The Torin has always been a mainstay in the Altra lineup with its mid level cushioning and lighter weight while also still reaming true to Altra’s roots. You still get all the tech they offer like Zero Drop and their FootShape toe box and it’s not as aggressive as the One or as cushioned as the Paradigm. The last version of the Torin ran a little tight across the middle, the sizing was a touch small, and the shoe just didn’t have the breathability it used to… so let’s see what they did to fix it.
Construction: Upper
The redesigned upper on the Altra Torin 3.0 is all about breathability. They have switched materials to a technical mesh that has wider holes for ventilation, but is also thicker in terms of the weave. The upper flexes, but not like a knit, it’s definitely a little more rigid. There is also a lot more material it seems like prior and we noticed this with the one as well. As much as I enjoy the FootShape toe box, it’s almost too big on here leading to an excess of material. It is definitely comfortable overall with a decent amount of structure provided by the heavier weave, but watch out for that excess.
Construction: Midsole
The mid on Torin 3.0 is composed of two Altra technologies, A-Bound plus Inner Flex. These are two different running aids made up of all EVA, one designed to increase rebound and response while the other is designed to allow the foot proper flex. It is comfortable at its 28mm stack height, providing plenty of cushion while still remaining relatively quick under foot.
Construction: Outsole
The outsole on the Torin uses their FootPod technology and like many shoes features targeted reinforced contact areas. It tracks well, but as is the complaint with many Altra models, you definitely notice some wear on the exposed EVA.
Style & Aesthetics
The Torin comes in 4 colorways with a broad palette for men and women, so plenty of color options. They have also used the platform for race specific shoes as well, by screening over the upper. My two notes on the visual is first, a lot of excess material in the upper and second, the upper material honestly looks a little weird… almost plastic like.
Run Test
With the move to the Torin 3.0 from the 2.5, Altra have resolved a lot of the width and length issues and the shoe is much more comfortable overall. I do think the toe box has gotten a little too big on these, bordering on clown like and you can see the issue itself in the amount of material.
That being said, running in these is drastically better. The foot stays relaxed throughout the run with all the roominess and at just over 8 ounces, the shoe is light enough for multiple uses. You can definitely get enough responsiveness out of them for your speed days, but thy have plenty of cushion for longer distances.
Overall Conclusion
Overall, the Altra Torin 3.0 is a huge improvement on the platform. It is definitely a solid mixed use shoe meaning you could use it for speed and distance. Personally, I would stick with the Escalante for speed and Paradigm for distance, but for single shoe folks looking to check out Altra this is a great choice. It’s honestly probably one of their best gateway shoes and I even convinced some folks to switch to zero drop after they tried them.
Technical Stats, Pricing & Availability
- Weight: 8.4oz (size 9)
- Drop: 0mm heel/toe
- Stack Height: 28mm
- MSRP: $125.00
- Available: Now
