Best Overall

Altra Running Rivera 3 Running Shoe

View on Amazon View on Zappos View on Dicks Sporting Goods

Altra’s Rivera 3 is a durable, versatile shoe that can handle anything from tempo runs to double-digit mileage, which helped it earn our best overall slot. The shoe is springy and lightweight enough for shorter workouts while still providing the stability needed for longer runs.

With soft, comfortable cushioning, it offers good shock absorption but doesn’t feel overly squishy. It features Altra’s signature wide toe box, which we found particularly helpful during test runs because it allowed us to comfortably splay out our toes without feeling too roomy. We also like the locked-in feel that these shoes provide. They feature a zero heel-to-toe drop, which promotes natural, balanced running. Plus, the grippy rubber sole keeps you steady and confident, even when conditions get slick.

Sleek and nimble, the Rivera 3 features a breathable, stretchy upper that moves with your feet. We also like the molded heel collar, which hugs the ankle for a locked-in fit and feel. Although it comes in a range of men’s and women’s sizes, the shoe is only available in one width and may not work for very wide feet. However, the Rivera 3 is a do-it-all everyday trainer that's energetic and reliable, whether you’re pushing the pace or taking it easy during runs.

^{Key Specs: 
Size Range: Men’s 7-15; Women’s 6-11 Weight: Men’s 9.8 ounces; Women’s 8.2 ounces Drop: 0 millimeters Cushioning: Moderate Materials: Engineered mesh, foam midsole, rubber outsole}

Best Women's

Altra Torin 7

View on Amazon

$160

$112 at Zappos View on Altrarunning.com

Suitable for runners and walkers of all abilities, the Torin 7 offers a smooth and reliable ride for all types of surfaces, making it an easy pick for our best women’s spot. The neutral shoe’s springy midsole provides good responsiveness and shock absorption. This updated version features a wider base and a plusher heel collar, offering a more stable, locked-in, and comfy feel. Meanwhile, a redesigned tongue and wider lacing give a better fit for various foot shapes, although some wearers say the tongue’s edges are a bit rigid. Despite all its updates, the Torin 7 is the lightest version yet, and it’s a comfortable option for short and long runs.

What’s more, the shoe’s engineered mesh upper offers comfort and breathability, no matter the conditions or how far you’re running. Made of soft, slightly stretchy material, it allows the forefoot to flex comfortably and protects against blisters and chafing. Like other Altra shoes, there’s plenty of space in the toe box, but the fit is secure. Overall, the Torin 7 provides plenty of cushioning and support while still maintaining a lightweight, flexible feel.

^{Key Specs:
Size Range:Women’s 5.5-12; Men’s 8-13 Weight: Women’s 8.1 ounces; Men’s 9.8 ounces Drop: 0 millimeters Cushioning: Maximum Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole}

Best Men's

Altra Solstice XT 2

$130 at Amazon $130 at Zappos View on REI

Although it’s designed for cross-training, the Solstice XT2 delivers exceptional support and comfort for road running, which is why we recommend it as our best men’s overall pick. The shoe’s wide platform and spacious toe box allow toes to spread out naturally for more stability, power, and comfort. Plus, the flexible rubber outsoles offer exceptional grip on various surfaces, from gym floors and treadmills to roads and paths. The snug heel and caged upper wrap your foot for reliable lateral stability.

The Solstice XT2 is not as well-cushioned as other options, such as the VIA Olympus and Paradigm 7, so it may not be the right choice for those looking for a super plush feel. Additionally, the minimal cushioning and low profile are not ideal for long runs. However, the foam midsole still provides good energy return and comfort for short runs and cross-training activities. Lightweight and flexible, the shoe is also a comfy, stylish option for everyday wear.

^{Key Specs: 
Size Range: Men’s 7-13; Women’s 5.5-12 Weight: Men’s 10 ounces; Women’s 8.3 ounces Drop: 0 millimeters Cushioning: Minimal Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole}

Best for Road Running

Altra Via Olympus

$170 at Amazon View on Zappos

$170

$110 at REI

With its plush, shock-absorbing midsole, the VIA Olympus offers a comfy ride on asphalt roads, concrete sidewalks, and other hard surfaces. Despite their thick bed of foam, which we found to be “pillow-like” when testing, the shoe has a lightweight feel, so it won’t weigh you down when you’re pounding the pavement, even on long runs. And even with the generous cushioning and high stack height, the VIA Olympus still features Altra’s zero heel-to-toe drop, so the comfort and support are balanced through your entire foot. We love that this pair is more shock-absorbing compared to other Altra running shoes while still allowing for a natural running stride. 

