Altra Olympus 4.0
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Overview
The Altra Olympus 4.0 is a trail running shoe that stands out for its maximal cushioning and roomy design. It's part of the Altra Olympus family, known for its robust build and ability to handle challenging off-road conditions.
Key Features:
- Maximal Cushioning: Provides a plush ride, protecting feet from rough terrain.
- FootShape Toe Box: Offers a natural and comfortable fit, allowing toes to spread.
- Vibram Megagrip Outsole: Delivers superior traction on both wet and dry surfaces.
- Breathable Upper: Ensures feet stay cool and dry during runs.
The Altra Olympus 4.0 is an ideal choice for trail runners who prioritize comfort and protection for long distances. Its zero drop platform promotes a natural foot position and stride, making it suitable for those seeking a balanced and stable ride.
According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 84%. This puts it in the highest rated 30% of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the most expensive 20% of running shoes.
Verdict
The consensus on the Altra Olympus 4.0
The Altra Olympus 4.0 is a trail shoe that delivers on its promise of maximal cushioning and durability. It's well-suited for runners who face a variety of trail conditions and prefer a shoe with substantial underfoot protection. The shoe's Vibram Megagrip outsole provides excellent traction, and the FootShape toe box ensures a comfortable fit for wider feet. However, the shoe's weight and high stack height may not appeal to those seeking a more ground-sensitive or lightweight option. Overall, the Altra Olympus 4.0 is a reliable choice for long-distance trail runners who value comfort and stability over speed. It's a solid performer that can handle the rigors of off-road running.
Updates to Altra Olympus 4.0
The Altra Olympus 4.0 introduces several updates from its predecessor, including a redesigned upper for improved breathability and durability. The midsole continues to offer a high level of cushioning, while the outsole has been updated with more Vibram Megagrip to enhance traction. These changes contribute to a more comfortable and secure running experience. For those interested in the latest model, the Altra Olympus 5 offers a roomier toe box and additional heel padding for better lockdown.
Comparable Shoes
The Altra Lone Peak 6 is often compared to the Altra Olympus 4.0 due to its similar zero-drop design and trail focus. However, the Lone Peak 6 offers a slightly less cushioned ride, which may appeal to runners seeking a more ground-sensitive experience. It's also typically lighter and may be a better option for those who prioritize speed and agility on the trails.
Runners comparing the Altra Olympus 4.0 with the Hoka Speedgoat 5 will find that the Speedgoat 5 provides a similarly cushioned ride but with a more traditional heel-to-toe drop. The Speedgoat 5 is known for its comfortable fit and aggressive outsole, making it a strong contender for runners who prefer a plush yet responsive trail shoe.
The Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 300 Max is another shoe that trail runners may consider alongside the Altra Olympus 4.0. It offers a durable design with a focus on grip and protection. While it shares the maximalist cushioning approach, the Trailfly Ultra G 300 Max has a different fit and may be better suited for those with narrower feet or who desire a more locked-in feel.
8 Altra Olympus 4.0 Pros & Cons
4 Pros
4 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The Altra Olympus 4.0 features a breathable upper that keeps the feet cool and dry, even on long runs. The engineered mesh material is durable and provides a secure fit, while the roomy FootShape toe box is a signature element that allows for natural toe splay. This design choice is particularly beneficial for runners with wider feet or those who experience discomfort in tighter shoes.
Midsole
The midsole of the Altra Olympus 4.0 is designed with a high level of A-Bound cushioning, offering a soft and protective underfoot feel. This cushioning is ideal for absorbing impact on rough trails and contributes to the shoe's overall comfort. The zero drop platform encourages a natural running posture and stride, which can be beneficial for runners focused on form.
Outsole
Equipped with a Vibram Megagrip outsole, the Altra Olympus 4.0 provides exceptional grip on a variety of terrains. Whether the trails are dry or wet, the shoe's traction instills confidence in runners navigating technical landscapes. The outsole's durability also means that runners can expect a long lifespan from their shoes, even with heavy use.
Size/fit
The Altra Olympus 4.0 is true to size and offers a fit that accommodates a wide range of foot shapes. The shoe's wide profile and extra-large toe box are particularly suited for runners with wide feet or those who prefer a more spacious fit. The secure lacing system allows for a customizable fit, ensuring that the shoe remains snug and supportive.
Comfort
Comfort is a standout feature of the Altra Olympus 4.0, with its plush midsole cushioning and roomy interior. The shoe's design prioritizes underfoot comfort and overall foot health, making it a great option for long-distance runs and hikes. The breathable upper and padded heel collar add to the shoe's overall comfort, providing a pleasant experience for the wearer.
