Hike in any weather with the Altra Olympus 5 Mid GTX. The Altra Olympus 5 Mid GTX has a GORE-TEX upper that is waterproof, windproof and durable to keep your feet dry, no matter the weather. A mid-height collar gives your ankles extra support and comfort, so you can stay on the trails longer. 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 (or zero heel-to-toe drop), which encourages better alignment and form. Altra redesigned the outsole to make it even easier to run on uneven terrain. The Olympus 5 Mid GTX has the grip and traction to take on anything thanks to Vibramreg Megagriptrade, which is a durable and sticky high-performance rubber that works great on both wet and dry surfaces. The Altra Olympus 5 Mid GTX will have you hiking in comfort all day long.
Hike in any weather with the Altra Olympus 5 Mid GTX. The Altra Olympus 5 Mid GTX has a GORE-TEX upper that is waterproof, windproof and durable to keep your feet dry, no matter the weather. A mid-height collar gives your ankles extra support and comfort, so you can stay on the trails longer. 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 (or zero heel-to-toe drop), which encourages better alignment and form. Altra redesigned the outsole to make it even easier to run on uneven terrain. The Olympus 5 Mid GTX has the grip and traction to take on anything thanks to Vibramreg Megagriptrade, which is a durable and sticky high-performance rubber that works great on both wet and dry surfaces. The Altra Olympus 5 Mid GTX will have you hiking in comfort all day long.
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The lowest price for Altra Olympus 5 Hike Mid GTX Mens Hiking Boots - Black/Grey - 8.5 US right now is $229.09.
Prices last updated 15 Aug 2025.
Altra Olympus 5 Hike Mid GTX Mens Hiking Boots - Black/Grey - 8.5 US
Hike in any weather with the Altra Olympus 5 Mid GTX. The Altra Olympus 5 Mid GTX has a GORE-TEX upper that is waterproof, windproof and durable to keep your feet dry, no matter the weather. A mid-height collar gives your ankles extra support and comfort, so you can stay on the trails longer. 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 (or zero heel-to-toe drop), which encourages better alignment and form. Altra redesigned the outsole to make it even easier to run on uneven terrain. The Olympus 5 Mid GTX has the grip and traction to take on anything thanks to Vibramreg Megagriptrade, which is a durable and sticky high-performance rubber that works great on both wet and dry surfaces. The Altra Olympus 5 Mid GTX will have you hiking in comfort all day long.
Hike in any weather with the Altra Olympus 5 Mid GTX. The Altra Olympus 5 Mid GTX has a GORE-TEX upper that is waterproof, windproof and durable to keep your feet dry, no matter the weather. A mid-height collar gives your ankles extra support and comfort, so you can stay on the trails longer. 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 (or zero heel-to-toe drop), which encourages better alignment and form. Altra redesigned the outsole to make it even easier to run on uneven terrain. The Olympus 5 Mid GTX has the grip and traction to take on anything thanks to Vibramreg Megagriptrade, which is a durable and sticky high-performance rubber that works great on both wet and dry surfaces. The Altra Olympus 5 Mid GTX will have you hiking in comfort all day long.
Last updated at 15/08/2025 17:48:44
originally posted on altrarunning.com
I really liked the way this boot felt when I first put it on. The cushion, the toe box size, it all seemed perfect. Howbwer im finding a few massive flaws that need attention for the updated next version - the tongue attachment to the shoe is a big problem. Spiky, itchy, pointy bits of something stab through my sock regularly. Additionally, when tightened down for hiking, the outside angle pieces really bite into my ankle area causing pressure and pain. These boots are incapable of hikes and hard use due to these massive design flaws. However if you can play around with the tongue, re-tie the laces a few times and not overtighten the top, they work for around town use. If I had not gotten them for about half off on a closeout sale I'd be in altras mailbox every day ... MoreI really liked the way this boot felt when I first put it on. The cushion, the toe box size, it all seemed perfect. Howbwer im finding a few massive flaws that need attention for the updated next version - the tongue attachment to the shoe is a big problem. Spiky, itchy, pointy bits of something stab through my sock regularly. Additionally, when tightened down for hiking, the outside angle pieces really bite into my ankle area causing pressure and pain. These boots are incapable of hikes and hard use due to these massive design flaws. However if you can play around with the tongue, re-tie the laces a few times and not overtighten the top, they work for around town use. If I had not gotten them for about half off on a closeout sale I'd be in altras mailbox every day until they were swapped out. As it is I bought a closeout item and I'll have to deal with it. I truly think this could be the best boot they make if they can just fix the tongue attachment and ankle areas.
