Our verdict

The Altra Provision 7 steps up the game with a lighter, more stable build than its predecessors. We think it's a perfect fit for those who love low-drop, mid-stability trainers, though you should be comfortable with its slightly firmer midsole feel. Additionally, in our lab tests, we noticed the heel-to-toe drop differed slightly from the advertised 0 mm. Nevertheless, we feel its fair price and impressive features make it a standout choice for runners who want a low-drop shoe with a bit of support for their daily runs.

Pros

  • Snug and secure lockdown
  • Foot-shaped toe box for natural toe splay
  • Stable without being intrusive
  • Excellent traction across various surfaces
  • Highly breathable design
  • Ideal for a wide range of paces
  • Performs well on light trails
  • Good durability

Cons

  • Midsole might feel overly firm for certain runners
  • Unexpectedly narrow upper
  • Limited energy return

Audience verdict

83
Good!

Who should buy

We think that the Provision 7 from Altra is a solid pick, especially for:

  • Altra enthusiasts seeking a multi-functional shoe with added stability features like GuideRails.
  • Those in need of a lightweight, low-drop daily runner that provides a stable, firm ride.
  • Midfoot and forefoot strikers looking for a summer-friendly shoe offering top-notch breathability and great durability.

Altra Provision 7

Who should NOT buy

We've proved that the Altra Provision 7 doesn't quite hit the mark for true zero-drop enthusiasts, as our lab tests revealed a heel-to-toe drop of 4.8 mm. This deviation might actually be a plus for some, but for the purists, we recommend the Altra Torin 7 for a more authentic zero-drop experience. 

Altra Provision 7

Furthermore, we found that the midsole might feel somewhat firm for those who prefer a softer, more plush underfoot sensation.

In our experience, if you're on the lookout for shoes that blend softness with some stability, the ASICS Kayano 30 and the Saucony Tempus are outstanding alternatives. Both of these options provide the luxurious, cushioned feel you may find lacking in the Provision 7.

Breathability

The first time we laid eyes on the Provision 7, we loved the abundance of ventilation holes it boasts. The toebox holes are obvious—and frequent in many shoes—but we noticed the entire upper is full of them, leading us to expect superb airflow.

We put it to the test with our smoke-pumping machine to see if it lived up to our hype. Luckily, it did. After our evaluation, we gave the Provision 7 a stellar rating of 5 out of 5.

To highlight all these holes, we positioned the sliced Provision over a light. This made it much easier to spot every single hole we'd been talking about, right?

Next, we were keen to closely examine the main contributors to this excellent ventilation—the toebox holes. So, we switched to the microscope.

Altra Provision 7 microscope

We observed in the microscope that the shoe's upper is constructed from two distinct layers.

Altra has designed a high-quality engineered mesh that smartly incorporates openings every few millimeters, allowing air to flow freely and providing the fantastic ventilation we mentioned.

Altra Provision 7 microscope

Lastly, we conducted a hands-on assessment of the upper.

We found the back half to be exceptionally padded for comfort, while the front half is thin and remarkably stretchy for a mesh material. In this aspect, we think it almost behaves like a knit upper.

Test results
Provision 7 5
Average 3.8
Compared to 201 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

With its impressive breathability, we had some doubts about the shoe's durability. But let's see what happens when we crank up the Dremel to 5K RPM and apply 3.2N of force to the upper.

The results were great. While it's not the top score, earning a 3/5 in durability for a road running shoe is definitely something to celebrate. And in the case of the Provision 7, this durability is all thanks to its dual-layer mesh.

Altra Provision 7 Toebox durability
Test results
Provision 7 3
Average 2.3
Compared to 135 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

Next, we shifted our focus to the heel area. Right from the first try, this shoe gave us positive vibes, as it impressively prevented any heel slippage. 

After conducting our second Dremel test, we were thrilled to award a perfect 5/5 score to this area. The Provision 7 performance was simply awesome in this test!

Altra Provision 7 Heel padding durability
Test results
Provision 7 5
Average 3.1
Compared to 131 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

Hoping to continue the success from our first two durability tests, we shifted our focus to the outsole—one of the most crucial areas for wear and tear in any shoe.

Altra Provision 7 Outsole

In our experience, this is a shoe that's even capable of handling occasional training sessions on gravel roads or easy trails.

We measured the hardness at 82.3 HC, an average result that doesn't sacrifice grip. In fact, the Provision 7 proved to be really grippy on various terrains where we tested it.

