Finally updated my Altras
I was holding on to my Torin 4s for too long because they are the best running/walking shoes I've ever worn. I wore a 9 in those and never had any issues. I originally ordered a 9 in these Torin 7s since they should have been similar enough, but they were way too tight (I felt my feet start to tingle after wearing them inside for about 10 minutes, without tying them any tighter than I usually tie my shoes), so I returned and ordered size 9.5. They fit better now, but I just wish companies would keep good things how they are. The material of the 7s feels different, sort of stiffer and tighter knit, and even though the shoe is still "foot shaped," it doesn't feel near as comfortable as my Torin 4s. I think they feel a bit shorter/squatter I guess -- like there's less ... MoreI was holding on to my Torin 4s for too long because they are the best running/walking shoes I've ever worn. I wore a 9 in those and never had any issues. I originally ordered a 9 in these Torin 7s since they should have been similar enough, but they were way too tight (I felt my feet start to tingle after wearing them inside for about 10 minutes, without tying them any tighter than I usually tie my shoes), so I returned and ordered size 9.5. They fit better now, but I just wish companies would keep good things how they are. The material of the 7s feels different, sort of stiffer and tighter knit, and even though the shoe is still "foot shaped," it doesn't feel near as comfortable as my Torin 4s. I think they feel a bit shorter/squatter I guess -- like there's less space on the top of my foot, so they still feel tighter than my 4s ever did. I will keep the 7s and hopefully get used to the different feel, but man, I should have bought multiple pairs of the 4s when I could because companies always change things and usually for the worse.All that said, I still think Altras are some of the best shoes for me due to the wider toe box and zero drop design.... Show more
Helena
originally posted on altrarunning.com
Gorgeous shoe- but runs small in length
Was excited to try out my new pair of Altras after having worn Hokas for the last 18 months due to a foot fracture from doing jumping jacks in a cardio warm-up class. I wanted a shoe with a wider toe box and one in which I can improve upon my ankle dorsiflexion after having been in multiple boots over the years. And want something different from Hoka Cliftons. The blue Torins (Torin 7) are gorgeous and I got them on sale, after trying multiple models of Brooks which all felt kind of meh (possibly after the Hokas, they would feel hard and unsupportive). So tried them out at the gym and started to feel my good but slightly longer L foot go numb in the toes and forefoot on an elliptical (the fractured shorter R foot was loving the shoe). Never have I run into this ... MoreWas excited to try out my new pair of Altras after having worn Hokas for the last 18 months due to a foot fracture from doing jumping jacks in a cardio warm-up class. I wanted a shoe with a wider toe box and one in which I can improve upon my ankle dorsiflexion after having been in multiple boots over the years. And want something different from Hoka Cliftons. The blue Torins (Torin 7) are gorgeous and I got them on sale, after trying multiple models of Brooks which all felt kind of meh (possibly after the Hokas, they would feel hard and unsupportive). So tried them out at the gym and started to feel my good but slightly longer L foot go numb in the toes and forefoot on an elliptical (the fractured shorter R foot was loving the shoe). Never have I run into this issue before! I re-read the fit comments and apparently there needs to be a thumbs-width from the tip of the toe to the inside of the shoe; mine is more like 1/4" if that. I wear a 9 in Hokas (they run big), and generally a 9 or 9.5 in most other shoes. Never ever a 10, and with larger shoes, the problem then is heel slippage. Will try them again in the gym with different socks -but be forewarned - buy 1/2 size longer in this model vs. your usual shoe/sneaker size. I'm hoping it was just a bad day for me to try these, and don't want to return them but may have to.... Show more
liz o
originally posted on REI
Great neutral fit but fabric split quickly
I bought these shoes because I tried them on in-store at the recommendation of an employee and they do help fix some issues I was having with my gait. I supinate and hurt the outside of my feet so having a neutral base helps. I also tend to hit the ground more with the front of my feet and my previous shoes had drop that exacerbated that effect, so having these zero-drop shoes also helped improve that. However, within two months of owning these, the fabric right around the widest part of the toe box has split. This was disappointing to see happen so quickly. I don't think I have wide feet, in that I don't need to buy wide shoes, and I usually only see this happen in shoes that I've used for close to a year or even longer. I have mostly only used these shoes for ... MoreI bought these shoes because I tried them on in-store at the recommendation of an employee and they do help fix some issues I was having with my gait. I supinate and hurt the outside of my feet so having a neutral base helps. I also tend to hit the ground more with the front of my feet and my previous shoes had drop that exacerbated that effect, so having these zero-drop shoes also helped improve that. However, within two months of owning these, the fabric right around the widest part of the toe box has split. This was disappointing to see happen so quickly. I don't think I have wide feet, in that I don't need to buy wide shoes, and I usually only see this happen in shoes that I've used for close to a year or even longer. I have mostly only used these shoes for walking around the city comfortably. For shoes that are known for having a wide toebox for increased stability, I would've thought the fabric around the toe box wouldn't be a weak point. Almost four months in with honestly very little use over the holiday season, the split in the fabric has only gotten worse and started spreading through the design.... Show more
