Altra Paradigm 7

Review Score
87%
πŸ… Highly Rated
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Altra Paradigm 7: Review

β€œA zero-drop, stability running shoe with superior cushioning and breathability.”

Overview


The Altra Paradigm 7 is a versatile and highly cushioned running shoe designed for a comfortable and natural running experience. It features Altra's signature FootShape toe box, which allows your toes to splay naturally for enhanced stability and comfort. The shoe is known for its ample cushioning, making it suitable for long-distance running and daily training.

Key Features:

  • FootShape Toe Box: The Paradigm 7 incorporates Altra's FootShape toe box, providing a more natural foot shape and improved stability.
  • Max-LT Midsole: The shoe features a Max-LT midsole for responsive and lightweight cushioning without compromising support.
  • Supportive Upper: The upper is designed with breathable and supportive materials, ensuring comfort during your runs.
  • Versatile Design: The Paradigm 7 is suitable for various running activities, making it a well-rounded choice for both experienced and novice runners.

The Altra Paradigm 7 offers a balanced combination of cushioning, support, and a natural foot shape, making it a dependable choice for runners who value comfort and a more natural running experience. Whether you're looking for a shoe for long-distance runs or daily training, the Paradigm 7 caters to a wide range of running needs.

With an average review score of 87%, it's in the highest rated 30% of similar running shoes. 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 Paradigm 7


The Altra Paradigm 7 is a reliable choice for runners seeking a balance of comfort, stability, and durability. Its standout feature, the EGO Max cushioning, provides a responsive and cushioned ride, making it ideal for everyday running. The shoe's foot-shaped upper allows for excellent toe splay, and the added stability makes it a great choice for newcomers to the Altra brand. However, the Paradigm 7 comes at a higher price point and is not optimized for speed training. Overall, the Altra Paradigm 7 is a solid investment for runners who prioritize comfort and stability over speed.

Updates to Altra Paradigm 7


The Altra Paradigm 7 builds on the success of the Paradigm 6.0, offering improved cushioning with the introduction of the EGO Max technology. The shoe's upper has also been redesigned for better breathability and comfort. While the Paradigm 7 maintains the zero-drop design and wide toe box of its predecessor, it offers enhanced stability, making it a great choice for a wider range of runners.

Comparable Shoes


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Compared to the Altra Paradigm 6.0, the Paradigm 7 offers improved cushioning with the introduction of the EGO Max technology. However, both models share the same zero-drop design and wide toe box, making them both great choices for runners who value comfort and stability.

8 Altra Paradigm 7 Pros & Cons


5 Pros

Superior EGO Max cushioning for a comfortable and responsive ride.
Foot-shaped design allows for excellent toe splay.
Breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool and comfortable.
Orthotic friendly, accommodating custom insoles.
Zero-drop design promotes a fore/midfoot strike.

3 Cons

Higher price point compared to other running shoes.
Not optimized for speed training.
Transition to a zero-drop shoe may require a period of adjustment.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Altra Paradigm 7 is made of mesh, providing excellent breathability and comfort. The foot-shaped design allows for ample toe splay, accommodating a wide range of foot shapes and sizes. This design also contributes to the shoe's overall stability, making it a great choice for runners who need extra support.

Midsole

The midsole of the Paradigm 7 features Altra's EGO Max technology, providing superior cushioning for a comfortable and responsive ride. This technology, combined with the shoe's zero-drop design, promotes a fore/midfoot strike, making it a great choice for runners looking to improve their running form.

Outsole

The outsole of the Paradigm 7 is designed for durability and grip, making it suitable for road running. The shoe's zero-drop design and wide toe box contribute to its overall stability, making it a reliable choice for daily training.

Size/fit

The Paradigm 7 is known for its wide toe box, making it a great choice for runners who need extra room in the forefoot. The shoe is also orthotic friendly, accommodating custom insoles for runners who need them.

Comfort

With its EGO Max cushioning and foot-shaped design, the Paradigm 7 is designed for comfort. The shoe's mesh upper provides excellent breathability, keeping your feet cool and comfortable during your runs.

Who should buy the Altra Paradigm 7?


The Altra Paradigm 7 is an excellent choice for runners who value comfort and stability in their running shoes. It's particularly suitable for those who prefer a low-drop design and a wide toe box. If you're a fan of Altra shoes or are looking to try a zero-drop shoe for the first time, the Paradigm 7 could be a great fit for you.

Who should not buy the Altra Paradigm 7?


The Altra Paradigm 7 may not be the best choice for runners who prefer a shoe with a higher heel-to-toe drop or those who need a shoe optimized for speed training. If you're not used to running in zero-drop shoes, you may need to transition slowly to avoid injury.

Altra Paradigm 7: What's it good for?


Long-distance running, daily training, and road running are all activities where the Altra Paradigm 7 shines. Its superior cushioning and stability make it a reliable choice for these types of runs.

4 Altra Paradigm 7 FAQs


Is the Altra Paradigm 7 suitable for long-distance running?

Yes, the Altra Paradigm 7, with its superior EGO Max cushioning and stability features, is a great choice for long-distance running on road terrain.

What is the heel-to-toe drop of the Altra Paradigm 7?

The Altra Paradigm 7 is a zero-drop shoe, meaning the heel and forefoot are the same distance from the ground. This design promotes a fore/midfoot strike.

Is the Altra Paradigm 7 orthotic friendly?

Yes, the Altra Paradigm 7 is orthotic friendly and can accommodate custom insoles.

What is the main difference between the Altra Paradigm 7 and the Paradigm 6.0?

The main difference between the Altra Paradigm 7 and the Paradigm 6.0 is the introduction of the EGO Max technology in the Paradigm 7, which provides superior cushioning.

Altra Paradigm 7 alternatives

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Altra Paradigm 7
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Altra Paradigm 7
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released
Released
Dec 2022
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Weight
Weight
M: 278 g
W: 227 g
M: 269 g
W: 235 g
M: 269 g
W: 221 g
M: 272 g
W: 218 g
M: 309 g
W: 252 g
337 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
30 mm
22 mm
27 mm
23 mm
M: 30 mm
W: 28 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
8 mm
8 mm
5 mm
6 mm
12 mm
Heel
Heel
30 mm
30 mm
35 mm
28 mm
M: 36 mm
W: 34 mm
Brand
Brand
Altra
ASICSSauconyTopo AthleticHokaBrooks
Strike Type
Strike Type
Fore/Midfoot strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
Low dropZero drop
ComfortableComfortable
ComfortableLow drop
Breathable
Breathable
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
Altra EGO Max
ASICS GelSaucony PWRRUN
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
SustainableSustainable
SustainableVegan β“‹
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Altra Paradigm 7: what the experts say (2 reviews)

Altra Paradigm 7: 4 Expert video reviews

Altra Paradigm 7: 1 Manufacturer video

Altra Paradigm 7 characteristics and specifications

Specificationsvs Average
Model
7
Released
Dec 2022
Measurements
Weight
M: 278 g
W: 227 g
Heel to toe drop
Heel
30 mm
Forefoot
30 mm

Evolution of the Altra Paradigm 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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