ALTRA Women's AL0A7R7O Provision 7 Road Running Shoe Review
The ALTRA Women's AL0A7R7O Provision 7 Road Running Shoe is engineered for runners who seek a combination of comfort, responsiveness, and performance. With a sleek white design, this model not only enhances your running experience but also supports good foot health, thanks to its unique features and technology.
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Features
- Go Further: Original Altra EGO foam provides exceptional energy return with a soft, comfortable feel.
- Get Comfortable: Features Altra Balanced Cushioning and FootShape toe boxes to promote natural toe splay and proper form.
- Push Yourself: InnerFlex midsole technology increases flexibility and boosts performance.
- Stay Healthy: Holds the APMA Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health.
Pros
- Excellent cushioning and energy return for long runs.
- FootShape design allows for a natural foot movement.
- Lightweight yet durable construction.
- Machine washable for easy maintenance.
Cons
- Some users may find the fit a bit wider than traditional running shoes.
- Not ideal for those who prefer minimalistic footwear.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | ALTRA Provision 7 | ASICS Gel-Nimbus 23 | Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cushioning Technology | Altra EGO Foam | GEL Technology | Zoom Air Cushioning |
| Toe Box Design | FootShape | Standard Fit | Standard Fit |
| APMA Seal | Yes | No | No |
| Closure Type | Lace-Up | Lace-Up | Lace-Up |
Detailed Review
Comfort: The Provision 7 excels in providing a plush and responsive cushioning system, making it suitable for both short runs and long-distance training. The Altra EGO foam adapts well to your foot’s movements, ensuring you remain comfortable throughout your run.
Performance: With InnerFlex technology incorporated in the midsole, you can expect enhanced flexibility that promotes a natural stride. This shoe supports runners looking to push their limits without compromising on comfort.
Fit and Design: The shoe's FootShape toe box is a standout feature. It allows your toes to spread naturally, which contributes to a more stable and efficient running form. However, those accustomed to traditional narrow fits may need some time to adjust.
Durability: Constructed with high-quality materials including a robust rubber sole, the Provision 7 is built to withstand various terrains while maintaining its lightweight feel.
Care Instructions: Cleaning is straightforward as these shoes are machine washable, allowing for hassle-free maintenance after your runs.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Plush cushioning with excellent energy return. |
| Performance | 8/10 | Great flexibility that enhances running efficiency. |
| Durability | 8/10 | High-quality materials ensure longevity. |
| Fit | 7/10 | Roomy fit may require adjustment for some users. |
User Reviews
I have relatively severe arthritis in my feet (bottom AND the top of my foot), wide toes, and have had bouts of plantar fasciitis in the past, so I am very picky about my footwear. I usually wear Hoka Gaviota for exercise and Birkenstocks for everything else. The Gaviota have a 3mm higher stack than the Provision, and a heel drop. I have heard great things about Altra and these were 1/3 the price of new Gaviotas, so I thought I'd give it a try. I purchased both these Provision 7 and a pair of Paradigm 6 at the same time. I ended up keeping them both, for different reasons. I normally order Hoka 9D (wide). After reading reviews, I ordered my Altra in a 9.5 medium, and they are the correct size. My toes can wiggle and spread comfortably without my foot feeling sloppy in the shoe. This is my first time with a neutral shoe, and I feel like I am still adjusting. I've worn these shoes to work for the past week - I am a teacher and am on my feet on hard floors all day. I've noticed that I am stepping and standing more on my heels than I am used to. This isn't a bad thing, and it isn't causing me pain (a little sore, but barely noticeable) - it is just very different than I am used to. There is a toe ridge that I like, but I would prefer more padding under the toes in general. These Provisions are definitely more fitted in the mid-foot and heel than my Hoka and the Altra Paradigm. The heel is comfortably padded, and there is zero heel-slip. That, paired with the wide toe bed, makes them look a little like a clown shoe - but it is worth it for the comfort. There is definitely less cushioning than the Hoka and the Altra Paradigm, but these still are comfortable for exercise. With my "iffy" feet, I don't think I'd want to walk around city streets all day in these, but I think people who aren't used to higher cushion & who don't have all my foot problems will love them.
The toebox are perfect for my wide feet in addition to the cushioning. I have a high arch also and wearing these shoes for a 10 hospital shift is not an issue for me. Overall it's a supportive shoe that fits my needs. The color is great as well.
I love these altra’s but they are not like the original zero drop design. They are cushy and comfortable and have the nice wide toe box.
I saw these in the store, but they did not have my size. They had me try on a similar shoe by Altra, so I could then order the shoes that I wanted. When I first tried these on, they felt incredible. I wore them around the house, only on carpeting, for a bit, and then noticed that they were really pushing down on my big toe, and causing it to hurt. My main reason for buying them was because of the toe box. The toe box was wide enough, but it was not high enough. I then read previous reviews where many people said to buy 1/2 to one size larger, because of this problem. I was going to exchange them for a larger size, but I noticed that where my foot bends, where my toes meet my foot, there are indentations from wearing them that one time, trying them out around the house. The bottoms of the shoe do not look like they’ve ever been worn at all, but the indentations cause them to look like they are worn shoes. Because of the indentations I do not feel like I can return them, even though I followed proper procedure for trying out the shoes. But, sadly, I will not be able to wear them. Today is the last day to return, anyway. I should have exchanged them for the next 1/2 up.
I bought a pair of altra trail sneakers in the beginning of spring and loved them. I was due for a new pair of running shoes and usually buy saucony’s but wanted to try the altra’s instead because I loved their trail sneakers so much. Wow, what an amazing shoe! Love the wide toe box, stability, weight, durability,flexibility and grip. I typically run 9-12 miles a week and needed a good sneaker that was comfortable! These are it! The only down fall of this sneaker is the insole. It’s a bit tight around the heal. I took the insoles out and put my other insoles in from my saucony’s and they fit great! Highly recommended this sneaker!
Altra never disappoints. I can walk as far as I like without suffering knee or hip pain. Great product.
I normally wear an 8.5 in sneakers, but on the Altra website, I was advised to get this shoe in size 9.5. I'm so glad I did! It fits perfectly! The wider toe box is so comfortable for my bunions and hammertoes. I am now pain-free when I exercise.
I am long standing Altra fan. My 1st pair were Lone Peaks, and I've continued to add to the collection with other styles including this one. These provide a great amount of support and response. Feet do not get hot no matter my sock type. *If you do not spend time on your feet during the day, these do not have a ton of cushion to help offset the impact and shock you'll deal with. This was a lesson for me, a desk sitter for 9+ hrs a day. Once my feet got stronger, they've provided perfect results.