Best shoe I've owned
I'm taking the time to write this review because I feel the reviews on Altra's site skew negative. It's a fundamental problem with customer feedback- happy customers generally won't reach out to let you know they're satisfied, while unsatisfied customers will.I moved to Altra from Brooks. I loved my Brooks, but a bunion on my right foot meant it was time to switch to something with a wider toebox. My first pair of Altras was the FWD Experience, which fit my foot like a glove and are an absolute joy to run in. The only limitation with the FWD Experience, in my opinion, is the cushion. Long runs left me feeling like I had been through a full wash and dry cycle. Because of this, I wanted to try a shoe with Egomax foam. Enter the Torin 7.The Torin 7 is the best ... MoreI'm taking the time to write this review because I feel the reviews on Altra's site skew negative. It's a fundamental problem with customer feedback- happy customers generally won't reach out to let you know they're satisfied, while unsatisfied customers will.I moved to Altra from Brooks. I loved my Brooks, but a bunion on my right foot meant it was time to switch to something with a wider toebox. My first pair of Altras was the FWD Experience, which fit my foot like a glove and are an absolute joy to run in. The only limitation with the FWD Experience, in my opinion, is the cushion. Long runs left me feeling like I had been through a full wash and dry cycle. Because of this, I wanted to try a shoe with Egomax foam. Enter the Torin 7.The Torin 7 is the best running shoe I've ever owned. It is astonishing how much better I feel on long runs with this shoe. Low back pain, bunion pain, knee pain- all gone. The switch to zero-drop required integrating some achilles/calf stretching in my mobility routine, but beyond that, it's been seamless.The gripes I see from others on this shoe (and really all Altra shoes at the moment) are about durability. I have roughly 275 miles on these shoes and the material has held up very well. I will say that the Egomax foam now feels 'dead'- I feel the impact of my runs more, I no longer get that 'keep going' sensation with each stride, and some slight niggles have started to appear. That being said, I think it's widely accepted by the running community that shoes are only going to feel as good as they do out of the box for something around 300 miles. It's unfortunate with how much running shoes cost, and I certainly wish it weren't the case, but that lifespan isn't something I'm going to complain about or fault Altra for given the state of the industry.Without hesitation, I will be buying another pair of the Torin 7 to replace my current pair. My one 'wish' is that Altra somehow integrated Egomax with their 'Experience' line. While I find zero-drop to be a viable platform (and admittedly, perhaps advantageous in the 'injury prevention' department), even the slight 4mm drop in my FWD Experience adds a perceptible 'go' factor that I missed from the Torin.... Show more
Will
originally posted on altrarunning.com
Excellent Shoe With One Drawback For Me
What I love and revere about Altras above all else is they make shoes that are shaped like human feet. One of the only manufacturers that does this. I have a medium D width foot as measured on one of those Brannock devices found in shoe stores yet I frequently have to order wide (2EE) in other shoes, especially in Hokas which I also love. I currently have Lone Peak Alpine, Torin Luxe, Paradigm 6 and now these Torin 7s.I did a long walk in my Torin Luxe this morning so that I would be able to compare with these new 7s. I have always found the Luxe to be one of the lightest and most comfortable shoes I have. The 7 right off the bat has more noticeable cushioning. You have a slightly higher ride that should give runners a more comfortable experience. The tongue and ... MoreWhat I love and revere about Altras above all else is they make shoes that are shaped like human feet. One of the only manufacturers that does this. I have a medium D width foot as measured on one of those Brannock devices found in shoe stores yet I frequently have to order wide (2EE) in other shoes, especially in Hokas which I also love. I currently have Lone Peak Alpine, Torin Luxe, Paradigm 6 and now these Torin 7s.I did a long walk in my Torin Luxe this morning so that I would be able to compare with these new 7s. I have always found the Luxe to be one of the lightest and most comfortable shoes I have. The 7 right off the bat has more noticeable cushioning. You have a slightly higher ride that should give runners a more comfortable experience. The tongue and heel collar cushion are a bit thinner than the Luxe but still very comfortable and unless you're wearing a very low no-show sock shouldn't present any friction issues around your heel and ankle.This is an outstanding shoe in fit and comfort with one drawback that may be peculiar to me. With each Altra, except one, there is a bit of heel sinking when I lean slightly back creating a bit of a fulcrum see-saw effect of my feet across the middle (arch) of the shoe. The only Altra that doesn't have this issue are the Paradigms, which to me are the pinnacle of the Altra line. There is no rocking or sinking of my heels in those shoes. The only other complaint I've had with Altras has been the lack of color choice but they've been expanding that recently. I'm ambivalent about the zero drop design as I wear my Hokas with a 5-8mm drop a lot and don't experience any issues going back and forth between those and my Altras. Fit is the primary reason I gravitated to Altras and that is their undisputed superior feature. For those that haven't noticed, in any negative way, the heel sinking I mentioned, the Torin 7s should prove to be an outstanding choice, with a little more cush and comfort than previous Torins. They also may be just a tiny bit wider in the forefoot than my Torin Luxe.... Show more
