Altra vanish carbon 1

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

Altra vanish carbon 1

Price

$380

Rating

High

Popularity

Less Popular

The Altra Vanish Carbon 1 is a high-performance carbon-plated road running shoe designed for speed, placing it above other models in Altra's lineup in terms of responsiveness and race-oriented features.

Altra
Altra vanish carbon
2 colorways

Colorway: Lime

Widths available: normal

Summary

The Altra Vanish Carbon 1 is a high-performance running shoe designed for race day, utilizing cutting-edge technology including a carbon-fiber plate for enhanced propulsion and efficiency. It features Altra's signature FootShape toe box and zero-drop platform, which promotes natural foot positioning and encourages optimal running form. The Vanish Carbon 1 stands out in Altra's lineup as a premier racing shoe, offering a lightweight and responsive ride tailored for speed and competition. Compared to other models, such as the more cushioned and versatile Altra Torin or the trail-focused Altra Lone Peak, the Vanish Carbon 1 aims to provide maximum responsiveness and minimal weight, making it ideal for serious runners seeking a performance edge in shorter races.

Surface

road

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(33mm)

Category

ResponsiveBalancedComfort

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(Matryx upper upper)

Weight

206g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

0mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Altra vanish carbon 1 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 16 wear-tester reviews.

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

midsole (2)
material (2)
protection (2)
softness (2)
stack_height (1)
responsive (1)
dampening (1)
cushioning (1)
Pros
"It has a high cushion with a significant stack height, providing comfort and support for long-distance running."
high cushion
long-distance
support
"The EGO PRO midsole offers a high level of softness and bounce, enhancing the running experience."
EGO PRO
soft
bouncy
"Reviewers find the midsole's EGO Pro Foam to be soft and bouncy, contributing to a responsive running experience."
responsive
bouncy
soft
"The midsole features advanced materials that enhance responsiveness and energy efficiency."
Ego Pro Midsole
carbon fiber
energy efficiency
"The Vanish Carbon utilizes Altra’s EGO PRO foam, providing lightweight cushioning."
EGO PRO foam
lightweight
cushioning
"The Vanish Carbon features Altra's new AltraEgo foam which offers exceptional cushioning and bounce."
AltraEgo foam
cushioning
bounce
"The midsole has a dampening effect similar to other high-end foams."
dampening
cushioning
"The EGO Max Pro foam provides a plush feel that dampens ground harshness."
cushioned
comfort
ground feel
"The Altra Vanish Carbon features a bouncy midsole that enhances efficiency during runs."
midsole
efficiency
bounce
"The Vanish Carbon provides excellent underfoot protection, reducing leg soreness even on long runs."
long-distance
comfort
cushioning
"The shoe offers excellent cushioning with a lot of protective foam beneath."
cushioning
foam
protection
"The cushioning in the Altra Vanish Carbon strikes a balance between responsiveness and softness, providing a unique running experience."
responsive
cushion
soft
"The EGO Pro midsole is noted for its responsiveness and bounciness, enhancing performance while reducing fatigue."
EGO Pro
comfort
energy return
"The cushion provides a light, airy, and responsive feel particularly beneficial during longer runs."
responsive
long runs
lightweight
"The EGO Pro midsole foam provides excellent responsiveness and bounce during runs."
EGO Pro foam
bounce
"The shoes have a responsive midsole that provides both comfort and bounce during runs."
comfortable
bouncy
midsole
"The midsole provides a bouncy feel, enhancing speed-ready performance."
responsive
energy return
"The cushioning is described as comfortable, allowing for a variety of paces."
comfortable
cushioning
Cons
"The EgoPro foam does not provide the same sensation as other leading foams."
foam
cushioning
effortless
"The cushioning may not provide enough softness for all types of runners, particularly beginners."
cushioning
softness
"Some runners may find the soft midsole lacks firmness on hills."
hill performance
soft midsole
"The foam in the midsole feels too stiff to some users."
foam
stiffness
cushioning
"The shoe may not provide the expected soft, cushy feeling that some runners prefer from racing shoes."
lack of bounce
cushioning
"The cushioning may feel somewhat firm to some runners."
firm
cushioning
"The midsole responsiveness may not be sufficient for all runners’ preferences."
midsole feel
softness

