6 Best Altra Trail Running Shoes

The Lone Peak 8 seamlessly transitions between leisurely hikes and high-speed intervals in rugged terrain. Its flexible midsole and balanced, close-to-the-ground platform amplify a runner's control, a vital aspect of trail running. It’s a no-brainer that the LP8 emerges as our top pick from our lab-tested Altra trail roster.

The midsole and outsole complement each other in terms of comfort and support. It’s flexible enough to maneuver on uneven land, while its 3.0-mm lugs are grippy enough to keep our strides controlled on dry surfaces. Our bend test backs up our observation, as LP8 emerges 27.1% more bendable than average, boosting our nimbleness in the wild.

Lone Peak 8 represents Altra’s zero-drop feature well with its minimal 1.4-mm drop compared to the 8.0 mm average. The cushion feels protective enough despite remaining close to the ground, with only 22.7 mm of foam separating our heels from the surface. With this, we have higher ground feedback and a more balanced stance, especially with the firm 29.3 HA foam that won’t compress unevenly.

The shoe offers exceptional airflow which feels great for the summer. However, we advise wearing thicker socks during winter since the ventilated upper will expose the feet to icy air, as confirmed by our lab’s 4/5 breathability score.

Armed with the grippy Vibram Megagrip outsole and protective midsole, we felt safe and comfortable during our terrain runs in the Olympus 6. It delivers a true zero-drop experience without sacrificing a pleasant ride as it secures the top spot for comfort among Altra trail running shoes in the lab.

Our measurements reveal a heel drop of just 0.7 mm, creating a flat and stable ride. Despite the low drop, the ride feels exceptionally cushioned thanks to the impressive 31.5 mm forefoot stack, 6.9 mm above average.

The shoe’s low configuration and tall sidewalls contribute to a stable ride, and the renowned Vibram Megagrip outsole elevates traction further. With deep 3.5 mm lugs, we could easily navigate through loose ground or wet rocks. It also performed admirably in our Dremel test, showing only minor scuffs and proving its durability.

Unlike most trail shoes, Olympus 6 aced our breathability test with a 5/5 score. Our microscope shows the upper’s design features holes for ventilation and denser sections for support. In our abrasion test, Olympus 6 also earned a perfect score, a rare feat for highly breathable shoes.

However, while generous in cushioning, we find that the Olympus lacks energy rebound. Those who crave a responsive ride should check alternatives. 

Out of all the Altra trail running shoes we wore and lab-tested, Outroad 3 is the best hybrid shoe as it gives the most seamless road-to-trail transitions. It has a maneuverable midsole and a zero drop that keeps the feel natural. We find that it doesn’t sacrifice comfort for grip and stability on multiple terrains.

Outroad 3 boasts of a MaxTrac outsole lined with 1.5 mm lugs. We find this depth ideal for a hybrid shoe since it’s grippy enough for well-maintained paths and not too blocky on the streets. Plus, its weightlessness feels easy to maneuver. Our scales show it’s 10.6% lighter than the average trail shoe.

The zero drop is emphasized upon wearing the shoe and our caliper shows a minimal and forgivable 0.6 mm heel drop. This design promotes our natural strides, delivering a barefoot experience. Enhancing our comfort and agility is the unresisting midsole, which our bend test proves is 23.8% more flexible than average.

This Altra’s overall ride feels very stable and secure. The stack remains close to the ground at 23.8/23.2 mm. Together with the support of the midsole sidewalls, we remain steady by avoiding excessive foot motions.

Because of its low drop, heel strikers will feel challenged in this pair. We can only recommend this shoe to mid and forefoot strikers.

The Timp 5 boasts a high level of versatility, performing well both in the lab and on actual trail runs. With its light and loose build, stable ride, and world-class Vibram Megagrip outsole, it is undoubtedly our top daily trainer among Altra trail running shoes.

Running in the Timp 5 feels like having the grip of trail shoes with the agility of road-running shoes. Weighing just 9.5 oz (269g) compared to the 10.4 oz (294g) average trail shoe, it's remarkably lightweight. The fluid midsole adapts seamlessly to our strides, confirmed by our lab tests showing it's slightly more flexible (28.1N) than the average (29.0N), requiring less force to bend to 90 degrees.

The midsole has ample cushioning for comfort and support. Our durometer shows a well-balanced 24.5 HA reading, enhancing stability together with the shoe’s zero drop. Our precise measurements reveal a negligible -0.1 mm drop, proving Timp 5 features Altra’s distinct trademark.

Underfoot is the standout Vibram Megagrip outsole, known for its exceptional traction which we had the privilege of experiencing in our runs. It has 3.0 mm lugs that grip very well on mixed terrains, instilling confidence in our trail explorations. Its depth even allows for some occasional road running as well.

Unfortunately, the shoe feels quite rigid and stacked. Those who prefer a stronger ground connection should try other options.

Backed by both real-world trials and lab assessments, the already speedy Mont Blanc now boasts an exciting enhancement: a revolutionary carbon plate that feels both fast and comfortable. This innovation propelled us to new heights, aided by its lightweight design and exceptional Vibram Megagrip outsole, undeniably making it our top Altra trail racer.

 MBC feels exceptionally light on foot while cruising through the trails, and our scales confirm it’s 14.3% lighter than the average trail shoe at 8.9 oz (251g). In true Altra fashion, it delivers an authentic zero-drop experience with its unnoticeable 0.3 mm heel drop, enhancing agility on diverse terrains.

Remarkably a standout, its Monoflex carbon plate allows us to bend and move our feet naturally. Unlike the usual stiff and curved shape plates, MBC’s is flat to prioritize stability over top speed, crucial for trail running. Validated by our flex test, it’s 19.9% more flexible than average, including non-plated shoes!

As we run swiftly through unpredictable grounds, the Vibram Megagrip outsole instills confidence in our strides. Our durometer reveals its protective nature with a tough 88.3 HC measurement, while its 3.5 mm lugs enhance our grip and control over soft and slippery trails.

However, we don’t recommend this pair to heel strikers and runners with lower leg issues as the zero drop may feel too harsh on the calves and Achilles areas.

The Superior 6 boasts its airy build, stability, and agility in our intensive runs and extensive lab tests. In true Altra nature, it offers a barefoot feel with its non-existent drop. It made us feel really nimble and connected to the trails—making it our best lightweight Altra trail runner. 

Lifting our feet and picking up the pace feels effortless with its superior lightness. Our scales reveal a mere 9.6 oz (272g), 7.2% below the average. This is attributed to its grounded 22.1/22.0 mm cushion, which has 31.6% less foam in the heel than average. Its almost-zero drop delivers surface feedback that allows us to adapt to various terrains.

The ride feels stable all the way. Other than its low profile, the firm cushion helps. Our durometer reveals 29.1 HA, 11.5% denser than average. Because of its inherent stability, it doesn’t need rigid features to keep us steady. Superior 6 increases its flexibility to boost comfort and agility on uneven terrains. 

Underfoot lies a very protective and durable MaxTrac rubber. Our durometer reveals a solid 91.0 HC, 6.9% harder than average. To ensure grip, it has 3.6 mm lugs that cling to loose gravel and moderate trails.

Unfortunately, due to the shoe’s lightweight and minimal nature, it does not have enough cushioning for longer trail runs.