Altra timp 4

Learn more about the Altra timp 4 male running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Altra timp 4

Price

$290

Rating

High

Popularity

Less Popular

The Altra Timp 4 is a versatile trail shoe designed for moderate trails, offering a balance of cushioning and responsiveness, sitting between the Lone Peak for rough terrains and the Superior for lighter trails in the Altra lineup.

Summary

The Altra Timp 4 is a versatile trail running shoe designed for runners who seek a balance between comfort and performance on various terrains. This model features Altra's FootShape toe box and Balanced Cushioning platform, promoting natural foot movement and a low-impact landing. The MaxTrac outsole and multidirectional lugs offer excellent traction for technical trails, while the Quantic midsole provides a responsive and cushioned ride. Within Altra's lineup, the Timp 4 sits between the Lone Peak, known for its rugged durability on extreme trails, and the superior cushioning of the Olympus for ultramarathon distances. It caters to runners looking for a reliable, all-around trail shoe that handles moderate to challenging terrains well.

Surface

trail

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(29mm)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(maxtrac upper)

Weight

308g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

0mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax(medium density, 3.5mm lugs)

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Altra timp 4 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 14 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The Altra Timp 4 is generally well-received for its comfort, cushioning, and versatility, making it suitable for both short and long-distance trail running across various terrains. However, concerns about durability, traction on technical surfaces, and a few design issues, such as the tongue and laces, suggest it may be best for casual runners rather than those seeking high-performance features..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Normal

The pros highlight excellent cushioning and comfort features that are frequently mentioned, while the cons point out issues with firmness and insufficient cushioning for long runs, both of which are also commonly noted.

midsole (2)

firmness (2)

support (1)

responsive (1)

cushioning (1)

softness (1)

protection (1)

density (1)

Pros

"The Ego Max midsole is noted for being moderately firm and springy, which promotes good movement."

Ego Max

firm

springy

"The EGO Max midsole heightens overall comfort and responsiveness."

responsive

springy

shock-absorbing

"The Timp 4 offers excellent cushion and support, making it suitable for injury-prone runners."

cushion

support

injury prevention

"The new Ego Max midsole provides great cushioning, balancing softness with responsiveness."

Ego Max

cushioning

soft ride

"The Altra Timp 4 offers excellent cushioning for runners."

maximal

comfort

responsive

"The EGO MAX midsole in the TIMP 4 provides excellent underfoot cushioning and energy return."

EGO MAX

cushioning

energy return

"The midsole is significantly more cushioned than the previous model, enhancing comfort during long runs."

midsole

comfort

long runs

"The Timp 4 features a soft underfoot experience due to its new EGO MAX midsole."

EGO MAX

midsole

cushioning

soft landings

"The Altra Ego Max midsole offers a soft and springy feel."

cushioning

midsole

soft

"The shoe features significantly improved cushioning, offering better protection on rough terrain compared to previous models."

cushioning

protection

comfort

"The 29mm stack height gives ample underfoot protection."

stack height

underfoot

protection

"The EGO MAX midsole provides a lively and dense feel throughout, while maintaining lightness for a better running experience."

midsole

EGO MAX

liveliness

"The midsole offers a bouncy and responsive experience, making it enjoyable to run in."

bouncy

responsive

midsole

comfort

"It features a soft, pillowy landing that absorbs impact effectively, reducing stress on the joints."

soft landing

impact

pillowy

"The midsole dampens impact, keeping pain at bay even during long runs."

comfort

long runs

pain reduction

"The redesigned cushioning provides a soft yet lively feel, improving the overall experience when the pace increases."

redesigned cushion

soft

bouncy

"The midsole is 37% plusher than average, providing an exceptionally soft feel with every step."

plush feel

foam softness

comfort

"The Altra Timp 4 features an improved cushioning system that enhances comfort during long runs."

Ego Max foam

tall stack height

long runs

"The overall design maintains a good balance between softness and bounce for a comfortable ride."

soft

bouncy

comfortable

Cons

"The midsole is too firm for runners looking for a softer experience."

firm

midsole

softness

"The midsole is firmer than the Mont-Blanc, which can affect comfort over longer distances."

midsole

comfort

distance

"There is a noticeable loss of responsiveness in the midsole after initial use."

midsole

loss of responsiveness

cushioning

"There is insufficient underfoot protection for technical trails, which may lead to discomfort on rocky surfaces."

underfoot protection

technical trails

cushioning issue

"The Timp 4's midsole lacks enough cushioning for extremely long runs."