breathability (7)
irritation (3)
transition (2)
material (2)
cushioning (1)
design (1)
lockdown (1)
comfort response (1)
Pros
"The breathable upper mesh enhances overall comfort during runs."
breathable
comfort
upper mesh
"The lightweight and breathable upper of the Vanish Carbon adds to the overall comfort and usability of the shoe."
lightweight
breathability
fit
"The Altra Vanish Carbon features an exceptionally breathable upper that enhances comfort during runs."
soft
upper
breathability
"The breathable mesh upper enhances comfort and ventilation during runs."
breathable
upper
ventilation
"The engineered mesh upper provides breathability, keeping the foot comfortable during runs."
breathable
mesh
comfort
"The upper is lightweight and breathable, configured for racing with minimal padding."
lightweight
breathable
"The shoe is breathable, making it comfortable for warmer days."
breathable
hot weather
"The shoe maintains comfort throughout the run, reducing the risk of knee pain."
comfort
knee pain
foam
"The shoe combines the benefits of a zero-drop platform with a carbon plate for both comfort and efficiency."
zero-drop
carbon plate
comfort
"The upper includes a structured heel which provides good lockdown and comfort."
heel
comfort
"Provides a good balance of comfort and response during runs."
comfort
responsiveness
versatile feel
"The shoe is described as comfortable right out of the box, suitable for various run types."
comfort
versatility
training
"The shoe allows for a natural toe splay, enhancing performance and comfort during runs."
toe box
forefoot
flexibility
"The Vanish Carbon maintains comfort even after extensive use, such as during marathons."
comfort
post-race
fresh legs
"The shoe features a smooth heel-to-toe transition, adding to the overall comfort of the run."
smooth
heel-to-toe
"Smooth transitions from heel to toe enhance the running experience."
smooth
heel-to-toe
comfort
"The rounded toe box design allows for natural toe spread, enhancing comfort during runs."
rounded toe box
toe spread
comfort
Cons
"The upper lacks some protective elements, which may cause discomfort over time."
upper
rubbing
"The plastic tip of the forefoot underlay detached during use, causing discomfort."
detached
pain
unpleasant
"There is potential for heel irritation during longer runs, which could impact comfort."
heel
irritation
long runs
"Heel irritation can occur during prolonged use."
heel
irritation
discomfort
"The shoe can cause irritation on the heel and top of the foot, which could affect performance."
irritation
comfort
performance
"The upper material of the shoe feels too thick for a racing shoe."
upper
breathability
thickness
"The laces used in the shoe are also too thick, affecting their usability."
laces
thickness
"The tongue of the shoe is sharp and uncomfortable against the ankle."
tongue
anxiety
comfort
"The step-in feel is described as a bit sparse, which may not suit all runners."
sparse
comfort
step-in
"The tongue's construction is too thin, leading to discomfort during longer runs as it bunches up."
discomfort
construction
adjustments
"The heel collar padding may cause pressure on the heel area."
heel
pressure
"Limited adaptation time is needed when transitioning from higher heel-drop shoes."
adjustment
heel drop

outsole (6)
lifespan (2)
midsole durability (1)
longevity (1)
cushioning (1)
foam (1)
fragility (1)
toebox (1)
Pros
"The midsole offers impressive durability without creasing after extensive miles."
durability
low creasing
midsole performance
"The shoe exhibits robust durability, handling wear well over extended use."
durability
high mileage
"The cushioning is effective for long-distance runs, maintaining performance over mileage."
mileage
durability
cushion
Cons
"The shoe's outsole durability is subpar, leading to rapid wear."
wear
traction
"There are durability concerns regarding the outsole after long runs."
durability
outsole
wear
"After 100 miles, some wear was already starting to appear on the outsole, indicating potential durability issues."
outsole
wear
"There is noticeable wear on the outsole after only a few runs, raising concerns about durability."
wear
durability
longevity
"The rubber on the outsole shows significant wear after only 31 miles of running."
wear
lifespan
"The outsole is extremely flimsy and lacks durability."
flimsy
durability issues
"The shoe may not retain its performance level over time due to material breakdown."
material
pack out
"Limited durability, expected to last only 200 to 250 miles."
durability
mileage
limitation
"The shoe has a limited lifespan of only 150 miles according to Altra's claims, which is not cost-effective for speed."
cost
mileage
"The shoes are considered fragile, with limited mileage before wear becomes noticeable."
mileage
wear
fragility
"The toebox durability is very poor and not built for longevity."
fragile
durability
"The shoe lacks durability and may wear out quickly."
outsole
midsole
durability

