Altra Olympus 7

The Altra Olympus 7 is the comfort flagship of the American brand for long distances: a maximalist trail shoe with zero drop and the well-known wide FootShape™ last. Designed for ultras, fast hiking and long days in the mountains, comfort is the key word for absorbing miles and impacts. Within the Altra trail range it sits at the top for protection and midsole volume, one step above the Timp 6 in cushioning and two above the more versatile and iconic Lone Peak 9, paired with the Olympus 275, which has a more advanced upper made of the excellent Matryx® fabric.

Compared with its predecessor, the Olympus 6, the big leap is underfoot: the midsole debuts the renewed Altra EGO™ MAX compound, 15% lighter and 10% softer than in the previous generation, improving comfort without bulking up the shoe. The technical mesh upper with ventilation zones is breathable and accommodates the volume of the foot well, and the softer tongue together with the integrated collar make it comfortable from the first wear. The fit is true to size, with a generous toe box where the toes spread naturally, a relief when the foot swells over ultra distances.

The midsole keeps the 33 mm stack with 0 mm drop that defines the line, placing heel and forefoot at the same height for a natural ride and generous cushioning on technical terrain. The Vibram® Megagrip outsole with TractionLug™ technology and 5 mm lugs offers reliable grip on rock, compact dirt and wet sections, while the GaiterTrap system lets you attach gaiters with no fuss. Ideal for runners who put total protection and accumulated comfort ahead of speed, on long routes with demanding elevation, while bearing in mind that zero drop may be a hurdle for those not yet used to it or who cannot tolerate it.