Altra altrafwd experience 1

Learn more about the Altra altrafwd experience 1 female running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Altra altrafwd experience 1

Price

$260

Rating

High

Popularity

Moderate

The Altra altrafwd experience 1 is an entry-level running shoe focused on comfort and performance for beginners, sitting below models like the Altra Escalante and Altra Torin in terms of advanced features in the Altra lineup.

Altra
Altra altrafwd experience
3 colorways

Colorway: Grey Purple

Widths available: normal

Anthony
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Summary

The Altra altrafwd experience 1 is a unique addition to Altra's lineup of running shoes, designed to provide a versatile and comfortable running experience. This model maintains Altra's signature features such as a FootShape toe box and Balanced Cushioning platform, which promote a natural foot positioning and reduce impact during runs. The altrafwd experience 1 is particularly suited for male runners seeking a shoe that combines both performance and comfort. Compared to other models in the Altra range, it offers a distinctive approach to cushioning and support, making it an intriguing choice for those looking to explore different types of running experiences within the Altra family. Its design encourages a forward momentum and efficient stride, distinguishing itself from both trail and road-specific shoes, thus offering a new dimension to Altra's diverse running shoe collection.

Surface

road

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(30mm)

Category

ResponsiveBalancedComfort

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(Altra FWD ProMesh upper)

Weight

240g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

4mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Altra altrafwd experience 1 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 25 wear-tester reviews.

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

midsole (6)
responsiveness (3)
softness (3)
firmness (3)
foam (2)
comfort (2)
responsive (1)
support (1)
Pros
"The shoe offers a good mix of firmness and cushioning, providing performance without sacrificing comfort."
firm
responsive
cushioned
"The midsole is made from compression-molded EVA foam that balances cushioning and responsiveness effectively."
EVA foam
responsive
firm cushioning
"The EVA midsole provides a stable and plush underfoot experience."
stability
plushness
"The shoe employs a new compression-molded EVA that balances weight and comfort."
EVA
softness
lightweight
"The CMEVA midsole provides a firmer but cushioned underfoot experience, allowing for versatility in training."
CMEVA
firmness
cushioning
"The molded midsole foam provides a very comfortable cushioning experience."
molded foam
cushioning
"The new CMEVA foam contributes to a lightweight feel that enhances performance."
lightweight
CMEVA
stack height
"The midsole foam features a good balance of cushioning and responsiveness."
responsive
cushion
"The cushioning offers a nice balance between firmness and responsiveness."
responsive
bouncy
firmness
"The durable construction of the shoe includes a responsive midsole that provides adequate feedback on ground contact."
compressed EVA
ground feedback
not mushy
"The midsole has good responsiveness that aids in faster runs."
EVA foam
responsive
faster runs
"They provide a comfy and cushioned ride that balances softness and support."
cushioned
supportive
"The cushioned heel provides a comfortable experience during runs."
cushioned
memory foam
"The cushioning is balanced and provides adequate support for various runs."
cushioning
balance
versatile
"The shoe offers ample cushioning that enhances comfort during runs."
cushion
comfort
road
"The shoe features a soft and cushy EVA midsole that provides a pleasant underfoot experience."
EVA
cushioning
softness
"The AltraFWD Experience offers smooth transitions during runs thanks to its rockered midsole geometry."
rockered
transition
gait
"The shoe is designed to accommodate a variety of paces while maintaining comfort and versatility."
daily training
comfort
lightweight
"It has a moderately soft midsole which gives a pleasant feeling during runs."
EVA foam
cushioning
liveliness
"The shoe's lightweight design is ideal for long training runs."
lightweight
training
long-distance
"They provide a moderate level of cushioning, making them suitable for comfortable longer runs."
moderate cushion
comfort
"The insole cushioning provides nice impact absorption, adding to overall comfort."
impact absorption
cushioning
Cons
"The use of CMEVA foam is seen as a drawback, with a preference for lighter, softer foam."
CMEVA
foam
lighter
"The shoe lacks a more energetic midsole foam."
midsole
energy
"The shoe is firmer than expected, lacking the plushness desired for longer runs."
firm ride
softness
cushioning
"The cushioning is firmer than expected, lacking the softer feel of previous models."
cushion level
stability
Torin comparison
"The firmness of the midsole may not suit all runners, particularly for longer distances."
midsole
marathon
firmness
"The shoe does not provide enough cushion for longer distances over 6 miles."
high mileage
cushion
limited use
"The shoe does not provide sufficient energy return or responsiveness during runs."
energy return
foam composition
performance
"The foam lacks responsiveness and a pop that some runners may expect for a more energized performance."
midsole
energy
cushioning
"The cushioning feels soft and doesn't provide the responsiveness that some runners may prefer."
soft
not springy
cushioning
"The midsole of the Altra FWD Experience may not provide sufficient cushioning for some runners."
midsole
cushioning
EVA
"The cushioning may not meet the expectations of runners looking for a high-rebound experience."
cushioning
low rebound
"The shoe lacks true softness and plush cushioning, which might affect comfort for some runners."
cushioning
firmness
"The amount of protective cushioning in the midsole may not be sufficient for some longer runs."
midsole
cushioning
durability
"The foam in the midfoot lacks bounce, which could affect responsiveness."
EVA foam
midfoot
lack of bounce
"The heel cushioning may not provide enough support for long runs or varied terrain."
heel cushioning
long run
support
"The EVA midsole does not provide the expected energy return for an Altra shoe."
EVA
unresponsive
energy loss
"The cushioning is disappointing and lacks excitement, affecting the overall comfort level."
cushioning
midsole
standard
"The midsole is not using the Ego foam, which is considered subpar by the reviewers."
Ego foam
midsole
subpar

