The running world is made up of a kaleidoscope of athletes with different goals and motivations, but we all have one thing in common: We’re always chasing that next runner’s high. Whether it finds you on the final flowy miles of your long run or in an icy swimming hole by the trailhead, there’s simply nothing like it.
That’s the feeling Altra was trying to encapsulate—and facilitate—with its new Experience collection, featuring the road-ready Experience Flow 2 and the trail-hungry Experience Wild 2. Both styles build on the existing Experience collection, Altra’s first foray into low-drop shoes after building only zero-drop shoes for more than a decade.
In running shoes, drop relates to the difference in height between the heel and toe. Zero-drop shoes, like Altra’s, are meant to fit your feet while maintaining modern comforts, promoting natural movement in the foot, and encouraging an efficient and healthy midfoot/forefoot strike.
You could fill a book discussing the pros and cons of zero-drop running shoes—and many have—but it’s no secret that transitioning to them can be a bit uncomfortable when you do too much too fast, as runners are prone to do. Enter the Experience collection, low-drop—but not zero-drop—shoes designed to introduce the benefits of Altra’s naturally inspired Altra Fit design. The shoes are designed to fit you, not the other way around, and can help reduce injury and offer a more comfortable fit through a more natural fit. In other words, a natural fit equals balance and stability to help you feel stronger on runs.
The Flow 2 features a redesigned upper to enhance comfort, durability, and breathability, plus an updated heel for a more secure and comfortable fit. The Wild 2 also gets a more breathable upper, along with an extra lacing eyelet for a secure fit on technical trails and an additional TPU overlay for more protection. Returning trail features include an integrated gaiter attachment and a grippy MaxTrac outsole for superior traction.
Shop Flow 2 Women’s Shop Flow 2 Men’s
The biggest upgrade? The Flow 2’s all-new EGO P35 midsole foam, which delivers a soft yet energetic feel that keeps your stride light and lively as you reel in that runner’s high. If you’re looking for a dedicated race shoe, check Altra’s Vanish collection, but if you want a lightweight shoe with a bit more pep than your average trainer (who doesn’t?), the Flow 2 delivers smooth strides and big smiles.
The Wild 2 has a similarly well-balanced vibe. It’s comfy and responsive enough to go from door to trail yet has enough grip and control to maneuver moderately technical terrain, especially with the security of the added eyelet. It’s suitable for most trail outings and races, even if there’s a 50K (or, dare we say, 50-miler) circled on your calendar. But it’s just as happy in a 5K or a few weekly training runs, because more than anything else, the Experience collection is built to help you enjoy the journey—wherever it takes you.
Shop Wild 2 Women’s Shop Wild 2 Men’s
Altra Running shoes feature a wide toe box with more room for your toes and zero to low drop to keep your feet in a natural position. Altra Running shoes are designed to keep you comfortable on any road, any trail, and any adventure. Stay Out There.