Founded in 2009, Altra Running has garnered a reputation for crafting some of the finest zero-drop running shoes available. And this goes beyond merely designing flat shoes. Altra has managed to seamlessly blend a zero-drop profile with minimal stack heights, all while delivering sufficient cushioning to support you on long-distance runs or hikes. Today, we will be conducting a review of two of the brand’s most popular trail shoes: the Altra Lone Peak vs Timp. Our aim is to provide valuable insights to help you determine the right choice for your specific trail needs and your body. In the following sections, we will delve into the key differences, specifications, images, and an in-depth review based on actual trail experiences with both models.
Altra Lone Peak vs Timp
- 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.
- Both shoes are heavy and weigh almost the exact same weight. With the Timp being slightly lighter at 10.9 oz, compared to the Lone Peak at 11 oz / 300 g.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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”.
- The Altra Timp has a higher stack height at 29mm. Vs a 25mm stack height on the Lone Peak.
- 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.
- Both shoes feature Altra’s MaxTrack outer sole. Designed for grip, traction, and durability.
- 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.
- 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.
Altra Lone Peak
MSRP Price: $150
Men’s Link: Click Here
Women’s Link: Click Here
Men’s Weight: 11 oz / 314 g
Women’s Weight: 9.2 oz / 261 g
Heel Stack: 25 mm
Cushion: Moderate
Drop: 0 (this is a zero drop shoe)
Midsole: Altra EGO
Outsole: MaxTrac™ Rubber with TrailClaw™
Upper: Durable Quick-Dry Air Mesh
Altra Timp
MSRP Price: $150
Men’s Link: Click Here
Women’s Link: Click Here
Men’s Weight: 10.9 oz/ 308 g
Women’s Weight: 9.2 oz / 262 g
Heal Stack: 29 mm
Cushion: High
Drop: 0 (this is a zero drop shoe)
Midsole: Altra EGO™ MAX
Outsole: MaxTrac™ Rubber with TrailClaw™
Upper: Quick-Dry Air Mesh
Performance Summary
Altra running shoes offer a revolutionary approach to running footwear, providing an array of benefits that cater to both casual joggers and serious athletes alike. With their unique zero-drop platform and FootShape toe box design, Altra shoes promote a more natural and comfortable running experience, reducing the risk of common injuries while enhancing overall performance. These shoes also excel in providing excellent cushioning and support without sacrificing flexibility, making them ideal for a wide range of running terrains and distances. Whether you’re seeking improved running form, enhanced comfort, or a competitive edge, Altra running shoes deliver on all fronts, setting a new standard for running footwear.
Altra Lone Peak Review:
The Altra Lone Peak is Altra’s top-selling zero-drop trail shoe, featuring medium cushioning and a 25mm stack height. It offers much of what people desire in an almost minimalist shoe, with just enough cushioning to alleviate trail shock on your legs. Out of the box, the Lone Peak is an attractive shoe, available in five different color options, and equipped with lugs suitable for semi-technical trails. However, I wouldn’t recommend them for scrambling or wet rock courses.
On your feet, the Lone Peak retains Altra’s original footbed design, providing a wider toe box and a roomier fit throughout the sides of the shoe. This is a feature cherished by long-time fans of the brand. The shoe’s cushioning incorporates Altra’s Altra Ego midsole, designed to not only provide cushioning but also a noticeable degree of rebound, particularly on downhill sections.
I’ve noticed a couple of issues with the Lone Peak, including overall durability and traction. After a 30-mile hike/run session in high humidity, I observed some of the print on the upper mesh peeling off. While the breathable upper mesh is appreciated, I wish they would skip the cheap print that easily wears off. Additionally, the traction on wet rocks is lacking, making them less suitable for highly technical trails. Lastly, if you’re seeking a significant amount of cushioning (e.g., for a backpacking trip), I would recommend looking at a different model.
Altra Timp Review:
The Altra Timp is Altra’s high-cushioned zero-drop trail shoe, distinguishing it from minimalist models in the brand’s lineup. For many, the added cushioning is a welcome feature. It features just enough lug depth to handle a day on the trail and can also transition to pavement. With four color options, the Timp is a decent-looking shoe that avoids the ‘dad shoe’ aesthetic.
When lacing up the Timp, the first thing I noticed is its overall size. It features the brand’s new ‘standard’ footbed, which is notably narrower than the Lone Peak. Altra recommends going up half a size if you desire more room in the toe box and shoe size. Another noteworthy aspect is the cushioning, which is plentiful (more than the Lone Peak) and provides a comfortable feel, even on harder surfaces like pavement and rocks. Despite the Timp’s breathable mesh upper, the shoe feels somewhat clunky on foot. In my opinion, it functions better as a hiking shoe rather than a trail runner.
Overall, there’s much to appreciate about the Timp, but it comes with certain limitations and is better suited for specific purposes. The grip and lugs on the shoe are excellent for mild trails, but I wouldn’t recommend them for mid to highly technical trails. If you’re seeking a versatile shoe for both running and hiking, I would suggest exploring different models. The Timp excels as a hiking shoe, particularly for a slower pace. However, if you’re in search of a shoe for a backpacking trip, the combination of cushioning and zero-drop design may make it a suitable choice.
Loan Peak Right
Altra Timp Right
Altra Loan Peak Top View
Altra Timp Top View
Loan Peak Sole View
Altra Timp Sole View
Conclusion
On paper, the Altra Lone Peak vs. Timp may appear to be very similar shoes, but when you put them on your feet, they offer two entirely different experiences. The Lone Peak boasts a mid-level of cushioning, a wide fit, and more aggressive overall traction, while the Timp runs narrow, features a substantial amount of cushioning (for an Altra shoe), and feels somewhat clunky on technical trails. It’s clear that they were designed, either intentionally or unintentionally, to serve different purposes. But which one should you choose?
Which Model to Buy – Altra Lone Peak vs. Timp:
If you’re seeking the better all-around trail shoe, something that’s suitable for both running and walking, and can handle a variety of trail types, then I would recommend the Lone Peak. It’s the more versatile and refined option of the two.
However, if you’re in search of a trail walking shoe with ample cushioning and a zero-drop design, then the Timp would be a suitable choice. But personally, I prefer a shoe that offers greater overall versatility.