Our verdict
The Altra Solstice XT2 is a great shoe for indoor gym workouts. It is cushioned enough for short runs and flat enough to not meddle with the weightlifting a typical fitness enthusiast does. What makes it even more exciting is the fact that it is lighter than most training shoes while being wide-footer-friendly.
Pros
- Effective all-around trainer
- Sufficiently cushioned
- Grooved outsole for flexions
- Really supportive
- Great ground feel
- Breathable
- Lighter than average
- Wide-foot friendly
Cons
- Not for outdoors
- Not for intense workouts
Who should buy the Altra Solstice XT 2
This trainer is going to be great for the following:
- fitness enthusiasts who are wide-footers
- gym-goers who do light to moderate workouts
Who should NOT buy this trainer
The Solstice XT2 is not going to be for those with narrow feet. They are better off with the Nike Metcon 7 and other shoes that are known to fit really close to the skin.
Those who have intentions of using their trainers for walking and/or running outdoors should just consider getting the Altra Rivera and other runners from Altra.
Feeling the ground won't be a problem with the Solstice XT 2
This training shoe has a low-to-the-ground structure and is really stable; hence, ground feedback is effortlessly pronounced. This makes maneuvering a lot easier to do. This level of responsiveness also makes this shoe a safe option for light to moderate weightlifting, an activity that requires ample amounts of firmness and stability.
Balanced midsole. Yes, you'll get it!
Aside from providing a lot of responsiveness, the midsole tooling also delivers impact protection and some energy return. This makes the shoe a good pick for short runs.
Grooved outsole allows feet to naturally flex
The outsole does not feel clunky because it is light and has grooves. These grooves are placed strategically in areas where the sole is expected to flex and fold, thereby accommodating the natural movement and orientation of feet. Furthermore, the modified herringbone pattern that covers a large part of the sole gives the sneaker dependable grip on smooth indoor floors.
The Altra Solstice XT2 is wide-footer-friendly
The sneaker has a little more width, so it's easy for this trainer to accommodate wearers with wider feet. The shape is said to take after the natural form of the foot, and the foot does not feel constricted when in this.
This trainer is light, breathable, and supportive
The Altra Solstice XT 2 delivers all the goods without packing on so much weight. It also does not compromise on ventilation. It is truly comfortable when you wear this, so this shoe can also be used for other purposes aside from gym workouts. Because of the comfort that it delivers, it can definitely be your everyday in-office work shoe!
It is important to take note here that the upper is topped with cage-like structures on both the medial and lateral side. This add-on is effective in securing feet during aggressive movements.
