Altra Timp 4 review
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is to avoid that shoes with few reviews unjustly receives high scores.
Learn moreVerdict from 3 experts & 100+ users
Pros
- Grippy on wet trails and steep descents
- Bouncy and responsive
- Natural-feeling ride
- Pillowy landing
- Dampens impact
- Wide toe box
- Secure lockdown
- Drains fast
- Breezy under warm conditions
Cons
- Way pricier than the Timp 3
- Lacks stability on technical trails




71% say it's true to size.
We earn affiliate commissions at no extra cost to you when you buy through us.
Rankings
- Our 1st pick in best Altra trail running shoes
- Our 1st pick in best pink running shoes
- Top 9% most popular running shoes
Comparison to similar running shoes
Add a shoe to compare | Add a shoe to compare | Add a shoe to compare | Add a shoe to compare | Add a shoe to compare | Add a shoe to compare | Add a shoe to compare | |
CoreScore | |||||||
Users rating | |||||||
Experts | |||||||
Best price | |||||||
Ranking | |||||||
Popularity | |||||||
# of colorways |
Who should buy the Altra Timp 4
Get the Timp 4 if you're looking to buy a:
- trail shoe for both long and short-distance daily trail runs
- soft yet peppy ride for light trails and moderately technical terrains
Who should NOT buy it
Runners who want a cheaper alternative to the Timp 4 can buy the Altra Superior 5 instead. And for those who want surefooted strides on highly technical trails can consider the Altra Lone Peak 6.
Altra Timp 4 vs. 3: From hybrid to a more trail-ready shoe
Past iterations of the Altra Timp have been perfect for door-to-trail excursions, traveling, walking, and even hiking. In the fourth version, the changes made the shoe a more trail-specific one:
- a new midsole that's softer and livelier
- a modified lug layout to increase traction and flexibility for a more natural ride
- a taller heel collar for a better fit
- an altered heel that's plusher for a more premium feel
Cushion is oozing with goodness
The midsole is softer than the last version, and there's so much of it; each footfall feels pillowy. Whether running low or high miles in the Altra Timp 4, it mutes out ground feel and dampens all impact; it keeps pain at bay.
However, the shoe's softer foam hurts its stability, especially on highly technical terrains.
Ride is better than ever
With the redesigned cushion, the Timp feels "bouncy, soft, and fun." According to the majority, it feels peppy; it doesn't feel sluggish when the pace starts to liven up.
On top of this, it's flexible; it makes the ride natural-feeling.
The Timp 4's traction is great
It's definitely "grippier," commended several Altra Timp loyalists. One of the gripes they had with the Altra Timp 2 and 3 was that they lacked the bite on slick and rocky descents. In this iteration, it sticks not only on wet surfaces and steep descents but also bites better on light fire roads and moderately technical terrains.
Toe box: Altra roomy
The Altra Timp 4 may be in Altra's standard fit, but when compared to other running shoes, it's still exceptionally roomy. So much so, runners find it comfy even when the foot swells after long miles of running.
If you're an Altra fan who prefers an even wider toe box, experts suggest going for the Altra Lone Peak instead.
Keeps you locked in
The Altra Timp 4's midfoot is snug; there are no reports of slips from multiple trail runners. And in the rear, it's made plusher making it just as secure.
Dries fast
Thanks to its porous upper, this shoe doesn't store moisture. Those who have run through creeks and puddles all claim that the shoe doesn't feel heavy when wet because it drains water fast.
Apart from excellent drainage, the shoe also maintains a breathable sensation under humid conditions.
A big jump in price
From $140, the Timp 4 from Altra goes all the way up to $160. As critics would put it, it's a "pretty significant" price increase. To put it in perspective, trail shoes, on average, retail for $129.