Our verdict

The Altra Olympus 6 left us with a bittersweet taste—while the updates are solid, it feels like it could have been truly exceptional with just a few key tweaks. We were impressed by the state-of-the-art upper, offering second-to-none durability and breathability, paired with a real zero-drop geometry and a grippy Vibram Megagrip outsole. However, the heavy weight, minor price hike, and low-rebound CMEVA foam left us wondering what this shoe could have been but ultimately isn’t.

Pros

  • Outstanding durability
  • Superior build quality
  • Grippy Vibram outsole
  • Exceptionally comfortable
  • Real 0-mm drop
  • Ready for the toughest adventures
  • Spacious, foot-shaped toebox
  • Premium quality materials

Cons

  • Extremely heavy
  • Slight price increase
  • Lacks energy return

Audience verdict

81
Decent!

Who should buy

We believe the Altra Olympus 6 is an excellent trail shoe for:

  • Adventurers tackling the most rugged, challenging trails who need exceptional durability and love the unmatched toe splay offered by a foot-shaped toebox.
  • Fans of the Olympus series willing to accept a slight weight increase in exchange for major improvements.
  • Trail runners seeking a zero-drop shoe with outstanding stack height, top-tier durability, and superior build quality for any kind of long-distance runs or hikes.

Altra Olympus 6

Who should NOT buy

If you're searching for a lightweight, cushioned trail running shoe, the Altra Olympus 6 isn’t the answer. In our lab, we found it to be one of the heaviest shoes we’ve tested and we do not recommend it for those prioritizing a lighter ride. Instead, we think the ASICS Trabuco Max 3 and Brooks Caldera 7 offer a better balance of weight and cushioning.

We also believe the Olympus 6 falls short when it comes to energy return, especially considering its high price. In our experience, the midsole lacks the responsiveness many runners seek nowadays. For those wanting more bounce for their buck, we recommend taking a look at the Nike Zegama 2 or the Saucony Xodus Ultra 3, which deliver a more responsive ride.

Altra Olympus 6 parts

Breathability

One of our major concerns with the Olympus 5 was breathability—we gave it a 3 out of 5. Truth is, trail shoes often struggle to balance durability and ventilation, but we’re pleased to say Altra has nailed it with the Olympus 6 this time.

We tested this using our machine to push smoke inside the shoe and immediately saw Altra’s improvements. After two years in the making, the Olympus 6 earned a well-deserved 5/5 for breathability.

Using our light, we found how they did it. Altra strategically combined thin areas filled with ventilation holes and denser sections that add structure where it’s needed most. We’ll still need to see how this holds up in our toebox durability test, but so far, it’s impressive.

Altra Olympus 6 micro

We also examined the upper under a microscope and confirmed our initial observations—the large ventilation holes are primarily responsible for the excellent airflow. However, the real secret lies in the secondary layer beneath the main one, which is also perforated, a crucial detail!

Altra Olympus 6 microscope 2

By hand, we carefully examined each part of the upper, and we must say it’s one of the most advanced we’ve tested.

It’s filled with thoughtful design touches, such as the double padding in the heel that extends to the calcaneus and the small but efficient ventilation holes in the midfoot.

Test results
Olympus 6 5
Average 3.4
Compared to 88 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

We've already confirmed that the upper is absolutely world-class in terms of ventilation. Now, we've went for a tougher challenge, key for all trail running shoes, as they typically endure constant impacts and abrasions from rocks, branches, and other environmental hazards.

We tested the softest part of the upper—away from the rugged TPU reinforcements—using our Dremel, and despite that, we discovered an excellent result, awarding it our top 5/5 rating for durability. Earning top marks for both durability and breathability in the lab is an exceptionally rare achievement!

Altra Olympus 6 Toebox durability
Test results
Olympus 6 5
Average 3.1
Compared to 68 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

We were still impressed by the results of the two previous tests, and naturally, we had high hopes for the heel counter to continue this strong performance.

Although the Olympus 6 didn’t quite achieve another 5, it performed admirably, securing a solid 4/5. This score effectively removes any concerns about the heel rubbing against the Achilles or showing early wear—those issues are extremely unlikely to happen in this shoe.

Altra Olympus 6 Heel padding durability
Test results
Olympus 6 4
Average 2.9
Compared to 66 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

The expectations are incredibly high for the outsole after the upper earned a summa cum laude from us. And hey, our first impressions are positive, especially since the Olympus 6 features what we consider the gold standard of outsoles—Vibram Megagrip.

Altra Olympus 6 Vibram
The Olympus 6 boasts Altra's signature outsole with five sections that align with the structure of the foot.

