Altra experience flow 1

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

Altra experience flow 1

Price

$260

Rating

High

Popularity

Less Popular

The Altra Experience Flow 1 is a versatile running shoe that offers a balanced mix of cushioning and flexibility, providing a smoother ride, and it typically sits in the middle of the Altra lineup, between ultra-cushioned models like the Altra Paradigm and minimal options like the Altra Escalante.

4 colorways

Colorway: White

Widths available: normal

Summary

The Altra Experience Flow 1 is designed to offer runners a unique blend of comfort and performance, characteristic of Altra's commitment to promoting a natural running experience. This shoe is part of Altra's lineup which emphasizes zero-drop platforms and a roomy toe box, encouraging a more natural and efficient stride. While it aligns with Altra's core principles of balanced cushioning, the Experience Flow 1 stands out with its lightweight construction and responsive midsole, making it suitable for both casual runners and those seeking a versatile training shoe. In comparison to Altra's more specialized trail and ultra-running models, the Experience Flow 1 is versatile, crafted for varied terrains, and appeals to a broad spectrum of runners looking for an adaptive, everyday running shoe.

Surface

road

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(28mm)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(Engineered Knit upper)

Weight

238g

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 experience flow 1 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 16 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The Altra Experience Flow is a lightweight, versatile running shoe featuring a 4-millimeter drop and a roomy toe box, making it suitable for a wide range of runners, especially those transitioning from zero-drop designs. While it offers excellent comfort and stability, some reviewers noted a lack of responsiveness in the midsole, which may not appeal to those seeking a more dynamic running experience..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Firm

The pros of the shoe's cushioning, such as its comfort and responsiveness, appear frequently, while the cons highlight issues with firmness and responsiveness, indicating that many users have mixed feelings about the cushioning experience.

firmness (4)

balance (2)

responsive (2)

softness (2)

responsiveness (2)

ground feel (1)

ample (1)

midsole (1)

Pros

"The cushioning is well-balanced, ideal for daily training runs."

cushioning

daily trainer

medium distance

"Its design allows for a good balance of underfoot comfort without feeling too high-off the ground."

cushion

low-profile

comfort

"The cushioning provides a soft yet responsive ride that is forgiving, enhancing comfort during runs."

cushioned ride

forgiving

soft

"The Mizuno Neo Zen features a responsive foam that enhances the running experience."

lightweight

responsive foam

"The midsole's thickness offers substantial cushioning while maintaining ground feel, enabling better foot stimulation."

smooth ride

energy return

cushioning

"The midsole cushioning provides a soft ride without feeling soggy."

cushioning

EVA

comfort

"The shoe offers ample cushioning for a comfortable run."

cushioning

daily trainer

long runs

"The shoe incorporates a firm, compression-molded midsole that contributes to its balanced ride."

compression

balanced ride

firm

"The shoe provides excellent cushioning, making it comfortable for various running distances."

cushioned

comfort

neutral

long distances

"The shoe maintains a high level of cushioning for comfort during runs."

cushioning

Eva foam

"The shoe provides excellent landing comfort due to its plush underfoot feel."

plush

soft

efficient

underfoot

"The shoes have a lightweight, compression-molded EVA midsole that provides excellent cushioning."

compression-molded

cushioning

responsive

Cons

"The cushioning feels unresponsive and lacks the expected plushness."

unresponsive

lack of bounce

cushioning

"The shoe's cushioning is firmer than expected, which may not suit all runners' preferences."

firm ride

cushioning preference

not soft enough

"Some reviewers highlighted that the midsole's firmness may not be to everyone's liking."

responsiveness

comfort

preference

"The midsole may feel too firm for some runners."

firm cushioning

shoe responsiveness

"The shoe may not provide enough cushioning for longer runs as some reviewers found it on the firmer side."

firm cushioning

responsive foam

"The shoe's cushioning is considered average and somewhat disappointing."

