Altra Rivera 3
Buy Altra Rivera 3 at today's best price (men's/women's)
6 minute read
Overview
The Altra Rivera 3 is a running shoe that excels in providing a smooth and responsive ride for daily running. This shoe is part of the Altra Rivera family and continues the brand's commitment to natural running principles.
Key Features:
- Increased Cushioning: Now with 2mm extra cushioning for improved shock absorption and fluid transitions.
- Altra EGO Midsole: Offers a soft layer of cushioning, enhancing the shoe's responsiveness to various paces.
- Engineered Mesh Upper: A redesigned, breathable mesh that provides a comfortable, sock-like fit.
- Durable Outsole: Features rubber reinforcements for increased traction and longevity.
The Altra Rivera 3 is an ideal choice for runners who value a breathable and cushioned shoe for their everyday training. Its zero-drop design (where the heel and forefoot are the same distance from the ground) and wide toe box (providing extra space for the toes) cater to those seeking a natural foot position and ample toe room.
Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently just below the median price of running shoes today.
Verdict
The consensus on the Altra Rivera 3
The Altra Rivera 3 has been recognized for its versatility and comfort, making it a strong contender in the daily training category. Its additional cushioning and Altra EGO midsole provide a plush yet responsive ride, suitable for a range of distances on the road. The engineered mesh upper ensures breathability and a snug fit, while the durable outsole offers reliable traction. However, the shoe may not be the best option for speedwork or runners seeking a tight rearfoot lockdown. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Altra Rivera 3 is a solid choice for runners looking for a zero-drop shoe with ample cushioning for daily runs. Overall, the Altra Rivera 3 is a commendable option for light to medium-weight runners with a refined running technique, seeking a comfortable and versatile shoe for their daily mileage.
Updates to Altra Rivera 3
The Altra Rivera 3 introduces key updates from its predecessor, the Altra Rivera 2. Notably, it features an additional 2mm of cushioning in the midsole for enhanced shock absorption. The upper has been reconfigured with a new, lighter mesh material, improving breathability and comfort. These changes reflect Altra's commitment to evolving their products based on runner feedback and technological advancements.
Comparable Shoes
The Altra Escalante 3 is often compared to the Altra Rivera 3 for its zero-drop design. However, the Escalante 3 offers a more secure lockdown, making it a better option for runners seeking a snug fit during speedwork.
Compared to the Altra Rivera 3, the Altra Torin 7 is designed with a negative heel drop, catering to zero-drop purists. It's an alternative for those who prefer an even more balanced heel-to-toe transition.
For runners looking for a broader rearfoot platform, the Altra VIA Olympus is a viable alternative to the Altra Rivera 3. It offers a wider heel area for more stable landings, especially for heel-striking runners.
6 Altra Rivera 3 Pros & Cons
3 Pros
3 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The Altra Rivera 3 features an upper made of a new, lighter, and more breathable mesh material. This design change aims to provide a soft and comfortable fit that feels akin to wearing a sock. The inclusion of Altra's signature slim foot shape allows for natural toe splay, enhancing the overall fit and comfort of the shoe.
Midsole
At the heart of the Altra Rivera 3's comfort is the Altra EGO midsole. This component is crafted to offer a soft layer of cushioning while ensuring high levels of shock absorption. The updated midsole now includes an extra 2mm of cushioning, promoting smoother transitions and a more dynamic response to varying paces.
Outsole
Durability and traction are key aspects of the Altra Rivera 3's outsole. Constructed with a wear-resistant material and strategic rubber reinforcements, the outsole is designed to withstand the demands of road running while providing a reliable grip across various surfaces.
Size/fit
The Altra Rivera 3 is known for its accommodating fit, particularly due to its wide toe box. This feature, coupled with the shoe's zero-drop design, makes it suitable for runners who prefer a natural foot position and ample space for toe movement.
Comfort
Comfort is a standout feature of the Altra Rivera 3, with its plush midsole and roomy interior. The shoe's design caters to a comfortable and unrestricted running experience, making it an excellent choice for those long, easy runs.
Cushioning
The Altra Rivera 3's cushioning is described as 'velvety-smooth,' providing a plush underfoot feel without compromising responsiveness. This balance of comfort and energy return makes it a favorite among neutral runners.
Breathability
The engineered mesh upper of the Altra Rivera 3 offers excellent breathability, keeping feet cool and dry during runs. This well-ventilated design is particularly beneficial for runners in warmer climates or those who prioritize airflow in their footwear.
Stability
While the Altra Rivera 3 is designed with a neutral support type (suitable for runners who do not require additional arch support), its increased cushioning and zero-drop configuration contribute to a stable ride. However, runners who require more structured support may need to consider alternative models with specific stability features.
Who should buy the Altra Rivera 3?
The Altra Rivera 3 is well-suited for runners who appreciate a cushioned and breathable shoe for their regular training sessions. It's also an excellent choice for those new to zero-drop footwear, offering a gentle introduction to this style of running. The wide toe box will appeal to runners with broader feet or those who desire a more natural toe spread.
Who should not buy the Altra Rivera 3?
Runners who prioritize a tight rearfoot lockdown for faster paces might find the Altra Rivera 3 lacking in this area. Additionally, those who are not accustomed to or do not prefer a zero-drop platform may want to explore other options. For those seeking a shoe with more structured stability features, the Altra Rivera 3 may not be the best fit.
Altra Rivera 3: What's it good for?
The Altra Rivera 3 is particularly good for road running, offering a comfortable and responsive experience. Its zero-drop design and cushioning make it suitable for long-distance runs, while the breathable upper ensures comfort during extended use. The shoe's versatility also allows it to double as a casual walking shoe.
4 Altra Rivera 3 FAQs
What makes the Altra Rivera 3 suitable for daily running?
The Altra Rivera 3 is designed with a comfortable, cushioned midsole and a breathable mesh upper, making it ideal for everyday training. Its zero-drop design and wide toe box also promote a natural running experience.
How does the Altra Rivera 3's cushioning compare to previous models?
The Altra Rivera 3 features an extra 2mm of cushioning in the midsole compared to the Altra Rivera 2, providing a softer and more responsive ride.
Is the Altra Rivera 3 good for runners with wide feet?
Yes, the Altra Rivera 3's wide toe box accommodates wide feet comfortably, allowing for natural toe spread during runs.
Can the Altra Rivera 3 be used for speedwork?
While the Altra Rivera 3 is versatile, it may not provide the tight rearfoot lockdown needed for optimal performance during speedwork. Runners may want to consider the Altra Escalante 3 for a more secure fit.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar |
| released | ReleasedFeb 2023 | Dec 2022 | Nov 2023 | Sep 2022 | Sep 2022 | Jan 2022 |
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| Weight | WeightM: 278 g W: 232 g | 275 g | M: 247 g W: 201 g | M: 255 g W: 207 g | ||
| Forefoot | Forefoot28 mm | 25 mm | ||||
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop | 8 mm | 8 mm | |||
| Heel | Heel28 mm | 25 mm | ||||
| Brand | BrandAltra | adidas | adidas | ASICS | New Balance | Topo Athletic |
| Shoe Type | Shoe TypeLow drop | ComfortableMaximalist | Low drop | |||
| Removable insole | Removable insole | |||||
| Breathable | Breathable | |||||
| Rocker | Rocker | |||||
| Techs | TechsAltra EGO | adidas Boosteva | ASICS Flyte FoamASICS Gel | New Balance Fresh Foam | ||
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental Characteristics | Sustainable | Sustainable | |||
Common characteristicsRoadDaily runningNeutralOrthotic friendly |
- Feb 2023
- Mar 2022
- Feb 2021