cushion

long runs

performance

"The Timp 4 may not provide sufficient cushioning compared to earlier models."

cushioning

comparison

"The shoe's midsole foam firms up significantly in cold temperatures, requiring a break-in period."

cold weather

foam firmness

break-in

"The midsole tends to pack out over time."

midsole

cushioning

durability

comfort
Breathability: More breathable

The main points to note are that comfort is frequently highlighted as a strong positive feature of the shoe, while issues with the tongue design and initial discomfort during the break-in period are common concerns.

padding (2)

tongue (2)

protection (1)

drainage (1)

long_distance (1)

durability (1)

fit (1)

natural motion (1)

Pros

"The upper material is designed for both protection and comfort, making it suitable for trail running."

semi-rigid

comfort

flexibility

"The drainage holes effectively keep feet dry during wet and muddy conditions, enhancing comfort."

comfort

drainage

wet conditions

"The Timp 4 is praised for its exceptional comfort, making it suitable for long runs."

comfortable

long run

rugged terrain

"The shoe features good breathability and durability in the upper, enhancing overall comfort during runs."

breathable

durable

comfortable upper

"The snug fit provides a secure feeling during runs, enhancing comfort."

snug

secure

adapts well

"The upper design enhances comfort and support, with an emphasis on fit."

upper design

comfort

support

"The shoe has a nice padded tongue and collar that enhances comfort during runs."

comfort

heel lock

tongue

"The shoe delivers a natural-feeling ride, promoting a more comfortable running experience."

natural

running experience

flexibility

"Thanks to its breathable upper, the shoe remains comfortable in warm conditions, preventing overheating."

breathable

warm conditions

comfort

"The shoe is designed to maintain flexibility while cushioning, improving the overall running experience."

flexible

natural ride

comfortable

"The shoe provides excellent comfort with a cushioned platform."

comfortable

cushioned

versatile

"The Altra Timp 4 features a well-designed heel for support and comfort."

supportive

secure

comfortable

"The Timp 4 is an excellent transition shoe for running from road to trail."

versatile

road-to-trail

comfortable

"The overall construction and upper design provide better support and comfort."

support

comfort

construction

"The tongue is comfortable, enhancing the overall comfort experience when wearing the shoe for extended periods."

comfort

shoe design

softening

Cons

"The tongue design causes discomfort and leads to blisters on long runs."

blisters

discomfort

long runs

"The long tongue of the shoe can create a minor issue with comfort."

comfort

tongue

socks

"There is some initial discomfort during the break-in period."

midsole

comfort

break-in period

"The firmer heel during walking might be uncomfortable during long races."

walking

long races

comfort

"Some users might experience irritation with low-cut socks due to tongue height."

socks

comfort

irritation

"The seam at the top of the tongue can cut into the ankle during long runs."

seam

ankle discomfort

long runs

"The heel cup padding updates may not be sufficient for all users' comfort needs."

heel cup

padding

"While the updates aim to enhance performance, some users may find it less comfortable than expected during longer runs."

long runs

comfort

"Some users might still experience discomfort due to fit issues despite the shoe being designed to improve security."

ankle fit

security

"The reviewer found the overall design to be over-built and not as minimalist as desired."

over-built

minimalism loss

durability

The main concerns about the shoe's durability are that the outsole wears down quickly and the upper material can fray early, both of which are mentioned frequently.

wear (4)

outsole (2)

construction (1)

upper (1)

abrasion (1)

overall (1)

materials (1)

build quality (1)

Pros

"The Timp 4 is durable and shows no signs of wear after extensive use."

long-lasting

resilience

tough

"The Timp 4 features a well-constructed upper made from breathable yet robust materials."

robust materials

breathability

overlays

"The upper of the Timp 4 has been significantly improved for increased durability."

durability

upper

strengthened

"TPU overlays provide enhanced abrasion resistance, extending the shoe's lifespan."

TPU

abrasion resistance

durability

"The Timp 4 offers enhanced durability compared to previous models."

durable

upgraded

resilient

"The Timp 4's upper section features durable materials for enhanced protection."

durable

protective

reinforced

"The Timp 4 holds up better in terms of durability compared to previous iterations, showing fewer wear issues over time."

higher-quality materials

revamped design

long-lasting

"The weight of the shoe is acceptable for a daily trail shoe, even with the extra features."

daily use

trail shoe

weight

"The shoe provides a new and rugged feel, suggesting better durability and robustness for trail running."

robust

trail running

design

Cons

"The shoe's upper material starts to fray early, indicating durability issues."