cushioning

EVA midsole

softness

"The cushioning may be perceived as softer than in previous models, possibly impacting performance or feel for some runners."

softness

cushioning

feel

"The midsole stiffened significantly in cold conditions."

cold

stiffness

EVA midsole

"The midsole compound may lack advanced technology compared to other models."

midsole

compound

technology

"Cushioning may lose responsiveness after around 300-400 miles of use, which is expected in this shoe category."

cushioning

mileage

performance

"The midsole foam is perceived as less responsive by some users."

midsole

bounce

springiness

"The high stack height may not suit everyone, particularly those preferring a softer ride."

soft ride

high stack

comfort
Breathability: Average

The main points to note are that breathability is frequently mentioned as a pro, while discomfort related to breathability and fit issues appears as a con, indicating that while the shoe is designed for comfort, some users may still experience issues with breathability and fit.

breathability (2)

cushioning (1)

seasonal (1)

upper (1)

upper fit (1)

smooth ride (1)

upper breathability (1)

padding (1)

Pros

"The shoe features a breathable upper that enhances ventilation and comfort."

breathability

mesh

design

"The upper is designed for breathability and comfort, contributing to overall run experience especially on long distances."

breathable

comfortable

long distance

"The engineered mesh upper is lightweight and breathable, keeping feet comfortable during lengthy walks."

breathable

comfort

mesh upper

"The updated engineered mesh upper ensures breathability, keeping feet comfortable and cool."

mesh upper

breathable

comfortable

"Cushioning around the collar and heel prevents blisters and Achilles irritation."

comfort

heel support

blister prevention

"The shoe is great for logging summer miles due to updated materials."

summer running

breathability

ventilation

"The shoe's upper is designed for comfort, providing a soft feel and accommodating fit through its structure."

soft upper

comfortable fit

training shoes

"The upper is noted for its comfort, providing a glove-like fit."

comfortable

glove-like fit

"The ride is smooth, enhancing the overall running experience."

comfort

ride quality

"The upper part of the shoe breathes well, ensuring comfort during runs."

upper

breathability

"Improved heel and tongue padding enhance overall comfort and fit."

padding

comfort

"The shoe provides a great level of comfort with a wider toe box, allowing for free movement of the toes."

wide toe box

toe mobility

comfort

"The shoe features a wide toe box that allows for natural toe splay, enhancing comfort."

wide toe box

natural feel

"The Altra Experience Flow has a low heel-to-toe drop, which promotes a natural walking stride."

minimal drop

natural stride

"The shoe offers impressive out-of-the-box comfort without any pressure points."

comfortable

no pressure points

immediate comfort

Cons

"The upper may lack breathability, potentially causing discomfort in warmer weather."

breathability

heat

upper

"The upper material is not very breathable and retains water."

water retention

wet conditions

"New users might struggle with toe splay during impact due to previous narrow shoe usage."

toe-splay

user-transition

comfort

"There is a general feeling of discomfort due to the rebranding and changes in design compared to previous models."

familiarity

discomfort

"The shoe's EVA foam feels a bit hard, potentially affecting comfort during longer runs."

EVA foam

hardness

"While stable, the overall comfort of the upper lacks enhancements that could improve fit and support."

fit

gussets

support

durability

The main points to note are that the shoe's durability is highlighted by its long-lasting upper and well-constructed outsole, but there are concerns about the outsole wearing out quickly and the need for regular maintenance.

weight (3)

outsole (3)

maintenance (2)

upper (1)

construction (1)

lightweight (1)

long-lasting (1)

appearance (1)

Pros

"The shoe has a durable upper providing long-lasting wear."

durability

upper

material quality

"The shoe's weight is relatively light compared to other trainers, making it suitable for everyday use without feeling heavy."

lightweight

everyday use

trainers

"The shoe is lightweight for an everyday running shoe."

lightweight

everyday

construction

"The shoes are light enough to support speed without weighing the runner down."

lightweight

quick

responsive

"The outsole is durable and well-constructed."

