The Altra Rivera 2 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Altra Rivera 2 is a versatile daily trainer designed for runners seeking a reliable option for their training runs. Its zero-drop design makes it particularly suitable for those who prefer a more natural running experience. With its lightweight construction and ample cushioning, this shoe excels in providing comfort during long-distance road runs.


Pros

  • Responsive on faster runs
  • Stable on uneven surfaces
  • Comfortable for long days
  • Lightweight
  • Form-fitting wrap
  • Spacious toe box
  • Visually appealing
  • Soft and stretchy upper

Cons

  • Not a real zero-drop!
  • A bit slimmer than the average Altra
  • Firmer than the Rivera 1

Key Features

  • Fabric Type: 100% Synthetic
  • Sole Material: Synthetic Rubber for enhanced grip and traction
  • Outer Material: Durable Rubber that withstands rough terrain
  • Origin: Made in the USA or Imported

Specifications

  • Product Title: Altra Women's Rivera 2
  • Size Available: 9 M US
  • User Rating: 4.2 out of 5 based on 465 reviews

Altra Rivera 2 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Altra Rivera 2 Altra Escalante Racer 2 Altra Escalante 4 Altra Rivera 4
Price $130 $140 $130 $130
Pace Daily running Competition Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 8.6 oz / 243g 7.9 oz / 224g 8.4 oz / 237g 8.3 oz / 235g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 2.8 mm 1.1 mm 1.4 mm 0.4 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size Half size small True to size True to size Slightly small
Midsole softness Soft Balanced Balanced Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Big Normal Normal Normal
Toebox durability - Good Good Decent
Heel padding durability - Decent Good Bad
Outsole durability - Good Good Good
Breathability - Breathable Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Medium Wide Wide Narrow
Toebox width - Wide Wide Wide
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Flexible Stiff
Torsional rigidity Flexible Flexible Flexible Flexible
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Flexible Flexible Flexible
Heel lab Heel brand 24.6 mm 22.5 mm 23.8 mm 28.4 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 21.8 mm 21.4 mm 22.4 mm 28.0 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season - Summer All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 33% Top 41% Bottom 30% Bottom 42%
Popularity Bottom 13% Bottom 32% Top 26% Bottom 26%