This 85.6-HC rubber from the Italian company, founded by mountaineering pioneer Vitale Bramani, is average in terms of hardness, which likely contributes to its strong durability.

From what we've tested, we can confirm that the grip is outstanding in both wet and dry conditions, an advantage further enhanced by the shoe’s substantial weight.

Altra Olympus 6 Outsole hardness
Test results
Olympus 6 85.6 HC
Average 85.4 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
72.5 HC
Outsole hardness
95.0 HC

Outsole durability

No matter how grippy an outsole is, if it wears out after just 300 miles, we can't endorse it for a premium trail shoe like this one.

Fortunately, our latest Dremel test on the Olympus 6 resulted in only a minor 0.8-mm dent in the rubber, confirming that durability is not a concern at all. Another box ticked!

Altra Olympus 6 Outsole durability
Test results
Olympus 6 0.8 mm
Average 0.9 mm
Compared to 61 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

We found that the outsole—excluding the lugs—is slightly thinner than what we usually see in trail shoes, yet it’s not a concern as it passed our durability tests without any issues.

Altra Olympus 6 run vibram

In fact, opting for a thicker outsole would have been unwise for Altra given the already substantial weight of this shoe. Speaking of which...

Altra Olympus 6 Outsole thickness
Test results
Olympus 6 1.6 mm
Average 2.4 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0.9 mm
Outsole thickness
6.5 mm

Weight

At 11.46 oz or 325g, the Olympus 5 was already a heavyweight trail shoe—though somewhat reasonable given its size. Yet many of us truly hoped for at least a minor weight reduction in this update, but unfortunately, that hasn't happened.

In fact, we've found the opposite. The Olympus 6 weighs in at 12.6 oz or 357g, making it more than an ounce heavier than its predecessor. Although we recognize the impossible challenge of crafting a lightweight, tank-like shoe, the substantial increase in weight is impossible to ignore.

Altra Olympus 6 side

Ultimately, we believe that seems Altra isn’t concerned about the added heft in the Olympus 6, assuming their loyal fanbase will tolerate the heavy feel underfoot in exchange for a ultra-rugged shoe capable of handling any adventure across any terrain.

Test results
Olympus 6 12.59 oz (357g)
Average 10.34 oz (293g)
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
7.51 oz (213g)
Weight
13.37 oz (379g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

Given its colossal weight and size, one might expect the Olympus 6 to have a stack height comparable to maximalist running shoes, but here's another surprise—we found the heel stack height is only 32.2 mm.

However, there's a crucial detail to consider—this is a zero-drop shoe, designed to promote a natural running technique where landing on the midfoot or forefoot is ideal. Therefore, the heel stack height isn’t the primary concern, but our next test is.

Altra Olympus 6 Heel stack
Test results
Olympus 6 32.2 mm
Average 32.2 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
16.1 mm
Heel stack
42.4 mm

Forefoot stack

The forefoot boasts 31.5 mm of cushioning, ranking it among the most protective trail running shoes we've ever tested in the lab. As we've mentioned before, in a zero-drop running shoe, this forefoot measurement is particularly significant.

Exceeding 30 mm of stack naturally affects the weight, as we've previously observed. However, this shoe is designed for long-distance or even multi-day endeavors, where maximum underfoot cushioning is crucial. And if you don't need such gargantuan stack, Altra offers more agile options like the Lone Peak 8.

Altra Olympus 6 Forefoot stack
Test results
Olympus 6 31.5 mm
Average 24.6 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
15.2 mm
Forefoot stack
33.9 mm

Drop

We discovered a real 0.7 mm drop, which earns our RunRepeat seal of approval, as any variance below 1-2 mm indicates superior build quality.

Altra Olympus 6 side

This finding also confirms that despite the launch of their new 4 mm Experience line, Altra's core focus remains on its zero-drop running shoes.

It's also important to note that zero-drop geometry typically favors forefoot and midfoot strikers and may not suit everyone. If you're accustomed to shoes with higher drops, transitioning to zero-drop should be gradual to avoid discomfort.

Altra Olympus 6 Drop
Test results
Olympus 6 0.7 mm
Average 7.7 mm
Compared to 110 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.1 mm
Drop
17.3 mm

Insole thickness

We discovered the insole to be slightly thicker than usual at just 5.0 mm.

Although it feels similar to other basic insoles and lacks distinctive features, we think it's one of those subtle areas where Altra could reduce weight in their next update.

Altra Olympus 6 Insole thickness
Test results
Olympus 6 5.0 mm
Average 4.7 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
2.7 mm
Insole thickness
9.8 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

Besides weight, here's our second main complaint about the Altra Olympus 6—the midsole. Although it feels comfortable underfoot with moderate softness at 20.0 HA, we believe that a shoe priced near $200 should feature something more advanced than standard CMEVA foam.

EVA foams are common in many running shoes, but since 2017, more resilient materials like Pebax or TPEE have emerged. Even supercritical EVAs, which are lighter and bouncier due to their airier formulation, offer significant advantages over traditional EVA foams like the one used here.

Altra Olympus 6 CMEVA
The Olympus 6 is packed with small details, such as the coordinates 40.55889 N, 111.27103 W engraved on the midsole, home of the brand's headquarters in Utah.

So, as it stands, the Olympus 6 still sports a typical EVA midsole, not even the basic EGO foam used in some mid-tier road shoes like the Provision 8. And Ego Pro or Ego Max? Of course not, but in our opinion, an Olympus with EGO Max foam would not only make sense based on the performance and price of the VIA Olympus 2, but it's also what this shoe truly deserves.

Altra Olympus 6 Midsole softness
Test results
Olympus 6 20.0 HA
Average 22.6 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
9.1 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
39.0 HA

Difference in midsole softness in cold

During a 20-minute test in our freezer, the softness of the CMEVA foam saw a modest change of only 28.8%, a nice outcome considering its formulation!

Altra Olympus 6 Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
Olympus 6 28.8%
Average 26.3%
Compared to 87 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
100%

Rocker

We discovered that the Olympus 6 retains the classic Altra DNA with a subtly late toe rocker that isn’t very pronounced, enhancing natural running and improving its suitability for walking—a beneficial feature for a shoe that often doubles for hiking purposes. So, definitely good news here.

Altra Olympus 6 Rocker

Stability

Lateral stability test

From the moment we unboxed the Olympus 6 in our lab, it was clear that this shoe was designed for superior stability. The noticeably high midsole sidewalls, combined with SUV-like dimensions and the zero-drop geometry, all hinted at its robust support.

Given these features, we believe the Olympus 6 is well-suited for runners with mild pronation issues. Additionally, neutral runners can expect a really stable ride, even with the high stack height.

Torsional rigidity

Altra has stiffened the Olympus 6 compared to its predecessor, upgrading from a 3/5 to a 4/5 rating. This improvement, though subtle, is quite noticeable—it was remarkably challenging for us to bend the shoe, even without any kind of reinforcing plate, not even an anti-rock one.

Test results
Olympus 6 4
Average 3.5
Compared to 105 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

The heel counter of the Olympus 6 maintains a balanced 3/5 rating, similar to what you'd expect in most daily running shoes. 

We appreciate this intentional design choice in a shoe that aims to provide sufficient heel support without overdoing it, especially since, as we've noted before, zero-drop shoes are designed to encourage striking with the midfoot or forefoot.

Test results
Olympus 6 3
Average 3.1
Compared to 103 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width in the forefoot

We initially thought the forefoot would measure wider than the 114.9 mm we registered, perhaps an optical illusion caused by the foot-shaped toebox we'll explore shortly. Nevertheless, this width shouldn’t pose a problem on most trails and even contributes some agility to what otherwise feels like a clunky shoe.

Altra Olympus 6 Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Olympus 6 114.9 mm
Average 112.1 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
102.1 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
126.0 mm

Midsole width in the heel

Descending to the heel, the midsole of the Olympus 6 is significantly wider than what we typically see in our lab regarding trail shoes, measuring 101.4 mm. 

Remember that even forefoot or midfoot strikers might find themselves heel striking on certain terrains, like some downhill sections. With such a towering stack height, this added width is essential.

Altra Olympus 6 Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Olympus 6 101.4 mm
Average 89.9 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
77.2 mm
Midsole width in the heel
109.3 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

A large stack height paired with a Vibram Megagrip rugged outsole usually results in a stiff shoe. However, Altra has incorporated strategic grooves in the outsole to enhance flexibility, and with a flexibility rating of 33.0N from our 90-degree lab test, the Olympus 6 delivers. We highly recommend it for those looong hiking days!

Test results
Olympus 6 33.0N
Average 28.0N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
10.5N
Stiffness
54.5N

Difference in stiffness in cold

In our latest cold-weather test, we put the Olympus 6 in the freezer for another 20 minutes and observed a significant transformation, with stiffness increasing by 33.6%. While this result isn't the best we've seen, it's certainly far from the worst.

Test results
Olympus 6 33.6%
Average 34.8%
Compared to 108 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in stiffness in cold
102%

Grip / Traction

Lug depth

Lugs are crucial for any trail shoe, providing the necessary grip for rugged terrains. We were pleased to discover that Altra has made some subtle yet effective tweaks to the lugs on the Olympus 6.

Altra Olympus 6 lugs pattern

Now measuring 3.5 mm deep—up from 3.0 mm—these lugs may look similar but have been clearly redesigned based on feedback from the previous model.

Altra Olympus 6 lugs traction
Yes, the outsole still tends to catch a few rocks!

The midfoot lugs are notably larger, and the tread has improved significantly in the forefoot for better grip on uphill climbs. Overall, this update is a strong improvement, and we appreciate that Altra has maintained a moderate lug depth, avoiding the less versatile and clunky 5.0-mm lugs.

Test results
Olympus 6 3.5 mm
Average 3.5 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.7 mm
Lug depth
5.8 mm

Size and fit

Toebox width at the widest part

All Altra shoes have two major selling points—the low-drop geometry and the foot-shaped, accommodating toebox with excellent step-in comfort. The Olympus 6 is built using Altra's Original FootShape Fit, the widest of their three toebox shapes—Standard and Slim being the other two.

The vertical volume is good, which is crucial since the upper doesn’t stretch at all.

We measured 100.9 mm at the widest part of the upper, already wider than average, though nothing extraordinary yet. However, the real magic happens in our second measurement, where we observed the true benefit of this foot-shaped design.

Altra Olympus 6 Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Olympus 6 100.9 mm
Average 98.9 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
92.0 mm
Toebox width at the widest part
104.9 mm

Toebox width at the big toe

As we mentioned earlier, this measurement is crucial when it comes to Altra shoes—it’s where the foot-shaped toebox truly shines. At 87.4 mm in the big toe area, it's significantly wider than regular shoes, offering exceptional room for toe splay, a huge advantage on long trail adventures.

Altra Olympus 6 fit

This feature is perfect for those who naturally spread their toes while walking or running, especially with square-shaped feet. We found it incredibly comfortable, and while the shoe may look a bit weird at first if you're not into Altra's world, the spaciousness and comfort are unmatched.

Altra Olympus 6 Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Olympus 6 87.4 mm
Average 79.1 mm
Compared to 73 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
70.5 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
92.1 mm

Tongue: gusset type

A proper trail running shoe over $100 should include a gusseted tongue, and we were pleased to find the Olympus 6 delivers. The fully fixed tongue prevents debris and dust from entering the toebox, enhancing comfort and performance on rough terrains.

Altra Olympus 6 Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Olympus 6 Both sides (full)

Comfort

Tongue padding

Everything about the Olympus 6 is big, and the tongue is no exception. At 10.2 mm of padding, we found it incredibly cushy and plush—a dream for those who love to tighten their laces without feeling any discomfort on the instep.

Altra Olympus 6 laces

The lacing system is another standout feature. From our perspective, the punched eyelets, including an extra one for added versatility and ankle security, combined with fantastic flat laces, offer an exceptional fit.

Altra Olympus 6 Tongue padding
Test results
Olympus 6 10.2 mm
Average 6.5 mm
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Tongue padding
12.2 mm

Heel tab

The heel of the Olympus 6 includes a well-designed, high-quality, practical heel tab that we found to be a great addition. In our view, it's those small but thoughtful details that help justify the premium price of this model.

Altra Olympus 6 Heel tab
Test results
Olympus 6 Finger loop

GaiterTrap

The velcro strap at the back is designed to easily attach ankle gaiters. It's made for Altra's GaiterTrap proprietary system, but it works brilliantly!

Altra Olympus 6 Altra GaiterTrap

Removable insole

You can easily swap the insole for an aftermarket one, but keep in mind that the foot-shaped toebox of the Olympus 6 might pose a challenge when fitting a third-party footbed.

Altra Olympus 6 Removable insole
Test results
Olympus 6 Yes

Price

The Olympus 6 comes in at a higher price point than most Altras, but it offers unique features you won’t find in any other trail shoe from the brand. Unfortunately, it did see a slight price increase from the v5, which we’re not thrilled about, but when adjusted for inflation—it’s not too bad!

Test results
Olympus 6 $175
Average $148
Compared to 111 trail running shoes
Number of shoes
$60
Price
$360

Misc

Reflective elements

If there’s one thing we appreciate here at RunRepeat, it’s when brands go the extra mile with reflective elements on trail running shoes. We’re of the opinion that visibility matters, and Altra nailed it this time. We discovered that even the laces reflect light—an impressive detail!

Test results
Olympus 6 Yes