Altra experience form 1

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

Altra experience form 1

Price

270

Rating

Exceptional

Popularity

Less Popular

The Altra Experience Form 1 is a versatile, lightweight running shoe designed for natural foot positioning, offering a balance between performance and comfort, and sits as an entry-level model in the Altra lineup, positioned below the more specialized and tech-heavy models.

Altra
Altra experience form
4 colorways

Colorway: Taupe

Widths available: normal

Anthony
Got a question about the Altra experience form 1?
AI-powered

We've got access to 1000s of long-form youtube, google and other Fittir user reviews which means we can answer any question about this shoe. Ask anything, and me and my AI assistant will do our best to answer your question.

Or try one of these questions:

How does the cushioning feel?
Is it suitable for wide feet?
What's the durability like?
How does it compare to the previous version?

Summary

The Altra Experience Form 1 is a well-crafted running shoe designed to deliver a balanced mix of comfort, performance, and style. It incorporates Altra's signature zero-drop platform and FootShape toe box, promoting a natural running form and enhancing foot splay during runs. In the Altra lineup, the Experience Form 1 sits as an accessible model geared towards both beginners looking to improve their running experience and seasoned runners who value comfort on their daily runs. Compared to other models, it may not have the high-end technology or specialized features of Altra’s more advanced marathon or trail shoes, but it strikes an excellent balance for medium-distance road runs and everyday usage.

Surface

road

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(30mm)

Category

ResponsiveBalancedComfort

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(Quick-Dry Air Mesh upper)

Weight

221g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

4mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax

Suitability

___% Match

Based on your running profile and intended use, this shoe is a ___% match. Click the dropdowns in each section to learn more.

Based on your running style and needs

▼

Want to know if the Altra experience form 1 is right for you?

Our shoe finder is personalised to your needs, and has been used by thousands of runners across the globe.

Get a personalised recommendation

Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Altra experience form 1 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 10 wear-tester reviews.

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

firmness (3)
balance (2)
forefoot (2)
resilience (1)
moderate (1)
firm (1)
softness (1)
ground feel (1)
Pros
"The midsole foam provides a good balance between bounce and cushioning, without being overly plush."
cushioning
midsole
balance
"The shoe's cushioned ride offers a balance of comfort and ground feel, enhancing the running experience."
responsive
balanced cushioning
"The shoe exhibits high resilience, maintaining comfort throughout runs."
EVA foam
midsole
comfort
"The Altra Experience Form features a moderate level of cushioning that feels comfortable during runs."
CMEVA
cushioning
comfort
"The shoe has a nice combination of firmness and comfort in the midsole."
comfortable
moderate cushion
consistent
"The shoe maintains its softness and does not show signs of compression after several runs."
soft
cushion
no break-in
"The shoe's firmer midsole provides excellent ground feel for the user."
midsole
ground feel
"The shoe maintains a balanced and comfortable ride thanks to its modest midsole cushioning and overall design."
comfortable
balanced
daily usage
"The cushioning in the forefoot offers ample support without bottoming out during runs."
ample cushioning
forefoot
supportive
Cons
"The shoe lacks exceptional bounce or plush cushioning, making it feel average during runs."
cushion
bounce
average feel
"The shoe does not provide aggressive rebound, which may disappoint runners looking for more energy return."
rebound
energy return
cushion
"The shoe's midsole is excessively firm, providing an uncomfortable running experience."
midsole
comfort
impact
"The midsole foam is noted to be firm and non-responsive, impacting the overall performance during runs."
non-responsive
midsole
cushioning
"The cushioning feels firmer than expected, affecting overall comfort for some runners."
cushioning
firmness
comfort
"There is minimal cushioning, making the shoe feel less comfortable during runs."
cushioning
ground feel
impact
"The perceived stack height doesn't correlate to actual cushioning, leading to a hard feel underfoot."
stack height
foams
comfort
"The midsole foam lacks bounce and plushness, which may affect comfort during longer runs."
midsole
foam
comfort
"The shoe has a relatively low stack height, which limits its cushioning potential."
cushioning
midsole
height
"The foam lacks energy return, resulting in a flat ride on longer distances."
EVA foam
long distances
"The foam lacks energy return, resulting in a dull ride, particularly over longer distances."
EVA foam
energy return
dull ride