Cushioning
The Altra Olympus 4.0 boasts maximal cushioning, with a 33mm stack height that provides ample protection from trail debris and rough terrain. This cushioning is especially appreciated during long runs, where the additional padding helps reduce fatigue and keeps runners feeling fresh.
Breathability
With its engineered mesh upper, the Altra Olympus 4.0 offers excellent breathability. The material allows for good airflow, preventing overheating and maintaining a comfortable environment for the feet. This feature is particularly important for trail runners who may encounter varying temperatures and conditions during their runs.
Stability
The zero drop design of the Altra Olympus 4.0 contributes to its stability, allowing for a balanced and even ride. The wide base and supportive cushioning also aid in providing a stable platform, reducing the risk of ankle rolls and enhancing the runner's confidence on uneven terrain.
Durability
Durability is a key aspect of the Altra Olympus 4.0, with its robust construction and high-quality materials. The shoe's outsole, midsole, and upper are all built to withstand the demands of trail running, ensuring that runners can rely on their shoes for many miles of adventure.
Who should buy the Altra Olympus 4.0?
The Altra Olympus 4.0 is well-suited for trail runners who need a shoe with maximal cushioning and a wide toe box. It's also a good fit for those who prefer a zero drop design for a more natural running experience. Runners who prioritize underfoot protection and stability on long, challenging trails will find value in this model.
Who should not buy the Altra Olympus 4.0?
Runners looking for a lightweight, ground-sensitive shoe may want to consider other options. The Altra Olympus 4.0's cushioning and bulk may not be ideal for those who prefer a more minimalist feel. Additionally, runners with narrow feet might find the shoe's wide fit to be too roomy. For those seeking a more traditional heel-to-toe drop, other models may be more suitable.
Altra Olympus 4.0: What's it good for?
The Altra Olympus 4.0 is excellent for long-distance trail running and hiking. Its robust construction and maximal cushioning make it suitable for ultra marathons and fell running, where comfort and protection are paramount. The shoe's grip and stability also make it a strong contender for trail enthusiasts who encounter varied and technical terrain.
4 Altra Olympus 4.0 FAQs
Is the Altra Olympus 4.0 suitable for runners with wide feet?
Yes, the Altra Olympus 4.0 is designed with a FootShape toe box that provides ample room for wide feet, allowing for natural toe spread and comfort.
Can the Altra Olympus 4.0 handle wet and slippery trails?
Absolutely, the shoe's Vibram Megagrip outsole offers excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces, ensuring a secure grip on slippery trails.
How does the zero drop design of the Altra Olympus 4.0 affect running form?
The zero drop design promotes a natural foot position and stride, which can help improve running form and reduce the impact on joints.
Is the Altra Olympus 4.0 a good choice for ultra marathons?
Yes, with its maximal cushioning and durable construction, the Altra Olympus 4.0 is well-suited for the demands of ultra marathon running.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar |
| released | ReleasedJun 2020 | May 2024 | Dec 2023 | Mar 2022 | Dec 2023 | |
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| productAthletes | Pro athlete users+4 | |||||
| Weight | WeightM: 329 g W: 272 g | M: 309 g W: 272 g | M: 289 g W: 249 g | M: 295 g W: 289 g | M: 266 g W: 235 g | M: 278 g W: 235 g |
| Forefoot | Forefoot33 mm | 28 mm | 30 mm | 24 mm | 27 mm | 29 mm |
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop | 8 mm | 6 mm | 6 mm | 4 mm | |
| Heel | Heel33 mm | 36 mm | 36 mm | 30 mm | 31 mm | 29 mm |
| Terrain | TerrainTrail | MudTrail | MudTrail | Trail | MudTrail | Trail |
| Brand | BrandAltra | ASICS | Saucony | Nike | Saucony | Altra |
| Shoe Type | Shoe TypeComfortableLow dropMaximalistZero drop | ComfortableMaximalist | ComfortableMaximalist | Low drop | Low dropZero drop | |
| Breathable | Breathable | |||||
| Orthotic friendly | Orthotic friendly | |||||
| Removable insole | Removable insole | |||||
| Rocker | Rocker | |||||
| Techs | TechsVibram | ASICS Gel | Vibram | |||
Common characteristicsNeutralNeutral pronationFore/Midfoot strikeHigh archRock plate |
- Jul 2024
- Jul 2022
- Jun 2020