Altra Provision 7 Outsole hardness
Test results
Provision 7 82.3 HC
Average 80.3 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 252 running shoes
Number of shoes
55.5 HC
Outsole hardness
92.8 HC

Outsole durability

To truly test durability, as you might already know, in the lab we rev up the Dremel and put the rubber to the test. For the outsole, we double the RPM and run it for a longer period, of course.

Our tests showed that the average hardness of the rubber resulted in average wear and tear, which was exactly what we expected in the lab. For us, that's fair!

Altra Provision 7 Outsole durability
Test results
Provision 7 0.7 mm
Average 0.9 mm
Compared to 113 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

We found that Altra overdid it with a massive 5.4-mm outsole on the Provision 7.

Altra Provision 7 outsole

The unmistakable Altra FootPod outsole.

Sure, some pronators go through outsoles quickly, but this is overkill. By shedding 2 or even 3 millimeters of foam, Altra could offer a more grounded feel and lighter weight, while maintaining sufficient durability.

Altra Provision 7 Outsole thickness
Test results
Provision 7 5.4 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 272 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm

Weight

We just mentioned that Altra could trim some weight off the Provision 7, but honestly, it's not a pressing issue. 

Weighing in at just 9.1 oz (259g), the shoe is surprisingly light, especially for the mild stability category!

Altra Provision 7 Weight
Test results
Provision 7 9.14 oz (259g)
Average 9.38 oz (266g)
Compared to 273 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.56 oz (356g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

The shoe didn't feel like a maximal or a low-stack model when we ran in it, but rather something in between.

It offers ample cushioning, especially for heel strikers, with a stack height of 32.6 mm.

Altra Provision 7 Heel stack
Test results
Provision 7 32.6 mm
Average 33.6 mm
Compared to 272 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Heel stack
42.7 mm

Forefoot stack

We expected the forefoot to be 32.6 mm, as this shoe is marketed as a zero-drop model. However, our multiple measurements consistently showed a different number: 27.8 mm.

Altra Provision 7 Forefoot stack
Test results
Provision 7 27.8 mm
Average 24.8 mm
Compared to 272 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
35.8 mm

Drop

Based on our measurements, the Provision 7 misses the zero-drop mark with a 4.8-mm heel-to-toe drop. It doesn't align at least with the World Athletics official guidelines for measuring the drop, which we strictly adhere to.

Despite that, the shoe does feel like it has a really low drop, almost similar to true zero-drop shoes. For example, the Altra Paradigm 7, which we also tested some weeks ago in the lab, showed an actual 0.1-mm heel-to-toe drop, and feels really close to this one when running.

Altra Provision 7 Drop
Test results
Provision 7 4.8 mm
Average 8.8 mm
Compared to 272 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Insole thickness

The insole, made of EVA, has an average thickness of 5.0 mm, so it feels pretty similar to most other shoes on the market.

Altra Provision 7 Insole thickness
Test results
Provision 7 5.0 mm
Average 4.4 mm
Compared to 268 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Midsole softness

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

Moving to the midsole, we think Altra's Ego foam aims to strike a perfect balance, offering ample comfort and cushioning while ensuring a stable ride.

From our perspective, it's slightly firmer than what runners usually prefer, measuring at 26.0 HA. However, Altra is known for crafting such midsoles, and we believe most fans of the brand will appreciate this formulation.

Altra Provision 7 Midsole softness
Test results
Provision 7 26.0 HA
Average 23.4 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 253 running shoes
Number of shoes
6.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
52.5 HA

Difference in midsole softness in cold

After spending 20 minutes in our freezer, the Ego foam became only 11.5% firmer, a remarkable result that guarantees consistent performance in any weather condition.

Altra Provision 7 Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
Provision 7 11.5%
Average 25.6%
Compared to 252 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
125%

Stability

Lateral stability test

Altra positions the Provision lineup as a mild-stability trainer. This means it's more stable than the average daily running shoe but not as rigid as a pure stability shoe.

In our assessment, we found that it provides a level of stabilization ideal for neutral runners. Yet, for those requiring a bit of extra support, it's absolutely perfect.

Altra Provision 7 GuideRails

The GuideRails technology enhances stability by directing your foot forward and preventing lateral collapse, utilizing midsole sidewalls.

This is largely due to the GuideRail technology, which offers support only when necessary, without ever feeling intrusive.

Torsional rigidity

One of the simplest methods to add extra support to a shoe without making it too intrusive or affecting the ride is by enhancing its torsional rigidity.

The Provision 7 scored a solid 4 out of 5 in our test, which is reasonable. We think a 5/5 score would be more suitable for a maximum stability shoe, not for this one.