lightweight (1)
versatility (1)
upper (1)
toe space (1)
breathability (1)
immediate (1)
upper_material (1)
pain (1)
Pros
"The shoe feels lightweight and unobtrusive, allowing for a more enjoyable run."
lightweight
comfortable
unobtrusive
"The shoe performs well for both running and walking, making it versatile for daily use."
daily wear
walking
comfort
"The shoe has a comfortable upper that enhances the overall running experience."
comfort
upper
"The shoe's toe box design allows for natural toe splay, enhancing comfort while running."
toe splay
comfort
forefoot
"The shoe features a breathable upper that enhances comfort during runs."
breathable
upper material
"The breathable upper enhances comfort during runs and all-day wear."
breathable
comfort
cooling
"Comfortable right out of the box and does not require a break-in period."
comfortable
no break-in
Cons
"Some runners might find the upper material too stiff, though it doesn't affect comfort while running."
upper
stiffness
comfort
"The firmness of the shoe caused discomfort in the ankles and shins."
ankle
shin
injury
"The shoe is not regarded as the most comfortable option available in the market."
comfort
cushioning
market comparison
"The tongue design should be improved with a gusseted type."
gusset
tongue
"The upper design may put pressure on the foot during runs."
pressure points
mesh design
"The tongue of the shoe should be gusseted to avoid movement and discomfort."
gusseted tongue
discomfort
design flaw
"Breathability is hindered by the non-stretchy mesh of the upper, which may not suit everyone's preferences."
non-stretch
mesh
breathability

outsole (2)
wear resistance (1)
above average (1)
foam (1)
longevity (1)
material (1)
heel padding (1)
heel_padding (1)
Pros
"The shoe maintains in good condition after significant mileage, indicating durability."
durability
tread
performance
"The shoe shows above-average durability, better than many other Altra models."
durability
long-lasting
walking shoe
"The outsole is constructed with a significant amount of rubber for durability and grip."
durability
rubber
grip
"The shoe maintains a durable exterior with a rubber covering in key areas such as the forefoot."
durability
outsole
Cons
"The midsole foam starts showing wear fairly quickly, indicating potential durability issues."
midsole
foam wear
durability concern
"There are concerns about the longevity of the shoe, particularly regarding the midsole."
durability
midsole
longevity concern
"The thinner upper material may compromise overall durability over time."
upper
material
durability
"The durability of the heel padding is inadequate."
padding
durability issue
"Durability issues with the heel padding may affect the longevity and comfort of the shoe."
heel padding
durability
long-lasting

lightweight (3)
propulsion (2)
dependability (1)
natural (1)
running experience (1)
rocker geometry (1)
smoothness (1)
striking (1)
Pros
"The Altra Experience Form offers a dependable and consistent performance during runs."
reliability
consistent
performance
"The Altra Experience Form allows for a natural running experience by not being overly technical or restricting."
natural
feedback
connected
"Its lightweight structure contributes to a more efficient running experience."
lightweight
performance
efficiency
"The shoe is lightweight, making it a solid choice for daily training."
lightweight
daily trainer
versatile
"The shoe offers excellent lightweight performance for stability."
lightweight
stability
performance
"Runners can enjoy a connected, yet protected running experience with this shoe."
running feel
protection
"Experience Form features a subtle rocker geometry that aids in smooth transitions during runs."
rocker
transition
"The shoe features a smooth roll through footplant due to its low 4mm drop and rocker geometry."
rocker geometry
smooth roll
"The Altra Experience Form is well-suited for midfoot and forefoot strikers, making it a great option for those running with these techniques."
midfoot
forefoot
running technique
Cons
"The shoe may not be suitable for serious runners seeking performance improvements."
performance
serious runners
beginners
"The rearfoot transition is described as slightly clunky due to the heel bevel design."
clunky
heel bevel
transition
"The shoe's weight feels unbalanced, leading to concerns over its overall feel during use."
unbalanced
weight
ride quality
"The shoe does not provide enough propulsion during toe-off."
toe-off
propulsion
"The rocker geometry isn’t effective enough for better toe off performance."
rocker
toe off
performance
"The claimed rocker geometry is subtle and not very effective."
rocker
transition
performance
"The overall ride is described as just 'ok', implying it falls short of ideal performance."
ride
performance
"Not suitable for long runs due to foam performance."
distance
performance issue
"The shoe is not suitable for long runs, which may limit its use for dedicated runners."
long-distance
performance
not suitable

