Last updated at 16/01/2026 04:51:44
originally posted on altrarunning.com
I think this NEEDS to be said. Altra has some serious problems with manufacturing. I have bought many pairs of shoes from Altra, even 4-5 of the same pair because a shoe of the same model and size can vary widely. I wonder how many of the negative reviews on this site are due to, not a problem with the shoe's design, but due to significant manufacturing inconsistencies. These are too small, but is it just this pair? My size is pretty consistent with Altra (I think) and other brands. I was really excited about this shoe for the sake of the gore-tex and it coming in the original foot shape. (Also, I don't understand why they are moving away from the more natural, wider toe box and making them narrower. Many People buy Altras for the zero drop and natural, WIDER toe ... MoreI think this NEEDS to be said. Altra has some serious problems with manufacturing. I have bought many pairs of shoes from Altra, even 4-5 of the same pair because a shoe of the same model and size can vary widely. I wonder how many of the negative reviews on this site are due to, not a problem with the shoe's design, but due to significant manufacturing inconsistencies. These are too small, but is it just this pair? My size is pretty consistent with Altra (I think) and other brands. I was really excited about this shoe for the sake of the gore-tex and it coming in the original foot shape. (Also, I don't understand why they are moving away from the more natural, wider toe box and making them narrower. Many People buy Altras for the zero drop and natural, WIDER toe box.) Now only a few are available in that shape. Now I have to decide if I'm willing find a way to float the cost of 4-5 pairs of shoes AGAIN to maybe find one made to the correct size. I imagine not everyone wants to do that; not to mention the waste of resources from the returns. I don't know, maybe instead of coming out with a new version of a shoe every 3 months, try and get your manufacturing more consistent?
originally posted on REI
I have purchased 3 pairs of Altra Lone Pine Size 11 during the last few years and found them to be a great fit for my feet. I typically have to buy wide sizes, but it wasn't necessary for the Lone Pines because of their footshape. This summer I need a weatherproof trail shoe with more foot protection than the Lone Pine, so decided to try the Olympus 5. The reviews I read suggested it ran smaller that other purchasers had expected, so I ordered a half size up. They came last week. I can't even squeeze my foot in them to try them out. They are going back. You'd think that there would be some correspondence among the sizes of different models within the same brand. Not so between Lone Pine and Olympus 5. And since Altra doesn't offer wide sizes in the Olympus 5, I've ... MoreI have purchased 3 pairs of Altra Lone Pine Size 11 during the last few years and found them to be a great fit for my feet. I typically have to buy wide sizes, but it wasn't necessary for the Lone Pines because of their footshape. This summer I need a weatherproof trail shoe with more foot protection than the Lone Pine, so decided to try the Olympus 5. The reviews I read suggested it ran smaller that other purchasers had expected, so I ordered a half size up. They came last week. I can't even squeeze my foot in them to try them out. They are going back. You'd think that there would be some correspondence among the sizes of different models within the same brand. Not so between Lone Pine and Olympus 5. And since Altra doesn't offer wide sizes in the Olympus 5, I've got to look at trail shoes from other manufacturers. I gave the shoe only 2 stars because they are too small to even try out.
originally posted on altrarunning.com
This is my first Altra shoe, and I now understand the hype. These are outstanding hiking shoes. The wide footbed is the first thing I noticed. It gives my toes freedom to spread and helps with mobility, especially on steeper terrain. The Vibram outsole and lugs provide great traction - I only wish I was able to test it in mud with the gore-tex (very dry here in Cali). The shoe has a sturdy structure to it while still allowing ample ankle movement and bend at the toes. Lastly I'm very pleased with the black look - it's stylish but minimalist as well, goes with all my gear.The shoe does take some breaking in, it's pretty firm at first, but then it's golden. And this is definitely a structured and cushioned shoe. Great for hiking. If you're new to Altra shoes, these ... MoreThis is my first Altra shoe, and I now understand the hype. These are outstanding hiking shoes. The wide footbed is the first thing I noticed. It gives my toes freedom to spread and helps with mobility, especially on steeper terrain. The Vibram outsole and lugs provide great traction - I only wish I was able to test it in mud with the gore-tex (very dry here in Cali). The shoe has a sturdy structure to it while still allowing ample ankle movement and bend at the toes. Lastly I'm very pleased with the black look - it's stylish but minimalist as well, goes with all my gear.The shoe does take some breaking in, it's pretty firm at first, but then it's golden. And this is definitely a structured and cushioned shoe. Great for hiking. If you're new to Altra shoes, these are definitely different from other shoes. Takes a bit to get used to the wide look, but the performance and feel easily outweigh. They are a tad heavier than I would have preferred, but I got used to it fast.Overall a fantastic, cushioned, structured and grippy low hiker. Absolutely recommend!
