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An updated version of the classic Olympus 4, these lightweight, waterproof trail runner, that offer good protection and comfort on the trail.
Altra says:
Hit the trail in comfort and style in the new Olympus 5 Hike Low GTX, ready for all-day hiking on technical terrain in any weather. A premium collar provides a locked-in feel while our Original FootShape™ Fit gives your feet the room they need for natural movement. Waterproof GORE-TEX product technology is guaranteed by GORE-TEX to protect your feet from the elements and a grippy Vibram® Megagrip outsole helps you with traction on every surface, wet or dry. Dirt, mud, rocks…whatever the terrain, this hiker will get you through it.
Our Verdict
The Olympus 5 Low GTX, have taken one of Altra’s most beloved trail runners, the Olympus 4, then lined it with GORTEX, which has made Altra’s most cushioned, most protective trail runner, though they still make a mid-top version, which you can find here.
If you have never come across Altra as a brand before, a few points are worth noting. All of their shoes are “zero-drop” which means the heel and the toe are level, as opposed to almost all other shoes in the world, which typically will have the heel raised by a few millimetres. The zero-drop shoe provides a much more natural step, which improves balance and actually increases your foot's strength as it does not rely on the artificial support of a modern shoe. This increased strength can improve alignment, stability, stamina, and help ward off injuries. Altra’s also have a much larger toe box, which allows toes to spread out more naturally.
These shoes will give you protection mile after mile, the main sole of the shoe is made of VIBRAM’s MEGAGRIP, a tough sticky rubber that ensures an unparalleled grip on wet and dry surfaces. This has a nice deep instep, so if you prefer the use of an insole these accommodate that well.
These are now my go-to hiking boot, incredibly comfortable even after doing a 20-mile day, highly recommended
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
In-depth Reviews:
Features
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FOOTSHAPE™ TOE BOX -Allows your toes to relax and spread out naturally for more comfort and stability in uphill climbs and downhill descents.
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INNERFLEX™ - Grid-like grooves in the midsole allow your foot to flex while being lighter, for more speed and better performance.
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VIBRAM® MEGAGRIP™ - A high performance sticky rubber compound featuring unparalleled grip on wet and dry surfaces, rugged longevity and optimal ground adaptability.
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GORE-TEX PRODUCT TECHNOLOGY - Tested and proven for durably waterproof, windproof, & breathable performance, backed by the GORE-TEX GUARANTEEED TO KEEP YOU DRY™ promise.
Specifications
- UK 6 (per shoe) weighs: 355g
- Midsole: Compression Molded EVA
- Outsole: Vibram® Megagrip
- Cushion: Max
- Stack Height: 33 mm
- Upper: GORE-TEX PRODUCT