toebox (4)
security (2)
width (2)
footshape (1)
toe box (1)
secure (1)
tongue_length (1)
volume (1)
Pros
"The shoe's toe box provides ample room for foot splay, contributing to overall comfort during runs."
toebox
fit
comfort
"The shoe's wide toebox provides added space and prevents discomfort during runs."
fit
toebox
comfort
"The Altra Experience Form features a roomy, foot-shaped toebox that enhances comfort."
roomy
comfortable
casual wear
"The roomy, foot-shaped toebox adds to the comfort and usability of the shoe."
spacious
comfortable
casual wear
"The fit around the upper is secure, enhancing the overall running experience."
upper
ankle support
fit
"The overall security of fit is good, providing a reliable experience for runners."
secure fit
stability
confidence
"The anatomical Standard footshape fit offers a great fit for a variety of foot shapes."
fit
footshape
comfort
"The forefoot design allows for plenty of toe splay, benefiting runners with wider feet."
toe splay
wide fit
comfortable
"The shoe has a secure fit around the ankle due to the thick material and high heel counter."
secure
fit
heel counter
"It offers a comfortable, medium-width fit that accommodates various foot shapes."
fit
width
"It offers a comfortable, medium-width fit, making it accommodating for various foot shapes."
medium width
comfortable fit
Cons
"The shoe's tongue is too short, which can make putting them on cumbersome."
tongue
putting on
cumbersome
"The overall volume in the shoe seems slightly low, which could affect fit for some runners."
low volume
forefoot
comfort
"The tongue of the shoe feels short when putting it on, which can be slightly inconvenient."
tongue
fitting
comfort
"The fit is less roomy compared to other Altra shoes, which may be uncomfortable for some runners."
fit
width
roominess
"The shoe's fit can be misleadingly narrow compared to other Altra models."
narrow
width
fit
"The shoe is not recommended for true zero-drop enthusiasts."
zero-drop
transition
"The shoe may not be suitable for runners who prefer zero-drop shoes due to its low-drop design."
zero-drop
low-drop
fit
not suitable
"The toebox might feel limiting for runners needing extra vertical volume over long distances due to a somewhat snug fit."
vertical volume
snug fit
long distances

support (3)
heel support (2)
overall (1)
flexibility (1)
Guiderails (1)
drop (1)
arch support (1)
lateral (1)
Pros
"The stability of the shoe is impressive given its design features."
stability
design
support
"The shoe's flexibility does not compromise its stability even during longer runs."
flexible
stability
running performance
"The shoe features a stable running experience due to its GuideRail technology."
stability
running
GuideRail
"The shoe has a unique 4mm drop which accommodates a variety of runners looking for stability without a high drop."
4mm drop
stability
variety
"The Altra Experience Form integrates a GuideRail system that provides good support without being obtrusive."
GuideRail
medial support
stability
"The midsole features guide-rail support which provides subtle stability without being overly corrective."
guide rails
stability
overpronation
"The shoe provides excellent stability, making it a reliable option for runners with mild to moderate stability needs."
stable
reliable
daily trainer
"The shoe is designed with a medium-height arch providing adequate support."
arch support
"The GuideRail™ technology effectively supports the heel during runs."
GuideRail
heel support
"The GuideRail™ technology provides support to the heel for stability during runs."
GuideRail
heel support
"The shoes provide excellent lateral stability, making them suitable for moderate stability needs."
mild stability
supportive
balanced
Cons
"Some level of instability was felt on certain runs, particularly laterally."
instability
lateral movement
stability
"The heel counter is softer than expected for a stability shoe, which may concern some runners."
heel counter
stability
softness
"The midsole guide rails appear too small to provide adequate stabilization."
midsole
guide rails
stabilization
"The shoe did not provide an appreciable rocker feel during runs as expected."
efficiency
stride
transition
"The stability offered by the shoe is considered to be on the light side."
light stability
medial support
guidance
"Some runners may find the stability provided by the guide rails to be insufficient."
stability
guidance
design
"The midfoot lacks adequate support and bends under pressure."
midfoot
support
pressure
"Longer runs may not be ideal due to insufficient support for many stability runners."
support
long runs
"Midfoot flexes too much under pressure."
midfoot
pressure
flexibility
"The shoe may not provide adequate support for longer runs."
support
long runs
stability