originally posted on altitude-sports.com
I usually wear a size 11 mens US and this boot came in surprisingly a little to snug around the width of the toes. Surprising because these are designed for a natural wider toed foot shape. Because of this, I decided to return them. I may order them again a half size up, but I'm not sure because they are not ideal for me for a number of reasons. Primarily, I've been transitioning to barefoot/minimalist shoes and boots for the last few months in order to correct longstanding postural issues and I was looking for a boot that allows the natural toe shape while offering adequate cushioning while carrying a heavy pack. These boots however seemed quite soft and excessively cushioned for my taste. There are not many options out there that allow for natural foot shape and ... MoreI usually wear a size 11 mens US and this boot came in surprisingly a little to snug around the width of the toes. Surprising because these are designed for a natural wider toed foot shape. Because of this, I decided to return them. I may order them again a half size up, but I'm not sure because they are not ideal for me for a number of reasons. Primarily, I've been transitioning to barefoot/minimalist shoes and boots for the last few months in order to correct longstanding postural issues and I was looking for a boot that allows the natural toe shape while offering adequate cushioning while carrying a heavy pack. These boots however seemed quite soft and excessively cushioned for my taste. There are not many options out there that allow for natural foot shape and that have zero drop, but I will keep looking. Keep in mind that this analysis is just based on having tried them in the house. Cheers
originally posted on altrarunning.com
Short version: I highly recommend these boots if you're looking to balance comfort with ankle and arch support. Very pleasing, if conservative, design and colorways. Vibram outsole grip is excellent on a variety of surfaces, but tread a little light for heavy mud. Great weight to performance ratio. Tested over the course of two weeks on a variety of backpacking trips and day hikes in Mendocino National Forest, and Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks. Long version: Comfort/Support 5/5: Flat out one of the most comfortable hiking boots I've ever worn. I'm guessing this owes to Altra's heritage as a running shoe maker where much of their secret sauce lies in their biomechanics research into foot shapes. Most boots I've had, both hiking-specific and work-style boots, ... MoreShort version: I highly recommend these boots if you're looking to balance comfort with ankle and arch support. Very pleasing, if conservative, design and colorways. Vibram outsole grip is excellent on a variety of surfaces, but tread a little light for heavy mud. Great weight to performance ratio. Tested over the course of two weeks on a variety of backpacking trips and day hikes in Mendocino National Forest, and Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks. Long version: Comfort/Support 5/5: Flat out one of the most comfortable hiking boots I've ever worn. I'm guessing this owes to Altra's heritage as a running shoe maker where much of their secret sauce lies in their biomechanics research into foot shapes. Most boots I've had, both hiking-specific and work-style boots, tend to favor traditional designs (justified from a time-tested durability standpoint), but require significantly longer break-in periods, especially leather boots, than the Olympus 5. No blisters or arch cramps or pinched toes even out of the box. Note that they run about a half size small in my experience. Design 4/5: Also, ankle support is the best thing in a hiking boot, period. You will step on a loose rock and roll your ankle, and when you do, you'll be glad this shoe has the mid-rise upper design. What is especially nice about the Olympus 5's upper is the choice of a soft cushioned material; it provides a good balance of support for your ankle without restricting your range of motion or irritating/rubbing your anklebone like some stiffer uppers can. The shoe's design itself is perfectly pleasing to look at it, but not especially inspired. The two colorways feature your usual "outdoorsy" fare of blues, greys, and browns. With the comeback of 90's colors, I would have liked to see some more funky and bright colors, or at least, an international red/orange colorway. Durability 5/5: In the roughly 10 days of hiking I've done in the shoes, I'm pleased to report that there is no noticeable damage or wear of any kind besides the usual light scuffs and scrapes. I am slightly bow-legged so the way I walk and run is especially abusive to the outer heels of my soles, and in this regard, the Vibram outsole leaves me convinced it will last thousands of miles before it wears down. I was a little worried about the suede outer lining holding up compared to a leather toebox, but so far so good, and it cleaned up easily. Performance 5/5: I'm not a weight weenie or ultralight backpacker by any means, but every ounce you save even on your feet can make a big difference. Given the absence of thick leather, these boots feel incredibly light and agile, even after hours of hiking. You could conceivably do some trail running in these boots and not be worried about the weight penalty. Grip is outstanding, as would be expected from Vibram, on everything from hardpacked dirt to loose gravel. The only time I felt the boots get slippery was when we trekked through some heavy mud, but most boots would suffer the same fate, even with larger lugs in the tread.