John
originally posted on altrarunning.com
Great for Wide Feet and hammer toe injuries
I wear a 10.5 - 4E shoe, and these fit perfectly for my wide feet. I'm in my 30's and recently had a bad hammer toe injury that required me to get surgery. My doctor recommended me get a shoe that had a roomy toe box, so I went and tried on Altra's and some other brands. I definitely felt that Altra and Topo Athletics had the roomiest toe box, but with the ball of my foot recovering from surgery the 0 drop shoe made more sense to keep the weight off the ball of the foot. So far they've been amazing, and every time I put them on in the morning it's literally an ahhhh feeling because they are so comfy. I will definitely continue to buy Altra's.My biggest suggestion to Altra is to offer more wide options in all your shoes. Especially the Original footshape. I've ... MoreI wear a 10.5 - 4E shoe, and these fit perfectly for my wide feet. I'm in my 30's and recently had a bad hammer toe injury that required me to get surgery. My doctor recommended me get a shoe that had a roomy toe box, so I went and tried on Altra's and some other brands. I definitely felt that Altra and Topo Athletics had the roomiest toe box, but with the ball of my foot recovering from surgery the 0 drop shoe made more sense to keep the weight off the ball of the foot. So far they've been amazing, and every time I put them on in the morning it's literally an ahhhh feeling because they are so comfy. I will definitely continue to buy Altra's.My biggest suggestion to Altra is to offer more wide options in all your shoes. Especially the Original footshape. I've searched high and low and it's hard to find good shoes that offer a roomy toe box and wide options. Altra is known for the roomy toe box so why not capitalize on that by giving more options so we don't have to go to other brands like Topo Athletics. Lastly I've read so many comments on durability. I really hope that this is at the forefront of Altra so Quality is more important than profit. If that is the case then I'll definitely be a lifer on getting Altra's, and I'm sure my son will be as well who already has wide feet.... Show more
Josh
originally posted on altrarunning.com
Heel Collar Pressing Ankle After 150miles?
I love Altra shoes. When I first tried on an Altra pair of shoes over 5 years ago the wide toe box and zero drop made it feel like my feet had found a cozy home. Altras have been my daily trainers since then.I've been a big fan of the Torin model from 5 onward. I ran multiple pairs of Torin 5s and 6s to the bone.I was stoked to finally get a pair of the 7s. I initially loved it, but after a bit over 150 miles, the tendon underneath my outer left ankle began be painfully pressed by the heel collar. It is not a chaffing/blistering/rubbing sensation, but a sensation most like a pressure point being pushed with each stride.I have tried several things to remedy this dilemma by experimenting with different levels of tightness in the laces, walking in the shoes ... MoreI love Altra shoes. When I first tried on an Altra pair of shoes over 5 years ago the wide toe box and zero drop made it feel like my feet had found a cozy home. Altras have been my daily trainers since then.I've been a big fan of the Torin model from 5 onward. I ran multiple pairs of Torin 5s and 6s to the bone.I was stoked to finally get a pair of the 7s. I initially loved it, but after a bit over 150 miles, the tendon underneath my outer left ankle began be painfully pressed by the heel collar. It is not a chaffing/blistering/rubbing sensation, but a sensation most like a pressure point being pushed with each stride.I have tried several things to remedy this dilemma by experimenting with different levels of tightness in the laces, walking in the shoes before running, stretching, changing my stride with no consistent solution. When I throw on a different pair of shoes the painful sensation immediately goes away. With these shoes, the pressure can be unbearable. Online I didn't find many other people that had this issue or had any solutions, so hope my circumstance is an anomaly.I'm giving this shoe 2 out of 5 because after 150 miles I'm having to look for a new pair of shoes. Some part of the shoe's design is preventing me from running. I'm hoping to stick with Altra, but will switch up if this is an issue in other models as well.... Show more
Nate U
originally posted on REI
Lasted 3 Months…really?
