6 Best Altra Running Shoes in 2023

Jovana Subic
Jovana Subic on
| Reviewed using methodology 1.6
6 Best Altra Running Shoes in 2023
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Whether it’s a trail or road running shoe you’re after, Altra has got you covered. The brand has always been highly regarded for its top-quality, supportive, and comfortable running shoes. 

And if you’re searching for the best of all time, we are here to help you. Having tested almost 60 Altra running shoes, we are more than sure that we can give you the Altra gold mine from different categories.

Best overall
Altra VIA Olympus Altra VIA Olympus
$170 From Zappos
Best speed training
Altra Rivera 2 Altra Rivera 2
$130 $60 From Amazon
Best with wide toebox
Altra Provision 6 Altra Provision 6
$140 $60 From Amazon
Best for trail
Altra Lone Peak 6 Altra Lone Peak 6
$140 $83 From Amazon
Best cushioning
Altra Olympus 5 Altra Olympus 5
$180 $127 From Amazon
Best for long distance
Altra Outroad Altra Outroad
$140 $70 From Amazon
See all 46 altra running shoes

    How we test running shoes

    We don’t randomly decide on which shoe makes it to this list. We take our time testing each one of them in our independent shoe testing lab. And to really back our recommendations, we make sure to: 

    • Buy all the Altra shoes with our own money to prevent bias and brand loyalty
    • Rake in at least 30-50 miles in each shoe to see how well they perform and how sturdy they are
    • Cut each of them open to see the details inside and measure them with our calipers, durometers, scale, our custom-made smoke machine, etc. 

    For the CoreScore (a rating of 0-100), we collate various user and expert comments to calculate how each shoe ranks against others.

    Best Altra running shoes overall

    altra via olympus review
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    altra via olympus lab test
    altra-via-olympus-breathability
    altra-via-olympus-breathability-light
    altra via olympus tongue thickness
    altra-via-olympus-ride
    altra via olympus inside
    altra-via-olympus-heel-to-toe
    altra-via-olympus-cushioning
    altra via olympus cushioning softness durometer
    altra via olympus in cold
    altra via olympus heel stack
    altra via olympus forefoot stack
    altra via olympus insole
    altra via olympus fit
    altra via olympus toebox width
    altra via olympus sizing
    altra via olympus heel upper width
    altra-via-olympus-heel-counter
    altra via olympus forefoot width
    altra via olympus heel width
    altra-via-olympus-stability
    altra via olympus rocker
    altra-via-olympus-stable-ride
    altra-via-olympus-flexibility-measurement
    altra-via-olympus-flexibility
    altra-via-olympus-landing
    altra via olympus toe
    altra-via-olympus-stable-ride
    altra via olympus outsole
    altra via olympus weight
    altra-via-olympus-price
    altra-via-olympus-reflective
    altra via olympus lab measurements
    Altra VIA Olympus
    85
    Good!

    What makes it the best?

    The Altra VIA Olympus is the max-cushioned road runner that zero-drop fans have been waiting for. Though it managed to rain on its own parade with a firmer-than-expected midsole, this shoe more than made up for it with a comfy upper, stable platform, smooth ride, and the wide fit Altra loyalists have long demanded.

    Pros

    • Comfortable and premium-feeling upper
    • Roomy, unmistakably-Altra fit
    • Secure lockdown even for narrow feet
    • Smooth and responsive ride
    • Good for any distance at an easy pace
    • Effective, but not obtrusive, rocker
    • Copious amount of padding
    • Breathable
    • Absorbs impact well

    Cons

    • Cushioning on the firm side, but a toss-up on how firm
    • Doesn’t feel like a zero-drop shoe
    • Substantial break-in period
    • On the heavier side
    Full review of Altra VIA Olympus

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Mineral Blue (AL0A82BW419)
    Grey (AL0A82BW270)
    Orange (AL0A82BW013)
    White/Blue (AL0A82BW140)
    Black (AL0A82BW000)
    Neon/Blue (AL0A82BW740)
    $170
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  

    Best Altra speed training running shoes

    Altra Rivera 2 main outdoor image
    Altra-Rivera-2-saw-cutting
    Altra Rivera 2 lab view
    Altra-Rivera-2-reflective-elements
    Altra-Rivera-2-upper
    Altra Rivera 2 freezer test
    Altra Rivera 2 forefoot stack height
    Altra Rivera 2 heel stack height
    Altra-Rivera-2-cushioning
    Altra Rivera 2 outsole
    Altra Rivera 2 lugs depth
    Altra Rivera 2 pieces of the shoe
    Altra-Rivera-2-run-outside
    Altra Rivera 2 forefoot width
    Altra Rivera 2 front view trail run
    Altra Rivera 2 tongue thickness
    Altra Rivera 2 higher heel collar
    Altra Rivera 2 trail run mid stance
    Altra-Rivera-2-flexibility-test
    Altra Rivera 2 uphill trail run
    Altra Rivera front view
    Altra Rivera 2
    82
    Good!