| Stack Height | 33 mm |
I really liked the way this boot felt when I first put it on. The cushion, the toe box size, it all seemed perfect. Howbwer im finding a few massive flaws that need attention for the updated next version - the tongue attachment to the shoe is a big problem. Spiky, itchy, pointy bits of something stab through my sock regularly. Additionally, when tightened down for hiking, the outside angle pieces really bite into my ankle area causing pressure and pain. These boots are incapable of hikes and hard use due to these massive design flaws. However if you can play around with the tongue, re-tie the laces a few times and not overtighten the top, they work for around town use. If I had not gotten them for about half off on a closeout sale I'd be in altras mailbox every day ... MoreI really liked the way this boot felt when I first put it on. The cushion, the toe box size, it all seemed perfect. Howbwer im finding a few massive flaws that need attention for the updated next version - the tongue attachment to the shoe is a big problem. Spiky, itchy, pointy bits of something stab through my sock regularly. Additionally, when tightened down for hiking, the outside angle pieces really bite into my ankle area causing pressure and pain. These boots are incapable of hikes and hard use due to these massive design flaws. However if you can play around with the tongue, re-tie the laces a few times and not overtighten the top, they work for around town use. If I had not gotten them for about half off on a closeout sale I'd be in altras mailbox every day until they were swapped out. As it is I bought a closeout item and I'll have to deal with it. I truly think this could be the best boot they make if they can just fix the tongue attachment and ankle areas.
I usually wear a size 11 mens US and this boot came in surprisingly a little to snug around the width of the toes. Surprising because these are designed for a natural wider toed foot shape. Because of this, I decided to return them. I may order them again a half size up, but I'm not sure because they are not ideal for me for a number of reasons. Primarily, I've been transitioning to barefoot/minimalist shoes and boots for the last few months in order to correct longstanding postural issues and I was looking for a boot that allows the natural toe shape while offering adequate cushioning while carrying a heavy pack. These boots however seemed quite soft and excessively cushioned for my taste. There are not many options out there that allow for natural foot shape and ... MoreI usually wear a size 11 mens US and this boot came in surprisingly a little to snug around the width of the toes. Surprising because these are designed for a natural wider toed foot shape. Because of this, I decided to return them. I may order them again a half size up, but I'm not sure because they are not ideal for me for a number of reasons. Primarily, I've been transitioning to barefoot/minimalist shoes and boots for the last few months in order to correct longstanding postural issues and I was looking for a boot that allows the natural toe shape while offering adequate cushioning while carrying a heavy pack. These boots however seemed quite soft and excessively cushioned for my taste. There are not many options out there that allow for natural foot shape and that have zero drop, but I will keep looking. Keep in mind that this analysis is just based on having tried them in the house. Cheers
Short version: I highly recommend these boots if you're looking to balance comfort with ankle and arch support. Very pleasing, if conservative, design and colorways. Vibram outsole grip is excellent on a variety of surfaces, but tread a little light for heavy mud. Great weight to performance ratio. Tested over the course of two weeks on a variety of backpacking trips and day hikes in Mendocino National Forest, and Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks. Long version: Comfort/Support 5/5: Flat out one of the most comfortable hiking boots I've ever worn. I'm guessing this owes to Altra's heritage as a running shoe maker where much of their secret sauce lies in their biomechanics research into foot shapes. Most boots I've had, both hiking-specific and work-style boots, ... MoreShort version: I highly recommend these boots if you're looking to balance comfort with ankle and arch support. Very pleasing, if conservative, design and colorways. Vibram outsole grip is excellent on a variety of surfaces, but tread a little light for heavy mud. Great weight to performance ratio. Tested over the course of two weeks on a variety of backpacking trips and day hikes in Mendocino National