I think this NEEDS to be said. Altra has some serious problems with manufacturing. I have bought many pairs of shoes from Altra, even 4-5 of the same pair because a shoe of the same model and size can vary widely. I wonder how many of the negative reviews on this site are due to, not a problem with the shoe's design, but due to significant manufacturing inconsistencies. These are too small, but is it just this pair? My size is pretty consistent with Altra (I think) and other brands. I was really excited about this shoe for the sake of the gore-tex and it coming in the original foot shape. (Also, I don't understand why they are moving away from the more natural, wider toe box and making them narrower. Many People buy Altras for the zero drop and natural, WIDER toe ... MoreI think this NEEDS to be said. Altra has some serious problems with manufacturing. I have bought many pairs of shoes from Altra, even 4-5 of the same pair because a shoe of the same model and size can vary widely. I wonder how many of the negative reviews on this site are due to, not a problem with the shoe's design, but due to significant manufacturing inconsistencies. These are too small, but is it just this pair? My size is pretty consistent with Altra (I think) and other brands. I was really excited about this shoe for the sake of the gore-tex and it coming in the original foot shape. (Also, I don't understand why they are moving away from the more natural, wider toe box and making them narrower. Many People buy Altras for the zero drop and natural, WIDER toe box.) Now only a few are available in that shape. Now I have to decide if I'm willing find a way to float the cost of 4-5 pairs of shoes AGAIN to maybe find one made to the correct size. I imagine not everyone wants to do that; not to mention the waste of resources from the returns. I don't know, maybe instead of coming out with a new version of a shoe every 3 months, try and get your manufacturing more consistent?
I have purchased 3 pairs of Altra Lone Pine Size 11 during the last few years and found them to be a great fit for my feet. I typically have to buy wide sizes, but it wasn't necessary for the Lone Pines because of their footshape. This summer I need a weatherproof trail shoe with more foot protection than the Lone Pine, so decided to try the Olympus 5. The reviews I read suggested it ran smaller that other purchasers had expected, so I ordered a half size up. They came last week. I can't even squeeze my foot in them to try them out. They are going back. You'd think that there would be some correspondence among the sizes of different models within the same brand. Not so between Lone Pine and Olympus 5. And since Altra doesn't offer wide sizes in the Olympus 5, I've ... MoreI have purchased 3 pairs of Altra Lone Pine Size 11 during the last few years and found them to be a great fit for my feet. I typically have to buy wide sizes, but it wasn't necessary for the Lone Pines because of their footshape. This summer I need a weatherproof trail shoe with more foot protection than the Lone Pine, so decided to try the Olympus 5. The reviews I read suggested it ran smaller that other purchasers had expected, so I ordered a half size up. They came last week. I can't even squeeze my foot in them to try them out. They are going back. You'd think that there would be some correspondence among the sizes of different models within the same brand. Not so between Lone Pine and Olympus 5. And since Altra doesn't offer wide sizes in the Olympus 5, I've got to look at trail shoes from other manufacturers. I gave the shoe only 2 stars because they are too small to even try out.