    What makes it the best?

    Whether going fast or taking it easy on your training runs, the Altra Rivera 2 is a do-it-all daily trainer that's lively and energetic. It also delivers a natural-feeling run with its zero-drop design. On top of this, it's a trusty pick for runners who want a light, well-cushioned running shoe that can gobble up long miles on the road.

    Pros

    • Responsive on faster runs
    • Stable on uneven surfaces
    • Comfortable for long days
    • Lightweight
    • Form-fitting wrap
    • Spacious toe box
    • Visually appealing
    • Soft and stretchy upper

    Cons

    • A bit slimmer than the average Altra
    • Firmer than the Rivera 1
    Full review of Altra Rivera 2

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Navy (AL0A547G445)
    Grey (AL0A547G229)
    Maroon (AL0A547G666)
    Black (AL0A547G000)
    White (AL0A547G130)
    Green (AL0A547G305)
    $60
    See deal  
    $65
    See deal  
    $97
    See deal  
    $98
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  
    $104
    See deal  

    Best Altra running shoes with wide toebox

    Altra Provision 6 %2034
    Altra-Provision-6-Cut-1
    Altra Provision 6 %2030
    Altra Provision 6 %206
    Altra Provision 6 %2025
    Altra Provision 6 %2021
    Altra-Provision-6-360
    Altra Provision 6 %2033
    Altra Provision 6 %201
    Altra Provision 6 %203
    Altra-Provision-6-Cush
    Altra Provision 6 %202
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    Altra Provision 6 %205
    Altra Provision 6 %2013
    Altra Provision 6 %204
    Altra Provision 6
    85
    Good!

    What makes it the best?

    Anyone who’s heard of Altra’s religious commitment to the zero-drop running shoe will know a lot of what’s up with the Altra Provision 6. This mid-cushioned, zero-drop stability shoe continues Altra’s core line while continuing to add some unique features. If you’re new to the zero-drop scene, we’ve got you covered in this review too.

    Pros

    • Fits true to size
    • Very light for a stability shoe
    • Great for wider feet
    • Ingenious stability system
    • Incredible grip
    • More stability in the outsole
    • Good cushioning for a zero drop shoe
    • Great to have in a rotation
    • Good durability
    • Consistent flex in all conditions

    Cons

    • Forefoot may be too wide for some
    • Getting a good heel lock can be hard
    • Orthotics may not fit properly
    Full review of Altra Provision 6

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Beige (AL0A5475921)
    Black (AL0A5475000)
    Blue (AL0A5475036)
    Navy (AL0A5475445)
    Blue (AL0A5475440)
    Teal/Green (AL0A5475324)
    $60
    See deal  
    $70
    See deal  
    $98
    See deal  
    $102
    See deal  
    $105
    See deal  
    $130
    See deal  

    Best Altra running shoes for trail

    Merrell Nova 2 %2025
    Altra-Lone-Peak-6-Cut-2
    Merrell Nova 2 %2022
    Merrell Nova 2 %20921
    Altra-Lone-Peak-6-Run
    Merrell Nova 2 %2099
    Altra-Lone-Peak-6-Cush
    Merrell Nova 2 %2091
    Merrell Nova 2 %20917
    Merrell Nova 2 %2095
    Merrell Nova 2 %20924
    Merrell Nova 2 %20919
    Merrell Nova 2 %2092
    Altra-Lone-Peak-6-360
    Merrell Nova 2 %20913
    Merrell Nova 2 %20912
    Merrell Nova 2 %20918
    Altra Lone Peak 6
    90
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    Whether you’re a dedicated zero-drop runner, just dipping your toe into it for the first time, or like to spice up your rotation with something new, the Altra Lone Peak 6 is a solid workhorse of a trail running shoe. The Altra Lone Peak 6 is a genuinely excellent all-rounder.

    Pros

    • Fits true to size
    • Excellent all-round grip
    • Highly durable
    • Great ground feel
    • Feels like it makes you run better
    • Great pull tab
    • Gaiter compatible
    • Brilliant lacing
    • Roomy toe box
    • Fully gusseted tongue

    Cons

    • Stain magnet
    • Not enough cushioning for some
    Full review of Altra Lone Peak 6

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Maroon (AL0A547L666)
    Blue (AL0A547L305)
    Orange (AL0A547L880)
    Brown (AL0A547L990)
    Blue / Grey (AL0A547L242)
    Dusty Olive (AL0A547L315)
    Black (AL0A547L020)
    Black (AL0A7R6K020)
    $83
    See deal  
    $101
    See deal  
    $105
    See deal  
    $105
    See deal  
    $105
    See deal  
    $113
    See deal  