upper (3)
padding (3)
ride (3)
fit (2)
upper_material (2)
anatomical fit (1)
stability (1)
breathability (1)
Pros
"The shoe maintains the anatomical fit that Altra is known for, providing comfort and performance."
comfort
fit
performance
"The engineered mesh upper offers a snug fit that feels comfortable and unobtrusive."
engineered mesh
comfort
fit
"The upper is made from a comfortable, soft engineered mesh that adapts well to the foot."
engineered mesh
soft
pliable
"Ultra is known for creating comfortable uppers, and this shoe continues that tradition."
fit
comfort
material
"The shoe feels comfortable and supportive thanks to its well-padded heel cup and soft upper material."
padded heel cup
soft upper
luxurious feel
"The padding on the tongue and heel collar enhances the overall comfort and fit of the shoe."
padded tongue
heel collar
secure fit
"The shoe features impressive padding in the upper for added comfort."
upper comfort
well-padded
lightweight
"Features like a padded heel counter enhance stability and comfort during runs."
padded heel
stability
"Altra maintains its Footshape Fit with a wide toebox for comfort."
wide toebox
comfort
footshape
"The shoe feels good right out of the box and maintains comfort throughout initial runs."
comfort
fit
initial_runs
"The Altra FWD Experience has a smooth ride due to its effective midsole and outsole combination."
smooth
protection
ground feel
"The shoe provides a smooth ride, accommodating various types of runs without discomfort."
smooth
versatile
comfortable
"The shoe remains comfortable throughout runs, providing a steady experience."
comfort
average
"The upper delivers great breathability, making the shoe suitable for warm weather."
lightweight
breathable
warm weather
"The engineered mesh upper is breathable and wraps the foot securely, enhancing comfort and fit."
breathable
secure fit
"The upper material is light and breathable, contributing to overall comfort."
light
breathable
reflective
"The upper material is breathable and helps maintain comfort and temperature."
breathable
temperature control
"The AltraFWD Experience features a spacious forefoot for toe splay, enhancing comfort during runs."
toe splay
fit
comfort
"The shoe's step-in feeling is smooth and seamless, making it enjoyable to wear."
smooth
comfortable
padding
"The heel collar is well padded, providing added comfort without irritations on the Achilles during runs."
padded
no irritations
"The overall fit and comfort level of the Altra FWD Experience makes it one of the top contenders for the year's best running shoes."
high comfort
recommendation
"The engineered mesh upper provides breathability and a secure fit around the midfoot."
breathable
secure fit
"The engineered mesh upper enhances breathability and comfort."
breathable
comfortable upper
"Altra shoes are recognized for their broader toe box design, which allows the toes to splay naturally."
foot shape
natural fit
comfort
"The engineered mesh upper is designed to prevent grit intrusion while remaining breathable."
breathable
flexibility
comfort
"The shoes have a cushioned heel cup that adds to overall comfort during runs."
cushioned heel
prevent chafe
comfort
"The shoe features a simple yet effective one-piece engineered mesh upper."
mesh
breathability
"It has a comfortable and secure heel collar that prevents irritation."
comfort
irritation
"The shoe has excellent step-in comfort right out of the box."
step-in
comfort
"The shoe has a lightweight feel that enhances comfort during use."
lightweight
comfort
Cons
"The rear Achilles collar is high and rigid, lacking flexibility and padding."
Achilles collar
rigid
padding
"Some may prefer a more traditional fit and feel, which the shoe may not fully provide due to its design."
comfort
design
rocker
"The shoe does not have the same level of plush comfort as other competitors."
comfort
comparison
"The insoles may cause hotspots under the balls of the feet during initial use."
insoles
comfort
hotspot
"Although the shoe fits well initially, prolonged wear might reveal potential comfort issues not yet experienced."
fit
initial comfort
"The shift from minimal shoes with lower stack heights contrasts with the current trend towards thicker shoes."
minimalism
stack height
flexibility
"The heel collar's rigidity requires an initial breaking-in period that may be uncomfortable for some wearers."
initial discomfort
heel collar
breaking-in
"The engineered mesh upper, while breathable, lacks adequate ventilation compared to other models."
ventilation
upper breathability
"The firmer CMEVA midsole can feel harsh at easy paces, impacting comfort during slower runs."
Harshness
easy pace
comfort
"The shoe feels stiffer during runs, which may not be ideal for all runners, especially on easy days."
stiffness
harsh ride
easy runs
"The shoe is described as feeling flat, which might reduce comfort over longer runs."
flat
comfort
run experience
"Standing in the shoes for long periods led to discomfort in the heel."
heel pain
standing
drop
"The tongue of the shoe is not thick enough for some wearers."
tongue
padding
thin

outsole (5)
traction (1)
lifetime (1)
comparison (1)
longevity (1)
construction (1)
foam (1)
material (1)
Pros
"The shoe has a good balance of traction and durability, performing well on various terrains."
traction
durability
versatile use
"After 100 miles of use, the shoe shows no signs of wear, indicating its longevity."
100 miles
longevity
durable
"The shoe is well-comparable to direct competitors, showing strong performance attributes."
durability
comfort
stability
"The shoe has shown remarkable durability, holding up well after multiple uses."
durable
long-lasting
versatility
"The shoe's durability is illustrated by minimal wear even after extensive testing miles."
wear
testing
tread
"The newer shoes offer improved durability compared to earlier models, making them suitable for a wider audience."
durable materials
long-lasting
broad audience
"The exposed foam has shown impressive durability despite initial concerns."
durable
exposed foam
Cons
"The lightweight knit upper may not be durable enough for some runners' preferences."
durability
upper
lightweight
"The upper mesh's performance over time and in various conditions remains uncertain, which could impact overall durability and comfort."
breathability
upper performance
"The outsole may lack durability due to its thin rubber parts."
thin rubber
durability
grip
"The outsole lacks sufficient rubber in the medial heel area which may reduce durability for some runners."
rubber
durability
medial wear
"The outsole exhibits below-average durability after minimal use, leading to concerns about longevity."
rubber durability
midsole wear
longevity
"The outsole shows wear earlier than expected."
wear
outsole
"The rubber outsole lacks durability and grip, leading to concerns on wet surfaces."
outsole
grip
durability
"The exposed foam on the outsole raises concerns for long-term wear."
exposed foam
wear
outsole
"The shoe may not perform well over a longer lifespan."
mileage
value

weight (3)
propulsion (3)
transition (2)
rocker (2)
geometry (2)
energy return (2)
versatility (1)
speed (1)
Pros
"The shoe is versatile and performs well for a variety of paces and conditions."
versatile
responsive
uptempo
"The shoe is versatile, suited for various types of runs including tempo runs and long distances."
multi-purpose
tempo runs
long runs
"The shoe is a flexible option for a range of running activities from daily training to races."
performance
versatility
training
"The shoe excels in versatility, making it suitable for various types of runs."
everyday trainer
versatile
lightweight
"It handles fast-paced runs well, making it a good choice for shorter or speed workouts."
fast-paced
short runs
good performance
"The lightweight nature of the AltraFWD Experience enhances the running experience."
lightweight
pavement
multi-surface
"Users can enjoy a smoother transition thanks to the shoe's rocker shape geometry."
smooth transition
rocker shape
"The forefoot transition is effective due to the momentum from the design, creating a smoothly rockered ride."
smooth transition
forefoot
"Runners experience improved posture and body mechanics due to the design and structure of the shoe."
improved posture
mechanical advantage
ankle lean
"The Altra FWD Experience allows for a natural movement pattern that feels intuitive and engaging for the runner."
natural feel
intuitive action
engaging experience
"The rocker sole design aids in toe-off, enhancing the running experience."
toe-off
dynamic
"The gentle rocker shape aids in efficient toe-off and propulsion."
rocker
propulsion
"The Altra FWD Experience provides a uniquely rockered ride, enhancing the running experience."
rocker
smooth transition
"The shoes felt nimble and agile, allowing for easy navigation through curves and downhills."
nimble
agile
"The shoe is lightweight, enhancing performance during runs."
lightweight
performance
speed
"The shoe is described as lightweight, making it suitable for faster runs."
lightweight
fast
dynamic
"The lightweight design enhances the running experience."
lightweight
responsive
"The shoe has a lightweight construction, making it suitable for performance training."
lightweight
performance
"The shoe offers a lightweight design that enhances the running experience."
lightweight
fun
"With an 8.5-ounce weight, the shoe is lightweight and easy to wear."
lightweight
trainer
effortless
"The shoe features a rocker-shaped geometry for efficient toe-off."
efficient
toe-off
design
"The midsole geometry promotes smooth transitions during runs."
rocker
transition
smooth
long-distance
"The shoe has been tested rigorously by athletes for effectiveness."
athlete testing
performance
reliability
"The 4-millimeter drop shoe complements zero-drop shoes for an efficient running form."
efficiency
running form
biomechanics
"The shoe offers a unique 4mm drop that provides a smoother ride compared to traditional zero-drop shoes."
smoother ride
innovation
"The midsole's CMEVA foam offers a responsive ride that becomes enjoyable at higher paces."
pleasant ride
responsive
"The shoe maintains a quiet ride, which helps in connecting with the running experience."
stealthy
connected
"The shoe features a rocker shape geometry that promotes a smoother ride and efficient toe-off."
rocker geometry
smooth ride
efficiency
"Altra's shoes are still appreciated for their ability to perform well during longer runs."
endurance
long runs
stability
"The shoe performs well for easy and long runs, providing a reliable daily trainer experience."
long runs
reliable
"The shoes encourage an efficient toe-off due to their rockered geometry design."
efficient toe-off
enhanced stride
"The shoe is suitable for various running paces, particularly at uptempo speeds, showcasing its efficiency."
uptempo
variety
"It promotes efficient running mechanics due to its firmness and rocker design."
efficiency
rocker
"The shoe has a responsive feel that promotes efficiency in movement."
responsive
efficiency
"The shoes are effective for walking on a treadmill, providing comfort and support."
treadmill
walking
Cons
"The shoe felt heavier than expected during the runs, leading to perceived fatigue."
fatigue
weight
performance
"The shoe feels heavy and lacks responsiveness, making it feel slow during runs."
heavy
slow
responsiveness
"Despite being designed as a lightweight trainer, some found it didn't feel as effortless as expected."
lightweight
expectations
effortless
"The lack of excessive propulsion from the rocker may not satisfy all runners looking for more support."
rocker
propulsion
support
"The shoe's rocker shape does not provide the expected propulsion effect and may disrupt the natural stride."
rocker shape
stride disruption
performance issue
"The shoe does not provide a feeling of propulsion as claimed by the manufacturer."
propulsion
manufacturer claim
sensation
"There is limited energy return during faster paces."
energy
performance
speed
"The midsole foam does not provide as much energy return as the EGO PRO compound found in Altra's racing shoes."
midsole
EGO PRO
performance
"The rocker shape is perceived more as a marketing gimmick than a performance feature."
rocker design
marketing
performance
"There is a lack of a rocker feel, which impacts the shoe's performance."
lack of rocker
performance
stride
"The shoes may scuff against the pavement during the swing-through phase, affecting the stride."
swing-through
scuffing
stride disruption
"The EVA midsole foam lacks the performance boost found in Altra's softer foams."
EVA foam
lack of propulsion
"The shoe feels less energetic compared to other models in Altra's lineup."
comparison
low energy
"The shoe is marketed as a versatile option but lacks standout capabilities."
versatile
not exceptional
"The price point of the shoe may feel high for some runners considering its versatility."
price
value
versatility
"It lacks liveliness in the ride when running at faster paces."
speed
effort
ride
"The author feels that Altra's innovation is falling behind as other brands advance."
competition
innovation gap
brand evolution
"The shoe would benefit from using Altra’s more advanced foams and the MaxTrac rubber for better performance."
advanced foams
MaxTrac
performance
"The shoe's rocker design does not function as intended, which may hinder running performance."
rocker
design flaw
performance
"The shoe lacks excitement and feels very average during runs, failing to impress."
average
lack of excitement
performance

toe box (4)
width (4)
drop (3)
volume (3)
size (2)
roominess (2)
tongue (2)
height (2)
Pros
"The addition of a 4mm drop is a welcome change for runners who prefer a slight elevation at the heel."
drop
heel height
transition
"The shoe features a unique 4mm drop, appealing to runners looking for a lower drop option."
4mm drop
unique
versatile
"The shoe features a unique low drop that eases the transition for those new to zero drop running shoes."
zero drop
4mm drop
transition
foot shape
"The Altra FWD Experience features a 4mm drop, catering to a wider variety of runners."
4mm drop
variety
"The Foot Shape toe box design offers plenty of room for toe splay and security during runs."
foot shape
toe splay
comfort
"The broad rounded toe box allows for natural toe spread and comfort during runs."
spacious toe box
natural fit
comfort
"The shoe fits true to size and provides ample room in the toe box for natural foot splay."
true to size
roomy
"The overall fit is true to size, and the shoe adjusts well after a few runs to offer a perfect fit."
true to size
adjustment
fit
"The shoe fits true to size, allowing for a consistent running experience."
true to size
consistency
"The shoe provides a good fit without any heel lift issues during runs."
fit
heel lift
"The fit in the toe box and midfoot is well-designed and supportive."
toe box
midfoot
heel cup
"The upper material is comfortable and breathable, preventing irritations."
breathable
comfort
irritation-free
"The upper provides an adaptive fit that adjusts to the foot over time, enhancing comfort."
upper
fit
snug
"The shoe has a roomy yet snug fit that can accommodate toe splay, enhancing comfort."
toe box
fit
comfort
"The roomy toe box allows for natural foot positioning and comfort."
toebox
natural positioning
"The upper design provides a natural foot shape that allows for toe splay and comfort during runs."
natural fit
comfort
"The lace system provides good lockdown with minimal adjustment needed, making for a convenient fit."
easy adjustment
secure
"The shoe offers a generous and comfortable foot-shaped toe box."
wide toe box
comfortable fit
"The shoe is lightweight, making it feel almost non-existent on foot."
lightweight
run feel
"The shoe features a Standard Footshape fit that is comfortable for various foot shapes without causing irritation."
Standard Footshape
comfort
"A secure fit is achieved through the elevated heel collar and moderate padding."
secure
padding
ankle collar
"These shoes feature a wide toe box which allows for better balance and a more natural stride."
wide toe box
natural stride
balance
"The shoe's upper provides good hold, enhancing stability during runs."
anatomical fit
stability
"The shoe excels in providing a secure fit while accommodating a wider toe box."
secure
toe box
"The shoes fit well in length for the user's usual size."
size
fit
"The user acknowledges that the shoes may not accommodate individuals who require a wider fit due to the narrow toe box."
narrow
toe box
fit
"The shoes wrap around the ankle well, providing additional support."
ankle support
fit
Cons
"The tongue of the shoe tends to rotate during runs."
tongue
rotation
"The tongue of the shoe can slip due to being moderately thick and not anchored."
slip
not anchored
"The shoe feels narrower than typical Altra shoes, which may be uncomfortable for some runners."
narrow fit
toe box
foot shape
"The toebox has low volume, which can be restrictive for those with wider feet."
low volume
toe box
wide feet
"Runners with extremely high-volume feet may find the fit lacking."
high-volume
fit
snug
"The overall volume of the shoe is perceived as low, which may not suit all runners."
low volume
fit
snug
"The fit runs small, potentially causing issues for those who are between sizes."
size accommodations
fit
between sizes
"The shoe runs slightly short compared to other Altra models, potentially requiring size adjustment."
sizing
fit issue
comfort
"Achieving a solid lockdown with the laces is challenging."
lacing
fit
lockdown
"The toe box may be too wide for runners with narrower feet."
width
fit
narrow feet
"The forefoot area feels narrower compared to previous Altra models."
narrow forefoot
fit issues
traditional design
"The forefoot is narrower compared to previous Altra models, which may not satisfy long-time users."
narrow fit
forefoot
Altra design
"The fit may feel too narrow for some users."
snug
width
"The 4 mm drop is a notable change from Altra's traditional zero-drop design."
heel drop
design change
unexpected
"The introduction of a 4mm drop shoe is seen as a departure from Altra's traditional zero-drop philosophy."
zero-drop
high heel
transition
"The 4mm drop might be imperceptible for some runners, limiting brand differentiation."
heel drop
perception
fit
"The toe box is surprisingly shallow, which may cause discomfort for runners with wider feet."
toe box
width
comfort
"The shoes have a narrow fit, particularly in the toe box."
narrow fit
toe box
comfort
"The toe box size is not suitable for those who need wider shoes."
narrow fit
wide shoe
toe box
"The shoe has a narrow fit that may not be suitable for those who require wider options."
narrow
size
toe box
"The upper lacks a level of security for faster runs and tight turns, which may affect performance."
upper
fit
performance
"The upper may lack structure due to its simplicity, which some runners may find inadequate for performance."
upper
performance
simplicity
"There are some performance inconsistencies based on different runners' experiences with the shoe."
performance
gait
experience
"The heel collar may be uncomfortable for some due to its height."
high
collar
"There is a inconsistency in heel height between men’s and women’s versions that could affect fit."
heel height
women's fit
inconsistency
"The shoe's design may not appeal to long-time Altra fans due to its deviation from the expected zero-drop model."
brand
loyalty
design change
"The heel architecture is soft and lacks the necessary structure, leading to a less secure fit."
heel fit
lack of support
"The overall heel cup feels loose, which can affect stability during runs."
loose heel
instability
"The laces are too long for those with lower volume feet, potentially causing issues during runs."
lace issues
lower volume feet
"The shoe's upper fit is too snug compared to other Altra models, leading to discomfort."
upper fit
toe box
snug fit
"The padded heel collar pushes the foot forward, exacerbating fit issues and creating discomfort."
padding
heel fit
fit adjustment
"The tongue causes pressure on the dorsum of the foot due to lower volume in the upper."
padding
dorsum pressure
fit discomfort
"The shoe's fit and feel do not align with the expectations set by other Altra models, leading to disappointment."
brand consistency
fit discrepancy
"Shoes feel tight in the toe box while walking, which could hinder comfort for some."
tight
toe box
walking

midfoot (2)
propulsion (1)
support (1)
drop (1)
ride stability (1)
gait transition (1)
transition (1)
design (1)
Pros
"The shoe's design allows for effective propulsion and stability during runs."
stability
firmness
heel design
"The shoe's design incorporates features that enhance midfoot stability during runs."
stability
midfoot
transition
"The shoe promotes a natural midfoot landing that enhances running efficiency."
midfoot landing
energetic toe-off
natural movement
"The shoe provides a stable experience while running, with additional support."
stability
support
"The low-drop design offers a less jarring experience for runners transitioning from traditional shoes, easing concerns about lower-leg discomfort."
low-drop
transition friendly
"The shoe features a new low-drop design that appeals to a broader range of runners."
low-drop
adaptability
runner-friendly
"The 4mm drop from heel to forefoot makes this shoe appealing for both traditional and zero-drop runners."
4mm drop
versatile
"The Ultra Forward Experience has a noticeable 4mm drop compared to other Ultra shoes."
drop
stability
"The shoe provides a stable ride due to its wide footprint and supportive design."
wide footprint
stability
support
"The shoe allows for a comfortable transition through the gait cycle due to its design."
transition
footstrike
rockered outsole
"The transition from a zero drop to a 4mm drop can help reduce injury risk."
injury prevention
drop adjustment
transitioning
"The shoe offers good stability with its wide midsole design."
wide midsole
stability
"The shoe's heel bevel is noted as one of the best, contributing to a forward-moving ride."
bevel
stability
"The 4mm drop encourages a natural foot position, which is beneficial for comfort."
4mm drop
natural foot position
"The shoe offers good padding in the heel area, enhancing stability and comfort during use."
padding
heel stability
Cons
"The 4mm drop may not satisfy those expecting a fully natural feel from Altra shoes."
4mm drop
natural feel
running experience
"Despite a stable feel, there is an odd sensation due to the curved heel."
heel design
Hoka comparison
stability
"For those transitioning to these shoes, there might be initial challenges in adjusting to the rocker design."
transition
rocker
calves
"The shoe lacks the stability that many have come to expect from Altra shoes."
stability issue
design flaw
running style
"The low arch and soft foam caused issues for runners prone to plantar fasciitis over longer runs."
plantar fasciitis
stability
midsole
"The wide footprint may not suit all footstrike styles, possibly affecting stability."
wide
stability
"The shoe may not provide sufficient stability for more aggressive runs."
stability
heel drop
aggressive runs

