We tested the women’s model of the Altra Lone Peak 5. Here is the new version in the men’s model, the 6th of the same name.
This Altra Lone Peak’s two main characteristics are: a zero-drop faithful to the brand’s DNA and a very flexible shoe in all ways.
As is usual with Altra, we discover an atypical shoe that offers two ways to use it. The first is for runners who are accustomed to zero drop, who are comfortable with this minimalist dimension (but not necessarily with its great flexibility). The second is for runners who aren’t used to a zero drop. In this case, you must do very progressive running sessions, so you don’t create any calf injuries.
Whichever way you use it, this Altra Lone Peak 6 is a super educational tool for refining your proprioception, and especially to train your forefoot running. But it’s not a classic product, you must keep that in mind. Out running, we find with this Altra Lone Peak 6, it has a very wide toe-box, which is of course an Altra trademark. The toes are comfortable, like being in a huge living room. It’s both very comfortable but can be unsettling if you’re not used to it, especially downhill where you do lose precision.
You have the same sense of freedom in the other parts of the shoe. The laces may be good at precision foot hold, the upper is flexible and doesn’t provide arch support, or even any heel support.
If the laces can be very adjusted, the upper of the Altra Lone Peak 6 is very flexible and does not have arch support or even in the heel. The foot therefore adopts a natural foot placement, and adapts to the terrain, building muscle. It’s surprising during the first sessions. You learn to spring without a drop!
The sole adapts to the foot’s movements, all over. You gain in sensitivity during foot placements, but you shouldn’t count on the shoe compensating, it feels very close to the ground. We can’t help quoting a tester who said, “it’s a surfer’s shoe!”. Another remarkable point is how light it is: 270 grams in size 42.5. The grip of the sole is good, it offers secure support on most terrains. Altra assumes the seams present in many places. The Lone Peak 6 can be kitted with gaiters (not supplied) using a Velcro system.
The Altra Lone Peak 6 respects the brand’s zero-drop DNA. Very supple overall, this is an atypical shoe that is aimed at minimalist drop fans or runners who want to gradually change to forefoot running.
We used this equipment over a long period of time
These are our thoughts after intensive use:
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