propulsion (3)
lightweight (3)
efficiency (2)
transition (2)
versatility (2)
responsiveness (2)
ride (2)
carbon_plate (1)
Pros
"The shoe features a unique foot-shaped carbon plate that enhances the natural running experience."
carbon plate
natural feel
personalized
"The shoe is designed for fast racing, making it ideal for competitive runners."
go-fast
competitiveness
performance
"The Altra Vanish Carbon has a noticeably lightweight design."
lightweight
design
stack height
"The lightweight design of the shoe contributes to a faster running experience."
lightweight
speed
"The shoe is lightweight, enhancing performance during runs."
lightweight
performance
running
"The shoe is very lightweight, only 7.9 oz for men and 7.1 oz for women, which contributes to fast performance."
lightweight
fast
"The carbon fiber plate provides excellent propulsion, enhancing running speed."
carbon fiber plate
speed
efficiency
"The Carbitex carbon-fiber plate enhances propulsion and stability."
carbon-fiber
stability
propulsion
"The Vanish Carbon increases speed with a carbon plate that enhances propulsion at takeoff."
carbon plate
speed increase
toe off
"The shoe's design promotes an efficient stride, especially when fatigued."
rocker design
efficiency
strides
"The shoe is designed for efficient racing, accommodating various race distances from 10K to the marathon."
racing
speed
marathon
"The midsole utilizes Altra’s EgoPro foam which enhances performance characteristics."
EgoPro
performance
"The shoe works well at specific paces for the right footstrike."
performance
10k pace
"Offers a smooth and healthy ride for various paces."
smooth ride
varied paces
running versatility
"The variable plate stiffness enhances performance for different runner types."
carbon plate
performance tuning
adaptable
"Encourages a healthy stride length and efficient foot landing."
stride length
efficiency
natural rolling
"The design of the shoe allows for a smooth transition from heel-strike to toe-off, enhancing the running experience."
efficiency
smoothness
gait
"The transitions in the Vanish Carbon are noted to be extremely smooth, contributing to its performance."
smooth transitions
performance
"The shoe maintains a lightweight feel, which contributes to overall performance and speed during runs."
lightweight
performance
speed
"Despite its weight, the shoe feels incredibly light when running."
lightweight
fast
racing
"The lightweight feel of the shoes enhances performance during races."
race day
lightweight
performance boost
"The shoe performed exceptionally well in various run lengths, showcasing its versatility for different distances."
versatile
performance
different distances
"The shoe performs well across various paces, making it versatile for training and racing."
variety
training
"The carbon plate enhances the responsiveness of the shoe, contributing to a quicker feel during runs."
carbon plate
responsive
performance
"Runners will find the shoe responsive, which aids in speed."
responsiveness
performance
"The unique 3/4 length carbon plate is designed to harness energy effectively, enhancing performance."
carbon plate
energy
performance
"It has a unique flexible carbon plate that enhances speed and propulsion without compromising comfort."
carbon plate
energy return
propulsion
"The Vanish Carbon promotes quick-cadence running with enough cushioning for long distances."
quick cadence
agility
long distances
"The shoe's rocker shape facilitates quick turnover during runs."
rocker
fast
efficiency
"The shoe's ride is described as bouncy yet controlled, making it versatile for both short distances and longer runs."
bouncy
controlled
versatile
"The shoe provides a moderately bouncy and fast ride that is suitable for both workouts and races."
bouncy
fast
workout
"The combination of the carbon plate and EGO Pro foam contributes to an effective toe-off and overall lively feel."
carbon plate
lively ride
"The Altra Vanish Carbon provides a fast running experience."
fast
performance
"Runners reported a significant improvement in their speed for the same effort level compared to other shoes."
speed improvement
effort
race performance
Cons
"The price point may deter potential buyers given its performance relative to competitors."
price
performance
"The shoe can feel clunky and floppy after extended use, which impacts running experience."
clunky
floppy
"The shoe is heavy compared to other supershoes."
weight
compared
supershoe
"The overall experience of the shoe may not match the expectations of a 'supershoe'."
supershoe
performance
comparison
"The shoes might not be suitable for beginners due to their firmer feel compared to traditional running shoes."
beginner
performance
"The shoe's design prioritizes speed and performance but may limit its comfort during easy runs."
performance
training
versatility
"The shoe's natural feel does not align with the expectations of traditional carbon-plated shoes, which some runners may not prefer."
natural
traditional
carbon plate
"The shoe may not provide a smooth ride for longer, loping stride patterns."
smoothness
long stride
"The shoe's foam is not as bouncy or responsive as other racing foams."
bounciness
responsiveness
"There is insufficient rebound during runs, affecting the overall experience."
rebound
performance

