Altra Superior 5

The upper of the Altra Superior 5 is made from a tight-knit mesh, which offers excellent breathability and durability. The design is less porous than previous versions, making it more resistant to silt and fine particulates. However, the lack of drainage holes can be a drawback for runners who frequently encounter wet conditions. The upper also features a burrito-style closure system, which helps lock the foot in place, providing a secure fit. Despite these improvements, some runners have reported irritation from the sewn-in half tongue.

The midsole of the Altra Superior 5 features Quantic foam, which offers a balanced combination of cushioning and responsiveness. This material is designed to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining a natural feel. The zero-drop design, meaning the heel and forefoot are at the same height, encourages a fore/midfoot strike (landing on the front or middle of the foot), which can be beneficial for runners looking to improve their running form. The midsole's low profile and firm platform make the shoe feel agile and snappy, ideal for technical trails.

The MaxTrac outsole of the Altra Superior 5 is designed to provide excellent grip and traction on various terrains. The multi-directional lug pattern enhances control and stability, making it suitable for both smooth and technical trails. However, the lugs are not very aggressive, which means the shoe may struggle in extremely muddy conditions. The outsole is made from a rubber composite that offers a good balance of durability and stickiness, although some runners have reported that it wears out faster than expected.

The Altra Superior 5 features a wide toe box, allowing for natural toe splay and increased comfort. This design is particularly beneficial for runners with wider feet or those who experience toe discomfort in narrower shoes. However, some runners have noted that the shoe runs a bit large, so it may be necessary to size down. The burrito-style closure system helps to lock the foot in place, providing a secure fit, but the overall fit is less glove-like compared to previous versions.

Comfort is a strong point for the Altra Superior 5. The shoe is designed to be comfortable right out of the box, with a flexible construction that adapts to the foot's natural shape. The Quantic midsole provides a cushioned yet responsive ride, making it suitable for both short and long runs. The wide toe box allows for natural toe splay, reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort. However, the sewn-in half tongue has been reported to cause slight irritation for some runners.

The Altra Superior 5 offers moderate cushioning with its 21 mm stack height. The Quantic midsole provides a good balance of comfort and responsiveness, making it suitable for a variety of paces and distances. While the shoe is not as cushioned as some other trail running models, it offers enough protection for most trail conditions. The removable StoneGuard allows runners to customize the level of underfoot protection, adding an extra layer of cushioning when needed.

The tight-knit mesh upper of the Altra Superior 5 offers excellent breathability, keeping the foot cool and dry during runs. This design is particularly beneficial for runners who frequently run in hot or humid conditions. However, the lack of drainage holes can be a drawback for those who encounter wet conditions, as the shoe does not dry out as quickly as some other models. Overall, the breathability of the Superior 5 is one of its standout features.

Stability is a key feature of the Altra Superior 5. The wide forefoot and low-to-the-ground design provide a stable platform, reducing the risk of rolling events. The burrito-style closure system helps to lock the foot in place, further enhancing stability. The shoe's sidewall slopes outwards, making it less steep than previous iterations, which contributes to a more stable ride. However, the shoe's stability may decrease over longer distances as the runner's form deteriorates.

Durability is a mixed bag for the Altra Superior 5. While the MaxTrac outsole offers good durability on smooth and technical trails, some runners have reported that it wears out faster than expected, especially on rocky terrain. The tight-knit mesh upper is more durable than previous versions, but the lack of drainage holes can be a drawback for those who frequently encounter wet conditions. Overall, the shoe's durability is adequate for most trail conditions, but it may not be the best choice for extremely rugged terrain.

The MaxTrac outsole of the Altra Superior 5 provides reliable grip on a variety of surfaces. The multi-directional lug pattern enhances traction and control, making it suitable for both smooth and technical trails. However, the lugs are not very aggressive, which means the shoe may struggle in extremely muddy conditions. The rubber composite used in the outsole offers a good balance of stickiness and durability, although some runners have reported that it wears out faster than expected.

The Altra Superior 5 offers excellent flexibility, thanks to its low-profile design and flexible construction. The shoe's thin midsole and zero-drop design allow for a natural range of motion, making it feel agile and responsive on the trail. The removable StoneGuard adds a layer of protection without compromising flexibility, allowing runners to customize their level of underfoot protection. Overall, the Superior 5's flexibility is one of its standout features, making it a great choice for technical trails.

The Altra Superior 5 is best suited for shorter to medium-distance runs. Its moderate cushioning and low-profile design may not provide enough underfoot protection for long-distance runs, especially on rocky or technical trails.

Yes, the Altra Superior 5 features a removable insole, allowing runners to customize their level of underfoot protection with the included StoneGuard or their own orthotic insoles.

The Altra Superior 5 performs well in dry conditions, but its lack of drainage holes can be a drawback in wet conditions. The shoe does dry out quickly, but it is not water-resistant, making it less ideal for river crossings or extremely muddy trails.

The Altra Superior 5 tends to run a bit large, so some runners may need to size down for a better fit. The wide toe box provides ample room for natural toe splay, but the overall fit is less glove-like compared to previous versions.

The Altra Superior 5 is ideal for trail runners who prioritize a natural running experience and need a shoe that offers both comfort and versatility. Its zero-drop design and wide toe box make it suitable for runners with a fore/midfoot strike and those who prefer a more connected-to-the-ground feel.