Altra  Escalante 5 Road-Running Shoes - Women's

I almost didn't order them because of all the bad reviews.. in my opinion, I feel that they are an upgrade from my Escalante 4s. I love the more snug fit. It feels like a little hug. I feel like I have a bit more toe room than the Escalante 4. I look forward to seeing what new colors you come up with! Wonderful shoe!

I've worn multiple Altra styles, but by far the best for my feet was Escalante 4. My foot PT recommended them, and they were terrific and a really unusual running shoe: wide toe box with light cushioning that was good for bunions and toe joint pain. I just assumed the 5s would be similar. Nope: walked down the hall and already my feet hurt because the 5s are too narrow. Higher stacked and firmer heel too. Could not be more disappointed that Altra is moving away from the old diversity of offerings into increasingly narrow, cushioned shoes. It's what set the brand apart.

Before settling on this pair of Altras, I had done my research online. Since joining a Zumba class six weeks ago, I had been wanting a pair of zero drop shoes that provided a little more cushion to soften the repeated concussive impact of my feet hitting a concrete floor during class. I switched to zero drop shoes a couple of years ago to help with hip and lower back discomfort, and I really didn’t want to go back on that decision, but I also knew I needed more cushion for my feet and ankles. Then I discovered the Altra shoe line and thought they would be the perfect solution. I tried them for the first time in class today and absolutely LOVED them! They are exactly what I had been wanting, and I am also grateful I was able to find them in my local store without having to order them online.

First time buying these. Not sure yet on how they perform but the color options are awful. Would you add some neutrals that aren't stark black or white? Taupe, stone, charcoal?

Just ordered two additional pairs. I have loved the Escalante 3 and Escalante 4 because the low stack gives me great road feel. The fabric in the toe area of the Escalante 5 continues what I love about versions 3 and 4-- softer toe area at the front of the shoe, low stack height, comfortable lacing -- while giving me a slightly wider and longer toe box in the same size I always wear. Fit over the mid foot (I have high arches) is excellent. The laces are long enough. I played with the lacing at the upper eyelets to perfect the fit over the area of the instep closest to my ankle. Altra, please give me more fun, bright colors -- The Escalante 3 in fuchsia was a real winner. The pink is OK, but I'd like something more bold. After wearing it for a few days, I ordered the shoe in the pale blue and black with white sole.

I own three pairs of Escalante 3s and they were my favorites! The sole on the 4 was clunky (stiffer material), and that has drastically improved on the 5s. However, the foot bed is more narrow across the ball of the foot. I had to go up 1/2 size, and it’s still slightly tight at the ball of my foot, while being looser at the heel and midfoot. I want to love these as much as my 3s, but they’re just not quite right. Now shopping for other brands.

I am honestly so happy with this shoe. It is so comfortable and fits my very wide feet like a pair of gloves. I just walked 35k steps exploring NYC in them all day and somehow my feet didn’t even hurt. Really good cushioning, shape, and the materials look and feet great. They’re even cute. Couldn’t be happier!

I dont run. I have arthritis and arch issues and loved the older Escalantes. I have to use an orthotic insert for arch support. With the wide toe box design they were perfect. I love the movement of the sole. I believe they used to be wide width but I may be remembering wrong. These new ones are too narrow. Even the tongue of the shoe is too narrow. You can see my socks on the sides. I don't have fat feet. I do have wide feet. These shoes are the only ones I have found that don't hurt my feet with the way the sole moves. I wish they were made in wide width. I tried the lone peak but the soles make me heel plant too much and the upper not being mesh doesn't have enough give to let my feet spread out. I am just feeling defeated when it comes to foot wear. Being a nurse on my feet all day it is so important to find the right shoe. Please Altra. Think about the wide feet folks.

I’m a loyal Altra fan, and no other brand compares for fit and function. Altras consistently feel comfortable on my feet, which matters because I have a history of plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. These are my second pair of Escalantes; my first were the Escalante 4. The Escalante 5 feels noticeably different, with a firmer, sturdier sole. That works well for me since I prefer a more stable shoe over a soft, cushioned feel. The Escalante 4 seems to have slightly more noticeable arch support, but the 5 still felt great right out of the box. I received them last night and wore them the next day for cross-training and weightlifting. I also plan to use them primarily for indoor and treadmill runs. I wear an 8.5, and they fit true to size. The black-and-gold colorway looks sharp, too. Along with my Torins, the Escalantes are my go-to workout shoes. I hope this model stays around.

It took a little getting used to but I LOVE the shoes…but absolutely hate the shoe laces which come undone in seconds. Only option is to double-knot. The 100% synthetic, plastic lace is prob great for keeping a trail shoe dirt-free, but slippery and a hassle for a daily/gym shoe. I ‘m hoping someone at Altra sees this comment b/c this will prob keep me from buying another pair,