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Altra AltraFWD Experience Road-Running Shoes - Men's
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Run more with less effort in the men's Altra AltraFWD Experience road-running shoes. They boost you forward with their rocker-shape geometry and 4 mm drop, making every run more fun.
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- Low, 4 mm drop creates a smooth and quick roll through your stride
- Rocker-shape geometry encourages an efficient toe-off
- Engineered mesh uppers
- Lightweight and responsive compression-molded midsole foam encourages efficiency and an effortless feel
- Natural Fit provides a roomy toe box and low drop, built to keep you comfortable and keep you running—move the way you were designed to
- Standard Footshape™ Fit is the most common Altra Footshape™ Fit, right in the middle of Original and Slim
- Breathable tongues with molded heel collars
Imported.
View the Altra Experience Product LineView all Altra Men's Road-Running Shoes| Best Use | Running |
|---|---|
| Running Shoe Support | Neutral |
| Running Shoe Cushioning | Moderate Cushion |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm) | 4 |
| Heel Stack Height (mm) | 32 |
| Forefoot Stack Height (mm) | 28 |
| Footwear Height | Ankle |
| Footwear Closure | Lace-up |
| Upper | Engineered mesh |
| Lining | Nylon |
| Midsole | Compression-molded EVA foam |
| Outsole | Rubber |
| Weight (Pair) | 1 lb. 1 oz. |
| Gender | Men's |
Altra Footwear - Men's
| 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | 12.5 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Men's | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | 12.5 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
| UK | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| EU | 40 | 40.5 | 41 | 42 | 42.5 | 43 | 44 | 44.5 | 45 | 46 | 46.5 | 47 | 48 | 49 | 50 | 51.5 |
| Foot Length (in.) | 9.8 | 10 | 10.2 | 10.4 | 10.6 | 10.8 | 11 | 11.2 | 11.4 | 11.6 | 11.8 | 12 | 12.2 | 12.6 | 13 | 13.4 |
Sizing Notes
Altra’s unique FootShape™ toe box and zero to low shoes are built to place your foot in a natural position, with a stable and confident foundation to run on. When fitting, be sure to allow a full thumb’s width in front of your toes. If your feet are used to cramped toe boxes, Altra shoes may feel a little big at first. Give your toes some time to get used to the newfound wiggle room.
Altra offers a range of FootShape fits:
Original Fit: The fit that started it all, Original is the roomiest of the 3 options from Altra.
Standard Fit: The most common fit from Altra is right in the middle of Original and Slim.
Slim Fit: The slimmest-fitting Altra option still allows room for your toes to spread out naturally.
IS THIS SHOE TRUE TO SIZE? The product Features above will provide a suggestion if Altra advises you to size up or down in this particular shoe. If no such note exists, please order your regular size.
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Most Helpful Favorable Review
Gateway/Transition Shoe from Mainstream Brands
Evan1 year ago
I'm going to base this review on what this shoe was intended to be, rather than what people are panicking about. I understand that Altra was bought out, I understand that Altra became huge because of their 0mm drop, and wide toe-box shoes. This shoe was created to be a gateway shoe into the brand for people like me who have only ever run in the mainstream brand shoes (aka heel-toe drop shoes).
I've been running on HOKA Cliftons (6, 7, 9) the last 3 years. Long story short, since running in the Clifton 9s, I had custom insoles that went bad - got shin splints, new insoles - over-pronating & shin splints, new insoles again - fixed. While I was constantly getting shin splits, I was researching a ton and with the rise of barefoot shoes, I appreciated the logic of them, but since I run on pavement, I can't go full barefoot for running. That's when I stumbled upon Altra. 0mm drop, wide toe box with cushion for road running - perfect. Except, since I'm used to running with a heel-toe drop, I didn't want to commit to new shoes yet, especially since my Clifton 9s were still pretty new, and since the new insoles fixed the problem, but I definitely wanted to try Altra. I was able to run 2 half marathon distance runs in my Cliftons with the new insoles, but just barely. Legs got super fatigued, calves were on the brink of cramping at mile 10 on the first run. Also worth mentioning (for later in this review) that while I had the shin splints, I stupidly and stubbornly continued running, which affected my stride - my left foot would turn to the right as I took a stride and would sometimes brush against my right calve.
