Altra VIA Olympus 2

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Altra VIA Olympus 2: Review

β€œA zero-drop shoe that maximizes comfort and natural stride for daily runners.”

Overview


The Altra VIA Olympus 2 is a running shoe that stands out for its zero-drop platform (no difference in height from heel to toe) and maximalist cushioning (thick, soft padding underfoot).

Key Features:

  • Natural Foot Positioning: Designed with a zero-drop platform to promote a natural stride.
  • Maximalist Cushioning: Features a thick midsole for enhanced underfoot protection.
  • Spacious Toe Box: Offers an extra wide toe box to allow for toe splay (the natural spreading of the toes).
  • Durable Outsole: Equipped with a robust outsole for extended wear.

The Altra VIA Olympus 2 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize natural foot mechanics and ample cushioning for their daily running. Its spacious toe box and durable outsole offer a comfortable and reliable ride, making it suitable for long runs and recovery days.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 70%. 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 in the most expensive 30% of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the Altra VIA Olympus 2


The Altra VIA Olympus 2 has been recognized as a solid daily trainer, offering a stable ride with a significant stack height (the amount of material between your foot and the ground) and a durable outsole. The shoe's midsole, the Altra EGO Max, provides a softer ride, although some runners may find it lacks the immediate plushness of other materials. The upper is praised for its natural fit, while the traction and durability of the outsole are notable strengths. However, the shoe's price and the midsole's performance have been points of contention. Overall, the Altra VIA Olympus 2 is a commendable choice for runners seeking a recovery shoe with a zero-drop experience, but it may not be the first pick for those looking for a more cushioned and forgiving ride.

Comparable Shoes


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Runners looking for a cushioned experience may also consider the ASICS Novablast. It offers the FF Blast midsole, which is known for its forgiving nature. In contrast, the Altra VIA Olympus 2's cushioning may take a few runs to become appreciable, making the Novablast a potential alternative for those seeking instant comfort.

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The Hoka Clifton 9 is a suitable alternative for runners transitioning to lower drop shoes. It provides ample cushioning with a mid-drop design, which can be a gentler step down from traditional running shoes compared to the zero-drop Altra VIA Olympus 2.

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For those who prioritize a lightweight and flexible shoe, the Altra Torin 7 may be a better fit. It shares the zero-drop design of the VIA Olympus 2 but offers a less stiff and more agile ride, catering to runners who prefer a featherlight build.

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The Nike Invincible Run is often compared to the Altra VIA Olympus 2 for its plush cushioning. While both shoes offer a comfortable ride, the Nike Invincible features ZoomX foam, which some runners may find provides a more immediate softness compared to the Altra EGO Max midsole of the VIA Olympus 2.

6 Altra VIA Olympus 2 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

The Altra VIA Olympus 2 offers a natural fit with its spacious toe box and zero-drop design, promoting a comfortable and efficient stride.
The shoe's midsole, Altra EGO Max, provides a softer ride, suitable for recovery runs and daily training.
Durability is a highlight, with a robust outsole that shows little wear even after extensive use.

3 Cons

The price point of the Altra VIA Olympus 2 may be a deterrent for some runners, especially when compared to other models with similar features.
The midsole's cushioning may not be as forgiving or immediate as some runners would prefer, potentially affecting the overall comfort during runs.
Breathability could be improved, as some runners find the ventilation to be limited in warmer conditions.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Altra VIA Olympus 2 features a dual-layer engineered mesh that provides comfort and a secure fit. Its wide construction allows for ample toe splay, enhancing the natural foot positioning that Altra is known for. The non-gusseted tongue (not attached to the upper on both sides), while unique in its minimal structure, does not detract from the shoe's overall performance once laced up. The heel counter offers just the right amount of padding for a comfortable ride during easy or recovery runs.

Midsole

The midsole of the Altra VIA Olympus 2 utilizes Altra's EGO Max technology, which aims to offer a soft and responsive ride. However, some runners may find that it takes time to feel the cushioning benefits, especially compared to other midsole materials like Nike's ZoomX or ASICS' FF Blast. The zero-drop geometry encourages a natural foot strike (the way your foot contacts the ground) but may require an adaptation period for those used to higher drops.

Outsole

The outsole of the Altra VIA Olympus 2 is designed for durability and traction, with flex grooves (lines cut across the outsole to improve flexibility) that align with the foot's natural flex points. While small rocks can get lodged in the grooves, this does not significantly impact the shoe's performance. The rubber material used in the outsole promises longevity, maintaining its grip even after extensive use.

Size/fit

The Altra VIA Olympus 2 is known for its roomy fit, particularly in the toe box, making it a great option for runners with wider feet or those who prefer a more spacious shoe. The fit is secure across the midfoot, ensuring stability without compromising on comfort.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the Altra VIA Olympus 2, with its engineered mesh upper and padded heel counter contributing to a pleasant in-shoe feel. The maximalist cushioning of the midsole adds to the overall comfort, although it may take some time for the cushioning to become apparent during runs.