It’s May 2024. I purchased these from REI 3 months ago in March 2024. They have since worn a hole in the heel to the point the inside is sticking out picking at my heel and the cloth cover the top of the foot has ripped.I took them back to REI for an exchange for another pair as I assumed these were defective. I was told I can only expect 3 months of use out this type of shoe with daily use. By the way, I have never returned a shoe or other item I’ve used at REI and I have been a member since 1994. I am not the guy returning used gear. This was unique for me as I truly felt my shoes were defective. I go to REI and am a member because I feel more taken care of as a customer. Thanks for nothing.I should say that I have bought Altria Torin 5, 6 and now 7.Torin 5 ... MoreIt’s May 2024. I purchased these from REI 3 months ago in March 2024. They have since worn a hole in the heel to the point the inside is sticking out picking at my heel and the cloth cover the top of the foot has ripped.I took them back to REI for an exchange for another pair as I assumed these were defective. I was told I can only expect 3 months of use out this type of shoe with daily use. By the way, I have never returned a shoe or other item I’ve used at REI and I have been a member since 1994. I am not the guy returning used gear. This was unique for me as I truly felt my shoes were defective. I go to REI and am a member because I feel more taken care of as a customer. Thanks for nothing.I should say that I have bought Altria Torin 5, 6 and now 7.Torin 5 (I think) - still going but used as yard shoes as the cushion has compressed too much.Torin 6 - lasted a year before delamination of the sole.Torin 7 - lasted 3 months!!!REI should also post that “ALL ROAD SHOES LAST 3 MONTHS” on the displays.Might as well be honest about it.Good luck shoe buying!... Show more
Patrick
originally posted on REI
Need some Altra Torin love - Ver #7 changes
Long time Torin fan, love the wide toe box and low rise design. The version 7 has some major changes - thicker sole and heel box rides a little higher than previous versions. The padded tong is much better than last years version. Some folks have complained about the heel box rubbing their ankle bone - I use superfeet inserts in them and thankfully they do not rub. The thicker sole is very comfortable and does not feel unstable although I perfer the original thickness. 3 star rating because of thicker sole and higher heel box - The Torin 5 was the best design, 6 (tong change was a negative), 7 is getting further away away. It's frustrating when you find the perfect shoe and then Altra changes it. I started with the ver. 4 and love the fit since.Note - all Altra's ... MoreLong time Torin fan, love the wide toe box and low rise design. The version 7 has some major changes - thicker sole and heel box rides a little higher than previous versions. The padded tong is much better than last years version. Some folks have complained about the heel box rubbing their ankle bone - I use superfeet inserts in them and thankfully they do not rub. The thicker sole is very comfortable and does not feel unstable although I perfer the original thickness. 3 star rating because of thicker sole and higher heel box - The Torin 5 was the best design, 6 (tong change was a negative), 7 is getting further away away. It's frustrating when you find the perfect shoe and then Altra changes it. I started with the ver. 4 and love the fit since.Note - all Altra's wear out pretty fast. I cover about 125 miles/month walking and wear out the soles and uppers in 4-5 month's. I rotate between Torins for the road and Trail's for the dirt.... Show more
Bring back ver 5
originally posted on REI
Perfect for me
I had the Paradigms several years ago and like them a lot with the exception that the stability wedges caused some discomfort to the outside of the ball of my left foot. I have other pairs of Altra casual shoes that I really like and had tried the Torin 4.5 and found them to be uncomfortable. After reading the positive reviews at this site and runner reviews on YouTube the Torin 7 shoes seemed like the perfect thing to add to my other Altra and Hoka shoes. I am glad to say they are better than I had expected, and I expected them to be very good. They are cushioned enough to let my forefoot and heels sink comfortably in to the insole without being spongy. The toebox is roomy without being loose. The arch support is perfect for me and everything about the show really ... MoreI had the Paradigms several years ago and like them a lot with the exception that the stability wedges caused some discomfort to the outside of the ball of my left foot. I have other pairs of Altra casual shoes that I really like and had tried the Torin 4.5 and found them to be uncomfortable. After reading the positive reviews at this site and runner reviews on YouTube the Torin 7 shoes seemed like the perfect thing to add to my other Altra and Hoka shoes. I am glad to say they are better than I had expected, and I expected them to be very good. They are cushioned enough to let my forefoot and heels sink comfortably in to the insole without being spongy. The toebox is roomy without being loose. The arch support is perfect for me and everything about the show really fits my needs and comfort. I bought one pair to give them a try and after wearing the first pair for a couple of months I bought another pair rotate among my shoes on the frequent long walks we take on the local trails.No shoe is absolutely perfect and that is true of the Torin 7, though my complaint is very minor for me. The laces need to be an inch or so longer. I find it impossible to use the extra eyelets to use the runner's lacing to completely lock my heel down and find it equally difficult to double knot the shoes to make sure they don't come untied. So far this has not been a big problem and my foot stay locked in place well enough but this may be a problem for some people.... Show more