laces (4)
width (3)
length (3)
tongue (3)
size (2)
space (2)
toe box (2)
heel (2)
Pros
"The rounded toe box provides a comfortable and accommodating fit for the foot."
toe box
comfort
fit
"The shoe fits true to size for most, providing confidence in the sizing."
true to size
fit
confidence
"The fit of the Vanish Carbon is secure and provides significant lockdown."
secure fit
midfoot support
lockdown
"The shoe features a snug fit through the midfoot, providing good lockdown."
snug fit
midfoot lockdown
"Features a form-fitting midfoot design that enhances the fit."
form-fitting
comfortable fit
midfoot support
"The shoe's wide toe box offers a comfortable fit for runners with wider feet, making it more accommodating than other racing shoes."
toe box
accommodating
comfort
"The secure fit in the midfoot and heel contributed to a confident running experience without discomfort from the toebox."
fit
heel cup
midfoot
"The shoe features a narrow toe box that provides an excellent fit."
fit
toe box
design
"The fit is true to size and accommodating for wider feet, making it suitable for various runners."
true to size
width
fit
"The fit of the shoe is true to size with a comfortably snug feel that supports the foot effectively."
true to size
medium volume
toe box
"The Vanish Carbon offers ample room in the toebox for comfort."
spacious
toebox
comfort
"The roomy toe box accommodates wider feet, enhancing comfort."
wide feet
toe box
"The shoe provides a glove-like fit, eliminating pressure points on the foot."
fit
comfort
no pressure
"Runners with wide feet will find the shoe accommodating due to the foot-shaped toe box."
wide feet
toe box
"It features a wide toe box which is characteristic of Altra shoes."
wide toe box
anatomic fit
"The Altra Vanish Carbon is built on Altra's narrowest arch, providing a sleeker and faster look."
narrow arch
aesthetic
"The shoe fits well despite its wider toe box, accommodating toe splay without compromising stability."
wide platform
stable fit
"The fit of the shoe is secure, providing a lock-down feel for runners."
fit
lockdown
"The Altra Vanish Carbon combines a higher stack height with a natural foot position and fit."
high stack
natural fit
"The heel design wraps around the heel shape nicely, providing a snug fit."
snug fit
heel wrap
heel cup
Cons
"The shoe has a narrow fit, which may not accommodate wider feet."
narrow
sizing
fit
"The toe box is not as spacious as some previous Altra shoes."
toe box
narrow
"The slim last design may not accommodate runners with wider feet adequately."
narrow fit
disappointment
"A lack of arch support may be an issue for some runners."
arch support
midfoot
"The upper's forefoot material feels unstructured and less supportive."
material
structure
uncomfortable
"The upper lacks sufficient lockdown at faster paces, affecting performance."
lockdown
performance
upper
"The tongue tends to slip and bunch, causing irritation during longer runs."
tongue
irritation
adjustment
"The upper fit is quite voluminous, which may not suit all foot shapes."
upper
fit
baggy
"Heel slip issues were reported by multiple testers, leading to concerns about fit."
heel slip
lockdown
fit
"The heel fit is baggy, which diminishes support during runs."
baggy
support
marathon
"The laces tend to come loose during runs, requiring readjustment."
loose laces
lockdown
adjustment
"The laces are rigid and not impressive."
laces
rigidity
fit
"The laces are thick, waxy, and difficult to adjust, making them unsuitable for a race shoe."
adjustability
comfort
design
"Laces do not stay tied during runs."
laces
fit
"The shoes run a little short, which may require sizing up for some runners."
sizing
fit issues
"The shoe runs short in length, necessitating a size up for comfort."
size
fit
shoe length
"The sizing may be problematic as the shoe fits slightly short."
sizing
fit
"The tongue construction is inadequate and prone to slipping."
tongue
lacing
fit
"The thin tongue tends to move off to the side during runs, causing a distraction in fit."
tongue
discomfort
fit
"The tongue construction is problematic, making it difficult to properly put the shoe on."
construction
ease of use
"The construction of the upper could be improved for better fastening."
construction
tongue
padding
"The shoe may require an adjustment period due to its zero-drop platform."
zero-drop
adjustment
transition
"Some runners may experience discomfort when transitioning from a shoe with a higher offset."
transition
adjustment
"The shoe's heel and collar are flimsy, leading to an insecure fit around the heel."
flimsiness
security