Forest, and Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks. Long version: Comfort/Support 5/5: Flat out one of the most comfortable hiking boots I've ever worn. I'm guessing this owes to Altra's heritage as a running shoe maker where much of their secret sauce lies in their biomechanics research into foot shapes. Most boots I've had, both hiking-specific and work-style boots, tend to favor traditional designs (justified from a time-tested durability standpoint), but require significantly longer break-in periods, especially leather boots, than the Olympus 5. No blisters or arch cramps or pinched toes even out of the box. Note that they run about a half size small in my experience. Design 4/5: Also, ankle support is the best thing in a hiking boot, period. You will step on a loose rock and roll your ankle, and when you do, you'll be glad this shoe has the mid-rise upper design. What is especially nice about the Olympus 5's upper is the choice of a soft cushioned material; it provides a good balance of support for your ankle without restricting your range of motion or irritating/rubbing your anklebone like some stiffer uppers can. The shoe's design itself is perfectly pleasing to look at it, but not especially inspired. The two colorways feature your usual "outdoorsy" fare of blues, greys, and browns. With the comeback of 90's colors, I would have liked to see some more funky and bright colors, or at least, an international red/orange colorway. Durability 5/5: In the roughly 10 days of hiking I've done in the shoes, I'm pleased to report that there is no noticeable damage or wear of any kind besides the usual light scuffs and scrapes. I am slightly bow-legged so the way I walk and run is especially abusive to the outer heels of my soles, and in this regard, the Vibram outsole leaves me convinced it will last thousands of miles before it wears down. I was a little worried about the suede outer lining holding up compared to a leather toebox, but so far so good, and it cleaned up easily. Performance 5/5: I'm not a weight weenie or ultralight backpacker by any means, but every ounce you save even on your feet can make a big difference. Given the absence of thick leather, these boots feel incredibly light and agile, even after hours of hiking. You could conceivably do some trail running in these boots and not be worried about the weight penalty. Grip is outstanding, as would be expected from Vibram, on everything from hardpacked dirt to loose gravel. The only time I felt the boots get slippery was when we trekked through some heavy mud, but most boots would suffer the same fate, even with larger lugs in the tread.
I recently returned from an 8-day backpacking trip in the Escalante region of southern Utah. During the strenuous hike, the Olympus 5 Hike Mid GTX brown in color boot performed admirably. It was comfortable, I loved the cushion that put much less stress on my achy knees, and the traction was excellent in all kinds of conditions. It remained waterproof throughout the trip, and remarkably, seemed to shed mud and dirt and remain looking good. So, during the trip, the boot performed admirably and met my expectations. However, two days after the trip ended, and while I was still wearing the boots en route back home, I noticed that two of the treads had partially detached from the bottom of the boot. Thank goodness that did not happen during the hike itself. I got in ... MoreI recently returned from an 8-day backpacking trip in the Escalante region of southern Utah. During the strenuous hike, the Olympus 5 Hike Mid GTX brown in color boot performed admirably. It was comfortable, I loved the cushion that put much less stress on my achy knees, and the traction was excellent in all kinds of conditions. It remained waterproof throughout the trip, and remarkably, seemed to shed mud and dirt and remain looking good. So, during the trip, the boot performed admirably and met my expectations. However, two days after the trip ended, and while I was still wearing the boots en route back home, I noticed that two of the treads had partially detached from the bottom of the boot. Thank goodness that did not happen during the hike itself. I got in touch with Altra, and I was pleased with the customer service. They have sent me a new pair of boots, and I am in hopes that this pair will have better longevity. I have been an Altra customer for a number of years, buying a number of pair of running shoes, primarily the Olympus trail running line, and I have always been pleased with the cushion, fit, and performance of the shoe. I am in hopes that Altra can fix the tread issue with their hiking boot because otherwise it is a great boot.
