ALTRA Men's Olympus 5 Trail Running Shoe Black/Grey Review
When it comes to trail running, comfort and performance are key. The ALTRA Men's Olympus 5 Trail Running Shoe in Black/Grey stands out as one of the plushest options available, purpose-built for tackling all types of terrain. With its EVA midsole foam, this shoe provides excellent underfoot protection while ensuring a comfortable experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying your run instead of worrying about your feet.
The feature that truly sets the Olympus 5 apart is the Original FootShape™ Fit. This design gives your feet the space they need to sit naturally, avoiding the cramped feeling commonly experienced with traditional running shoes. Each stride feels more natural, enhancing overall stability and comfort.
Additionally, the breathable engineered mesh upper allows for proper ventilation, keeping your feet cool during those extended runs in warmer weather.
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Features
- EVA midsole foam for superior cushioning
- Original FootShape™ Fit for natural toe positioning
- Breathable engineered mesh upper
- Grippy outsole for enhanced traction
- Machine washable for easy care
Pros
- Exceptional cushioning for long-distance runs
- Spacious toe box prevents discomfort
- Durable construction suitable for various terrains
- Lightweight design enhances agility
- Easy maintenance with machine washability
Cons
- May feel bulky for those used to minimalist shoes
- Break-in period required for optimal fit
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | ALTRA Olympus 5 | SALOMON Speedcross 5 | HOKA ONE ONE Challenger ATR 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cushioning | Excellent (EVA Midsole) | Good (Contragrip Outsole) | Very Good (Latex Foam) |
| Foot Shape | Original FootShape™ Fit | Narrow Fit | Neutral Fit |
| Weight | Lightweight | Moderate | Moderate |
| Traction | High | Very High | Good |
Detailed Review
The ALTRA Men's Olympus 5 excels in several areas:
- Comfort: As soon as you slip these shoes on, you'll notice the immediate comfort provided by the EVA midsole. It’s designed to absorb impact effectively, making it a great choice for long runs.
- Fit: The Original FootShape™ Fit is a game-changer, accommodating wider foot shapes without compromising on performance. If you've struggled with tight-fitting shoes in the past, this will feel like a breath of fresh air.
- Traction: With a highly grippy outsole, the Olympus 5 ensures that you can tackle rocky or uneven trails confidently. Whether you're facing mud, gravel, or wet surfaces, these shoes have your back.
- Breathability: Thanks to the engineered mesh upper, these shoes allow for excellent airflow. This is crucial during those warm summer runs when overheating can be a concern.
However, it’s worth mentioning that some users may find the shoe a bit bulky if they’re accustomed to more minimal designs. A brief break-in period may also be necessary for some individuals to achieve the best fit.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9.5/10 | Unmatched cushioning and support for long runs. |
| Traction | 9/10 | Reliable grip on various terrains. |
| Fit | 8.5/10 | Roomy toe box but may require adjustment period. |
| Durability | 9/10 | Sturdy construction with quality materials. |
User Reviews
Great shoes. My new fav. Lightweight, great fit with wider toe box. Very durable.
Have been wearing Altra shoes about a year and a half. Walk/hike in a canyon 10 miles a day with 2,000 plus feet of total elevation gain. These shoes are great and I don’t need an expensive insole like I did with the Lone Peak 6. The wide toe box is good no need for an extra wide shoe to make toes comfortable like when wearing Asics. There is a lot of cushion in the sole for long hikes and the soles last longer for my hiking and daily wear. Shoe strings can be a bit too short if all holes are used- try litlaces or other comparable slightly longer and more flexible laces. If soles peel after lots of wear use thin loctite superglue as recommended by fleet feet salesperson (he said it happens with all brands)Normally wear size 13 and 13 fits me well in this shoe.
It's been a couple of years since I started wearing Altra Olympus for adventure racing and trail running. I've had the 3, 4 and now this version #5. I have already tried them on 2 small short runs and they are comfortable as usual. They seem a bit "harder" and less flexible than older versions, however, I'll have to wait to see how the soften up after some good and long trail runs.
I’ve been seeing adds for Altra non stop and my Hokas are just wearing out too quickly so I figured I’d give them a try. I’m a 13 non wide and they are super comfortable. There’s plenty of room in them in the right places like the toe box but snug to support your foot. I wear these as a daily and still work out in my Brooks but these will work in a pinch too. They were also great in this last snow with limited slippage.
I just completed my through hike of the AT and while I didn't wear Altras, I did notice they were one of the most popular brands. I purchased this pair when I got home and just finished a five mile hike. Compared to my HOKA Speed Goat Fives, the Altras have a nice toe box. Cushion was good but size wise my pair were a bit small. I normally wear 10.5 but on my walk my toes were pushed hard against the toe box front. I should have gone with a half or full size larger. Not a big fan of the lace material either - seems cheap and brittle. Overall, were I to purchase more Altras, I would go a full size bigger.
I received these shoes in February. I've put maybe 100 miles on them walking the dog since then. Great cushion and wide toe box. Been loving this shoe and telling friends to check them out, until the soles started falling apart. Are you kidding me. $200 hiking shoe I was going to use in Utah this September!!! Filed a warranty with Altra. We will see what they say and I will update...By the way, I have a pair of Soloman that are 4 years old that have 100's of miles on them and they just started showing wear. I should have stuck with that brand, but I wanted something will more cushion for long, rocky hikes out west.****UPDATE-Altra won't honor their warranty because I bough them on Amazon through an unauthorized dealer. Sounds like a good way for Altra to get rid of faulty shoes. sell them at a discount to an unauthorized dealer at least they they recoup some money. What a shame.
Great to find an Altra with thick a thick heel (again?). Plenty of toe room in their standard wide toe box, and my knees are super happy with the thick heel and overall fit. Will buy again (if they don't discontinue!)
I've been wearing the Olympus 4 for the past couple of years- they've had the exact fit I need with a wide fore-foot, and these Olympus 5s feel every bit as perfect. Mine are size 12.5.