These shoes came out and I jumped on them. First run was an easy 3 mile, cool and familiar with a heel-toe drop (basically identical, these are 1mm less than the Cliftons'). I fixed my stride problem on that run, and am back to a healthy and stable form. I started increasing my distance and didn't have a problem with shin splints, cramps or anything with the insoles that came with the shoe. Just recently ran 17.62 miles (my longest run, and a goal I set for myself). It wasn't until the very end that my left foot's arch began to give out and give me problems (which is also the foot/leg that had the most problems with shin splints, stride, and toe spacing). The run was amazing, no leg or muscle fatigue the entire time, and I hadn't prepared for that run in the slightest before setting off. If it hadn't been for my left foot (plus the fuel I was running on), I could have easily kept going.
All in all, these are a perfect shoe for people to get a flavor of Altra DNA without having to commit to 0mm drop, or for people who want to work their way to a 0mm who have been running in large heel-toe drop shoes. The toe space is incredible compared to the mainstream brands, and the shoe is lightweight. Another thing I like about it is the heel is shaped like a heel, and the outsole pattern is like bones on the bottom of a foot (like other Altras).
Evan
Falls Church, VA
13 people found this review helpful
Most Helpful Critical Review
A desperate and pathetic brand diversion
The HIGHker1 year ago
IF YOU LOVE ALTRA, BOYCOTT THIS SHOE! I am still a die-hard fan of Altra, but have watched the brand slowly digress for years since being bought out. This now overly progressive move to making a shoe with a heel drop is a complete diversion from the brand and frankly scares me…within another year or two I now see Altra fading away into obscurity. Very sad and desperate move by the company.
The HIGHker
Western NC
20 people found this review helpful
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Bencjr86
New York
Best running shoe I have ever owned!
1 year ago
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] The Men's Altra FWD Experience is the best running shoe I have ever owned. As an avid but aging runner, I am always looking for shoes that allow me to keep running with minimal discomfort. The compression foam helps with shock absorption while running while also providing a comfortable feeling, minimizing fatigue. I absolutely love the lightweight design and large toe box, which is unique compared to other running shoes and gives your toes plenty of room to move. The rocker shape and low drop of the shoe make for a seamless heel-to-toe stride and feels as if it gives you assistance on your toe-off. I used these shoes for both road and trail running and definitely noticed a positive difference in my performance and running fatigue. Oh, and not only do they perform well but they also look amazing as well. These will be my go-to brand of running footwear going forward and I would highly recommend them!
Yes , I recommend this product
Originally posted on altrafootwear.com
Dennis
Received free product
California
New favorite walking and second favorite running
1 year ago
TLDR: My new favorite walking and second favorite running shoes. I will break my review into two sections comparing Altra running shoes in two categories, running and walking, against my current favorites. Overall, these are fantastic shoes - great stability, support and comfort. I love the slightly larger toe box which gave a roomy feel, but did not feel too large that I lost stability or experienced wobbliness. Though you will feel the difference between these Altras and other running shoes (in my case Brooks Adrenaline) depending on your main use: road running vs. treadmill running or walking. Running: I took one star off because these are advertised as running shoes, but I found them to be slightly behind my current favorite, Brooks Adrenaline, for road running. They just lack that additional springiness that Adrenaline provides. Although for treadmill running, I would say they are pretty much a tie. If you are mostly a road runner, then I would have a slight concern with the longevity of the shoe (treads, fabric, etc.) but only time will tell. For example, the heel is only half covered with more resistant rubber which may lead to faster wear-and-tear. I tested these Altras over several weeks in both outdoor walks/runs and indoor treadmill; I noticed a slight compression, which my Brooks don’t show even after a half of a year of diverse use. Walking: These are my new favorites! Living in coastal California we have tons of walking trails along the ocean, and almost every weekend my wife and I go for long walks along the ocean (average 5 miles). In addition, we walk 3 miles every morning. This is now, by far, my favorite walking shoe!! Previously, I wore the On CloudGo. Altra beats them pretty much on all criteria. Altras were roomier, super comfy, and offered better stability for long walks. In addition, I noticed my knees and hips also showed way less fatigue after a long walk.
Age:35–44
Weight:175–200 lbs.
Height:6'1"
Average Weekly Mileage:11–30 miles
Typical Shoe Size:Mens 11.5
Running Experience:Experienced
Yes , I recommend this product
Tony
Received free product
Hernando, MS
Comfortable and roomy
1 year ago
I used these right out of the box on a 5 mile run. I usually wear a wide shoe but these felt wide enough in the toe box without being sized as wide. These are the first pair of Altra shoes I’ve worn and I am impressed. They are light and even with an occasional heel strike my feet and legs felt great after my run. The sole seems durable but I cannot attest to that yet since I’ve only put about 10 road miles on them so far. Overall they seem to be great for an every day training shoe.