j103
originally posted on REI
Has Helped with Heel Pain
Just bought these to replace my Hoka Clifton 8s after PT suggested a less cushy shoe to resolve heel pain not related to P. Fasciitis. I am a walker and these come up on the Altra site for this purpose. I Initially purchased a 6.5 in regular from a store because sales rep said the shoes naturally run wide. The toe box felt roomy with enough toe spread but the length felt a little short, even tho there was a thumb's width distance to end of shoe, and the section where the laces wrap was very snug. I had read this in previous reviews but went with the sales rep's recommendation. Contacted Altra and they recommended I match size and width of Hokas so returned the 6.5 Regular and ordered 6.5 Wide from Altra. The length of the toe box and the width is more roomy but not ... MoreJust bought these to replace my Hoka Clifton 8s after PT suggested a less cushy shoe to resolve heel pain not related to P. Fasciitis. I am a walker and these come up on the Altra site for this purpose. I Initially purchased a 6.5 in regular from a store because sales rep said the shoes naturally run wide. The toe box felt roomy with enough toe spread but the length felt a little short, even tho there was a thumb's width distance to end of shoe, and the section where the laces wrap was very snug. I had read this in previous reviews but went with the sales rep's recommendation. Contacted Altra and they recommended I match size and width of Hokas so returned the 6.5 Regular and ordered 6.5 Wide from Altra. The length of the toe box and the width is more roomy but not too roomy that it feels loose, and no more snug feeling around the lace area. I notice that the very end of the vinyl eye stay where the laces start lacing up creates a crease when I am walking thru my stride. Not sure if it's because I'm wearing a wide now and it may have relocated the eye stay lower on my foot? It's not painful but I notice it when I'm walking. I'm adjusting to a lower heel drop but so far, I don't have any heel pain after walking 2 miles/day. Chat agent was great and I like that they offer a 30-day trial wear period both indoor and outdoor. I will keep these and keep monitoring fit.... Show more
Taz
originally posted on altrarunning.com
I like the updates
First of all, I bought these shoes and this is NOT a sponsored review in any way. I've worn Altras for years now--Torins, Escalantes, and Rivera.The Torin 7 is very comfortable. They've made some obvious improvements on the shoe (the updated tongue, updates to the heel cup being notable) and I really like the shade of blue that they picked. I'm not a huge fan of the increased stack height of the sole, but it's not the worst. And it feels like the "foot shape" is gradually getting narrower and narrower, which is annoying. The foot-shaped shoe is the primary reason I switched to Altras so I don't appreciate them gradually turning into "conventionally" shaped shoes.I skipped out on the Torin 6s after hearing about the sole separation issues. While I've only had ... MoreFirst of all, I bought these shoes and this is NOT a sponsored review in any way. I've worn Altras for years now--Torins, Escalantes, and Rivera.The Torin 7 is very comfortable. They've made some obvious improvements on the shoe (the updated tongue, updates to the heel cup being notable) and I really like the shade of blue that they picked. I'm not a huge fan of the increased stack height of the sole, but it's not the worst. And it feels like the "foot shape" is gradually getting narrower and narrower, which is annoying. The foot-shaped shoe is the primary reason I switched to Altras so I don't appreciate them gradually turning into "conventionally" shaped shoes.I skipped out on the Torin 6s after hearing about the sole separation issues. While I've only had this pair of 7s for a little over a month, the sole is still in tact! I will update if it separates.One issue that I have with all of my Altras is that I gradually get a hole in the upper portion of the fabric - where my big toe lifts while walking. Given that this is still a fabric upper, I anticipate that it will wear similarly to my other Altras.I really like the blue version of these shoes. One of my biggest complaints with Altra is that the color choices are hideous. I like lilac, light blue, light teal, gray, and some light pink colors. I've owned Altras in salmon, raspberry, shades of blue... this one is my favorite (but I'd still like them to reconsider some of their color choices!) Mostly I pick this company because they have zero-drop, foot-shaped shoes but I'd still appreciate it if they would offer feminine colors and styles!Overall, I am happy with my Torin 7s and would purchase them again.... Show more
Crystal
originally posted on altrarunning.com
I would not buy this again.