This is my first Altra shoe, and I now understand the hype. These are outstanding hiking shoes. The wide footbed is the first thing I noticed. It gives my toes freedom to spread and helps with mobility, especially on steeper terrain. The Vibram outsole and lugs provide great traction - I only wish I was able to test it in mud with the gore-tex (very dry here in Cali). The shoe has a sturdy structure to it while still allowing ample ankle movement and bend at the toes. Lastly I'm very pleased with the black look - it's stylish but minimalist as well, goes with all my gear.The shoe does take some breaking in, it's pretty firm at first, but then it's golden. And this is definitely a structured and cushioned shoe. Great for hiking. If you're new to Altra shoes, these ... MoreThis is my first Altra shoe, and I now understand the hype. These are outstanding hiking shoes. The wide footbed is the first thing I noticed. It gives my toes freedom to spread and helps with mobility, especially on steeper terrain. The Vibram outsole and lugs provide great traction - I only wish I was able to test it in mud with the gore-tex (very dry here in Cali). The shoe has a sturdy structure to it while still allowing ample ankle movement and bend at the toes. Lastly I'm very pleased with the black look - it's stylish but minimalist as well, goes with all my gear.The shoe does take some breaking in, it's pretty firm at first, but then it's golden. And this is definitely a structured and cushioned shoe. Great for hiking. If you're new to Altra shoes, these are definitely different from other shoes. Takes a bit to get used to the wide look, but the performance and feel easily outweigh. They are a tad heavier than I would have preferred, but I got used to it fast.Overall a fantastic, cushioned, structured and grippy low hiker. Absolutely recommend!
I have owned four pairs of Olympus 4s; I buy a new pair every ~4 months. And they're my favorite shoe of all time! I have wide feet, and they were a blessing. I ordered this Olympus 5 in the same size I've always bought the Olympus 4 in, and I just can't wear it. It's too snug - too narrow, specifically. I really hope that it has to do with the materials (leather rather than mesh) on the GTX Hike, and the normal Olympus 5 will fit like my beloved Olympus 4. But I'm not optimistic. Anyhow, not sure what shoe to buy now! Hokas have extra wide options, maybe I'll try them again. But I really liked Altra for the FootShape design. I'm going to buy a couple pairs of Olympus 4s right now to hold me through most of this year, but stocks are low! What comes next?! I would ... MoreI have owned four pairs of Olympus 4s; I buy a new pair every ~4 months. And they're my favorite shoe of all time! I have wide feet, and they were a blessing. I ordered this Olympus 5 in the same size I've always bought the Olympus 4 in, and I just can't wear it. It's too snug - too narrow, specifically. I really hope that it has to do with the materials (leather rather than mesh) on the GTX Hike, and the normal Olympus 5 will fit like my beloved Olympus 4. But I'm not optimistic. Anyhow, not sure what shoe to buy now! Hokas have extra wide options, maybe I'll try them again. But I really liked Altra for the FootShape design. I'm going to buy a couple pairs of Olympus 4s right now to hold me through most of this year, but stocks are low! What comes next?! I would recommend to a friend, because these would work great for most people. But if you bought Altras for their width, you might need to look elsewhere.
OlympusI have been monitoring the 5's durability closely since my first wear, as many reviews had me concerned.On trails, my pair has seemingly adequate durability thus far. On cement, I have scuffed a few areas of the sole's orange rubber fairly easily, but what I think some people fail to grasp is that this shoe has AMAZING grip. The traction control is literally out of this world, like teeth sinking into the earth. What that means is the rubber vibram provided on this project is so intensely tacky/sticky, it is going to be excessive for frequent cement contact. The ideal conditions in mind are wet/dry grass turf, mulch, rocks, dirt, pinestraw, sand, roots/stick, cobblestone, moss etc. (trail terrain).Having so much traction on the soles for offroad conditions ... MoreOlympusI have been monitoring the 5's durability closely since my first wear, as many reviews had me concerned.On trails, my pair has seemingly adequate durability thus far. On cement, I have scuffed a few areas of the sole's orange rubber fairly easily, but what I think some people fail to grasp is that this shoe has AMAZING grip. The traction control is literally out of this world, like teeth sinking into the earth. What that means is the rubber vibram provided on this project is so intensely tacky/sticky, it is going to be excessive for frequent cement contact. The ideal conditions in mind are wet/dry grass turf, mulch, rocks, dirt, pinestraw, sand, roots/stick, cobblestone, moss etc. (trail terrain).Having so much traction on the soles for offroad conditions means the overly adequate conditions, like dry cement, will make the rubber pull off the shoe early. Because it is designed for scenarios where very little ground traction is available, the sole is designed to be as sensitive as possible to sacrifice its material for ground contact. You have way less adequate ground contact on trails than on roads and sidewalks. So in a trail use case scenario, this wears normal (maybe some QC exceptions). It is a trail shoe, albeit there may be some confusion with the chance the gtx may initially come across as more trail oriented (which I admittedly misunderstood at first lol).Footbed cushion is dense to adequately fortify ligaments and tendons, metatarsal region laid out with medical precision. This is the best running shoe in the world.
