Altra Timp vs Olympus- Trial Running Shoe Review

In the world of trail running, the choice of footwear can make or break your outdoor adventure. And today we’ll be comparing two of Alta’s more popular trail runners, breaking down the Altra Timp vs Olympus. With each model offering unique features and benefits tailored to different preferences and terrains. In this blog post I’ll dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Altra Timp and the Altra Olympus. Providing key differences, specs, performance reviews, and photos. Leaving no aspect unexplored. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of which of these trail running shoes is the best fit for your off-road escapades. So, let’s get started!

 

Altra Timp vs Olympus – Key Takeaways

1. Both the Altra Timp and Olympus are neutral trail running shoes. So they are not designed for runners needing extra support to prevent under or over pronation.
2. The Olympus is noticeably heavier, weighing 12.3 oz for the mens and 10.4 z for the womens. While the Timp weighs 10.9 oz for the mens and 9.2 oz for the womens.
3. Both shoes offer a 0 drop. Fitting right into the Altra lineup that specializes in natural foot placement.
4. The Timp has a lower stack height at 29 mm. COmpared to a 33 mm stack height on the Olympus.
5. The Altra Olympus features more cushion, and is listed as a max cushion trail shoe by the brand. While Altra lists the Timp as a high cushion trail running shoe.
6. Inside the shoes, the Olympus midsole is designed from compression molded EVA. While the Timp features the brands Altra Ego Max cushion.
7. The Olympus outsole is designed featuring Vibram Megagrip. While the Timp has the brand’s MaTrac rubber outsole.
8. The Olympus also has a more aggressive lug. Featuring Altra’s Vibram® Megagrip.

Performance Summary

Altra Timp Review

Introducing the Altra Timp, a trail shoe that stands apart in the brand’s lineup with its notable high cushioning and zero-drop design. Unlike some of Altra’s other models, it doesn’t quite fit the minimalist shoe category. However, for those seeking enhanced cushioning, it hits the mark. Equipped with just the right amount of traction, it can navigate a day on the trail with ease, yet it’s versatile enough to transition onto pavement when needed. While the Timp offers four color options, it may not be the flashiest shoe on the market, but it certainly avoids the “dad shoe” aesthetic.

When I laced up the Timp for the first time, I couldn’t help but notice its overall size. It features Altra’s new “standard” sized footbed, which is notably narrower than the Lone Peak model. Altra even recommends going up a half size if you desire more room in the toe box and overall fit. Beyond the sizing, the cushioning stood out immediately. It offers more plushness than the Lone Peak and delivers a comfortable feel even on unforgiving surfaces like pavement and rocky terrain. However, despite the breathable mesh upper, the Timp feels somewhat cumbersome on the foot. In my opinion, it leans more toward being a reliable hiking shoe rather than an agile trail runner.

In summary, there’s a lot to appreciate about the Altra Timp, but it comes with its own set of limitations and is better suited for specific purposes. Its grip and lugs are ideal for milder trails but may not meet the demands of more technical terrains. If you’re searching for a versatile shoe for both running and hiking, you might want to explore other Altra models. The Timp excels as a hiking shoe, ideal for a leisurely pace. However, if you’re gearing up for a backpacking adventure, the combination of ample cushioning and zero-drop design could make it a compelling choice.

 

Altra Olympus Review

When I first unboxed the new Altra Olympus, I was impressed with the overall design and found them to be one of the better-looking trail running shoes in the Altra lineup. With more than a few color options, they should offer a style suited to most runners’ tastes. While holding them in my hands, I could feel the extra weight, but it’s clear they have more cushioning than most of the other Altras I’ve tested in the past. So, I was excited to put them to the test.

Once on my feet, the added cushioning was the first thing I noticed. Combined with the brand’s unique zero-drop feature, it created a very distinctive feel, something that may take some runners a bit of time to get used to. Regarding fit, they aren’t tight, but I would say the toe box is slightly smaller than that of the Lone Peaks and Timps. This might be due in part to the molded toe box. I don’t believe most people will need to go half a size up unless they experience foot swelling during runs.

Taking the Olympus out on the trails was a unique experience. Again, the higher stack, maximum cushioning, and zero-drop design were something I wasn’t accustomed to. However, after about 10-15 miles, I felt settled into them. On the trails, the grip performed very well on rocky terrain, and my only real complaint is that they do feel a bit heavy. Additionally, they didn’t drain very well after a few creek crossings. So, if you’re looking for a lighter trail runner, these probably wouldn’t be my first choice. I should also mention that when researching the Olympus, I came across numerous complaints about the soles peeling after only a few miles. Personally, I ran over 60 miles in them and didn’t encounter the same issue, but I thought it was worth mentioning.

 

Image Comparison

Below is an image comparison of the Altra Timp vs Olympus. From the profile and top view the two shoes have a very similar shape. Although from the top view you can really see the added heal cushioning in the Olympus. This wider more cushioned base is also visible from the bottom, sole view.