Details
Brand
Altra
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Trail
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• Zero Drop• Built-in gaiter trap• InnerFlex technology• TrailClaw technology• EVA midsole provides light cushioning
Upper
One of the issues that runners had with the Superior 2.0 was that the upper was not durable enough for the conditions found on trails. Altra listened to its runners and updated the upper of the shoe to include reinforced, elastic overlays to make the upper super strong and durable. The overlays work to keep debris out of the shoe and also keep the shoe from wearing down prematurely. The overlays combined with an air mesh material keep the foot dry and comfortable by allowing for maximum airflow to reach the foot. Additionally, this material is quick drying. Since Altra thought of the larger and smaller design elements to create a superior upper, they also made sure to include a lacing system that would stay secure. The laces on these shoes feature an asymmetrical design that helps lock the foot in place and create a secure fit. The shoe is equipped with a Velcro gaiter trap. Runners love this gaiter trap and its ability to keep trail debris from getting into the shoe. This removes unwanted distractions and potential injury on the trail.
Midsole
Runners loved the springy, responsive feel of the Superior 3.0 midsole. Altra uses a standard EVA midsole foam to provide superior cushioning and protection to the runner. While most zero drop shoes feature no added cushioning, this shoe does add some cushioning through the midsole. This midsole foam also does an excellent job of absorbing the shock from each footfall and returning that energy to the runner. Runners reported that this shoe helped them stay energized on the trails and protected them against premature fatigue. This midsole also features Altra’s patented InnerFlex technology. This technology can be found inside the midsole and gives an extra flexible feel to the runner, allowing the foot to move naturally.
Outsole
The outsole of this shoe is designed with features that add superior grip, traction and durability. The Dura Tread material is made from a high abrasion resistant rubber that is designed to stand up against the most extreme elements of the trail. This outsole not only protects the rest of the foot from the trail, it also protects the shoe from premature wear and tear. Runners love the TrailClaw technology which does exactly as its name suggestions. It grabs onto the trail, digs in, and protects the runner from slipping and tripping. This element is especially useful on steep uphill climbs and downhill descents.
Breathability
The upper of this shoe is designed using a breathable mesh material. This allows for maximum airflow which keeps the foot cool and dry. Runners appreciated that this shoe was super fast drying which reduced odor. Trail runners know that a breathable upper is a key to a successful trial run or race, and the Altra Superior 3.0 delivers.
Comfort
Comfort for this shoe translates to a minimalist ride with a zero drop. Runners who define comfort as plush cushioning will not find that element in these shoes. However, for runners who love the fit and feel of a zero drop shoe, this one is very comfortable. A signature design element of the Altra line is that they have a zero drop but still provide the runner with just enough cushioning in the midsole to help them go longer and stay protected. Additionally, the upper is made from a durable mesh material that is highly breathable. Runners love that the air flow keeps their feet dry and reduces irritation and friction. This shoe is especially comfortable for the runner who has a wider forefoot. The design of the shoe allows for a natural toe splay and this keeps the foot from feeling too confined to claustrophobic.
Style
Altra is a line of shoes that has a unique look to it. It combines the elements of a minimalist shoe with the elements of a trail shoe. Both the men and women’s models come in three separate color combination. These combinations are more subdued and aren’t for the runner looking for an extremely vivid color combination. Aesthetically, the shoe looks more like a road running shoe than the extreme off-road adventure shoe that it is.
Durability
The Altra Superior 3.0 is a highly durable shoe. The outsole is lined with aggressive lugs that keep the shoe from breaking down. Not only is the shoe lined with aggressive lugs that keep the shape of the shoe, the upper is also covered in durable overlays that protect the shoe from wear and tear. The high durability of these shoes makes these a very smart purchase because they last longer than the average trail running shoe.
Protection
This shoe offers superior protection to the runner against the elements of the trail. First, the lug system along the underfoot of the shoe, called the Trail Claw, is designed to keep the runner safe as they traverse steep up hills and down hills. The upper comes with a built-in gaiter trap to keep the runner safe from trail debris that can infiltrate the shoe during the run. Another protective element is the removable Stone Guard that comes with the shoe. This is an added protection against rocks and roots along the trail.
Responsiveness
Runners love the high level of responsiveness offered by these trail shoes. Reviewers of the shoe loved that they could easily feel the trail below them. One of the issues runners face with trail running shoes is that due to their added cushioning and protection they tend to lose some of their responsiveness. Because of the zero drop and the thinner midsole, these shoes maintain a very responsive feel. For trail runners, this is key because it allows them to effectively respond to the changes of the trail. Runners love the Altra Superior 3.0 for adventure races like a Tough Mudder or Spartan Race.
Support
These shoes offer the runner support through the EVA midsole foam. This foam supports the midfoot and provides the runner with added spring. The upper is wrapped in durable overlays to support the foot and give the runner a snug fit that keeps the foot from moving around inside the shoe.
Terrain
This shoe is specifically designed to tackle the most extreme outdoor terrain. Runners love this shoe for mountain and trail hiking, running, and even racing. They even say that this is a great option for wet conditions. This shoe can easily traverse a groomed trail, but it shines on the more intense terrains.
Price
This shoe is very affordable. The Altra brand is known for their high quality and low cost. Add to this the high level of durability and runners rave about the all-around value of the shoe.
Drop
This shoe features a zero drop. For runners who want added cushioning and plush ride, this is not a great shoe for you. Altra is known for their zero drop technology. The features on this shoe are unique in that while the shoe maintains the minimalist feel, it also features some light cushioning through the midsole to absorb shock and reduce the risk of injury. Some reviewers commented that a zero drop is best used on the trail. The trail is the place where it is best to able to feel the ground below them, and because it is so uneven often times, it is great to have a flat foot.
Stability
The Altra brand is not a stability running shoe. Since it is designed in with a minimalist feel, runners should not expect to experience any stability features for issues with pronation. There are lots of quality stability shoes on the market, but this is not one of them.
Flexibility
Runners found this shoe to be very flexible. A key reason for the Superior 3.0’s flexibility is the InnerFlex technology found in the midsole. This material helps the foot move freely. It gives the midsole an extra stretchy, bendable feel. The upper is made from a breathable mesh, and while it does feature overlays for added support and structure, runners reported that overall, the upper moves freely with the foot.
Traction
The outsole of this shoe offers the runner superior traction and features Altra’s patented Trail Claw. The Trail Claw features a lug system that lines the underfoot including the heel area to provide superior traction for the runner especially on steep uphill and downhill. Runners even felt supported and secure on wet, slippery terrain.
Bottom Line
This shoe is the perfect lightweight trail shoe. It is able to combine durability, protection, and traction, but still be responsive and lightweight. The outsole is covered in aggressive lugs that keep the runner safe and protected even on uneven or slippery terrains. Runners responded the best to the traction provided from this shoe as well as the lightness. This is a zero drop shoe. Runners who like zero drop will love this shoe. It is a versatile shoe that can take the runner on long or short runs that are fast or slow. The price is right too. It comes in under the average trail shoe price by a sizeable amount and runners loved the overall value.