Age:35–44
Weight:175–200 lbs.
Height:5'9"
Average Weekly Mileage:30+ miles
Typical Shoe Size:Mens 10.5
Running Experience:Experienced
Yes , I recommend this product
MrTexas
Received free product
Houston, TX
A Fresh Departure for Altra's with 4mm Drop Shoe
1 year ago
My previous go-to was the Altra Escalante 2.5, a road running shoe that really resonated with me. I skipped the 3.0 version as I felt it was sub-par. As someone who has experimented extensively with barefoot-style running through brands like Vivobarefoot, Xero, Lems, and Altras, I've developed a particular affinity for such features (0-drop, wide to box, and low stack height). Previous iterations of Altra shoes boasted a wide forefoot and 0-drop soles, setting them apart from other barefoot-style shoes with Altra's more substantial stack height. This design provided greater comfort for running at the expense of ground feel (and more potential to roll an ankle). The latest Altras represent a significant departure from their quasi-barefoot lineage. These shoes are slightly narrower compared to my Escalante model, although the difference isn't drastic. Surprisingly, they've abandoned the 0-drop feature for a "low drop" design, which appears to have a 4mm variance. So, you might wonder, is the change in drop noticeable? Interestingly, it's the shoe's rocker style that catches my attention more than the drop. The new design encourages a natural rocking motion, making it somewhat easier to run. The foam used in the midsole is fairly standard. This model isn't targeted at Altra's existing customer base. If you're a fan of their traditional design elements, this specific product may not excite you. However, for those considering more foot-friendly options, this shoe serves as an excellent entry point. It offers comfort for your toes while retaining a drop that mainstream runners are accustomed to. I appreciate the shoe's aesthetic and its performance while running. Although it won't replace my 0-drop shoes for daily walking, I plan to continue using it for my runs. It's an ideal choice for those who like traditional running shoes but crave extra toe room.
Age:35–44
Weight:175–200 lbs.
Height:5'11"
Average Weekly Mileage:11–30 miles
Typical Shoe Size:Mens 11
Running Experience:Experienced
Yes , I recommend this product
crash3400
Received free product
NWGA
super comfy, a little goofy, want to go fast
1 year ago
all my running shoes to this point have been minimalist, so i was both eager and apprehensive to try these. first impressions: love the color, and these jokers are a little goofy looking. then i put them on. mind blown. they're easily in the top 3 lightest and comfiest shoes i've ever worn, right out of the box. naturally this didn't change after taking them for a run. they're light, cushy, and incredibly comfortable. the uppers breathe and feel great with or without socks (i know, but i had to try it). i'm not a distance runner, but i've taken them out for about 12 miles so far (in addition to some daily walking around wear - another 15-20 miles). i will say the FWD is apparent and these shoes want to go! as cushy as they are, it took some adjustment not to feel every little crack/pebble in the road, but they feel grounded and stable. regardless, feeling like i'm being propelled forward by some magic force meant none of that mattered, these babies want to go!
Age:35–44
Weight:150–175 lbs.
Height:5'10"
Average Weekly Mileage:11–30 miles
Typical Shoe Size:Mens 10
Running Experience:Experienced
Yes , I recommend this product
neenee
Midwest
Comfortable
1 year ago
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Very comfortable running shoes. My feet have not hurt since wearing them. Comfort, they are perfect. Style, isn't the best. White, is a bad color choice, as they are dirty already. I would chose a different color next.
Yes , I recommend this product
Originally posted on altrafootwear.com
Simon
Longmont, Colorado
New favorite addition to my Altra rotation!
1 year ago
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I've loved adding the FWD Experience into my shoe rotation. Step-in fit is amazing and it feels effortless on my runs whether it's an easy few miles, or when picking up the pace for some tempo work. As an Altra employee, I'm in the shoes all the time, I typically run in the Torin or Rivera on the roads, but the FWD Experience offers a different kind of ride and I definitely feel the rocker shape, which comes in handy on tired legs or when throwing in some faster miles. The toe box feels nice and roomy for my toes, and the upper is very plush, but light. Plus, they look pretty sweet too! I'm excited to have a versatile shoe like this moving forward!