My partner and I both tried the Olympus 5 (both boot and the shoe versions). We don't like how they feel: they seem to force our feet to pronate. The lacing seems to go inward (go search for a top view of the shoes) and it feels as though the soles are thicker on the outer edge of the boot / shoe. They also feel more narrow compared to other Altra models. We had to return them shortly after trying them on.For reference, if you're trying to compare different Altra models: I have wide "slope" style feet, a normal arch (not flat, not super arched) and a normal / narrower heel.Lone Peaks 7 (regular width) feel similar than the Olympus 5, but they're also a bit wider and more flexible, so I'm able to wear them. There's sufficient space for the toes (both horizontal and ... MoreMy partner and I both tried the Olympus 5 (both boot and the shoe versions). We don't like how they feel: they seem to force our feet to pronate. The lacing seems to go inward (go search for a top view of the shoes) and it feels as though the soles are thicker on the outer edge of the boot / shoe. They also feel more narrow compared to other Altra models. We had to return them shortly after trying them on.For reference, if you're trying to compare different Altra models: I have wide "slope" style feet, a normal arch (not flat, not super arched) and a normal / narrower heel.Lone Peaks 7 (regular width) feel similar than the Olympus 5, but they're also a bit wider and more flexible, so I'm able to wear them. There's sufficient space for the toes (both horizontal and vertical, no rubbing). I decided to keep that pair. I'm not sure about the material the upper is made of, it makes these odd lines when it compressed against itself when tightening the laces. I haven't worn them more than 30min at a time, but so far I still like them. I haven't tried them on slippery rocks yet.Lone Peaks 7 (wide) were just way too big for my feet. They're not juste wider at the toes and mid-foot, but also at the heel portion. My feet had a bunch of room inside to splay, but the shoe was nowhere near snug around my heel. It just flopped around.Superior 6 : true to size, very tight vertically (shoe depth). The fabric kind of creates weird folds when you tighten the laces. The fabric is also tight against the top of the toes and mid food and especially near the ball of the foot. I can't imagine running trails in these without developping blisters. For that reason, I returned these and went with the Lone Peaks 7 (regular) for the extra depth (vertical space)Escalantes 3 : true to size, super comfortable but also tight vertically around the toes and midfoot. I barely tighten the laces running up my foot. The stretchy fabric forgives this, so they're still comfortable to wear them for walking / running or for a few hours at a time. But if I wear them to work all day (I walk a lot) and my feet swell up a bit, then my feet feel crushed from the tight upper. Still, I kept that pair.