fraying

durability

early wear

"The outsole wears down more quickly than expected, similar to a road shoe."

outsole

quick wear

durability

"The outsole may wear down quickly when used on roads."

outsole

road use

durability

"The drainage holes cause hotspots underfoot after moderate mileage."

hotspots

drainage holes

weak point

"The lugs of the outsole show signs of wear after only moderate use."

durability

miles

lug wear

"The outsole compound improves grip on wet surfaces but decreases durability."

outsole

grip

durability

"The softer tread shows significant wear after only 188km of use."

outsole

soft compound

durability

"The soft rubber in the outsole may wear down quickly under typical running conditions."

outsole

rubber

abrasion

"The outsole wears down quickly with use."

outsole

durability

lugs

performance
Distance suited: Long (>20km)
Rocker: More rocker

The pros of the shoe highlight its versatility, lightweight design, and good performance across various terrains, while the cons mention the need for an adjustment period and lack of rock protection, but none of the pros or cons appear more than 25% of the time.

versatility (2)

rocker (1)

versatile (1)

weight (1)

nimbleness (1)

propulsion (1)

terrain (1)

flexibility (1)

Pros

"The shoe features a nice slight rocker design that aids in forward motion."

rocker

forward motion

transition

"The versatility of the Timp 4 allows it to perform well on a variety of terrains."

terrain versatility

gravel

paved roads

"Despite its cushioning, the shoe remains relatively lightweight for a trail shoe."

lightweight

performance

race-ready

"This shoe provides a nimble feel, allowing for quick transitions on the trails."

nimble

transitions

trail

"It is lightweight enough for faster runs while still providing forgiveness for longer distances, making it versatile."

lightweight

performance

forgiveness

"The Timp 4 is versatile, suitable for different running environments from roads to trails."

everyday use

versatility

mixed surfaces

"The firmer forefoot provides good propulsion for efficiency during running."

forefoot

propulsion

efficiency

"The shoe performs well in dry conditions, making it suitable for a variety of terrains."

dry conditions

versatile

mid-distance

"The flexible design allows the shoe to perform well on various trail conditions without feeling overly rigid."

ground feel

versatile

technical terrain

"The EGO MAX midsole provides excellent responsiveness and energy return."

responsiveness

energy return

performance

"The shoe offers a highly balanced ride suitable for trail running, enhancing performance."

trail running

balance

performance

"The shoe felt solid during a long endurance run, indicating good overall performance."

100K

long distance

comfort

Cons

"Although the shoe was good overall, it still required an adjustment period due to its unique design."

performance

adjustment

heel strike

"Lack of effective rock protection can lead to discomfort on rough terrain."

rock

protection

comfort

"The new Timp feels more rugged and less nimble compared to past versions."

rugged

less nimble

"The shoe did not meet the expectations set by previous models in terms of overall performance."

performance drop

different direction

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

The most common feedback about the Altra Timp 4 is that it has a comfortable and accommodating fit, especially in the toe box, while some users find the fit too snug or not suitable for narrow feet.

flexibility (2)

toe_box (2)

width (2)

lockdown (1)

heel lock (1)

natural shape (1)

roomy (1)

toe box (1)

Pros

"The Altra Timp 4 offers a unique fit that can accommodate low-volume feet."

low-volume

solid fit

secure

"The redesigned ankle and heel area offer a comfortable hugging fit, reducing slippage."

hugging fit

minimal slippage

redesign

"The Timp 4 features a design that accommodates the natural shape of the foot, enhancing comfort and fit."

fit

foot shape

comfort

"The shoe's fit is designed to accommodate a range of foot shapes, providing a roomy experience."

spacious fit

comfort

toe box

"The shoe has a good mix of flexibility providing ease of movement."

flexibility

comfort

movement

"Runners can enjoy a spacious toe box, enhancing overall fit and comfort during runs."

spacious

fit

comfort

"The toe box has been designed with extra height for added comfort."

extra height

comfortable

flexible overlays

"The shoe has an excellent in-step and heel fit, providing great stability and comfort."

stability

comfort

fit

"The ample room in the toe-box creates a comfortable running experience, especially on uneven trails."

comfort

spaciousness

fit

"The Timp 4 features a broad rounded toe box that allows for natural foot expansion during runs."

fit

toe box

natural movement

"The fit of the shoe is described as comfortable and slipper-like, enhancing the overall running experience."

comfort

fit

slipper-like

"The shoe's snug midfoot fit helps to maintain stability throughout a run."

stability

midfoot

snug

"The shoe has a wide toe box that allows for foot swelling comfort during long-distance runs."

wide fit

comfort

toe box

"It offers a secure lockdown in the midfoot, preventing slips during runs."

secure fit

midfoot lockdown

"The shoe has a gusseted tongue design that helps keep the foot securely in place."

gusseted tongue

secure fit

"The Timp 4 offers a spacious and accommodating fit, particularly in the forefoot area."

