Frequently Asked Questions
What is zero-drop in Altra running shoes?
Zero-drop means the heel and forefoot are at the same height (0mm offset), promoting natural running form and better posture alignment. This design encourages a midfoot or forefoot strike pattern and helps strengthen your feet and lower legs naturally.
What is the FootShape toe box?
Altra's FootShape toe box is designed to match the natural shape of your foot, allowing your toes to spread and relax naturally. This reduces blisters, bunions, and numbness while providing better stability and push-off power during your run.
Which Altra shoe is best for trail running in South Africa?
The Lone Peak series is South Africa's favourite trail shoe, offering excellent grip on technical terrain, rock plate protection, and durability for rugged trails. It's ideal for everything from Table Mountain to Drakensberg routes.
Are Altra shoes good for beginners?
Yes, but transition gradually. The zero-drop design may require a 2-4 week adjustment period as your feet and calves adapt. Start with shorter runs and consider the Escalante for road running or Torin for maximum cushioning during your transition.
What's the difference between Altra road and trail shoes?
Trail shoes like Lone Peak and Experience Wild feature aggressive outsoles for grip, rock plates for protection, and reinforced uppers. Road shoes like Torin, Escalante, and Experience Flow focus on cushioning, smooth transitions, and lighter weight for pavement running.
Do you offer returns on Altra shoes?
Yes, we offer 30-day returns on unworn shoes in original packaging. We want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. If you need fitting advice before buying, our team is available to help you choose the right Altra model.