I'm an avid hiker and need a hiking shoe with a big toe box. I have waited to review the Men's Olympus 5 Hike Mid GTX until I've truly tested it. Nothing like hiking with this boot through varied terrain, weather and hikes to get to know the boot. The Olympic 5 Hike Mid GTX is the most comfortable boot I have worn in many years. I started hiking with this boot June 30, 2022 and have hiked multiple day hikes and a couple of backpacking trips totaling over 150 miles and over 28000 ft elevation gain. Over half of these hikes would be considered HARD by most hiking apps. So what do I think? I have owned several different Altra shoes over the years and the Olympic 5 Hike Mid GTX has been the most versatile, and enduring with a few exceptions. My feet are comfortable for ... MoreI'm an avid hiker and need a hiking shoe with a big toe box. I have waited to review the Men's Olympus 5 Hike Mid GTX until I've truly tested it. Nothing like hiking with this boot through varied terrain, weather and hikes to get to know the boot. The Olympic 5 Hike Mid GTX is the most comfortable boot I have worn in many years. I started hiking with this boot June 30, 2022 and have hiked multiple day hikes and a couple of backpacking trips totaling over 150 miles and over 28000 ft elevation gain. Over half of these hikes would be considered HARD by most hiking apps. So what do I think? I have owned several different Altra shoes over the years and the Olympic 5 Hike Mid GTX has been the most versatile, and enduring with a few exceptions. My feet are comfortable for miles, whether I have a light pack or heavier backpacking loads. I have Morton Neuromas in both feet and these boots are a godsend, almost as if I don't have neuromas. Now for some details. 1.) The very first thing I did before the first hike, was to change shoelaces to some that were at least a few inches longer. The stock shoelaces were too short for my foot comfort and ease of fitting. 2.) These boots handle and grip various surfaces on very hard hikes, going either up or down. 3.) I've read reviews with discussions relating to toe being pushed or jammed into the front of the boot when going downhill. That would be true for most boots and shoes especially as it gets steeper and those with wide toe boxes. There are ways to tie your boots differently before you head downhill that can mitigate this. This is true with this boot. 4.) I also read a review discussing some lugs from the sole detaching. This happened to me also, I do beat up boots because of where I hike. I used "Shoe Goo'' to reattach them several hikes ago and so far it has worked. 5.) I also hike with Olympus 4 shoes, in places like Sedona, and the desert around Palm Springs and Joshua Tree. These are dry areas and the Olympus 4 are great for that, but a bit of water goes right in. So the Olympic 5 Hike Mid GTX I thought would be the answer in the Pacific Northwest. Well Gortex or even Event waterproofing has limits, especially for shoes. I've hiked in rain and snow in the Olympic 5 Hike Mid GTX. Your feet do get wet. It does take awhile to soak through, but after 10 miles in the rain most waterproofing starts failing a little here and there, especially if you add 6 inches of snow. In the PNW we learn to wear proper wet clothing, so I never got uncomfortable in the Olympic 5 Hike Mid GTX, I didn't even really know I had wet feet. My last hike in the snow and rain, I assumed my feet were getting wet, but didn't know for sure until I took the boot off. That's not true with many other boots and shoes. 6.) While hiking on wet and/or slick surfaces I was surprised and very pleased at the good traction with these boots. Made me like them even more. 7.) For Safety on really slick snow on very steep downhill sections I put on Microspikes, which fit just fine and worked great on the Olympic 5 Hike Mid GTX. Being very light boots and more flexible than heavier boots I was happy that the microspikes did not cause any undo pleasure or crush any part of the boot. 8.) If the Olympic 5 Hike Mid GTX does get wet, they dry out pretty easily. 8.) I have custom insoles which I insert into the Olympic 5 Hike Mid GTX after I pull out the stock insoles. My custom insoles fit just fine and do not negatively affect the fit or the roomy toe box.
I have used Altra shoes for road and trail running for years, and I love them. However, the Olympus 5 hikers are simply not dependable, because the treads on the Vibram soles tend to de-laminate. I used my first pair on a week-long backpacking in southern Utah a year ago. I loved the traction, the cushion they provided that minimized the impact on my achy knees, and their waterproofness. However, at trip's end, I noticed that there had been some tread de-lamination on the left boot. I notified Altra, and I was quite happy with their customer service, because they sent me a new pair of boots, and even went above and beyond that. Several weeks ago, I used my replacement pair on a 15-hour up-and-back hike to Pamola Peak on Mt. Katahdin in Baxter State Park. Granted, ... MoreI have used Altra shoes for road and trail running for years, and I love them. However, the Olympus 5 hikers are simply not dependable, because the treads on the Vibram soles tend to de-laminate. I used my first pair on a week-long backpacking in southern Utah a year ago. I loved the traction, the cushion they provided that minimized the impact on my achy knees, and their waterproofness. However, at trip's end, I noticed that there had been some tread de-lamination on the left boot. I notified Altra, and I was quite happy with their customer service, because they sent me a new pair of boots, and even went above and beyond that. Several weeks ago, I used my replacement pair on a 15-hour up-and-back hike to Pamola Peak on Mt. Katahdin in Baxter State Park. Granted, the terrain was rough on boots, but, to my dismay, even before I had completed the descent, several treads had de-laminated on both the right and left boots. Therefore, I simply cannot recommend the Olympus 5 hikers for use as a hiking boot. I'm giving two stars only out of my respect for the Altra brand itself, because I have really enjoyed Altra running shoes.
