Running Shoes Buying Guide

Supportive shoes meet sleek road-runner style in the Paradigm 8. They help guide your feet and deliver efficient, lightweight strides. Altra revamped this version for a better fit and breathability.
Imported.
View all Altra Men's Road-Running Shoes| Best Use | Running |
|---|---|
| Running Shoe Support | Stability |
| Running Shoe Cushioning | Moderate Cushion |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm) | 0 |
| Heel Stack Height (mm) | 30 |
| Forefoot Stack Height (mm) | 30 |
| Footwear Height | Ankle |
| Footwear Closure | Lace-up |
| Upper | Engineered mesh |
| Lining | Nylon |
| Midsole | Altra EGO MAX |
| Outsole | Rubber |
| Weight (Pair) | 1 lb. 5.69 oz. |
| Gender | Men's |
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I have previously had a lot of foot pain from arthritis as well as a bunion on one of my feet. I have tried wearing Hoka and On shoes, but the pain persisted. After wearing a pair of Altra Timp 6's, the arthritis isn't gone, but the pain is. The wide toe box has also eliminated the bunion irritation. I bought the Paradigm 8 shoes for every day wear and I am not disappointed. Who knew that shoes could make such a big difference? I think the zero drop and cushioning combination is key for my condition, and I will continue buying Altra shoes.
This is my first pair of Altra, so I have no perspective for Paradigm 7 or 6. I can say the wide toe box on these shoes have saved my feet. Coming from Hoka (Gaviota, Arahi, Bondi) these Altra shoes have some cushioning, which helps me transition to zero drop shoes. I walk with two giant dogs (200-plus pounds total) and these shoes are stable and stout enough to withstand sudden changes in terrain and direction. So far so good.
These shoes were purchased in the hope of finding a good walking shoe (not running). Along the outside of my right foot I get a sore spot on a bone and on most of my shoes I have had to cut away part of the insole to make extra space. This shoe is naturally wider in that area and in the toe and is giving me the space and comfort I was seeking. As for sizing I normally wear an 11. 5 but had to go to a 12 for the correct length. I would buy these again.
I am in my early 60s and have a few foot issues; plantar fasciatis, hammer toe. I do not run but I do walk and stay active. I have to say that I started with Altra after my Podiatrist recommended the HOKA and Altra as a good shoe for plantar fasciatis and they also had wide toe boxes. I tried the HOKA a few times and they were okay but at the time I liked the Paradigm 5. The 5 felt pretty comfortable and after almost a year it helped relieve my foot pain. Well I purchased the new Paradigm 8 and it is an even better shoe. I walked all over Spain during our vacation and I must say I never had any foot pain throughout the whole trip. They are so comfortable, honestly for me they are a perfect fit. I actually purchased a second pair just to have them as a backup. So far durability has been godd, but again I don't run with them or do any hiking. Great comfortable shoe.
Really enjoy this version. They have made some considerable improvements over the prior version, and getting back to what made the Paradigm great for several years. The laces aren't the best, and the fit is a little big, but if you tie the laces tightly, the shoe fits fine.
The soles wear out way to fast. I barely at 100 miles on this pair but I have already switched to another shoe (previous version). Heel cup feels has lost rigidity and the shoe is too soft. I just don’t like this version.
I purchased these about 6 months ago and they’re wearing away already. I’m disappointed in the quality of these shoes at this extremely high price point.