Hi, I’m James, a foot and ankle specialist from Trail Shoes Reviewed. Today, we’re diving into the Altra Outroad 3 – a versatile shoe designed for road-to-trail running. Known for their zero-drop design and anatomical foot shape, Altra shoes have a lot to offer. In this review, we’ll break down the key features, performance, and how this shoe feels on your feet during different activities.
Key Features of the Altra Outroad 3
1. Cushioning and Midsole
The Altra Outroad 3 comes with EGO™ cushioning in the midsole and a durable outsole with 1.5mm lugs. The outsole features a MaxTrac™ grip with diamond-shaped lugs.
- While these lugs work well on grass, dirt paths, and mild trails, they may struggle on more technical or muddy terrain compared to a shoe like the Hoka Speedgoat 6, which has deeper 5mm lugs.
- The 27mm stack height offers a firm and responsive ride, making it ideal for shorter runs and hikes.
2. Zero-Drop Design
The zero-drop platform means the heel and forefoot have the same amount of cushioning (27mm). This design helps distribute load evenly across the foot, which could benefit runners with conditions like:
- Bunions
- Morton’s Neuroma
However, the lack of heel elevation may place extra stress on the Achilles tendon. If you’re new to zero-drop shoes, transition gradually by reducing your heel drop incrementally (from 10mm to 6mm, then 4mm) before going to zero-drop.
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3. Fit and Comfort
Altra’s anatomical toe box is a standout feature. It allows your toes to spread naturally, improving stability and reducing discomfort during runs and hikes.
- If you enjoy a spacious forefoot, the Outroad 3 offers a great fit.
- If you have a history of bunions or Morton’s neuroma, the wide toe box can help alleviate pressure.
The fit is snug but not tight, and the semi-gusseted tongue provides a secure lockdown. For a slightly softer ride, you might prefer the Salomon Genesis, which we’ve also reviewed.
4. Upper Material and Heel Counter
The 100% recycled ripstop mesh upper is breathable and durable, though the toe protection is minimal. If you hit rocks or roots, be cautious.
- The heel counter offers moderate flexibility, reducing pressure on the Achilles tendon. This flexibility, combined with sidewalls along the midsole, helps keep your foot stable during downhill runs or sharp turns.
For a shoe with more protection and comfort for longer distances, consider the Brooks Cascadia 18.
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5. Performance
The Altra Outroad 3 is a true road-to-trail hybrid. It excels in:
- Road running and light trail running
- Grassy paths and dirt tracks
- Hiking on mild to moderate terrain
However, the firm cushioning and shallow lugs make it less suitable for:
- Technical terrain
- Long-distance runs (for more cushioning, check out the Brooks Caldera 7)
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile road-to-trail performance
- Spacious anatomical toe box
- Zero-drop design for natural foot movement
- Durable, eco-friendly upper
Cons:
- Firm cushioning may not suit long distances
- Minimal toe protection
- Not ideal for technical terrain
Final Thoughts
The Altra Outroad 3 is a fantastic all-rounder for runners and hikers who mix road and trail running. The combination of zero-drop, firm cushioning, and a wide toe box makes it a stable option for short to moderate distances.
If you’re transitioning to zero-drop shoes for the first time, remember to ease into them gradually to avoid injuries.
Got any questions about the Altra Outroad 3? Drop them in the comments below! If you found this review helpful, check out our YouTube channel for more trail shoe reviews.