After a little over 1 month of owning the OLYMPUS 5 HIKE LOW GTX the sole is coming unglued. Same as listed in 1 Star Ratings. Unacceptable for shoe of this quality. Why design a shoe with glue in inserts on the sole? Other than this issue they are the best shoes. Grotex, wide toe box, my toes are thankful for this design.Retailer replaced shoes for me. 5 Stars to my retailer. Hopefully this pair last.Altra also reached out to me offering to replace (see response below). 5 Stars to Altra customer service and willingness to back their product.Considering design of glued inserts on the sole I would only give this model a 1 star, but it is such a great shoe otherwise and great customer service. So I give it 3 Stars. Hopefully they modify this design leaving out ... MoreAfter a little over 1 month of owning the OLYMPUS 5 HIKE LOW GTX the sole is coming unglued. Same as listed in 1 Star Ratings. Unacceptable for shoe of this quality. Why design a shoe with glue in inserts on the sole? Other than this issue they are the best shoes. Grotex, wide toe box, my toes are thankful for this design.Retailer replaced shoes for me. 5 Stars to my retailer. Hopefully this pair last.Altra also reached out to me offering to replace (see response below). 5 Stars to Altra customer service and willingness to back their product.Considering design of glued inserts on the sole I would only give this model a 1 star, but it is such a great shoe otherwise and great customer service. So I give it 3 Stars. Hopefully they modify this design leaving out the glued in inserts.Altra Response: "Hi Jim, we are sorry to hear you are having issues with Olympus 5 Hike Low GTX. We would love to review this for you as quickly as possible. We've sent you an email directly and you should receive it soon. Thank you for bringing this to our attention and we look forward to speaking with you soon."
These are solid hiking shoes with good grip in loose conditions. I don't think they'll win any style awards though. The "Footshape" design looks very weird, almost like stubby clown shoes. I got the same feedback from others on the shape. Even with the Footshape design, it's a little tight around the arch with plenty of space around the toes. I will sometimes wear a wider shoe depending on the brand, so that may be the reason.Besides the funky looking design, the shoes are light and durable, unlike other hiking shoes that can be clunky and heavy. They're light enough that I forget I'm wearing these most of the time. Solid grip on loose or wet ground. I haven't submerged these yet in any truly wet conditions to know how water resistant they are, but my socks stayed ... MoreThese are solid hiking shoes with good grip in loose conditions. I don't think they'll win any style awards though. The "Footshape" design looks very weird, almost like stubby clown shoes. I got the same feedback from others on the shape. Even with the Footshape design, it's a little tight around the arch with plenty of space around the toes. I will sometimes wear a wider shoe depending on the brand, so that may be the reason.Besides the funky looking design, the shoes are light and durable, unlike other hiking shoes that can be clunky and heavy. They're light enough that I forget I'm wearing these most of the time. Solid grip on loose or wet ground. I haven't submerged these yet in any truly wet conditions to know how water resistant they are, but my socks stayed dry in the heavy rain while camping over the weekend.Footshape design is a turn off, but they are a good hiking shoe.
The issue with this shoe for me is as follows: on the positive side it has the best cushioned sole feel of any Altra or hiking shoe I have ever had. It is like walking on a cloud, not too hard, and not too cushiony. On the negative side it does not have any extra room in the toe box and is a little loose in the heel. Now, the looseness in the heel is I think due to the stiffness of the soul. It seems to be dissipating as I break them in,but will not dissipate completely. I do recommend using the additional lace hole and there seems to be marks to make even an additional hole for the laces, which I have not tried. As for the front toe box, for me, I don't think a larger size will help as the heel would just be looser in a larger size. I am keeping them even though ... MoreThe issue with this shoe for me is as follows: on the positive side it has the best cushioned sole feel of any Altra or hiking shoe I have ever had. It is like walking on a cloud, not too hard, and not too cushiony. On the negative side it does not have any extra room in the toe box and is a little loose in the heel. Now, the looseness in the heel is I think due to the stiffness of the soul. It seems to be dissipating as I break them in,but will not dissipate completely. I do recommend using the additional lace hole and there seems to be marks to make even an additional hole for the laces, which I have not tried. As for the front toe box, for me, I don't think a larger size will help as the heel would just be looser in a larger size. I am keeping them even though the toe box is tighter than my Torins, but not a deal killer, even though the heel is slightly loose. My point is, where are you going to go. I have wasted money on enough hiking shoes. There are not shoes that fit like Torins for those of us who have human foots, narrow heels and need a roomy toe box. But if you wear Torins and you need hiking shoes, go with these, get those laces tight, and hope that Altra will get the message for the next version to keep the great sole, make it a bit more flexible, narrow the heel,and provide a tad more room in the toe box. Those of us who wear Torins have nowhere else to go for hiking shoes, so go with these.