outsole

durability

material

"The weight of the shoe is impressively low compared to its comfort levels, providing a good cushion-to-weight ratio."

lightweight

cushion-to-weight

durable

"The shoe maintains its structure and durability even after extensive use, suggesting quality construction."

durable

quality materials

resilient

Cons

"The outsole design lacks significant protection, which may not be suitable for all terrains."

protection

outsole

"Durability may be an issue with the outsole wearing quickly in certain areas."

wear

gum

durability

"Some users report that the outsole wears prematurely in the heel area, particularly for heel strikers."

premature wear

heel strikers

outsole

"The shoes require regular cleaning to maintain their durability."

cleaning

upkeep

"The shoe's upper mesh may require careful maintenance to prevent structural integrity issues over time."

maintenance

water-resistant

upper

"The white colorway attracts dirt easily, making maintenance challenging."

colorway

dirt

maintenance

performance
Distance suited: Medium (10-20km)
Rocker: Less rocker

The main points to consider are that the shoe is frequently praised for its lightweight design and smooth transitions, but it also has notable criticisms regarding its lack of energy return and suitability for fast-paced running.

lightweight (4)

rocker (2)

versatility (2)

form (1)

responsiveness (1)

responsive (1)

ride (1)

design (1)

Pros

"The lightweight design of the shoe is appreciated for daily training."

lightweight

daily trainer

performance

"It's lightweight, making it suitable for various types of runs."

speedwork

daily training

"The Altra Experience Flow has a very light feel which enhances the running experience."

lightweight

responsive

fun to run in

"The shoe's lightweight design enhances the overall running experience."

lightweight

performance

agility

"The rocker geometry assists in smooth transitions during runs."

transition

smooth ride

performance

"The aggressive rocker shape is praised for making running enjoyable and facilitating strides."

fun

rocker shape

"The rocker shape of the shoe enhances running fun and engagement by aiding forward motion."

rocker geometry

forward motion

fun

"The midsole's rocker shape aids in smooth transitions and assists the runner's forward motion."

smooth transitions

forward motion

"The Altra Experience Flow encourages a natural running form by promoting heel lift through its design."

natural form

heel lift

workout

"The shoe stays responsive and doesn't sap energy."

energy

performance

midsole

"The Altra Experience Flow features a responsive foam that enhances the running experience."

lightweight

responsive

firm

"The shoe is versatile enough for various running scenarios, from easy miles to speed work."

multi-use

speed

daily training

"The foam used in the shoe provides a responsive energy return during runs."

responsive

energy return

maximal

"The shoe offers a smooth ride that enhances performance during runs."

smooth

light

quick

performance

running

"The shoe features a rocker design that aids in quick transitions during runs."

rocker

transitions

"The shoe is acclaimed for being fun to run in, contributing to a positive running experience."

fun

positive experience

"The rocker geometry design improves toe-off efficiency during running."

rocker geometry

toe-off

performance

Cons

"The EVA midsole lacks energy return, making the shoe feel uninspiring during runs."

EVA midsole

energy return

performance

"The shoe is not suitable for fast-paced running."

fast pace

performance

"The rocker is less noticeable compared to the Altra Forward Experience, which may impact the natural running form."

rocker

control

form

"The toe-off feel of the midsole rocker is less pronounced compared to the previous model."

rocker

toe-off

performance

"There appears to be minimal improvements from the previous model, which may disappoint those looking for significant updates."

design

expectations

comparison

"The rocker shape feature is perceived as a gimmick and does not enhance performance as claimed."

rocker shape

gimmick

performance

"Transitions may not be as seamless given the rocker design, which could impact performance."

rocker

transition

"The shoe lacks a responsive feel, which may disappoint those looking for a more dynamic ride."

responsiveness

dynamic

ride

"The shoe is not suited for faster paces, which could be a drawback for more competitive runners."

speed

performance

tempo

"Even with updates, the overall design may not appeal to runners looking for a more tech-heavy shoe."