The engineered mesh upper lets your feet breathe while also gently wrapping around the foot for a secure but comfortable fit. A wide toe box allows for natural movement, although it still may not be enough space for those with bunions or who are prone to foot swelling. The shoe’s rocker shape helps you propel forward for a more efficient toe-off.

Overall, the VIA Olympus is a versatile option for running and walking, and its soft but bouncy cushioning works for all distances. However, we would love to see it in more width options.

^{Key Specs: 
Size Range: Men’s 8-13; Women’s 5.5-12 Weight: Men’s 11 ounces; Women’s 8.9 ounces Drop: 0 millimeters Cushioning: Maximum Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole}

Best for Trail Running

Altra Women's Lone Peak 7 Trail Running Shoe

$150

$126 at Amazon View on Altrarunning.com

Look no further than the Lone Peak 7 If you’re in the market for a trail running shoe that delivers a remarkable blend of protection and comfort. This shoe provides a responsive ride and exceptional grip that will keep you feeling nimble and confident on the trails. The cushioning of this pair is the happy medium between cloud-like and firm. 

When testing these shoes, we liked that the spacious toe box allowed plenty of room for toes to relax and spread out, which is crucial for staying steady and balanced on trails. The shoe is also deep enough that it could accommodate orthotics if you need them. Plus, they come in wide sizes for those with bunions or issues with feet swelling.

We’re also impressed by the shoe’s outsole, which features multi-directional lugs. The sticky traction grips well on inclines and helps us maintain control and balance during descents, even when running on wet surfaces and loose debris. The shoe’s breathable mesh upper provides good ventilation, keeping your feet cool and fresh for long distances. 

Although not waterproof, they dry quickly if you encounter wet conditions. Lightweight and versatile, the Long Peak 7 is reliable for keeping you stable and comfortable on uneven terrain, whether running or hiking.

^{Key Specs: 
Size Range: Women’s 5.5-12; Men’s 7-13 Weight: Women’s 8.7 ounces; Men’s 10.6 ounces Drop: 0 millimeters Cushioning: Moderate Materials: Mesh upper, nylon lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole}

Best for Racing

Altra Vanish Carbon

$120 at Amazon View on Fleetfeet.com View on Altrarunning.com

Looking for a racing shoe that’s light and fast without sacrificing comfort? The Vanish Carbon delivers a lightweight, responsive ride that will keep you feeling speedy and comfortable on race day. Built for speed, it features a responsive foam midsole and embedded carbon fiber plate that flexes with your foot to encourage natural propulsion, putting some pop in your stride. Plus, the shoe has a rocker shape that lets you roll through each step more efficiently.

The shoe’s upper is designed with highly breathable, soft engineered mesh that hugs the foot for a secure, comfortable fit. Like many lightweight, carbon-plated racers, the shoe, especially the outsole, is less durable than heavier, sturdier options such as the Escalante 3. To extend its life, you may want to save it for fast workouts and races and alternate with a daily trainer like the Rivera 3. 

While the Vanish Carbon is more expensive than all of the other Altras included here, we think it’s a good investment for serious racers aiming for personal records or wanting an edge on race day.

^{Key Specs: 
Size Range: Men’s 7-15; Women’s 5.5-12  Weight: Men’s 7.3 ounces; Women’s 6.2 ounces Drop: 10 millimeters Cushioning: Lightweight and responsive Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, carbon fiber plate, rubber outsole}

Best Road to Trail

Altra Outroad 2

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$140

$96 at Zappos View on Marathonsports.com

With its grippy outsoles and comfortable fit, the Outroad 2 offers a cushioned ride on both trails and roads, so it’s perfect for runners who like some variety in their running routes. It’s designed for light trails, but it’s more flexible than most trail running shoes, providing better agility for road running.

Altra’s signature EGO cushioning provides a soft yet springy underfoot feel and is balanced throughout the shoe. The shoe’s zero heel-to-toe drop positions your heel and forefoot at an equal distance from the ground, encouraging a natural running gait and better alignment and form. A stretchy, engineered mesh upper hugs the foot for a comfy, locked-in feel.

