Altra Paradigm 4.0 review

Who should buy the Altra Paradigm 4.0

• A dynamic running shoe for road runners who are into 10ks and 21Ks.
• A great shoe for neutral pronators and runners with bunions who want a running shoe with maximum cushioning and support.

Updates to the Altra Paradigm 4.0

• Designed for lengthy distances, as its zero-drop structure delivers a cushy platform that is ready for the long haul. 
• Updated knit upper increasing the overall comfort level.
• Features Altra EGO midsole material that provides a bouncy platform and plushest underfoot feel.
• Stabilipods produces a springier and more stable ride.

Responsive ride and enhanced flexibility

Like the previous iteration, the Paradigm 4.0 utilizes the FootPod technology in its outsole. This material is shaped according to the natural figure of the human foot, which results in a responsive ride through an enhanced level of flexibility.

The structure of the outsole allows the shoe to adapt itself as the running position changes, while also delivering the necessary traction.

Paradigm 4.0 offers responsive capability

The FootPod technology works by mapping the bones and tendons of the foot, thus helping them move and bend naturally. This outsole technology is also utilized in the popular Altra Superior 3.5 running shoe.

Altra introduces in the Paradigm 4.0 the Altra EGO midsole, a dual-nature compound that possesses a responsive capability and a soft characteristic, resulting in an energized ride with an ultra-comfortable sensation.

High-energy ride

The high-energy ride provided by the Altra EGO is complemented by its durable and reactive qualities. The midsole makes use of a stabilizing tripod, aptly named the StabiliPod.

It supports the three natural stability zones in the foot, therefore controlling pronation and preventing excessive foot collapse.

Provides adaptive stability

Meanwhile, a GuideRail feature is also present in the Paradigm 4.0. As another support technology, it guides the midsole to efficiently provide adaptive stability. The GuideRail offers reinforcement as necessary, such as steering the foot when it gets off-track.

Like many other Altra running shoes, the Paradigm 4.0 includes the Natural Ride System (NRS). This design philosophy promotes natural mobility, as it produces metatarsal-specific shapes to assist proper foot mechanics.

Altra Paradigm 4.0 provides a supportive breathability

The midsole also incorporates Inner Flex, which is the set of flex grooves placed across the length of the shoe. Inner Flex equips the shoe with the lightweight flexibility that encourages a better and longer running performance.

The engineered knit upper of the Paradigm 4.0 gives the shoe a supportive breathability. It provides the runner with not only a seamless fit, but also with a durable coverage and an excellent ventilation unit.

The knit material is designed to be comfortable and to feel like a second skin.