tech

bounce

stability

"The shoe's lack of versatility might limit its appeal for runners needing a broader range of performance."

versatile

single use

performance range

"Some runners may find the shoe to be less versatile compared to other options in the market."

low-drop

market comparison

fit
True to size: Runs large
Toebox width: Wider
Heel width: Wider
Orthotic friendly: No

The most common feedback highlights that the shoe has a roomy toe box, which is appreciated by many, but it may not be suitable for runners with narrow feet, as this issue appears frequently in the reviews.

width (7)

toe_box (2)

drop preference (2)

lockdown (1)

toebox (1)

toe box (1)

heel (1)

comfort (1)

Pros

"The shoe provides a secure fit without feeling tight."

fit

support

security

"There is ample space in the toe box, making it comfortable for the majority of foot types."

toe space

comfort

design

"The toe box is roomy, offering more space for the toes."

roomy

toe space

comfort

"The spacious foot-shaped toebox accommodates various foot shapes and sizes comfortably."

toebox

spacious

fit

comfort

"The Altra Experience Flow offers a fairly spacious toe box that allows for natural foot function during stride."

toe space

roomy

natural function

"The shoe maintains a roomy toe box that accommodates different foot shapes, particularly wider feet."

roomy

wide feet

"The shoe maintains the spacious toe box characteristic that Altra fans have come to appreciate."

spacious

comfort

wiggle room

"The toe box is designed to accommodate a natural foot shape, improving comfort and fit."

foot-shaped

comfort

natural

fit

"The wide toe box design allows for natural foot splay, enhancing comfort and performance."

natural fit

comfortable

wide design

"The fit around the heel provides a locked-in feeling."

locked-in

heel

padding

"The Standard FootShape™ Fit allows for a comfortable fit for both narrow and wide feet."

roomy toe box

glove-like fit

comfortable fit

"The shoe offers a spacious toe box that accommodates wider feet."

spacious

wide feet

toe box

"The shoe offers a flexible fit, especially in the forefoot area."

forefoot

flexibility

"The Standard FootShape fit accommodates a wide variety of foot shapes, providing a comfy experience."

Standard FootShape fit

roomy

comfort

"The shoe accommodates a variety of foot shapes with its standard FootShape™ Fit design."

wide fit

high volume

comfort

"The shoe has good fit characteristics that cater to users with wider feet, ensuring proper comfort during runs."

wide fit

comfort

fit

"The shoe provides a secure fit with a snug heel cup and stable feeling throughout the sole."

snug heel cup

stable fit

"The 4-millimeter drop facilitates easier transitions without being jarring."

heel-to-toe drop

smooth transitions

"Reviewers appreciated the roomy toe box, making it suitable for runners with wider feet."

roomy toe box

wide fit

"The shoe features an effective lacing system that allows for fine-tuning and lockdown fit."

adjustable fit

lockdown support

customizable

"The Altra Experience Flow features a zero-drop platform that enhances natural foot movement."

zero-drop

foot movement

spacious toe box

Cons

"The shoe may not be ideal for runners with narrow feet due to its wider toe box."

wide toe box

narrow feet

fit concern

"The fit might not accommodate all foot shapes adequately, particularly those needing more than a standard toe box."

fitting

foot shape

in-person check

"The shoe's fit, while generally positive, may not accommodate every foot shape effectively."

wide fit

roomy toe box

"A narrower fit may not accommodate all foot shapes comfortably."

fit

narrow

insteps

"The shoe's fit might not accommodate all foot shapes due to its design and orientation."

fit

metatarsal area

"The fit may not be suitable for those with narrow feet."

narrow foot

fit issues

"Individuals with narrow feet might experience fit issues due to the roomier design."

narrow fit

toe box

laces

"There is a suggestion to improve lace length, which may indicate a design oversight in the shoe's construction."

lace length

design flaw

practical concern

"The absence of a gusseted tongue is a noted downside."