FootShape design

forefoot room

flexibility

"The updated heel cup provides a more secure and comfortable fit in the rearfoot."

secure fit

heel cup

padding

"The shoe's heel lockdown and fit have been significantly improved compared to previous models."

heel lockdown

lacing

fit

Cons

"The fit of the shoe may be too snug for those used to previous Altra models."

snug

fit

old models

"The shoe may not fit narrow-footed runners perfectly, leading to potential discomfort."

fit

narrow

discomfort

"The fit can feel looser than desired, creating concerns on technical terrain."

fit

adjustments

technical terrain

"The shape of the toe box may not suit everyone, leading to annoying fit issues."

toe box

fit issues

technical terrain

"The shoe's forefoot/toe box is narrower compared to previous models."

narrow toe box

forefoot

fit problem

"The shoe is not available in wide options, which may not accommodate runners with wider feet."

width

fit options

"The shoe's flexibility can cause added stress on the arch during runs."

arch stress

flexible

fit issue

"The heel counter is overly flexible, which may not provide the desired support for some runners."

heel support

flexible heel

"Lateral fit feels insecure when running on technical terrain, which may lead to instability."

insecure

technical

"The midfoot fit may feel snug for those used to a roomier fit."

snug fit

midfoot

"The tongue shifts during runs, making it less effective at keeping debris out."

tongue shifting

debris

semi-gusseted

"The tongue crumples and needs adjustment mid-run."

tongue

fit

adjustment

"The tongue of the shoe requires adjustment to prevent sliding, which may be inconvenient."

tongue

fit

lockdown

"The heel slip was more than comfortable for the reviewer."

heel slip

fit issue

"The shoe size felt too small, particularly during long runs."

size

tightness

stability
Stability level: Less stable

The main points to note are that the shoe's stability is frequently highlighted as a pro due to its secure heel fit and flat profile, while it is often criticized for lacking stability on technical trails and having a softer foam that compromises stability.

form (1)

secure fit (1)

midsole (1)

alignment (1)

heel lock (1)

protection (1)

technical (1)

softer foam (1)

Pros

"The shoes maintain a flat profile due to the Balanced Cushioning, promoting better running form."

stability

running form

heel drop

"The shoe offers a secure heel fit, contributing to overall stability during runs."

heel fit

stability

security

"The EgoMax midsole offers a firmer ride which contributes to stability on technical trails."

stability

technical trails

"The shoe is designed for zero-drop, promoting better alignment and foot health."

zero-drop

balanced

health

"The redesigned heel collar provides excellent heel lockdown and stability during runs on technical terrain."

heel collar

TPU overlays

ankle support

Cons

"The shoe lacks a rock plate, leading to discomfort on rocky terrain."

rock plate

rocky terrain

protection

"The shoe lacks stability on more technical trails, which could lead to a less secure feeling."

instability

technical terrain

"The shoe's softer foam compromises stability, especially on technical terrains."

stability issues

soft foam

"The Timp 4 requires adjustment for those used to rockered shoes, potentially affecting performance."

rockered shoes

platform

adjustment period

"The drainage holes affected the stability of the midsole layer."

drainage holes

stability issues

grip

The main points to note are that while the Timp 4 has impressive grip on various terrains, it struggles significantly in wet conditions, which affects its overall performance.

traction (5)

comparison (2)

dependability (1)

versatility (1)

improved traction (1)

outsole (1)

aggressive lugs (1)

weather (1)

Pros

"The grip of the Timp 4 allows for confident running on challenging and varied terrains."

grip

traction

safety

"The traction on various surfaces, especially when wet, is impressive with the Timp 4."

grip

wet weather

stability

"The outsole offers good grip on a variety of surfaces, aiding performance."

outsole

grip

variety

"The shoe provides excellent grip on wet trails and steep descents, enhancing confidence on challenging surfaces."

wet conditions

steep descents

trail

grip

"The outsole and tread provide solid traction, ensuring reliable grip on various terrains."

outsole

tread

reliable

"The outsole features a new lug pattern, providing dependable grip across various surfaces."

outsole

lug pattern

grip

"The outsole is very versatile, able to handle both dry, hard-packed surfaces and more aggressive terrain when necessary."

