zero-drop (where the forefoot and heel are stacked at the same height). Some series, like the Experience Form, FWD VIA, and FWD Experience have a low drop of 4 millimeters.
Is Altra owned by HOKA?
No, HOKA does not own Altra. Altra is owned by VF Corporation—the same holding company that owns The North Face. Meanwhile, HOKA is owned by Deckers Brands, which also owns Teva and UGG.
What are the downsides of zero-drop shoes?
The main downside to zero-drop shoes is that it can take a long time to adjust to them. Putting in too many miles, too soon, when you’re used to shoes with a large heel-to-toe drop can lead to pain or even injury like stress fractures or shin splints. If you’re interested in zero-drop sneakers yet are unsure if your feet are up to the task, be sure to speak to your podiatrist or personal health provider prior to purchase.
Which Altras are zero-drop?
Popular models like the Altra Paradigm, Torin, Lone Peak, Vanish Carbon, Timp, and Rivera are zero-drop.
References
- Gillinov SM, Laux S, Kuivila T, Hass D, Joy SM. Effect of Minimalist Footwear on Running Efficiency: A Randomized Crossover Trial. Sports Health. 2015 May;7(3):256-60.
- Liu Z, Zhou Y, Liu H, Cheng P, Zheng Z, Zeng Q. Immediate and long-term effects of zero-drop running shoes on lower extremity biomechanics. Front Bioeng Biotechnol. 2025 Jan 22;13:1462159.
- Kulmala JP, Avela J, Pasanen K, Parkkari J. Forefoot strikers exhibit lower running-induced knee loading than rearfoot strikers. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2013 Dec;45(12):2306-13.
- Hamill J, Gruber AH. Is changing footstrike pattern beneficial to runners? J Sport Health Sci. 2017 Jun;6(2):146-153. doi: 10.1016/j.jshs.2017.02.004.
- Curtis R, Willems C, Paoletti P, D’Août K. Daily activity in minimal footwear increases foot strength. Sci Rep. 2021 Sep 20;11(1):18648. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-98070-0.
- Bajraszewski KJ, Lim PQX, Buldt AK, Hurn SE, Mickle KJ, Roddy E, Wluka AE, Erbas B, Munteanu SE, Menz HB. Footwear Toe-Box Shape and Medial Forefoot Pressures in Women With Hallux Valgus. J Foot Ankle Res. 2025 Jun;18(2):e70041.
