Altra Lone Peak vs Superior – Trial Running Shoe Review

In a world of shoes sitting on an inch of cushioning, Altra has found a way to make great shoes that allow you to feel the trail. The premier brand when it comes to zero drop trail running shoes, Altra has developed a devoted group of fans that love their products. But with so many models to choose from which one is the best choice for you? Today we’ll start by looking at and comparing two of their most popular shoes, the Altra Lone Peak vs Superior. Both feature Altra’s well known foot shaped toe box and yet have completely different feels on the trail. So let’s get to it comparing the latest models.

Altra Lone Peak vs Superior

1. Altra Superiors are 1.6oz lighter than the Lone Peak.  The Superiors come in at 8.9oz and the Loan Peaks come in at 10.5oz.
2. Both shoes feature a 0 drop. If you have never run in a 0 drop shoe they can feel low to the gowned. And a zero drop isn’t for everyone.
3. The Superior is considered a minimalistic running shoe. Meaning you will feel the trail are are not going to get a lot of cushion or toe protection. This is what some people love about this shoe.
4. The Altra Lone Peak had added cushioning and support. This is going to make big difference you are going to be wearing them for a lot of miles, or multi day hike.

Performance Summary

When looking at the Altra Lone Peak vs Superior they have lot of similarities, but in the end feel like two very different shoes. The Lone Peak is labeled a trail runner, but to me they feel more like a great hiking shoe. I could walk in them all day but they just don’t feel as fast as the Superior or other options I’ve tried. What they lack in speed they make up for in mild cushioning and toe protection while still giving you a feel of the trail. For me I would wear these for day hikes up to long weekends. Any longer than that and I might get tired of “feeling” the trail.

The Superiors feel fast. When you put them on they are incredibly minimalistic for a trail runner. And if that is what you are looking for, these may be the perfect shoe for you. I enjoyed my shorter runs (3-7 miles) in the Superiors but any longer than that I want more cushion. Especially when logging a bunch of training miles. But for shorter distances these things fly. I’ve red a few reviews mentioning issues with the traction but they seem to do well in most of the simple trail test I put them through.

Conclusion

So in review, if I’m looking for a true trail runner I’m probably going with the Superior. Especially if you like minimalistic 0 drop shoes, these are some of the best on the market. On the other hand if your looking for something to hike the trails in and can run on occasion, the Lone Peak is going to be the better choice.