Altra Escalante Racer 2

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Altra Escalante Racer 2: Review

β€œA minimalist running shoe designed for speed and performance.”

Overview


The Altra Escalante Racer 2 is a running shoe designed for speed and performance. This shoe is known for its minimalist design and zero-drop platform (a design where the heel and forefoot are at the same level), which promotes a natural running stride.

Key Features:

  • Zero-Drop Platform: The shoe has a 0 mm drop from heel to toe, encouraging a natural foot strike.
  • FootShape Toe Box: Provides ample room for toes to spread out, enhancing comfort and stability.
  • Altra Ego Midsole: Offers a responsive and cushioned ride, ideal for speed training and racing.
  • Engineered Mesh Upper: Ensures maximum breathability and a lightweight feel.

The Altra Escalante Racer 2 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize a natural running experience and need a shoe for speed training or racing. Its zero-drop platform and FootShape toe box offer comfort and stability, making it suitable for high-paced runs.

Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 40% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the Altra Escalante Racer 2


The Altra Escalante Racer 2 is a solid choice for runners seeking a minimalist, zero-drop shoe for speed training and racing. Reviewers appreciate its enhanced cushioning and durable outsole, although the slight increase in weight is noted. The shoe's spacious FootShape toe box and premium perforated insole contribute to its comfort and breathability. However, the lack of a gusseted tongue and heel padding durability are minor drawbacks. Overall, the Escalante Racer 2 delivers a grounded yet cushioned feel, making it a reliable option for those who prefer a natural running experience. It's a well-rounded shoe that offers good value for money.

Updates to Altra Escalante Racer 2


The Altra Escalante Racer 2 features several updates from its predecessor, the Altra Escalante Racer. These include enhanced cushioning and improved outsole durability. The materials used in the upper have also been upgraded for better breathability and comfort. However, the shoe has a slight increase in weight compared to the previous version. Overall, these updates aim to provide a more comfortable and durable running experience.

Comparable Shoes


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The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% is a popular racing shoe known for its exceptional cushioning and energy return. While the Altra Escalante Racer 2 offers a more minimalist design and zero-drop platform, the Vaporfly Next% focuses on providing maximum cushioning and propulsion. Runners looking for a highly cushioned and responsive shoe for long-distance racing might prefer the Vaporfly Next%.

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The Saucony Endorphin Speed is another excellent option for speed training and racing. It features a more cushioned midsole and a slightly higher drop compared to the Altra Escalante Racer 2. The Endorphin Speed is designed to provide a balance of comfort and performance, making it suitable for longer distances. Runners who prefer a bit more cushioning and a higher drop might find the Endorphin Speed to be a better fit.

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The Hoka Carbon X is a racing shoe that offers a unique combination of cushioning and stability. Unlike the Altra Escalante Racer 2's zero-drop platform, the Carbon X features a higher drop and a more cushioned midsole. This makes it a good option for runners who need additional support and cushioning for longer races. Those who prefer a more cushioned and stable ride might lean towards the Carbon X.

8 Altra Escalante Racer 2 Pros & Cons


5 Pros

Enhanced toebox and outsole durability
Incredible ventilation
Grounded yet cushioned feel
True zero-drop experience
Spacious, foot-shaped toebox

3 Cons

Heavier than previous version
Lacks heel padding durability
Tongue is not gusseted, which lets it move around during fast runs

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Altra Escalante Racer 2 is made from engineered mesh, which ensures maximum breathability and a lightweight feel. This material allows for excellent ventilation, keeping the feet cool during intense runs. The shoe also features reflective elements on the tongue, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions. The upper's design contributes to the shoe's overall comfort and performance, making it a great choice for speed training and racing.

Midsole

The midsole of the Altra Escalante Racer 2 features Altra Ego technology, providing a responsive and cushioned ride. This midsole material is designed to offer a balance of comfort and performance, making it suitable for high-paced runs. The zero-drop platform promotes a natural foot strike, enhancing the overall running experience. The midsole's design ensures that runners can maintain a smooth and efficient stride, even during intense workouts.

Outsole

The outsole of the Altra Escalante Racer 2 has been enhanced for durability, making it more resilient than its predecessor. This improvement ensures that the shoe can withstand the rigors of speed training and racing. The outsole's design provides excellent traction on road surfaces, contributing to the shoe's overall stability and performance. Runners can rely on the Escalante Racer 2 for a secure grip during their runs.

Size/fit

The Altra Escalante Racer 2 offers a spacious FootShape toe box, allowing the toes to spread out naturally. This design enhances comfort and stability, making it suitable for runners with wider feet. The shoe's fit is generally true to size, providing a secure and comfortable feel. However, some runners may find the lack of a gusseted tongue to be a minor drawback, as it can move around during fast runs.

Comfort

Comfort is a key feature of the Altra Escalante Racer 2, thanks to its spacious FootShape toe box and premium perforated insole. The shoe's engineered mesh upper ensures excellent breathability, keeping the feet cool during runs. However, the minimal padding on the tongue may require runners to avoid tightening the laces too firmly to prevent lace bite. Overall, the Escalante Racer 2 offers a comfortable and breathable running experience.

Cushioning

The Altra Escalante Racer 2 features Altra Ego midsole technology, providing a responsive and cushioned ride. This cushioning is designed to offer a balance of comfort and performance, making it suitable for speed training and racing. The zero-drop platform promotes a natural foot strike, enhancing the overall running experience. Runners can expect a grounded yet cushioned feel from the Escalante Racer 2.

