The Altra Outroad 2: A Versatile Running Shoe for Mixed Terrains
The Altra Outroad 2 is making waves in the running community as a reliable road-to-trail hybrid shoe designed for a variety of terrains. Known for its wider fit and zero-drop design, this shoe promises comfort and versatility, making it an ideal choice for those who frequently transition from asphalt to trails.
Key Features of the Altra Outroad 2
The most striking feature of the Altra Outroad 2 is its unique toe box, which follows the natural shape of the foot. This anatomical innovation ensures that toes have ample room to move freely. The shoe utilizes Altra’s SlimFit technology, providing a snug fit that still allows for sufficient toe splay and flexibility.
Underfoot, the shoe is equipped with a 27mm stack of EGO midsole foam that offers a balance of cushioning and responsiveness. This design contributes to a cushioned experience while maintaining an efficient energy return with each step.
Enhancements from the first generation include a more durable engineered mesh upper that features increased cushioning around the heel for added comfort. The outsole comprises MaxTrac rubber with multi-directional lugs, providing grip and durability suited for light trails.
Specifications: Weight, Stack Height, and Drop
Weighing in at 10.6oz (286g) for a UK men’s size 8, the Altra Outroad 2 is positioned as a mid-weight hybrid shoe. While it isn’t the most lightweight option available, it strikes a balance with its substantial build. It features a ‘balanced’ cushioning with a 27mm stack height at both the heel and toe, consistent with its zero-drop design, which fosters a natural foot position during runs.
Performance Insights
Upon testing, the Outroad 2 provides impressive step-in comfort right from the start, facilitated by plush padding in the collar and tongue. The roomy toe box, characteristic of Altra footwear, ensures that toes do not feel cramped, even while navigating steep or technical terrain.
Despite its mid-weight classification, the Outroad 2 offers a surprisingly light feel while in motion. The shoe feels firmer compared to other faster road-to-trail shoes, providing excellent ground connection and stability, largely attributed to its wide platform. While the Outroad 2 excels at moderate paces on both compacted trails and roads, its design caters to long, leisurely runs rather than high-speed sprints.
Final Verdict on the Altra Outroad 2
Through rigorous testing, the Outroad 2 has demonstrated reliable grip on dry trails and uneven surfaces, performing well even on steep grass descents. However, it’s important to note that its shallow lugs may not be suited for slippery or muddy conditions.
For runners seeking a dependable and comfortable shoe that can seamlessly handle road and easier trail runs at slower speeds, the Altra Outroad 2 presents a compelling choice. It may lack the lightweight agility of more performance-oriented shoes, but it compensates with a focus on comfort, balanced cushioning, and stability, making it suitable for those longer, less intense runs.
Technical Specifications
- Midsole: Altra EGO™
- Outsole: MaxTrac™
- Weight: 286g (10.6 oz)
- Available Colors: Grey & green, blue & yellow, red & black, neon & blue
How We Evaluate Running Shoes
Our testing process involves assessing each shoe across various distances and paces to evaluate performance over time. Testers focus on elements such as speed, comfort, and stability, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of a shoe’s capabilities and durability under different conditions.