Altra experience form 1

Learn more about the Altra experience form 1 male 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.

3 colorways

Colorway: Grey Green

Widths available: normal

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)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(Quick-Dry Air Mesh upper)

Weight

221g

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

Summary: The Altra Experience Form is a lightweight stability running shoe that offers a comfortable fit with a spacious toebox and moderate support, making it suitable for casual runners and daily training. However, it may lack sufficient cushioning and energy return for longer distances, which could be a drawback for those seeking a more responsive experience..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Firm

The main points to note are that many users appreciate the shoe's balance of comfort and ground feel, while a significant number also find the cushioning to be firmer than expected, leading to discomfort during runs.

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

comfort
Breathability: Average

The pros of the shoe highlight its lightweight feel, versatility for running and walking, and overall comfort, while the cons point out issues with the upper material being stiff and the shoe not being the most comfortable option available.

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

durability

The main points to note are that the shoe is praised for its overall durability and condition after use, but there are significant concerns about the midsole and heel padding not lasting as long as expected.

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

performance
Distance suited: Short (<10km)
Rocker: Less rocker

The main points to note are that the shoe is frequently praised for its lightweight design and natural running experience, but it is also commonly criticized for not being suitable for serious runners and lacking effective propulsion during toe-off.

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

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

The shoe's roomy toe box is a common highlight, while the short tongue and narrow fit are frequent concerns.

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

stability
Stability level: Average

The main points to note are that the shoe's impressive stability and effective GuideRail technology are frequently mentioned as pros, while concerns about insufficient support and instability during longer runs are common cons.

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

grip

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

other

The main points to note are that the shoe's appealing design and comfort for everyday wear are frequently mentioned, while concerns about the lack of standout features and safety elements in low-light conditions are also significant.

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

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

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Altra experience form 1

Altra experience form 1

Surface

Cushioning

Category

Breathability

Weight

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Support

Width options

Grip

Suitability

Based on your running style and needs

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

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

...

4.6/5

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