Was excited to get these well cushioned hiking shoes. The cushioning is great. The grip from the tread is great. Other than that I am very disappointed. I got a full size up from my street shoe size. Even at that, these shoes are tight and stiff. After about 10 miles on two hikes, they seem to be loosening up and are stopping the pressure points on the top and outside my forefoot. They fit much tighter and are much stiffer than my other Altra shoes that are half a size smaller.But perhaps the biggest disappointment is that the shoes are already worn through on the inside top of the foot opening. I think the stiffness of the shoe causes this point to bend out when flexing the foot. My other show hits it at this point as the foot comes forward. See picture for wear ... MoreWas excited to get these well cushioned hiking shoes. The cushioning is great. The grip from the tread is great. Other than that I am very disappointed. I got a full size up from my street shoe size. Even at that, these shoes are tight and stiff. After about 10 miles on two hikes, they seem to be loosening up and are stopping the pressure points on the top and outside my forefoot. They fit much tighter and are much stiffer than my other Altra shoes that are half a size smaller.But perhaps the biggest disappointment is that the shoes are already worn through on the inside top of the foot opening. I think the stiffness of the shoe causes this point to bend out when flexing the foot. My other show hits it at this point as the foot comes forward. See picture for wear and tear after just two outings adding up to about 10 miles.
Traction, Performance and Comfort are the three things I judge a terrain performance shoe on. As soon as I received ALTRA's Running Men's Olympus 5 Hike Low GTX, I was taken aback by how bulky looking the shoe is. Upon initial inspection, the heels looked too high for stable walking on uneven outdoor terrains. However, all these first impressions were eradicated by the excellent experience I had with these shoes. First, I used the shoes for outdoor jogging on uneven and muddy terrains. The GORE-TEX product technology kept the shoes firm and waterproof so that it did not matter how much rain my outdoor jog faced. Next, I did a quick hike to the nearest hill to test comfort and I am extremely satisfied with the Balanced Cushioning technology that evens out the stress ... MoreTraction, Performance and Comfort are the three things I judge a terrain performance shoe on. As soon as I received ALTRA's Running Men's Olympus 5 Hike Low GTX, I was taken aback by how bulky looking the shoe is. Upon initial inspection, the heels looked too high for stable walking on uneven outdoor terrains. However, all these first impressions were eradicated by the excellent experience I had with these shoes. First, I used the shoes for outdoor jogging on uneven and muddy terrains. The GORE-TEX product technology kept the shoes firm and waterproof so that it did not matter how much rain my outdoor jog faced. Next, I did a quick hike to the nearest hill to test comfort and I am extremely satisfied with the Balanced Cushioning technology that evens out the stress and pressure of the terrain to my feet resulting in no sore spots after the hike.I usually use a gel insole on all of my shoes but this one did not feel the need for one as there is excellent hold on my soles and every angle of my feet. The Foot Shape Comfort technology really shines on my size 10 mens Olympus 5 Hike Low GTX. This enhances protection from uneven balance from uneven terrains that lessens injuries and discomfort from extended usage. I am more excited now that it is gearing towards winter, I can test its hold on freezing climate.I highly recommend this product for its incredible traction, performance and impeccable comfort. If you get to choose just one hiking, trailing, jogging shoes on the outdoors, you don't have to worry because there is Altra Running Olympus 5 that will fit your outdoor footwear needs.