versatile

outsole

grip

"The Timp 4 has improved traction compared to its predecessors, showing significant advances in grip."

improved grip

slick surfaces

running performance

"The upgraded MaxTrac outsole offers improved traction in various conditions."

grip

traction

rubber compound

"The ALTRA TIMP 4 features an impressive grip improvement due to its aggressive lug pattern."

grip

lugs

improvement

Cons

"The grip performs poorly in wet conditions, limiting its effectiveness."

poor grip

wet conditions

limited use

"There may be slipping issues on steeper and muddier trails, which can impact performance."

grip

slipping

performance

"Regular trail conditions in Hawaii may not be well-suited for the Timp 4 under certain circumstances."

grip

trail

performance

"The outsole grip is not as reliable, especially in mixed conditions."

outsole

wet conditions

mixed terrain

"The Timp 4 struggles to provide sufficient traction in wet and slippery conditions."

wet conditions

slippery surfaces

traction issue

"The outsole lacks sufficient grip, particularly in the forefoot area."

outsole

bite

traction

"The outsole provides subpar traction on technical trails and in snow."

outsole

technical trails

snow

"The outsole lacks adequate grip for technical trails."

outsole

grip

technical trails

"The Timp 4 performs poorly in wet weather conditions."

wet weather

poor performance

water issues

"Grip may be inadequate on deep, sticky mud."

traction

mud

performance

"The lugs on the outsole are shallow, impacting performance in slippery conditions."

shallow lugs

performance

slippery conditions

"The shallower lug height might limit the shoe's performance in extremely technical terrains."

lug height

traction

"Though improved, some might still prefer the grip of shoes with deeper lugs."

traction

compared

performance

"The grip is improved but still not as good as Vibram Megagrip, which some may find disappointing."

grip

vibram

performance

other

The most common points are that the shoe is visually appealing and has effective drainage features, while the main concerns are its increased weight and excessively long laces.

weight (2)

transition (1)

lightweight (1)

aesthetic (1)

functional (1)

ease_of_use (1)

style (1)

visibility (1)

Pros

"Despite some criticisms, the shoe is seen as a solid option for those transitioning from traditional shoes."

great for beginners

transition shoe

Altra brand

"The Timp 4 is lightweight, making it a great option for running and traveling."

lightweight

travel

comfort

"The shoe is visually appealing, reflecting improved aesthetic design compared to prior models."

design

visual appeal

"The Timp 4 incorporates features like gaiter attachment points and drainage holes as practical additions for trail running."

gaiter attachments

drainage holes

trail functionality

"The new pull tab design makes putting on the shoe easy and convenient."

pull tab

convenience

"The shoe is visually appealing, particularly with its vibrant colorway that stands out."

color

design

visual appeal

"Reflective laces enhance visibility during low-light situations."

reflective

visibility

low-light

"The shoe drains water quickly and dries fast, making it practical for wet conditions."

water drainage

breathability

"The forefoot drainage system effectively sheds water during runs."

water shedding

forefoot

effective

"The drainage holes are effectively designed to drain water, which is a welcomed feature for wet conditions."

water drainage

wet conditions

feature

"Gaitor attachments are handy for runners who need extra protection against trail debris."

gaitor attachments

trail running

"The shoe has a well-designed upper that provides balanced breathability and structure."

loose construction

TPU overlays

durable fabric

Cons

"The shoe has gained weight compared to previous versions."

weight

tech advancement

"The shoe becomes heavier compared to previous versions, which may affect performance for some runners."

heaviness

performance

"The laces are overly long and cumbersome."

laces

durability

length

"The shoe lacks a rock plate which may compromise protection on technical terrain."

lack of rock plate

protection issue

technical terrain

"The Timp 4 is not suitable as a road-to-trail shoe due to its specific design."

road to trail

design

performance

"Excessively long laces are more of a nuisance than a benefit."

extra

gripe

"The Timp 4 is significantly more expensive than its predecessor, the Timp 3."

expensive

Timp 3 comparison

"The drainage holes did not effectively keep the feet dry in wet conditions."

drainage holes

water release

wet conditions

"The shoe is heavier than some competing models."

weight

compare

"The upper has issues with sand intrusion on loose trails."

upper

trail

loose surfaces

"The drainage groves may cause debris to enter, which could affect performance on certain terrain."

groves

performance

debris

Model Updates

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

Read reviews about the Altra timp 4 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

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Wear-tester reviews (14)

4.2/5

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Altra timp 4

Altra timp 4

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 timp 4 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

...

4.2/5

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