gusset

tongue

fit

"The snug fit of the toe box may not be ideal for runners used to more room and could limit natural foot spread."

toe box

fit

room

"The transition to the zero drop may not be smooth for everyone, especially for those with a history of wearing restrictive footwear."

transition

restrictive

footbed

"The snugger fit of the toe box may feel limiting for those transitioning from wider shoes."

toe-box

fit

snug

"The forefoot and toe box are narrower than expected for an Altra shoe."

narrow

forefoot

toe box

"The trade-off for a responsive feel may not suit all preferences."

heel-to-toe drop

zero-drop

shoe preferences

"The 4-millimeter drop might not be suitable for everyone, particularly die-hard zero-drop fans."

drop

zero-drop fan

"The experience of running with a lower drop may not be suitable for everyone."

heel drop

transition

sensitivity

"The forefoot may feel too spacious during tight turns, leading to instability."

stability

spacious

turns

"The wide toe box compromises the speed feel of the shoe, which some runners may find limiting."

toe box

speed

fit

"The shoe is not designed for easy slip-on use, which could limit convenience for some runners."

slip-on

convenience

design

stability
Stability level: Average

The pros and cons indicate that the shoe's 4-millimeter drop and rocker shape are frequently mentioned, suggesting that while it offers smooth transitions and stability, some users may experience discomfort or instability due to the aggressive design.

rocker (4)

support (2)

heel drop (1)

transition (1)

drop (1)

platform (1)

strike point (1)

rocker design (1)

Pros

"It provides a great balance of stability for various running styles."

stability

support

running styles

"A stability version is available for runners who may pronate, offering additional support."

stability

pronation

support

broader

"The 4mm drop encourages smooth transitions for a range of running paces without feeling jarring."

smooth transitions

comfort

lower drop

"The 4-millimeter drop encourages smooth transitions in running."

heel-to-toe drop

smooth transitions

stability

"Overall, reviewers enjoyed the rocker shape, which enhances the running experience for many."

rocker geometry

enjoyable ride

fun to run in

"The 4-millimeter drop provides smooth transitions that are not jarring for the runner."

smoother transitions

4mm drop

"It provides a stable platform, making it suitable for weekly training."

stability

training

"The shoe effectively promotes a mid to forefoot strike, which can improve running technique over time."

midfoot strike

forefoot strike

running technique

"The rocker design provides agility and enhances the transition during the stride."

rocker

transitioning

agility

"The shoes maintain a consistent feeling of stability and provide a supportive feel for the ankle and heel."

stability

ankle support

"The shoe has a stable design that helps maintain foot position during runs."

stable

secure

wide base

Cons

"The heel cup lacks plastic support, which could affect stability for some runners."

heel cup

stability

support

"The aggressive rocker shape may lead to calf fatigue after extended use."

rocker

calf strain

fatigue

"Some reviewers find the rocker geometry excessive."

rocker design

calf strain

"The aggressive rocker shape may cause discomfort after extended use."

rocker

discomfort

calf strain

"The aggressive rocker geometry can cause discomfort for some runners."

rocker geometry

calf discomfort

"Some runners may find the transition from zero-drop to a 4-millimeter drop jarring."

transition

heel drop

adjustment

"The new shoe has deviated from its traditional zero drop, which may unsettle some long-time Altra users."

drop

zero-drop

transition

"The shoe lacks stability, which may be a concern for some runners."

stability

concern

"The 4-millimeter drop may not provide sufficient transition for some runners."

drop

transition

low

"The shoe's stability features are not emphasized enough, which may concern runners needing extra support."

stability

support

"There might be a lack of sufficient stability for runners used to more structured shoes."

stability

aggressive rocker

"The heel counter has a lot of structure which some may find unnecessary."

structure

stability

grip

The pros highlight that the shoe has excellent grip on wet surfaces and various terrains, while the cons mention that it may not perform well on all running surfaces, indicating that the grip may be inconsistent in certain conditions.

