Altra Lone Peak vs Timp- Trial Running Shoe Review

Founded in 2009, Altra Running has earned a reputation for designing some of the best zero drop running shoes on the market. And this just doesn’t mean they design flat shoes. Altra has found a way to combine a zero drop with minimal stack heights, while providing enough cushion to get you through a big mile run or hike. So today we’ll be reviewing two of the brand’s more popular trail shoes in the Altra Lone Peak vs Timp. With the hopes of providing some insight on which might be the right choice for you and your body’s needs while out on the trail. Below we’ll cover the key differences, specs, images, and in depth review based on hitting the trails in both models.

Altra Lone Peak vs Timp

1. The Altra Lone Peak is the brand’s most popular trail shoes. As well as one of the highest selling overall, including both trail and road running shoes.
2. Both shoes weigh almost the exact same weight. With the Timp being slightly heavier at 10.9 oz/ 308 g, compared to the Lone Peak at 10.6 oz / 300 g. The Loan Peak 6 is noticeably lighter than previous models. 
3. The Loan Peak features Altra’s original foot shape. Making it better for people with a wider foot, or looking for a wider toe box.
4. While the Timp features the new “Standard size” foot shape. And the brand recommends going a ½ size up if you like a wider fitting train shoe.
5. But the Timp is listed as a “high cushioned” train runner by the brand. Compared to the Loan Peak which the brand lists as “moderately cushioned”.
6. The Altra Timp has a higher stack height at 29mm. Vs a 25mm stack height on the Lone Peak.
7. The Loan Peak has a much more aggressive lug size and is better suited for technical trail. Compared to the Timp which has a mild lug better for less technical, smoothe trails.
8. Both shoes feature Altra’s MaxTrack outer sole. Designed for grip, traction, and durability.
9. While the Timp features Rolled Upper Mesh contraction on the upper of the shoe. And Altra’s Quadratic foam midsoles, designed to feel more cushioned.
10. Compared to the Loan Peaks which have a quick dry mesh upper build. And the Altra Ego foam midsole, designed to provide more rebound from the cushion compared to the Timp.

Performance Summary

Altra Loan Peak Review

The Loan Peak in Altra’s top selling zero drop trail shoe. Featuring medium cushion and 25mm stack height. It provides a lot of what people are looking for in an almost minimalist shoe, with just enough cushion to take some of the trail shock off your legs. Out of the box, the Loan Peak is a good looking shoe. With 5 different color options to choose from. And just enough lug size that you can use them for more semi-technical trails. Although I wouldn’t use them for scrambling or wet rock courses.

On the feet, the Loan Peak offers Altra’s original foot bed design. Which means it’s a bit wider in the toe box and throughout the sides of the shoe. If you’re an original fan of the brand. You will know this is something they have started going away from in some models. But the Loan Peak keeps with the size that made a lot of people fall in love with the brands. The cushion of the shoe features the brands Altra Ego midsole. Which is designed to not only provide cushion, but also a bit of rebounds. Enough to be noticeable, especially on downhill sections.

A couple issues I have found with the Loan Peak are the overall durability and traction. After my first long hike/run session of 30 miles in high humidity I noticed some of the print coming off the upper mesh. And while I love the breathable upper mesh, I wish they would skip the cheap print that just comes off and makes them look worn. Next is the traction of wet rocks. There isn’t much and wouldn’t put my faith in them on a highly technical trail. And Lastly, while the midsole offers some rebound. If you are looking for a pit of cushion (for say a backpacking trip) I’d probably look at a different model.

Altra Timp Review

The Altra Timp is the brand’s high cushioned zero drop trail shoe. Which doesn’t qualify as a minimalist shoe like some of the brand’s other models. But for many, the added cushion is just what they are looking for. With just enough lug to get you through a day on the trail. But can also transition to the pavement. With four color options, the Timp is an ok looking shoe. Nothing that stands out but it definitely doesn’t look like a “dad shoe”.

Lacing up the Timp the first first thing I noticed is the overall size. Featuring the brand’s new “standard” sized footbed. It is noticeably more narrow than the Loan Peak. And Altra recommends going a ½ size up if you want more room in the toe box and size of the shoes. After that the next thing I noticed is the cushioning. There is plenty (more than the Loan Peak), and it provides a nice feeling even walking on harder surfaces like pavement and rocks. And even though the Timp features the breathable mesh upper, the shoe does feel a bit clunk on foot. My opinion is that it will make a better hiking shoe vs a trail runner.

Overall there is a to like about the Timp. But it definitely has its limitations and is better for specific uses. The grip / lugs on the shoe are great for mild trails but I would not recommend them for mid to high technical trails. And if you’re looking for something to run and hike in, I would go with a different model. The Timp is a hiking shoe, better for a slow pace. But if you’re looking for something for a backpacking trip, the combination of cushion and zero drop may make them a good choice.