The fist is one of the brand’s top selling models. Combining a comfort casual look, designed to perform just as well for day-to-day wear as it is on the road or in the gym. While the other is styled more like a runner, adding in more midsole support with a snug fit for those seeking more control while running. Today we’ll be comparing the Altra Escalante vs Rivera. With the key differences, specs, image comparison and in more depth review below. Let’s get started!
Altra Escalante vs Rivera
- The Altra Escalante is the heavier of the two shoes. Weighing 9.3 ounces compared to the Rivera at 8.8 ounces.
- Both shoes are listed as neutral running shoes. So they will be a good choice for any one that does not need support running shoes.
- The Altra Rivera has a slightly higher stack at 26mm. Vs 24mm on the Altra Escalante.
- Both shoes are zero drop. Meaning they have a 0mm slope from the front to the back of the shoe.
- Both shoes are listed as “moderate” cushioned. Based on Altra’s rating system.
- The Altra Escalante is made from an engineered knit. While the Rivera is made of engineered mesh.
- Both shoes feature Altra’s foot pod technology. To encourage natural movement of the foot while running.
- The Rivera has Altra’s “Slim FootShape”. Designed for a snugger fit compared to other models.
Altra Escalante
MSRP Price: $140
Men’s Link: Click Here
Women’s Link: Click Here
REI Link: Click Here
Surface: Road Running
Weight Men: 9.3 oz / 263 g
Weight Women: 7.7 oz / 218 g
Support: Neutral
Drop/Offset Men’s: 0mm (zero drop)
Drop/Offset Women’s: 0mm (zero drop)
Stack Height: 24mm
Cushion: “Moderate”
Altra Rivera
MSRP Price: $130
Men’s Link: Click Here
Women’s Link: Click Here
REI Link: Click Here
Surface: Road Running
Weight Men’s: 8.8 oz / 250 g
Weight Woman’s: 6.9 oz / 197 g
Support: Neutral
Drop/Offset Men’s: 0mm (zero drop)
Drop/Offset Women’s: 0mm (zero drop)
Stack Height: 26mm
Cushion: “Moderate”
Performance Summary
If you are a fan of zero drop running shoes then you have probably heard of Altra Running (Altra). Founded in Utah in 2009 by self proclaimed shoe nerds. Altra has been a leader in zero drop low stack height road and trail running shoes for the past decade. Firmly staking its spot as one of the top 10 selling running shoe brands world wide. And today we’ll be looking at two of their moderate cushion road runners, comparing the Altra Escalante vs Rivera.
Altra Escalante
My first impression of the Altra Escalante was that they don’t look like most road runners. In a good way. Their style could pass for a more stylish casual shoe. Listed as having “moderate” cushion, with a zero drop, on a 24mm stack, I’d consider them low profile compared to other runners. And I know a few people that actually wear these as their day to day work shoes for jobs standing on their feet all day. Now I understand why.
On the feet they feel like they run pretty true to size. So if you’re looking for more room or a wider toe box, you may want to half the size up. The moderate cushioning was noticeable to me. I’m used to having a bit more, but it was nice being able to feel the road a bit more. The downside being the lack of energy return or rebound. One major thing lacking from the Escalante when running. The other thing I noticed is that the upper construction expands to fit your foot. It isn’t very breathable. And this can be a problem on hot and humid days.
Overall, while I enjoyed my time in the Altras Escalante I found them to be a better day-to-day walking shoe rather than a runner. Perfect for wearing at the gym when I’m not running and taking on vacation when I’m planning on walking a lot.
Altra Rivera
The first thing I noticed about the Altra Rivera is that it looks more like a running shoe than the Escalante. With added support visible from the outside of the shoe in the mid foot and arch. And while both models are listed as “moderate” in cushion. I found that Rivera felt like the more cushioned of the two. With 2mm added stack height and few more points of an ounce heavier. But the weight was hardly noticeable. And the upper building of the shoes is extremely flexible and comfortable.
On the feet the Rivera feels narrower compared to other Altra models. And this is by design. The shoe features the brand’s Slim FootShape, targeting runners who aren’t a fan of Altra’s wider fit. One of things the brand has become known for (along with zero drop) throughout the years. So if you’re looking for that wider fit, I’d suggest going a half size up on this model.
Running in Riviera for me was a mixed bag. While it may have more cushion when initially trying them on. This cushion tends to feel a bit hard when running. And combined with the soft and pliable upper material I found like I was losing some energy from slipping when pushing at faster paces. All that said, when cruising a more casual tempo the shoes felt good. And for walking at an up-tempo they felt great.
Image Comparison
Below you can see side by side photos of the Altra Escalante vs Rivera. You will see the added support running on the inside and outside of the mid foot of the Rivera. This is Altra’s Slim FootShape.
Altra Escalante Profile
Altra Rivera Profile
From above the two have a similar shape. But you will notice the difference in upper build material.
Escalante Top View
Rivera Top View
Both are the soles of both shoes. There is a bit more flex in the Rivera which used a ore typical design from Altra.
Altra Escalante Soles
Altra Rivera Soles
Conclusion – Altra Escalante vs Rivera
Altra has a lot of options when it comes to road running shoes. And with many of their customers looking for low stack zero drop options, it’s easy to understand why so many people end up looking at the Altra Escalante vs Rivera. But for everything they have in common, there are a couple major differences between the two. And these could be the difference between choosing the right pair. So which one is the right one for you?
Which road running shoe to buy?
I personally would not run big miles in the Altra Escalante. To me. Just a little more cushion would go a long way. But for going to the gym, daily use, on the weekends, or walking a lot in the city these shoes are comfortable and much more stylish. So while I probably keep my other running shoes, these may get slipped into my rotation for life outside of running.
The River on the other hand is the better of the two for running. But didn’t stand out enough for me to recommend them for someone logging daily miles. If you are looking for zero drop Altrea has a couple other models you should look at. That said, they are really comfortable for walking and daily wear. Especially if you are looking for a more snug fit. They just aren’t as stylish as the Escalante, so for day to day they would be my choice.