One potential downside is that the toe box features Altra’s slimmer foot shape, so it’s not as wide as other Altra models. Additionally, the shoe doesn’t come in extended widths, so it may not be the right choice for those who need extra room in the forefoot. 

Overall, we recommend the Outroad 2 to those with narrow or regular-width feet who want an all-in-one shoe that’s durable and versatile for road running, hiking or running on light trails, and traveling.

^{Key Specs: 
Size Range: Men’s 7-15; Women’s 6-11 Weight: Men’s 10.7 ounces; Women’s 8.7 ounces Drop: 0 millimeters Cushioning: Moderate Materials: Engineered mesh, foam midsole, rubber outsole}

Best for Flat Feet

Altra Provision 7

$126 at Amazon $140 at Zappos

If you have flat feet or flexible arches and are looking for a stability shoe without the bulky, heavy feel, check out the Provision 7. The shoe offers more arch support than other Altra models but isn’t too stiff and still allows for natural foot movement. It uses Altra’s GuideRail technology, which provides medial and lateral support right where you need it.

The shoe’s lightweight, bouncy cushioning supports and promotes a natural gait. This updated version has a more secure, locked-in feel with a redesigned heel cup and heel collar. Altra’s signature wide toe box offers plenty of room for toes to splay, adding to the overall stability and comfort.

While the Provision 7 may offer too much support for neutral runners, we recommend it for those with flat feet or low arches who want extra stability and gait correction without feeling restricted. Even better, the shoe’s lateral support and reliable traction make it a versatile option if you’re heading to the gym or playing a game of pickleball.

^{Key Specs: 
Size Range: Men’s 7-15; Women’s 5.5-12 Weight: Men’s 9.6 ounces; Women’s 8.2 ounces Drop: 0 millimeters Cushioning: Moderate Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole}

Best Cushioned

Altra Paradigm 7

$170

$136 at Amazon $170 at Dicks Sporting Goods View on Shoebacca.com

Whether running or spending long days on your feet, you’ll feel comfortable and supported in the max-cushioned Paradigm 7. As one of the brand’s most cushioned shoes, it’s a great option for distance running or walking, offering consistent shock absorption, comfort, and support from start to finish. It also features Altra’s Guiderail technology, which provides ample arch support to help promote a natural gait. A soft, engineered mesh sock-like upper provides flexibility while still providing structure and support. Plus, it’s breathable, so your feet will stay comfortable and dry, mile after mile.

All that cushioning and support make the Paradigm 7 heavier than most of the options on our list, although it’s still relatively lightweight compared to well-cushioned, stability shoes from other brands. Despite the ample cushioning, the zero heel-to-toe drop still keeps your feet close to the ground. We recommend it to runners and walkers who may need extra stability and comfort for longer distances but want a shoe that doesn’t feel too elevated or bulky.

^{Key Specs: 
Size Range: Men’s 7-15; Women’s 5.5-12 Weight: Men’s 10.5 ounces; Women’s 8.5 ounces Drop: 0 millimeters Cushioning: Maximum Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole}

Best Neutral

Altra Escalante 3

$129 at Amazon

$130

$104 at Zappos View on REI

A popular choice for neutral runners, the Escalante 3 delivers exceptional support and comfort, despite its lightweight feel. The shoe’s soft but responsive cushioning makes it ideal for road running, no matter your pace or distance.

This latest model of the Escalante is wider than previous versions, improving its overall stability. The added support and durable traction also make it a versatile option for activities beyond running, such as HIIT workouts or strengthening at the gym. The engineered knit is very breathable and conforms to the shape of your foot, offering a comfy, secure fit. This version also has more padding on the tongue to enhance its overall comfort, although some wearers found it too thick. Some also found the laces to be a bit short and had to swap them out.

The Escalante 3 has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association’s (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning a committee of podiatrists has determined that it helps promote healthy feet. It’s a reliable running shoe that’s ideal for runners who prefer to have a responsive, springy, bouncy shoe that allows you to feel connected to the ground.

^{Key Specs: 
Size Range: Men’s 8-13; Women’s 5.5-12 Weight: Men’s 9.3 ounces; Women’s 7.7 ounces Drop: 0 millimeters Cushioning: Soft yet responsive Materials: Engineered knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole}