The Altra Outroad 2 Review & Lab Test of 2026

The Altra Outroad 2 is a versatile hybrid shoe designed for road-to-trail running. With a notable 0 mm drop and foot-shaped design, it is ideal for runners seeking a natural fit and feel. The lab results indicate that the MaxTrac outsole provides excellent grip and durability, making it suitable for a variety of surfaces.

While the foam cushioning offers comfort, our tests suggest it could benefit from enhanced energy return. This shoe may not be the best option for rugged trails or high-speed running, but it excels in delivering balanced performance across different terrains.

At a price point of $120, the Altra Outroad 2 stands out as a practical choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality.

Pros

  • Perfectly versatile for both road running and easy trails
  • Spacious upper featuring Altra's FootShape design
  • Not as overly wide as some other Altra models
  • Attractively priced at $120
  • Excellent grip on fire roads and smooth trails
  • Natural, zero-drop running experience
  • Exceptional outsole durability
  • Comfortable enough for all-day wear

Cons

  • Could benefit from being lighter
  • Insufficient cushioning for heel strikers
  • Not suitable for moderate to difficult trails

Key Features

  • Weight: 10.7 oz / 303 g
  • Midsole: Altra EGO max for enhanced cushioning
  • Outsole: MaxTrac for superior grip
  • Cushioning: Moderate cushioning for balanced comfort
  • Stack Height: 27 mm providing ample cushioning
  • Drop: 0 mm for a natural feel

Specifications

  • Sole Material: Rubber for durability
  • Shaft Height: Ankle for added support
  • Outer Material: Synthetic for lightweight performance
  • Inner Material: Mesh to enhance breathability

Altra Outroad 2 Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Altra Outroad 2 Altra Outroad 3 New Balance DynaSoft Nitrel v6 New Balance Tektrel
Price $120 $130 $75 $90
Trail terrain Light Light Light Light
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.3 oz / 291g 9.2 oz / 261g 10.3 oz / 291g 10.7 oz / 302g
Drop lab Drop brand 1.4 mm 0.6 mm 2.5 mm 8.0 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Heel
Size Slightly small Slightly small True to size Slightly small
Midsole softness Balanced Balanced Balanced Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Normal Small Normal
Toebox durability Bad Decent Decent Good
Heel padding durability Decent Bad Decent Decent
Outsole durability Good Bad Good Decent
Breathability Moderate Warm Moderate Breathable
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Wide Wide Medium Wide
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Moderate Stiff
Torsional rigidity Moderate Moderate Flexible Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Flexible Moderate Moderate
Lug depth 2.2 mm 1.5 mm 2.7 mm 2.4 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 26.9 mm 23.8 mm 22.7 mm 32.2 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 25.5 mm 23.2 mm 20.2 mm 24.2 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons Summer
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Bottom 10% Bottom 21% Bottom 4% Bottom 6%
Popularity Bottom 14% Bottom 26% Bottom 48% Top 49%