Thom
originally posted on altrarunning.com
Questionable durability on a comfortable daily
Purchased these Torin 7 back in November 2023 after trying them in person. Pictures are from end of January. Small holes starting to form on inner of toe box. Sole is still relatively unworn.Having had positive experience with other Altra running shoes, I was excited to discover these Torin 7 to be super comfortable, light weight and supportive. I thought they were one of the most stable pair of shoes I've ever worn.However, 2 months in I noticed visible holes forming near the inner portion of the upper. I am disappointed in the quality as I had a pair of Lone Peaks that lasted 5 years with no visible damage before the rubber sole wore out.Typically averaging 6-8 miles a week in a comfortable, small indoor office setting. I really loved these shoes but would ... MorePurchased these Torin 7 back in November 2023 after trying them in person. Pictures are from end of January. Small holes starting to form on inner of toe box. Sole is still relatively unworn.Having had positive experience with other Altra running shoes, I was excited to discover these Torin 7 to be super comfortable, light weight and supportive. I thought they were one of the most stable pair of shoes I've ever worn.However, 2 months in I noticed visible holes forming near the inner portion of the upper. I am disappointed in the quality as I had a pair of Lone Peaks that lasted 5 years with no visible damage before the rubber sole wore out.Typically averaging 6-8 miles a week in a comfortable, small indoor office setting. I really loved these shoes but would not recommend anyone else to pay such a premium for a pair of shoes that have started breaking only after a few months of light wear.... Show more
Lin
originally posted on altrarunning.com
The Most Comfortable Shoe I Own
I'll preface this by saying I'm strictly a walker; runners may have different perceptions. I've now owned the shoe a year. I own a variety of Hokas, Topos, and Altras. With Hoka, I have to always order wide (2EE) to get a comfortable fit. I never have to worry about that with Altra or Topo. In Altra, I have the Torin Luxe, Paradigm 6, FWD, and the Torin7, which is by far the most comfortable of any other shoe. The foot shape width is perfect for those like me who have medium-width feet; no wides needed here. The cushioning is absolutely perfect and perfectly placed. The only negative I have is that zero drop doesn't really work for me as if I'm standing upright and rock back a little, my heel sinks, essentially becoming negative drop, causing some low back ... MoreI'll preface this by saying I'm strictly a walker; runners may have different perceptions. I've now owned the shoe a year. I own a variety of Hokas, Topos, and Altras. With Hoka, I have to always order wide (2EE) to get a comfortable fit. I never have to worry about that with Altra or Topo. In Altra, I have the Torin Luxe, Paradigm 6, FWD, and the Torin7, which is by far the most comfortable of any other shoe. The foot shape width is perfect for those like me who have medium-width feet; no wides needed here. The cushioning is absolutely perfect and perfectly placed. The only negative I have is that zero drop doesn't really work for me as if I'm standing upright and rock back a little, my heel sinks, essentially becoming negative drop, causing some low back discomfort. Altra now has minimal drop versions - FWD, Flow, etc. But the FWD, while it fits very well, feels snugger than I expected. The Torin is noticeably roomier. Give the shoe a minimal drop to eliminate that heel drop when leaning back, and this is a 10+ shoe, and I would probably never buy anything else.... Show more
John
originally posted on altrarunning.com
Unrecognizable
This is my eighth pair of Altras and my fourth pair of Torins. These feel unrecognizable as Altras. I buy Altras for the roomy forefoot, the locked in heel, the silent contact with pavement, and the obnoxiously long laces that let me tie them however I please. The forefoot on these is narrower, yet inexplicably the locked in heel is gone. They sound like Vaporflies (ie. slap slap slap slap), and the laces are so short that I can barely tie them properly to correct for the sloppy heel fit. Overall I just can't recommend these despite having been a big advocate for Altra Torins previously. Disappointed, but I'll keep trying them to see if they improve with time. As always though, fast, efficient service from Altitude.... Show more
Robert D.
originally posted on altitude-sports.com