wet conditions (2)

traction (2)

versatile traction (1)

multi-surface (1)

surface (1)

Pros

"The rubber outsole performs well on wet surfaces, providing good grip."

traction

wet conditions

"The shoe has a decent grip even on wet surfaces, offering a reliable performance in varied conditions."

grip

wet surfaces

performance

"The shoe maintains great traction suitable for both on-road and off-road running."

traction

versatile

on-road

off-road

"The shoe features a well-tractioned outsole that enhances grip on various surfaces."

traction

grip

confidence

"The traction of the shoe is effective on various surfaces, ensuring stable footing indoors and outdoors."

impressive traction

multiple surfaces

"Traction design enables confident grip across various surfaces, providing stability during walks and runs."

traction

stable grip

versatile performance

Cons

"The shoe may not be ideal for all running surfaces and may lack grip in certain conditions."

wide fit

grip adequacy

other

The most common pros highlight the shoe's lightweight design and appealing aesthetics, while the main cons focus on the lack of significant upgrades and higher price point.

lightweight (3)

aesthetics (2)

price (2)

lightness (1)

ventilation (1)

accessibility (1)

natural_running (1)

design (1)

Pros

"The shoe exhibits an appealing aesthetic that attracts runners."

design

visual appeal

aesthetic

"The updated upper is aesthetically more appealing while providing sufficient protection through its design."

style

protection

"The Altra Experience Flow is exceptionally lightweight for a daily trainer."

lightweight

daily trainer

minimal

running weight

"The Experience Flow offers superior breathability due to its unique mesh design."

breathability

mesh

cooling

airflow

"The shoe is very light and offers a responsive foam feel during runs."

responsive

light

"The lightweight nature of the shoe allows for easy maneuverability and prevents fatigue during long use."

lightweight

no fatigue

"Lightweight construction contributes to a natural and effortless stride."

lightweight

minimal fatigue

natural stride

"Altra's transition to a 4mm drop offers better options for a wider range of runners who may have previously avoided zero-drop shoes."

variety

inclusive

"The design encourages a natural running form."

natural

form

design

"The shoe's design features a modern aesthetic that appeals to various styles."

aesthetic

design

modern

appeal

"The shoe provides excellent arch support without compromising natural foot movement."

arch support

natural movement

stability

Cons

"The shoe does not feature the expected upgraded Ego midsole, leaving some runners wanting more."

Ego midsole

disappointment

expectations

"While improvements were made with breathability, the changes from the previous model are minimal and may not be worth upgrading."

minimal changes

upgrade concern

same design

"The weight of the shoe may not align with the preferences of runners who seek a lighter model for speed."

weight

everyday

cushion

"The shoe does not cater to long-time Altra fans who prefer zero-drop shoes."

zero-drop

fan preference

traditional

"The price point may deter budget-conscious runners."

affordability

running shoe price

"The shoes are priced higher than other options."

high cost

affordability

"Limited changes from the previous model may not appeal to all users."

similarity

model comparison

limited innovation

"The shoes require a break-in period for those new to low-drop footwear."

low-drop

break-in

transition

Model Updates

The Altra Escalante 4 features a new midsole foam that is designed to provide an improved balance of comfort, responsiveness, and durability compared to the previous model. Additionally, the shoe introduces an updated upper design that aims to offer better breathability, flexibility, and overall fit, enhancing the comfort and performance for runners.

Older Models

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Reviews

Read reviews about the Altra experience flow 1 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

...

Wear-tester reviews (16)

4.0/5

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Altra experience flow 1

Altra experience flow 1

Surface

Cushioning

Category

Breathability

Weight

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Support

Width options

Grip

Suitability

Based on your running style and needs

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Pros & Cons

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion

Pros

Cons

comfort

Pros

Cons

durability

Pros

Cons

performance

Pros

Cons

fit

Pros

Cons

stability

Pros

Cons

grip

Pros

Cons

other

Pros

Cons

Older Models

Newer Models

...

4.0/5

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