I have purchased Torins for years. They always fit me well with no break-in time. This year I struggled to get past the colors and ordered a black and a pink pair. The pink was a bit much, so I settled on the black, though I didn't like the look and feeling of my feet in black, especially with the big white soles. I was willing to suck it up, but then, despite the good fit, every so often, there was a sharp edge that would dig into my outer side ankle. The pink ones did the same. So I had to return both. I couldn't wear them so I rate them at 1.Then I ordered Timp 5 in green and tan, which was more of a pink than tan. They were wide through the ball of the foot and the front buckled when I walked and I couldn't get past the icky green or pink color. I ordered the ... MoreI have purchased Torins for years. They always fit me well with no break-in time. This year I struggled to get past the colors and ordered a black and a pink pair. The pink was a bit much, so I settled on the black, though I didn't like the look and feeling of my feet in black, especially with the big white soles. I was willing to suck it up, but then, despite the good fit, every so often, there was a sharp edge that would dig into my outer side ankle. The pink ones did the same. So I had to return both. I couldn't wear them so I rate them at 1.Then I ordered Timp 5 in green and tan, which was more of a pink than tan. They were wide through the ball of the foot and the front buckled when I walked and I couldn't get past the icky green or pink color. I ordered the Timp 4 they fit the same way as the 5 with an addition of an eyelet reinforcement rubbing on my left inner instep that is painful. They are in a blue color that I like. I rate them all at 1. So far I have kept them. Now I am past the return date and hoping I can figure out how to deal with the eyelet rubbing, toe buckling, and wideness, or call Altra and beg to return them. Then I would have no more high cushion zero drop shoes to try. Altra, please do better!... Show more
M
originally posted on altrarunning.com
Lifter loves them
I'm a 46-year-old former runner, having had surgery for a herniated disc two years ago. My chiropractor recommended walking might be a better choice, unless I was willing to be a slave to my watch to stay at a slower pace, and be hyper-focused on gait and form. He also advised I buy a zero drop shoe, and focus more on strength. I do walk frequently, but particularly enjoy the challenge of weight lifting, and haven't run in months.My mom had bought me a gift card at my local running store prior to me having surgery. I asked the shoe salesman for a shoe I might be able to walk in, but also lift in, and he recommended the Torin 7. I love them! They give me the support I need to feel balanced and stable. I wasn't sure I'd like the roomy toe box as someone with a ... MoreI'm a 46-year-old former runner, having had surgery for a herniated disc two years ago. My chiropractor recommended walking might be a better choice, unless I was willing to be a slave to my watch to stay at a slower pace, and be hyper-focused on gait and form. He also advised I buy a zero drop shoe, and focus more on strength. I do walk frequently, but particularly enjoy the challenge of weight lifting, and haven't run in months.My mom had bought me a gift card at my local running store prior to me having surgery. I asked the shoe salesman for a shoe I might be able to walk in, but also lift in, and he recommended the Torin 7. I love them! They give me the support I need to feel balanced and stable. I wasn't sure I'd like the roomy toe box as someone with a narrower foot, but they give me a perfect amount of toe room without the heel slip that tends to come with a shoe with more width. These are the most comfortable shoe I've ever had.... Show more
Carli
originally posted on altrarunning.com
Not sure on this shoe/brand just yet...
I purchased these based on a recommendation from my podiatrist to correct my big & pinky toe nails, which have basically been compressed/squished by narrow sneakers (I had no business wearing) for about 1.5yrs. I received the Torin 7s last night. I put them on this morning, walked around the house, and...Let the CONS begin -BLISTER - Immediately I felt that there would be a blister in my future near the bottom part of my left outer ankle. I use true no-show bamboo socks, so this may be something that can be corrected with ankle socks. Note - I did purchase some socks on this site, but they will be returned...waaayyy too compressive, and I know a larger size will not help at all.BACKWARDS TILT - The sneakers also seem to rock me backwards; very awkward. Not ... MoreI purchased these based on a recommendation from my podiatrist to correct my big & pinky toe nails, which have basically been compressed/squished by narrow sneakers (I had no business wearing) for about 1.5yrs. I received the Torin 7s last night. I put them on this morning, walked around the house, and...Let the CONS begin -BLISTER - Immediately I felt that there would be a blister in my future near the bottom part of my left outer ankle. I use true no-show bamboo socks, so this may be something that can be corrected with ankle socks. Note - I did purchase some socks on this site, but they will be returned...waaayyy too compressive, and I know a larger size will not help at all.BACKWARDS TILT - The sneakers also seem to rock me backwards; very awkward. Not sure if the shoe is engineered to do this, but it's happening. It feels like the mid to front part of the shoe is somehow lifted upward just enough to cause the tilting sensation toward the back of my heels (something to get used to I suppose).I went ahead and took an anti-blister stick and swiped both my ankles heavily (inner and outer), and went for my daily morning 2 mile jog.EXTRA EFFORT - I quickly felt like I had to put out much more effort than usual. I'm thinking this might have something to do with the aforementioned tilting sensation, and I'm hoping it will diminish after I get accustomed to the shoes.HOT! HOT! HOT! - About a mile in, my feet were sweltering hot, and it was very uncomfortable. That being said, I live in southeast, TX (Galveston county), and it's friggin' hot here (and it's not even summer yet), but neither my Adidas or Brooks have ever given me such a hot sensation.I was able to finish my run, and quickly took off my shoes and literally put them in front of a tower fan to cool them off. And that's when I saw it, the almost-blister on my outer left ankle. If it weren't for the balm, I would've had a full-blown blister (see pic).PROS - The shoes felt great around my toes, which is the sole reason why I purchased them. They also felt very well cushioned.I have never worn this brand, or type of shoe before, so I want to give them a chance since my toes have plenty of room to move, and do not hit the front or sides of the shoes while I run/walk. Although I cannot stand my socks showing, I just ordered some bamboo ankle toe socks that I will try tomorrow and see if that prevents the rubbing/blister issue. Not sure what I can do about the hot temp or tilting; maybe they both will resolve as I acclimate to the shoes. I certainly have a lot of issues with this shoe, so I cannot recommend it at this time, and I may end up returning them, but I will determine that in another week or so after getting more use out of them. I'll keep you posted.... Show more
Francheska
originally posted on altrarunning.com
Once the best, now ...