Yes , I recommend this product
Originally posted on altrafootwear.com
CE82
Received free product
Denver, CO
20 Miles in - Looking forward to many more
1 year ago
I am definitely not a professional runner, I don't usually run long distances and see running as a means to an end, versus recreation in and of itself. These are helping me change that impression, and making longer runs easier and more fun. I was initially a bit skeptical of these shoes, as they were radically different than previous shoes I have worn. Trying them on, I found the wide toe box functionally perfect for my feet, and while odd at first, the heel drop and overall feel of padding works perfectly for my running style, making moderate and long runs far more comfortable for my feet. I haven't found any odd wear spots, no hot spots on my feet, no weird twisting ankle while running on an uneven surface, or any real problems when using these. I've put about 20 miles of roads and local paths on these (through a fair number of smaller runs), and am looking forward to more and longer runs as I go.
Age:25–34
Weight:175–200 lbs.
Height:5'10"
Average Weekly Mileage:11–30 miles
Typical Shoe Size:Mens 9.5
Running Experience:Beginner
Yes , I recommend this product
KyleH
Kansas City, Mo
The perfect blend of comfort, support, and performance
1 year ago
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I recently received a free pair of Altra FWD Experience running shoes in exchange for this review. As an avid runner, I'm always on the lookout for shoes that can provide the perfect blend of comfort, support, and performance. The Altra FWD Experience did not disappoint. First and foremost, what sets these shoes apart is the unique design of Altra's toe box. It's wider than traditional running shoes, allowing your toes to splay naturally. This feature made a noticeable difference in reducing discomfort and hotspots during long runs. It's like giving your feet room to breathe and move freely, which I believe contributes to overall foot health. These shoes have more cushioning than I'm used to, but I find the cushioning in these shoes is exceptional. For me, it provides a great balance between comfort and terrain responsiveness. It absorbs impact without feeling mushy, which is perfect for those who prefer a balance between cushioning and ground feel. Whether I'm on a long, slow jog or pushing the pace during a tempo run, the FWD Experience handles it all with ease. The upper of the shoe is breathable and lightweight, which is great for warmer days. The shoe is also quite durable, and I've put it through some rough terrain without any signs of wear and tear. One thing to note about these shoes is the low drop between the heel and forefoot. I typically run with zero-drop shoes, but found the small drop to be a refreshing change of pace. In terms of fit, these shoes are true to size, but I'd recommend trying them on before purchasing if you have a wide foot. The roomy toe box can accommodate wider feet, but if you have narrow feet, you might want to consider other Altra models or perhaps a different brand. The FWD Experience's traction is excellent, providing a confident grip on various surfaces. Whether you're running on roads, trails, or even wet conditions, these shoes offer solid footing. Overall, I'm thoroughly impressed with the Altra FWD Experience men's running shoes. They've quickly become my go-to choice for daily training runs and longer races. The combination of comfort and support makes them stand out in the crowded world of running shoes. If you're looking for a shoe that promotes natural foot movement and provides a smooth ride, I highly recommend giving the Altra FWD Experience a try.
Yes , I recommend this product
Originally posted on altrafootwear.com
Billy C
Frederick, MD
Finally a Goldilocks “just right” Altra road shoe!
1 year ago
As a long time Kinvara owner who doesn’t like their newest version, I was thrilled to see Altra release a low drop instead of no drop shoe. Unlike the other review on here who obviously did not buy or try on the shoe, but instead is angry about a shoe company’s decision to add a low drop shoe to their lineup (despite not changing the specs on their other shoes), I ordered this shoe and have them on my feet now. There are many of us who love the fit of Altra’s toe box and are great with the zero drop on varying trails, but don’t love the extra effort it takes to run in a road shoe with no drop or rocker feel at all. I feel many of us have been waiting for this exact shoe, so thank you Altra! Hers what I like: Great fit with the classic Altra foot shape shoe! Perfect tiny 4mm drop for the many Brooks PureFlow and Saucony Kinvara lovers out there. Nice soft uppers right out of the box. Cushioning without too much cushioning. Super lightweight. Nice colors. Cons: They are a little squeaky when I’m walking around, I’m hoping this will go away after a couple runs. Laces are crazy long! Overall it’s a great shoe so far but I’ll update the review if I have any updates.
Age:45–54
Weight:125–150 lbs.
Height:5'11"
Average Weekly Mileage:30+ miles
Typical Shoe Size:Mens 12
Running Experience:Experienced
Yes , I recommend this product
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