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.
The Paradigms look great, feel cushy yet sturdy - therefore extremely comfortable - and provides the expected wide toe box of Altra’s, giving my toes a relaxed feel. I would say it is an enhanced version of the Torin - also a shoe I enjoy wearing.
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.
I have wide feet and I'm used to Altras fitting me perfectly but these are more narrow than other pairs I've worn. I'd consider ordering the wide version next time. I appreciate the support as I recently found out I have issues with pronation. They've worked well for me on light runs and even some cross training stuff.
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.
This is my 4th pair of Paradigms and they are perfect for my feet with the wide toe box, cushion, and low drop, no toe flip, and accommodate orthotic inserts. I would say the outsole seems a touch lighter and perhaps less durable than the previous version, and the laces are wider. Overall still great. Currently have two pairs, one for running and one for regular wear. These and lone peaks are my go-to, I’m a big fan.
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.
Got these shoes for the wide toe box at recommendation of my podiatrist for my daily fitness walks. In every walk, the bottom of the lace hoops on the inside of my feet dug into the top of my foot, even through double thickness socks. The lace hoops have sharp bottom edges that the shoe tongue doesn't slide under to protect against. Unwearable.
The fabric in the heel is pilling after just a few weeks. It used to be a smoother fabric but now it is more abrasive. The sole is coming off the toe as well. I have had three other pairs of these shoes and they all lasted for years. This one so far is lasting weeks before issues. They're comfortable but I doubt they'll last long.