I am a size 13 men's foot size. Depending on the shoe, I can wear a Medium width or EE. I wanted a highly cushioned zero-drop, natural-fit hiking shoe. What I received had three major faults. First, despite the signature fit with extra room in the toe box, the shoe was very narrow. Narrower than Keen or Hoka Medium width. Second, the top of the shoe does not wrap far enough around the ankle, so pressure is put on the side of the calf. I don't have super wide calves. This shoe is completely misdesigned. Third, the heels seemed too soft compared to the middle and the front of the shoe. I took for granted that most shoes are farther along in their design iteration. Altra, you lost me. This is an expensive product that has not been thoroughly thought out.
Purchased the MEN'S OLYMPUS 5 HIKE MID GTX while traveling out of state. Ankle support was needed and I was excited that this shoe/boot offered that stability. After several days of wearing these boots inside my home, I ventured out for training. Two short walk/runs (less than 3 miles) on asphalt, sidewalks, and dirt track. The third time I laced up and while walking to my starting place, I tripped and realized that the shoe lace on the left shoe/boot got caught on the lace hook of the right shoe/boot and ripped the seam of the mid-top completely apart. This is definitely a design flaw and now I am without a supportive shoe/boot and most importantly the $220.00 plus tax that this shoe/boot cost me. It is especially unfortunate that these shoes/boots were worn only ... MorePurchased the MEN'S OLYMPUS 5 HIKE MID GTX while traveling out of state. Ankle support was needed and I was excited that this shoe/boot offered that stability. After several days of wearing these boots inside my home, I ventured out for training. Two short walk/runs (less than 3 miles) on asphalt, sidewalks, and dirt track. The third time I laced up and while walking to my starting place, I tripped and realized that the shoe lace on the left shoe/boot got caught on the lace hook of the right shoe/boot and ripped the seam of the mid-top completely apart. This is definitely a design flaw and now I am without a supportive shoe/boot and most importantly the $220.00 plus tax that this shoe/boot cost me. It is especially unfortunate that these shoes/boots were worn only two times and on the third time while leaving for training, this disaster occurred. The store manager where these shoes/boots were purchased sent an inquiry to Altra and after two weeks finally got a reply stating that this is not a manufacturing issue and that a Warranty Claim could be submitted. A warranty claim was submitted and the response was denied as well. Although other review reports with similar shoe lace tripping problems have been posted, I am hoping that the ALTRA Care Team will check the photos and see that this was truly a design flaw.
The four times I have worn this shoe felt amazing. Water proof for those rainy days walking to the office, keeps your feet dry and warm. Comfy sometimes can feel like walking or air and barely to not at all feel the rocks beneath your feet when hiking. These are the only shoes that didn't make my feet feel like they were in a vice. BUT, all the times I wore them hiking I used hiking rated socks at different levels or cushion with a liner sock AND without and received blisters on both achilles/heels, on paved paths and on hiking trails. Results of which cost me a hike up Mt Elbert. If I wear zero Cushing socks, running sock, I get absolutely no blisters. Cannot tell if this issue because my shoes are too small or too large. I want to really love and rely on these ... MoreThe four times I have worn this shoe felt amazing. Water proof for those rainy days walking to the office, keeps your feet dry and warm. Comfy sometimes can feel like walking or air and barely to not at all feel the rocks beneath your feet when hiking. These are the only shoes that didn't make my feet feel like they were in a vice. BUT, all the times I wore them hiking I used hiking rated socks at different levels or cushion with a liner sock AND without and received blisters on both achilles/heels, on paved paths and on hiking trails. Results of which cost me a hike up Mt Elbert. If I wear zero Cushing socks, running sock, I get absolutely no blisters. Cannot tell if this issue because my shoes are too small or too large. I want to really love and rely on these shoes. Just hate these blisters.
| Stack Height | 33 mm |