Cushioning

The cushioning of the Altra VIA Olympus 2 is designed to be plush and protective, utilizing the Altra EGO Max midsole. While the shoe offers a significant amount of cushioning, some runners may find it less immediate in its softness compared to other models on the market.

Breathability

Breathability in the Altra VIA Olympus 2 is adequate, with the engineered mesh upper allowing for airflow. However, some runners may find the ventilation limited, especially in warmer conditions.

Stability

Stability is a key aspect of the Altra VIA Olympus 2, with its wide platform and zero-drop design providing a secure and balanced ride. This makes the shoe suitable for runners who value a stable experience during their daily runs.

Durability

Durability is a strong point for the Altra VIA Olympus 2, with both the upper and outsole constructed to withstand many miles of running. The robust outsole, in particular, shows little wear even after extended use, indicating a long-lasting shoe.

Grip

The grip of the Altra VIA Olympus 2's outsole is reliable across various surfaces, including grass, dirt, pavement, and gravel. The shoe's traction remains consistent, providing confidence during runs in different conditions.

Who should buy the Altra VIA Olympus 2?


The Altra VIA Olympus 2 is well-suited for runners who appreciate a zero-drop design and a maximalist approach to cushioning. It's an excellent option for those seeking a comfortable and stable shoe for long runs or recovery days. Additionally, runners with wider feet will benefit from the extra wide toe box, which allows for natural toe movement.

Who should not buy the Altra VIA Olympus 2?


Runners who are accustomed to shoes with a higher heel-to-toe drop may find the Altra VIA Olympus 2 challenging to adapt to. Those seeking a more cushioned and forgiving ride right out of the box might prefer options like the Nike Invincible or ASICS Novablast. Additionally, if breathability is a top priority, there may be more ventilated options available.

Altra VIA Olympus 2: What's it good for?


The Altra VIA Olympus 2 is particularly good for long-distance runs and recovery sessions, where its zero-drop design and cushioning can provide a comfortable and stable experience. It's also suitable for runners who prefer a natural foot movement and a spacious toe box.

4 Altra VIA Olympus 2 FAQs


Is the Altra VIA Olympus 2 suitable for runners with wide feet?

Yes, the Altra VIA Olympus 2 is designed with an extra wide toe box, making it an excellent choice for runners with wide feet or those who prefer a roomier fit.

How does the zero-drop design of the Altra VIA Olympus 2 affect running form?

The zero-drop design of the Altra VIA Olympus 2 encourages a natural foot strike and may promote a more efficient running form. However, it may require an adaptation period for runners used to shoes with a higher heel-to-toe drop.

Can the Altra VIA Olympus 2 be used for long-distance running?

Yes, the Altra VIA Olympus 2 is well-suited for long-distance running, offering a stable and cushioned ride that can handle many miles comfortably.

Is the cushioning in the Altra VIA Olympus 2 immediate or does it take time to feel?

Some runners report that the cushioning in the Altra VIA Olympus 2 takes a few runs to become appreciable, as opposed to the immediate softness offered by some other midsole materials.

Altra VIA Olympus 2 alternatives

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Weight
Weight
M: 298 g
W: 255 g
M: 258 g
W: 227 g
M: 269 g
W: 218 g
M: 286 g
W: 249 g
M: 261 g
W: 241 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
33 mm
27 mm
27 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
10 mm
8 mm
Heel
Heel
33 mm
37 mm
35 mm
Brand
Brand
Altra
NikeBrooksNew BalanceSauconyASICS
Strike Type
Strike Type
Fore/Midfoot strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
ComfortableLow dropZero drop
ComfortableComfortableMaximalistComfortableMaximalistComfortableLightweightMaximalist
Breathable
Breathable
Techs
Techs
OrthoLite
Brooks BioMoGo DNANew Balance Fresh Foam
ASICS GelOrthoLite
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
SustainableVegan β“‹
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Altra VIA Olympus 2: what the experts say (1 review)

Altra VIA Olympus 2: 3 Expert video reviews

Altra VIA Olympus 2: 1 Manufacturer video

Altra VIA Olympus 2 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainRoad (+1362)
UsagesDaily running (+1132)
BrandAltra (+66)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1115)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
Shoe TypeComfortable (+239)Low drop (+277)Zero drop (+95)
FitWide toe box (+273)
FeaturesOrthotic friendly (+455)Removable insole (+438)
MaterialsMesh (+942)
TechsOrthoLite (+13)
ColorwaysBlack, Blue, Grey, Lime, Multi, Navy, Navy / Blue, Pink / Orange, Purple, White
Specificationsvs Average
Model
2
Released
Nov 2023
Measurements
Weight
M: 298 g
W: 255 g
Heel to toe drop
Heel
33 mm
Forefoot
33 mm

Evolution of the Altra VIA Olympus product family

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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