Breathability

Breathability is a standout feature of the Altra Escalante Racer 2, thanks to its engineered mesh upper. This material allows for excellent ventilation, keeping the feet cool during intense runs. The premium perforated insole also contributes to the shoe's breathability, ensuring a comfortable running experience. Runners can rely on the Escalante Racer 2 for a well-ventilated and breathable shoe.

Stability

The Altra Escalante Racer 2 offers good stability, thanks to its zero-drop platform and FootShape toe box. These features promote a natural foot strike and allow the toes to spread out, enhancing overall stability. The shoe's durable outsole provides excellent traction on road surfaces, contributing to its stability during runs. Runners can expect a stable and secure running experience with the Escalante Racer 2.

Durability

Durability is a key improvement in the Altra Escalante Racer 2, particularly in the outsole. The enhanced outsole design ensures that the shoe can withstand the rigors of speed training and racing. The engineered mesh upper is also highly durable, providing long-lasting performance. However, some reviewers noted that the heel padding durability could be improved. Overall, the Escalante Racer 2 offers good durability for its intended use.

Grip

The Altra Escalante Racer 2 provides excellent grip on road surfaces, thanks to its durable outsole design. This feature ensures that runners can maintain a secure footing during their runs, even at high speeds. The shoe's grip contributes to its overall stability and performance, making it a reliable choice for speed training and racing. Runners can trust the Escalante Racer 2 for a secure and stable running experience.

Flex

Flexibility is a notable feature of the Altra Escalante Racer 2, thanks to its minimalist design and zero-drop platform. The shoe's engineered mesh upper and Altra Ego midsole provide a flexible and responsive feel, allowing for a natural running stride. This flexibility enhances the overall comfort and performance of the shoe, making it suitable for high-paced runs. Runners can expect a smooth and efficient stride with the Escalante Racer 2.

Who should buy the Altra Escalante Racer 2?


The Altra Escalante Racer 2 is ideal for runners who prioritize a natural running experience and need a shoe for speed training or racing. It's a great choice for those who prefer a minimalist design and a zero-drop platform. Runners with wider feet will appreciate the spacious FootShape toe box. Additionally, those who value breathability and a lightweight feel will find this shoe to be a good fit.

Who should not buy the Altra Escalante Racer 2?


Runners who require significant heel padding or a gusseted tongue may not find the Altra Escalante Racer 2 suitable. Those who prefer a more cushioned and padded shoe for long-distance runs might want to consider other options. If you need a shoe with a lot of arch support, this model may not be the best choice. Consider looking at other models with more cushioning and support for long-distance running.

Altra Escalante Racer 2: What's it good for?


The Altra Escalante Racer 2 is well-suited for speed training and racing. Its minimalist design and zero-drop platform make it ideal for runners who prefer a natural running experience. The shoe's lightweight and breathable construction is perfect for high-paced runs. Additionally, the spacious FootShape toe box provides comfort and stability, making it a reliable choice for competitive runners.

5 Altra Escalante Racer 2 FAQs


What is the weight of the Altra Escalante Racer 2?

The Altra Escalante Racer 2 weighs 224 g (7.9 oz) for men and 196 g (6.9 oz) for women. This lightweight design makes it ideal for speed training and racing.

Is the Altra Escalante Racer 2 suitable for long-distance running?

While the Altra Escalante Racer 2 is designed for speed training and racing, it may not provide enough cushioning for long-distance running. Runners who prefer more cushioning for longer runs might want to consider other models.

Does the Altra Escalante Racer 2 have a removable insole?

Yes, the Altra Escalante Racer 2 features a removable insole. However, the original insole is premium and perforated, enhancing airflow and comfort. It is recommended to retain the original insole for the best experience.

What type of runner is the Altra Escalante Racer 2 best suited for?

The Altra Escalante Racer 2 is best suited for runners who prioritize a natural running experience and need a shoe for speed training or racing. It is ideal for those who prefer a minimalist design and a zero-drop platform.

Does the Altra Escalante Racer 2 have reflective elements?

Yes, the Altra Escalante Racer 2 features reflective elements on the tongue, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions. This is a smart design choice for runners who train in the early morning or evening.

Altra Escalante Racer 2 alternatives

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Altra Escalante Racer 2
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Weight
Weight
M: 224 g
W: 196 g
M: 218 g
W: 150 g
M: 255 g
W: 190 g
M: 198 g
W: 173 g
249 g
M: 306 g
W: 281 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
24 mm
24 mm
32 mm
32 mm
37 mm
44 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
6 mm
8 mm
8 mm
8 mm
7 mm
Heel
Heel
24 mm
30 mm
40 mm
40 mm
45 mm
50 mm
Usages
Usages
RacingSpeed training
Daily runningSpeed trainingRacingSpeed trainingRacingRacingSpeed trainingRacingSpeed training
Brand
Brand
Altra
New BalancePUMANikeASICSadidas
Strike Type
Strike Type
Fore/Midfoot strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
LightweightLow drop
LightweightMaximalistComfortableLightweightMaximalistComfortableMaximalistComfortableMaximalist
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Rocker
Rocker
Carbon fiber plate
Carbon fiber plate
Techs
Techs
New Balance FuelCellPUMA NITROPUMA NITRO Elite
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Sustainable
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Altra Escalante Racer 2 characteristics and specifications

Specificationsvs Average
Model
2
Measurements
Weight
M: 224 g
W: 196 g
Heel
24 mm
Forefoot
24 mm

Evolution of the Altra Escalante Racer product family

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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December 18, 2024 at 9:55 AM
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πŸ“Š Stats by geerly πŸ‘Ÿ πŸ•’ Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%