Go for an adventure in any weather in the plush Altra Olympus 5 Low GTX. Altrarsquos premium EGOtrade MAX midsole foam gives you light and luxurious performance with a little extra bounce and durability. The Olympus is built with Altrarsquos Original FootShapetrade Fit, which is the most voluminous of Altrarsquos shoes. It also has their signature wide toe box so your toes can splay naturally. Like all Altra shoes, the Olympus has a Balanced Cushionedtrade platform that positions your heel and forefoot at equal distances from the ground (also called a 0 mm heel-to-toe drop), which encourages better alignment and form. Altra redesigned the outsole to make it even easier to run on uneven ground. The Olympus 5 has the grip and traction to take on any terrain thanks to its Vibramreg Megagriptrade, which is a durable and sticky high-performance rubber that works great on both wet and dry surfaces. A GORE-TEXreg upper will keep your feet dry as you hike through puddles or rainstorms, and Altra refined the sidewalls to increase stability while you are on uncertain footing. The premium collar has been redesigned for added comfort and keeps your heel secure. Go ahead and splash in the puddle and hike in the rain with the Altra Olympus 5 Low GTX.
Go for an adventure in any weather in the plush Altra Olympus 5 Low GTX. Altrarsquos premium EGOtrade MAX midsole foam gives you light and luxurious performance with a little extra bounce and durability. The Olympus is built with Altrarsquos Original FootShapetrade Fit, which is the most voluminous of Altrarsquos shoes. It also has their signature wide toe box so your toes can splay naturally. Like all Altra shoes, the Olympus has a Balanced Cushionedtrade platform that positions your heel and forefoot at equal distances from the ground (also called a 0 mm heel-to-toe drop), which encourages better alignment and form. Altra redesigned the outsole to make it even easier to run on uneven ground. The Olympus 5 has the grip and traction to take on any terrain thanks to its Vibramreg Megagriptrade, which is a durable and sticky high-performance rubber that works great on both wet and dry surfaces. A GORE-TEXreg upper will keep your feet dry as you hike through puddles or rainstorms, and Altra refined the sidewalls to increase stability while you are on uncertain footing. The premium collar has been redesigned for added comfort and keeps your heel secure. Go ahead and splash in the puddle and hike in the rain with the Altra Olympus 5 Low GTX.
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Go for an adventure in any weather in the plush Altra Olympus 5 Low GTX. Altrarsquos premium EGOtrade MAX midsole foam gives you light and luxurious performance with a little extra bounce and durability. The Olympus is built with Altrarsquos Original FootShapetrade Fit, which is the most voluminous of Altrarsquos shoes. It also has their signature wide toe box so your toes can splay naturally. Like all Altra shoes, the Olympus has a Balanced Cushionedtrade platform that positions your heel and forefoot at equal distances from the ground (also called a 0 mm heel-to-toe drop), which encourages better alignment and form. Altra redesigned the outsole to make it even easier to run on uneven ground. The Olympus 5 has the grip and traction to take on any terrain thanks to its Vibramreg Megagriptrade, which is a durable and sticky high-performance rubber that works great on both wet and dry surfaces. A GORE-TEXreg upper will keep your feet dry as you hike through puddles or rainstorms, and Altra refined the sidewalls to increase stability while you are on uncertain footing. The premium collar has been redesigned for added comfort and keeps your heel secure. Go ahead and splash in the puddle and hike in the rain with the Altra Olympus 5 Low GTX.
Go for an adventure in any weather in the plush Altra Olympus 5 Low GTX. Altrarsquos premium EGOtrade MAX midsole foam gives you light and luxurious performance with a little extra bounce and durability. The Olympus is built with Altrarsquos Original FootShapetrade Fit, which is the most voluminous of Altrarsquos shoes. It also has their signature wide toe box so your toes can splay naturally. Like all Altra shoes, the Olympus has a Balanced Cushionedtrade platform that positions your heel and forefoot at equal distances from the ground (also called a 0 mm heel-to-toe drop), which encourages better alignment and form. Altra redesigned the outsole to make it even easier to run on uneven ground. The Olympus 5 has the grip and traction to take on any terrain thanks to its Vibramreg Megagriptrade, which is a durable and sticky high-performance rubber that works great on both wet and dry surfaces. A GORE-TEXreg upper will keep your feet dry as you hike through puddles or rainstorms, and Altra refined the sidewalls to increase stability while you are on uncertain footing. The premium collar has been redesigned for added comfort and keeps your heel secure. Go ahead and splash in the puddle and hike in the rain with the Altra Olympus 5 Low GTX.