rocker (1)
balance (1)
platform (1)
firmness (1)
pace stability (1)
control (1)
inherent (1)
ride quality (1)
Pros
"The Active Stance Rocker design contributes to a smoother and more efficient stride."
Active Stance Rocker
toe-off
smooth stride
"The toe rocker design promotes efficient toe-offs, enhancing speed further."
rocker
toe-off
efficiency
"The shoe has a great forefoot rocker that enhances the running experience without excessive toe spring."
forefoot rocker
"The overall feel of the shoe is stable and balanced during running."
stable
balanced
running
"The shoe features a wide platform which is expected from Altra footwear."
wide
stability
"The shoe provides a solid stability due to the foam edges and the wide platform."
stability
foam
"Stability is maintained across a wide range of paces."
stability
multispeed
range of paces
"The wider forefoot splay adds control to the shoe's handling."
forefoot splay
control
handling
"The wider platform and toebox of the Vanish Carbon provide inherent stability, accommodating different foot shapes comfortably."
stability
wider platform
toebox
"The shoe delivers a smooth and stable ride across different terrains."
smooth
stable
all-terrain
"The rocker geometry aids in providing a natural and fluid running motion."
natural motion
midfoot strike
"The shoe offers stability due to its lower ground height, beneficial during races with many turns."
stability
turns
races
"The shoe's balanced cushioning platform is designed for optimal foot alignment and lower impact footstrikes."
balanced cushioning
foot alignment
impact reduction
"The shoe offers a stable ride, which is essential for varying speeds and distances."
stable
comfortable
balanced
"The shoe offers a stable feel when navigating sharp turns."
stability
sharp turns
"The Altra Vanish Carbon allows for a more natural running posture due to its zero drop design."
zero drop
natural running
midfoot landing
"The design of the zero drop promotes better foot function and reduces stress on joints."
joint stress
midfoot landing
foot mechanics
Cons
"The shoe's rocker geometry can be unpleasant for certain foot strikes."
geometry
heel strike
toe transition
"The shoe is unforgiving to poor form, which may lead to discomfort for some runners."
form
stability
discomfort
"The shoe's construction lacks a full-length plate, potentially affecting stability and performance."
plate
stability
"The shoe feels less controlling compared to more traditional carbon shoes, which may not suit all runners."
minimal control
runner preference

traction (1)
wet (1)
Pros
"The traction on various surfaces is reliable, making it suitable for different running conditions."
traction
weather
reliable
"The Altra Vanish Carbon is noted for its effective grip, providing confidence on various terrains after a break-in period."
grip
traction
varied terrain
Cons
"The outsole is slick, especially when new, which may affect grip on surfaces."
slick
grip
outsole
"Limited traction on wet surfaces potentially reduces performance."
wet
performance

lightweight (3)
price (3)
laces (3)
design (2)
cost (2)
value (1)
weight (1)
uniqueness (1)
Pros
"The shoe is exceptionally light, making it suitable for racing."
light
racing
performance
"The Vanish Carbon is one of the lightest racing shoes available."
lightweight
super shoes
"This shoe is relatively lightweight, making it less cumbersome for runners."
lightweight
performance
"The price tag is justified thanks to the advanced technology and performance benefits offered."
price
technology
performance
"Lightweight design contributes to the overall performance feel of the shoe."
lightweight
performance
sensitivity
"The Vanish Carbon is praised for its lightweight design, making it ideal for fast-paced runs."
lightweight
fast
"The sleek upper design adds to both aesthetics and functionality of the shoe."
aesthetics
minimalism
"The design of the upper is praised for being sleek and fast in appearance, reducing weight."
sleek
fast
appearance
"The Altra Vanish Carbon provides a unique experience compared to typical carbon-plated shoes."
carbon plated
feel
experience
Cons
"The shoe may not be suitable for daily running due to its design."
race
daily
purpose
"It is priced at a high point, which may deter potential buyers."
expensive
high_price
"The shoe is expensive for the performance it offers."
expensive
value proposition
"The shoe's price point may not be justified given its performance and durability issues."
cost
value
"The shoe might not provide adequate support for long-term wear in training."
support
training
"There is a caveat regarding the availability of alternative models."
alternatives
choices
"The shoe's weight may not appeal to everyone as some runners prefer heavier models."
lightweight
weight preference
"The $240 price tag is considered high for some runners, potentially limiting accessibility."
price
affordability
"The shoe is expensive considering its estimated lifespan of only 150 miles, which is a concern for value."
price
value
durability
"The price of the shoe feels high given its performance deficiencies."
price
value
affordability
"The shoelaces and aglets are not durable enough, with the aglets coming off after minimal use."
durability
laces
aglets
"The lacing system is flawed, frequently causing the laces to come loose during runs."
lace system
performance
fit
"The thick, long laces do not stay tied, creating potential distraction or safety issues during runs."
lacing
discomfort
safety
"The shoe could be lighter considering its classification as a super shoe."
weight
performance
"The carbon plate may reduce natural foot function if used too frequently."
frequent use
carbon plate

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Reviews

Read reviews about the Altra vanish carbon 1 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 (16)

4.3/5

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