Verdict from 26 experts and +100 user reviews

11 reasons to buy

  • Most runners loved the comfort of the Foot-Shaped Toe Box and moderate cushioning of the Lone Peak 3.0
  • The price point is well within the range of most lightweight trainers, according to several.
  • A good number of runners prized the traction of this 3rd iteration of the Lone Peak.
  • The 5mm footbed adds to the cushioning and comfort.
  • Several comments highlighted the shoe’s versatility as a speed trainer and hiker.
  • A few noted that despite the cushioning and stack height, there is still noticeable ground feedback.
  • The Altra Lone Peak 3.0 tackles all kinds of trail surfaces (and some road too!), except deep mud or very rocky ground, based on the comments of some runners.
  • A handful of color options available already.
  • A small number of runners commented that the 5th edition of the Lone Peak (there were versions 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5, respectively) runs rather light despite the cushioning and substantial lugs.
  • There were more than a couple of expert reviewers who pointed out that the upper is more precise and structured than the last model.
  • The Gaiter Trap allows for convenient gaiter attachment.

5 reasons not to buy

  • Quite a number of Lone Peak loyalists were disappointed that the Lone Peak 3.0 is clearly narrower than any of the past models.
  • A handful did not like the shoe’s inability to dry quickly.
  • Some mentioned that Altra could certainly improve the line’s bland looks.
  • There were several runners who had durability issues in the upper and the outsole of this shoe.
  • Breathability is no longer as good as the earlier models, as expressed by a few disappointed Lone Peak fans.

Bottom line

Altra’s first-ever trail shoe continues to be very popular among trail lovers because of its zero-drop platform and Foot-Shaped Toe Box. This time around, Altra dialed in the fit to give runners a secure foothold when tackling uneven terrain. The shoe has decent cushioning, excellent traction, and improved durability for miles of enjoyment on the trails.

Tip: see the best trail running shoes.

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Video reviews

Good to know

  • Fit, durability, and traction get a major boost in this version of the Lone Peak. Right out of the box, it is very clear that Altra listened to past complaints of an upper that allowed too much movement, particularly on descents and uneven terrain. The latest model of the Lone Peak has more significant stitched overlays to address this issue. There should be little to no movement with a more dialled in fit.
  • As there are more stitched overlays, upper durability should also be enhanced. This is another direct answer from Altra to those who wished for more durability in the upper.
  • Altra’s new outsole is designed to improve the bite on a variety of outdoor surfaces. The new lug patterns allow better multi-directional traction, even in wet areas. While the previous models were no slouch where traction goes, this version aims to take the performance of the Lone Peak to a whole new level.

The fit is the biggest change in the Lone Peak 3.0. With more stitched overlays, the fit is decidedly more secured, particularly in the heel and midfoot. As with the Foot-Shaped Toe Box, which is also used in the Altra Lone Peak 4.0, the forefoot has more than enough room for the toes to splay. Altra considers the shoe to be half a size smaller than standard.


Gone are the arrow and x-shaped patterns of the previous models as Altra completely redesigned the outsole. Runners will now see a combination of hexagons, trapezoids, and triangles to provide better grip on a multitude of surfaces. There is also slightly more rubber for added durability.


The midsole is practically the only carryover from the earlier models. Altra continues to put standard EVA on top of their proprietary A-bound foam. As the EVA is a bit firmer, there is a sense of stability while the softer A-bound handles most of the cushioning and responsive nature of the Lone Peak 3.0.


The new mesh is a bit thicker than before with just about the same breathability. As mentioned, there are more numerous overlays connecting the heel to the forefoot. Comfort and cushioning are enhanced by the moderate thickness of the tongue and collar while the 5mm footbed increases that luxurious step-in feel. A traditional lace-up closure closes the deal in this shoe.

How Lone Peak 3.0 compares

This shoe: 89
All shoes average: 82
55 94
This shoe: £120
All shoes average: £130
£60 £240
This shoe: 275g
All shoes average: 296g
170g 680g
Not sure yet? Overview of all 2236 running shoes
Author
Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen

Jens Jakob is a fan of short distances with a 5K PR at 15:58 minutes. Based on 35 million race results, he's among the fastest 0.2% runners. Jens Jakob previously owned a running store, when he was also a competitive runner. His work is regularly featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, BBC and the likes as well as peer-reviewed journals. Finally, he has been a guest on +30 podcasts on running.

jens@runrepeat.com