traction (6)
trail performance (1)
weather performance (1)
dry traction (1)
wet surfaces (1)
wet performance (1)
wet conditions (1)
Pros
"The outsole's anatomical design and lug profiles provide excellent grip on various surfaces."
grip
outsole
anatomical design
"The traction of the outsole is impressive, providing stability even in slippery conditions."
traction
stability
wet conditions
"Users find that it has great traction, performing well even in questionable conditions."
traction
grip
safety
"The outsole provides enough grip for a variety of conditions, enhancing the shoe's performance."
outsole
grip
performance
"The outsole provides good grip despite its simple design."
grip
outsole
"The Altra FWD Experience has good traction for both road and mild trail running."
traction
road
trail
"They handled well on trails, providing good grip and stability when running off-road."
good grip
stability
"The shoe performs well across various weather conditions with good grip from the outsole."
all weather
reliable grip
"The outsole provides excellent grip on dry surfaces, accommodating light trail running."
outsole
grippy
trail running
Cons
"The outsole does not provide good grip on wet surfaces, which can be a safety concern."
wet
poor grip
"The outsole material is not effective on wet surfaces, affecting grip."
outsole
safety
wet conditions
"The shoe may not offer adequate grip in wet conditions due to the material used in the outsole."
grip
outsole
dry conditions

