Verdict from 15 experts and +100 user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- Cushioning: A great number of runners applaud this max-cushioned trail shoe for taking good care of their feet on long runs.
- Grip: The Vibram outsole on the Olympus 4.0 provides tons of ground contact and traction on any terrain, according to many testers.
- Toebox: With Altra’s renowned toebox, you can expect plenty of room for the toes with no hot spots or blisters.
- Protection: More than a few trail runners note how well their feet are safeguarded from jagged rocks and unpredictable terrain.
- Breathability: Multiple comments refer to the shoe’s excellent airflow and water drainage.
- Comfort: The Altra Olympus 4.0 offers a pleasant in-shoe feel, many reviewers note.
2 reasons not to buy
- Price: All professional shoe reviewers find the Altra Olympus 4.0 expensive even for a highly-rated trail shoe.
- Water resistance: A few trail bums warn that the shoe’s breathable upper will not keep your foot dry and for waterproofing, you should consider GTX shoes.
Bottom line
Although on the pricey side, the shoe's performance and updates do justify the cost.
Tip: see the best running shoes.
Expert reviews:
- 78/100 by Test 4 Outside
- 96/100 by Road Trail Run
- 90/100 by Believe in the Run
- 80/100 by Running Shoes Guru
- 96/100 by HoopJordan
- 94/100 by OutdoorCrunch
- 85/100 by BLISTER
- 92/100 by Gone Running
- 88/100 by Run Salty
- 70/100 by SELF
User reviews:
- 4.6/5 by Amazon UK (+100)
- 4.6/5 by REI (+10)
- 4.2/5 by Zappos (+10)
- 5/5 by Amazon (2)
- 5/5 by Holabird Sports (2)
- 5/5 by Jack Rabbit
Video reviews
Altra Olympus 4.0: The mountain destroyer
Featuring Altra’s signature wide toe box and zero-drop platform, the Olympus 4.0 aims to provide a natural running experience. It is an update to a series of highly cushioned Altra trail shoes that offer a balance of cushioning and protection.
The Altra Olympus 4.0 is constructed with a rugged-ready platform that is suitable for off-road and mountain runs. It gives the user the confidence to continue running even on the most challenging terrain.
The Altra Olympus series is ideal for athletes with neutral pronation
Altra Olympus 4.0 vs 3.5
Boasting an overall new look, the Olympus 4.0 offers significant updates without sacrificing the features that the runners loved in Olympus 3.5. Check out the main differences between each model.
- The updated tongue in Olympus 4.0 gives a snugger and a more locked-in feel than its predecessor.
- The improved upper delivers added breathability and a more contemporary look.
- The Vibram Megagrip outsole has been redesigned for better traction compared to the Olympus 3.5.
How Olympus 4.0 compares