    Altra running shoes with best cushioning

    altra olympus 5 review
    altra-olympus-5-cutting
    altra olympus 5 best for
    altra-olympus-5-cushioning
    altra olympus 5 cushioning softness durometer
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    altra olympus 5 insole
    altra olympus 5 forefoot stack
    altra-olympus-5-breathability-smoke-test
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    altra-olympus-5-energy-return
    altra-olympus-5-flex-measure
    altra-olympus-5-flex
    altra olympus 5 heel width
    altra olympus 5 raised sidewalls stability
    altra-olympus-5-stability
    altra-olympus-5-heel
    altra olympus 5 fit
    altra olympus 5 gusseted tongue
    altra olympus 5 forefoot width
    altra-olympus-5-reflective-elements
    altra olympus 5 pull tab
    altra olympus 5 tongue thickness
    altra olympus 5 tongue
    altra olympus 5 outsole thickness
    altra-olympus-5-traction
    altra olympus 5 grip
    altra olympus 5 gaitor
    altra olympus 5 lab measurements
    Altra Olympus 5
    82
    Good!

    What makes it the best?

    The Olympus 5 from Altra screams premium inside and out. It's the brand's most cushioned, most protective, and most expensive trail running shoe yet. With its luxurious midsole, running long distances is an easy feat. And if you want one shoe for your hikes and runs, the Altra Olympus 5 is ready for you.

    Pros

    • Grippy on wet and dry trails
    • Protective muscles
    • Comfort is a 10/10
    • Toe box welcomes wide feet
    • Gives out energy
    • Breathable
    • Stable ride
    • Heel lockdown is terrific!
    • Easy on and off

    Cons

    • Durability couldn't be worse
    • Annoying lace bites
    • It's a splurge
    Full review of Altra Olympus 5

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Orange (AL0A7R6P880)
    Gray/Teal (AL0A7R6P233)
    Black (AL0A7R6P020)
    Brown (AL0A7R6P990)
    Navy (AL0A7R6P445)
    Beige (AL0A7R6P922)
    $127
    See deal  
    $128
    See deal  
    $128
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  
    $180
    See deal  

    Best Altra running shoes for long distance

    altra outroad on feet
    altra-outroad-cut-in-half
    altra outroad test
    altra-outroad-smoke-test
    altra-outroad-transparency-test
    altra outroad upper width
    altra-outroad-cushioning-test2
    altra outroad midsole test
    altra outroad stack height
    altra outroad forefoot stack height
    altra outroad insole measurement
    altra outroad outsole2
    altra outroad lugs measurement
    altra outroad outsole test
    altra outroad gusseted tongue
    altra-outroad-heel
    altra-outroad-running-test
    altra outroad test outdoor
    altra-outroad-flex-test
    altra-outroad-flexibility-test
    altra outroad freezer test
    new-balance-fresh-foam-roav-v2-stability
    new balance fresh foam roav v2 midsole width
    altra-outroad-running-test-2
    altra outroad design
    altra outroad design2
    Altra%20Outroad%20-%20Reflective%20elements
    altra outroad in pieces
    Altra Outroad
    82
    Good!

    What makes it the best?

    The Altra Outroad is a zero-drop trail shoe that seems to take the place of the Timp in the brand’s lineup: it’s a true, excellent all-rounder that proved to be reliable on almost all surfaces. It’s not the usual Altra when it comes to width, yet it’s extremely comfortable and perfect for short to marathon distances. Last but not least, in a world where companies seem to compete to find the longest and most confusing names, “Outroad” is very welcomed.

    Pros

    • Great on roads and trails
    • Pliable upper
    • Amazing outsole durability
    • Comfy padding
    • Less bulky than other Altras
    • Low stack
    • Doubles as a traveling shoe
    • Appealing design

    Cons

    • Not for wide feet
    • Breaking-in needed
    Full review of Altra Outroad

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Tan (AL0A7R6N922)
    Grey (AL0A7R6N241)
    Gray/Yellow (AL0A7R6N270)
    Green (AL0A7R6N302)
    White/Orange (AL0A7R6N108)
    Orange (AL0A7R6N380)
    $70
    See deal  
    $84
    See deal  
    $105
    See deal  
    $120
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  

    Comparison of the 6 best Altra running shoes

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    CoreScore
    Users rating
    Experts
    Best price
    Ranking
    Popularity
    # of colorways
    Author
    Jovana Subic
    Jovana Subic

    Whether it's a vertical kilometre or an ultra, climbing in the Alps or exploring local mountains, Jovana uses every opportunity to trade walls and concrete for forests and trails. She logs at least 10h/week on trails, with no off-season, and 4x more on research on running and running shoes. With a background in physics and engineering management, she prefers her running spiced with data.

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