Altra Solstice
Buy Altra Solstice at today's best price (men's/women's)
7 minute read
Overview
The Altra Solstice is a running shoe designed for those who seek a balance between a lightweight feel and comfortable cushioning. This shoe stands out for its ZeroDrop design, which promotes a natural foot position and stride.
Key Features:
- ZeroDrop Platform: Encourages natural foot alignment and low-impact landing.
- FootShape Toe Box: Provides ample space for toe splay (the spreading of the toes), enhancing stability and comfort.
- High Abrasion EVA Midsole: Offers a blend of cushioning and responsiveness for a smooth ride.
- Engineered Mesh Upper: Delivers breathability and a snug, adaptive fit.
The Altra Solstice is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize a natural running experience and value a shoe that can handle a variety of distances and speeds. Its lightweight construction and comfortable fit make it suitable for both daily training and racing scenarios.
According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 63%. This puts it in the lowest rated 10% of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's just above the median price of running shoes.
Verdict
The consensus on the Altra Solstice
The Altra Solstice has received praise for its lightweight design and comfortable fit, making it a favorite for a range of running activities. Its ZeroDrop platform and wide toe box work in harmony to provide a natural running experience, which is appreciated by those who prefer a minimalist approach without sacrificing cushioning. The High Abrasion EVA midsole strikes a balance between softness and responsiveness, allowing for a comfortable ride without feeling sluggish. However, the shoe's durability, particularly in the outsole, has been a point of concern for some users. The engineered mesh upper offers breathability and a secure fit, though it may not suit all foot shapes, especially those with a longer second toe. Overall, the Altra Solstice is a solid choice for runners seeking a lightweight and versatile shoe, but it may not be the best option for those who prioritize durability or have specific fit requirements. For the right runner, the Altra Solstice offers an excellent blend of performance and comfort at a reasonable price point.
Comparable Shoes
The Brooks Hyperion is a notable competitor to the Altra Solstice, offering a similar lightweight and breathable design. However, the Hyperion stands out with its more traditional fit and higher durability, making it a better choice for runners who prioritize longevity and a snugger fit.
Compared to the Altra Solstice, the Hoka Bondi 6 offers a thicker, more cushioned midsole, which may appeal to runners seeking maximum comfort and support. The Bondi 6's firmer EVA midsole provides a different type of responsiveness, suitable for those who prefer a more structured shoe.
7 Altra Solstice Pros & Cons
4 Pros
3 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The Altra Solstice features an engineered mesh upper that provides breathability and a comfortable, adaptive fit. This design choice helps keep the feet cool during runs, especially in warmer conditions. However, some runners with a longer second toe may find the fit less than ideal when picking up the pace, as the FootShape toe box can lead to discomfort. The upper's construction is generally appreciated for its ability to accommodate a wide range of foot shapes, but it's important for potential buyers to ensure a proper fit before committing.
Midsole
The High Abrasion EVA midsole of the Altra Solstice is a standout feature, offering a cushioned yet responsive ride. This material choice contributes to the shoe's overall lightness and aids in reducing the impact on joints during runs. The ZeroDrop design of the midsole promotes a natural foot strike and may appeal to runners who prefer a more minimalist running experience. While the midsole provides adequate cushioning for daily training, some runners may seek additional support for longer distances.
Outsole
Durability concerns arise with the Altra Solstice's outsole, which features exposed EVA foam with minimal rubber reinforcement. This design choice contributes to the shoe's lightweight nature but compromises its longevity, particularly in high-wear areas such as the forefoot. Runners who prioritize durability and traction may find the outsole's performance lacking over time, especially when used extensively on abrasive surfaces like asphalt.
Size/fit
The Altra Solstice is designed with a roomy FootShape toe box, which allows for natural toe splay and contributes to the shoe's stability and comfort. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners with wider feet or those who prefer a more spacious fit. However, the unique shape of the toe box may not accommodate all foot types, especially for individuals with a longer second toe. It's recommended that runners try on the shoe to ensure a comfortable fit that suits their specific foot shape.
Comfort
Comfort is a key attribute of the Altra Solstice, with its lightweight construction and cushioned midsole providing a pleasant running experience. The engineered mesh upper and the shoe's overall design support a comfortable fit, making it suitable for a variety of running activities. While the shoe excels in comfort for short to medium distances, some runners may find the cushioning less forgiving during longer runs or at a faster pace.
Cushioning
The cushioning of the Altra Solstice is provided by the High Abrasion EVA midsole, which offers a balance between softness and energy return. This cushioning system is designed to absorb shock while maintaining a responsive feel, catering to runners who enjoy a cushioned ride without excessive bulk. The ZeroDrop platform further enhances the natural running experience, although some runners may desire more cushioning for extended distances.
Breathability
Breathability is a strong suit for the Altra Solstice, thanks to its engineered mesh upper that facilitates airflow and helps manage moisture during runs. This feature is particularly advantageous in warmer climates or during intense workouts, as it aids in keeping the feet cool and dry. The balance between breathability and comfort makes the Solstice a good option for runners who value a well-ventilated shoe.
Stability
The Altra Solstice offers stability through its wide FootShape toe box and ZeroDrop platform, which encourage a balanced and stable stride. The shoe's design allows for natural foot movement and alignment, which can be beneficial for runners with neutral pronation. However, those requiring additional support may find the stability features of the Solstice insufficient for their needs.
Who should buy the Altra Solstice?
The Altra Solstice is well-suited for runners who appreciate a zero drop design and a wide toe box for a natural running experience. It's ideal for those who engage in daily running and are looking for a shoe that offers both lightness and comfort. The Solstice is also a good match for runners who alternate between different speeds and distances, thanks to its versatile cushioning and responsive midsole.
Who should not buy the Altra Solstice?
Runners who have a longer second toe or require a more traditional fit may find the Altra Solstice's FootShape toe box uncomfortable, especially at higher speeds. Those seeking a shoe with high durability, particularly in the outsole, should consider other options, as the Solstice's exposed EVA foam may wear down quickly on rough surfaces. Additionally, runners who need extra support for overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot) or have specific stability requirements might want to explore shoes with more targeted support features.
Altra Solstice: What's it good for?
The Altra Solstice is excellent for road running, offering a comfortable and responsive ride on paved surfaces. It's also well-suited for racing at shorter distances like 5Ks and 10Ks, where its lightweight design can be advantageous. The shoe's breathability and cushioning make it a solid choice for summer runs and gym workouts, providing a versatile option for various types of exercise.
4 Altra Solstice FAQs
Is the Altra Solstice suitable for long-distance running?
The Altra Solstice can handle long-distance running, but its cushioning may not be as forgiving for extended periods compared to more plush models. It's ideal for runners who prefer a lightweight and natural feel during their long runs.
How does the ZeroDrop design of the Altra Solstice affect running form?
The ZeroDrop design promotes a more natural foot strike (the way the foot makes contact with the ground) and can encourage better posture and alignment while running. It's beneficial for those looking to mimic a barefoot running experience with some cushioning.
Can the Altra Solstice be used for gym workouts and other cross-training activities?
Yes, the Altra Solstice's flexible design and comfortable fit make it suitable for gym workouts and cross-training activities, providing a versatile option for athletes who engage in various types of exercise.
Is the Altra Solstice vegan-friendly?
While the Altra Solstice is not specifically marketed as vegan, it does not appear to contain any animal-derived materials. However, those seeking a certified vegan shoe should verify with the manufacturer for confirmation.