weight (3)
design (3)
versatility (3)
drop (2)
branding (2)
transition (1)
heel_drop (1)
consumer feedback (1)
Pros
"The shoe can be a good option for those looking to transition into Altra shoes without going to a zero-drop model."
transition
great option
versatile
"The shoe features a new 4mm heel drop accommodating those who prefer more elevation than Altra's usual models."
heel drop
shoe evolution
customer demand
"The shoes are super lightweight, making them easy to wear during runs."
lightweight
easy wear
"The Altra FWD Experience is lightweight, making it an easy shoe to wear for various runs."
lightweight
versatile
easy
"The AltraFWD Experience Running Shoes have a lightweight design that makes them easy to wear."
lightweight
easy wear
"The AltraFWD Experience features a 4-millimeter drop for a balanced running experience."
low-drop
new design
balance
"Feedback from consumers was integral in developing this performance-forward shoe."
development
feedback
consumer-driven
"This shoe is lightweight, making it suitable for daily training and racing."
lightweight
comfortable
true to size
"Despite its simplicity, the shoe features a stylish design that stands out."
style
aesthetic
simple
"The shoe design is visually appealing with elegant tooling and a clean look."
aesthetic
tooling
"The shoe features an aesthetically pleasing upper design that stands out."
aesthetic
upper design
clean look
"Despite the distinct design changes, traditional Altra features are preserved, maintaining a sense of familiarity."
familiarity
tradition
"The shoe is suitable for a variety of training runs and provides a good transition into lower drop shoes."
training runs
transition
"The shoe is suitable for both everyday training and specialized workouts, offering versatility."
multi-purpose
training
workouts
"It is suitable for an array of terrains, including road and light trails."
trail
roads
"Overall, the shoe effectively combines features to cater to segment of runners who prefer a drop but appreciate other Altra qualities."
Altra features
runners
drop shoes
"The shoe's design and color variations appeal to a broad audience, including non-runners."
design
walking shoe
versatile
"The Altra FWD experience shoes provide a decent heel stack which is suitable for runners transitioning from zero drop shoes."
heel drop
transition
shoe type
Cons
"The engineered mesh upper is not innovative and lacks excitement."
mesh upper
uninspired
standard material
"Previous expectations from longtime Altra users create disappointment due to the design changes."
brand loyalty
disappointment
longtime user
"The 4 mm drop is a significant change from Altra's traditional zero drop design."
heel drop
zero drop
Altra tradition
"The addition of a 4mm drop may alienate Altra's loyal base who prefer zero drop shoes."
drop
loyalty
philosophy
"Despite the new design, it doesn't offer any particularly innovative features compared to other models in the market."
lack of innovation
"The shoe may not appeal to traditional Altra fans due to its departure from the brand's zero drop philosophy."
brand loyalty
zealots
"The expansion towards less minimal designs may alienate long-time Altra fans."
brand loyalty
transition
change of direction
"Altra's current offerings lack the minimal options that originally defined their brand and may leave a gap in the market."
market gap
minimal shoes
loss of identity
"The naming of the shoe is confusing and lacks clarity."
naming
confusion
marketing
"The shoe's name is considered a negative aspect."
name
branding
"The shoe deviates from Ultra's zero drop philosophy, which may upset loyalists."
zero drop
loyalty
philosophy change
"The shoes have a relatively high price point, which may put them out of reach for some buyers."
price
premium

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Model Updates

The AltraFWD Experience 1 is the first in its series, introducing a significant shift from Altra's traditional zero-drop design to a 4mm heel-to-toe drop, combined with a new midsole material and rocker geometry for improved long-distance comfort.

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

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Reviews on Fittir (-)

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Wear-tester reviews (25)

4.0/5

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