traction (2)
outsole (1)
terrain (1)
Pros
"The outsole offers excellent grip, performing well even in wet conditions."
outsole
grip
wet conditions
"The shoe exhibits decent grip lines across the outsole for improved traction on various surfaces."
grip
outsole
"The outsole provides good grip during use, contributing to confidence while running."
durable rubber
good grip
Cons
"The outsole is not considered suitable for rougher terrains beyond road surfaces."
road
poor grip
rough terrain
"The outsole hardness may not provide the best grip on varied terrain."
outsole hardness
durability
mixed results

design (2)
versatility (2)
breathability (2)
drop (1)
style (1)
aesthetic (1)
pricing (1)
value (1)
Pros
"The shoe has a good drop option suitable for those not preferring zero drop."
4mm drop
stability
runner preference
"Aesthetically pleasing design makes it attractive for buyers."
aesthetics
color
style
"Its flexibility, aided by multiple flex grooves in the outsole design, enhances comfort for everyday wear."
flexible
comfort
everyday
"This shoe is suitable for gym activities, showing versatility beyond running."
gym
versatile
dual-use
"The Experience Form is effective for walking, making it versatile beyond running."
walking
versatile
multi-purpose
"The shoe is visually appealing and comfortable enough for everyday wear as well as running."
aesthetic
everyday wear
"The shoe has a breathable upper, contributing to a comfortable running experience."
breathable
supportive
mesh
"The upper design of the shoe contributes to high breathability, making it suitable for all-day wear."
breathable
all-day wear
"Its design is appealing and classy enough for everyday wear in addition to running."
stylish
everyday wear
"This model is a fairly priced entry to Altra shoes, making it accessible for new users."
affordable
entry-level
"Fairly priced in comparison to many competitors, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious runners."
affordable
competitive
value for money
"The weight of the shoes is reasonable for a stability shoe, providing a good balance between support and comfort."
reasonable weight
stability shoe
support and comfort
Cons
"Fans of Altra's zero drop may be disappointed with the 4mm drop."
4mm drop
zero drop
changing design
"The shoe lacks standout premium features for its price point."
value
features
"Absence of reflective elements reduces safety for night running."
reflective
night running
"The lack of reflective elements limits safety during low-light conditions."
reflective elements
low-light safety
"The shoe is slightly heavier compared to some competitors, which may affect performance over time."
weight
stability shoes
heavier

Need help picking the right size?

Take a short quiz to help us find the right size for you compared to your current shoe. It takes 2 minutes.

Powered byFittir Logo
Get started

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

Newer Models

Reviews

Read reviews about the Altra experience form 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 (10)

4.6/5

Prices

Find the best price for the Altra experience form 1 from across the internet with our partnered shoe retailers*.

We couldn't find any stock with our partners. Try searching google instead.

*When you click through to the retailer, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Its a great way to support us and keep this site free.

Similar Shoes

Most similar
Cheaper
More cushioned
Lighter
More responsive
Softer Cushion
Same brand
Different brand
Less cushioned
More expensive