Test results
Provision 7 4
Average 3.2
Compared to 250 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

We were pleasantly surprised to discover a flexible heel counter (2/5) in our testing. This is excellent news for those seeking a stable shoe without a stiff heel counter—a rare find!

Test results
Provision 7 2
Average 2.7
Compared to 234 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width in the forefoot

When we measured the shoe's dimensions, we found that the widest part of the forefoot was 116.9 mm.

This measurement fits perfectly with the ideal design for a mild-stability shoe—just slightly wider than the average daily trainer, but not as wide as a max-stability shoe like the Hoka Gaviota 5.

Altra Provision 7 Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Provision 7 116.9 mm
Average 113.5 mm
Compared to 273 running shoes
Number of shoes
100.5 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
126.5 mm

Midsole width in the heel

We were surprised to find the heel quite narrow at 87.7 mm. It seems Altra is confident in the stability offered by the firm midsole, GuideRails, and the low-drop configuration, all of which boost stability. This design choice makes sense—why go wider and add more weight if it's not necessary?

Of course, this narrower heel might not be the best for extreme heel strikers. However, we think they might have already been ruled out due to the shoe's low-drop design.

Altra Provision 7 Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Provision 7 87.7 mm
Average 90.2 mm
Compared to 273 running shoes
Number of shoes
74.9 mm
Midsole width in the heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

We really appreciated how the Provision 7 effortlessly doubles as a walking or gym shoe. Its moderate flexibility and lack of stiffness make it well-suited for all-day wear and a variety of activities beyond running.

When we conducted our classic 90-degree bend test, the shoe displayed good flexibility, requiring just 26.4N of force.

Test results
Provision 7 26.4N
Average 29.4N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 255 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N

Difference in stiffness in cold

We conducted the 20-minute freezer test again to gauge the shoe's stiffness in extreme cold, though given its amazing breathability, wearing it in freezing temperatures might not be the best idea.

After the test, it took 31.9N of force to bend the shoe, marking a 20.7% increase in stiffness.

Test results
Provision 7 20.7%
Average 37.5%
Compared to 255 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in stiffness in cold
148%

Size and fit

Toebox width at the widest part

While Altra is known for making roomy uppers, that's not the case here. We measured it at just 95.4 mm at the widest point.

But this makes sense to us, because this shoe focuses on stability without intrusive methods like medial posts. And one of the best ways to achieve this is by pairing a narrow-fitted upper with a wide midsole.

Altra Provision 7 Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Provision 7 95.4 mm
Average 98.2 mm
Compared to 273 running shoes
Number of shoes
89.5 mm
Toebox width at the widest part
109.1 mm

Toebox width at the big toe

As usual, we took another measurement in the big toe area. Here we found it to be 88.3 mm, which is incredibly wide.

Altra Provision 7 footshape

Yeah, they might look a bit odd or even clown-like to anyone who's not an Altra fan, but the space for the toes is seriously impressive.

This highlights Altra's use of their FootShape design, ensuring there's enough room for the toes.

Altra Provision 7 Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Provision 7 88.3 mm
Average 78.0 mm
Compared to 146 running shoes
Number of shoes
67.6 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
97.9 mm

Tongue: gusset type

The tongue isn't gusseted, which means it's not fixed to the sides.

Is this a letdown? Probably, but we have to remember this is a mid-tier shoe, priced at just $140. From a marketing standpoint, it makes sense that Altra reserves some premium features for its higher-priced shoes, right?

Altra Provision 7 Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Provision 7 None

Comfort

Tongue padding

The tongue boasts a single slab of foam, providing a generous 6.5 mm of padding.

Altra Provision 7

The lacing system is certainly unconventional.

This design makes it almost impossible to experience lace bite, no matter how tightly we tie the laces.

Altra Provision 7 Tongue padding
Test results
Provision 7 6.5 mm
Average 5.6 mm
Compared to 270 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Heel tab

Altra opted out of a traditional heel tab, instead sewing a small strap with the brand name in its place.

Altra Provision 7 Heel tab
Test results
Provision 7 None

Removable insole

The insole isn't glued, so we removed it without a hitch. But the FootShape toe box means that few third-party insoles will fit this Altra perfectly, so we think that you'll likely need to get a custom-made insole from a specialist.

Altra Provision 7 Removable insole
Test results
Provision 7 Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

Every year, we see more brands skimping on reflective elements, but Altra really impressed us with the Provision 7—it's exceptionally visible at night. Amazing!

Test results
Provision 7 Yes