After running in Saucony Triumph for like 15 years I suddenly started getting a severe burning sensation in the ball of my feet when running. Tried heaps of different running shoes, getting cortisone injections, buying all kinds of insoles to try to solve the problem, but nothing helped.Then I met the Altra Torin 3.5 and it was love at first sight!This shoe literally saved my feet and my running and I loved them, bought several pairs.Since then the reviews for Torin has not been that good so I switched over to Provision and Rivera. They both served me well but not as Torin 3.5.This year I decided to go back to the shoe model that started my love for Altra, and bought a pair of Torin 7.Love the color (yellow/blue), love the looks ... hate the shoe!!!After ... MoreAfter running in Saucony Triumph for like 15 years I suddenly started getting a severe burning sensation in the ball of my feet when running. Tried heaps of different running shoes, getting cortisone injections, buying all kinds of insoles to try to solve the problem, but nothing helped.Then I met the Altra Torin 3.5 and it was love at first sight!This shoe literally saved my feet and my running and I loved them, bought several pairs.Since then the reviews for Torin has not been that good so I switched over to Provision and Rivera. They both served me well but not as Torin 3.5.This year I decided to go back to the shoe model that started my love for Altra, and bought a pair of Torin 7.Love the color (yellow/blue), love the looks ... hate the shoe!!!After running about 3k / 2 miles in them the burning sensation that this model once saved me from come back with full force. Almost started crying because of the pain!!Clearly there been a change in the sole material or thickness / stiffness.Really sad about this, don´t really know what to do next.Planned to use these shoes for the run in my next IronMan, but ... well, NO!!!!I guess my old Rivera has to step up to the start line one more time.... Show more
Bia
originally posted on altrarunning.com
They changed the upper for worse.
I've been wearing altra torrins for years. The last best model is the torin 5 luxe, though the 6s were great with a taller sock. I've had 6 pairs of torrins and put in probably around 1800 miles in them.In the torrin 7 is awful. The upper has somehow shrunken in vertical height in the midfoot. So despite loosening the laces it is constantly too tight and ultimately causes me to get blisters on even short 3-5 mile runs.I switched to the wide fit of the torrin 7 but unfortunately it has too mich side to side movement and so again, blisters on even short 3-5 mi runs. I bought the last pair of size 8.5 torrin 5 luxe I could find online. I can't find this style and size anymore. Not sure what my plan will be when I put my 350 miles in and use up the shoe.I don't ... MoreI've been wearing altra torrins for years. The last best model is the torin 5 luxe, though the 6s were great with a taller sock. I've had 6 pairs of torrins and put in probably around 1800 miles in them.In the torrin 7 is awful. The upper has somehow shrunken in vertical height in the midfoot. So despite loosening the laces it is constantly too tight and ultimately causes me to get blisters on even short 3-5 mile runs.I switched to the wide fit of the torrin 7 but unfortunately it has too mich side to side movement and so again, blisters on even short 3-5 mi runs. I bought the last pair of size 8.5 torrin 5 luxe I could find online. I can't find this style and size anymore. Not sure what my plan will be when I put my 350 miles in and use up the shoe.I don't want a nike foot shape. I buy altra specifically for the more natural foot shape. It's frustrating to see changes to the shape and upper to bring them in line with Nike and other poor fitting shoes. I'm not here for the aesthetic, I'm here for the run.... Show more
Jeni
originally posted on altrarunning.com