The Altra Torin 8 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Altra Torin 8 is a versatile running shoe designed for runners seeking a stable and comfortable ride. With a **12 mm drop**, it is particularly suitable for heel strikers looking for support during their runs.

In lab tests, the midsole's performance showed a firm response, contributing to a stable platform, although the foam material did not demonstrate significant energy return. The **31.5 HA foam** offers a grounded feel, which is beneficial for longer distances.

While the weight of the shoe has increased compared to its predecessor, this stability-focused design may appeal to those prioritizing comfort over speed. The **wide toebox** allows for natural foot expansion, enhancing overall fit and comfort during extended wear.

The durable outsole provides reliable traction, making the Altra Torin 8 a solid choice for various running surfaces, though its heavier build may affect performance in tempo sessions.


Pros

  • True zero-drop midsole
  • Foot-shaped, wide toebox
  • Excellent durability
  • Improved heel lockdown
  • Plush step-in comfort
  • Keeps the same price
  • Can be used for walking
  • Amazing for forefoot strikers
  • Improved outsole
  • Stable

Cons

  • Weight gain compared to v7
  • Not for rearfoot strikers
  • Needs a better foam ASAP
  • Non-gusseted tongue

Key Features

  • Closure type: Lace-Up for a secure fit.
  • FootShape™ technology: Designed to allow your feet to relax and naturally expand on longer runs.
  • Cushioning: Features Altra's signature cushioning aimed at providing comfort without compromising performance.
  • Zero Drop platform: Promotes a more natural running form by placing the heel and forefoot at the same distance from the ground.

Specifications

  • Closure type: Lace-Up
  • Available Sizes: Various sizes including 10 US
  • Color: Dark Blue
  • Weight: Lightweight construction

Altra Torin 8 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Altra Torin 8 Altra VIA Olympus 2 Altra Provision 8 Altra Rivera 4
Price $150 $165 $140 $130
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Stability Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 9.7 oz / 275g 10.4 oz / 295g 9.6 oz / 273g 8.3 oz / 235g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand -0.1 mm -0.2 mm 0.2 mm 0.4 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size True to size True to size True to size Slightly small
Midsole softness Balanced Soft Balanced Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Small Normal Normal
Toebox durability Good Good Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Good Good Decent Bad
Outsole durability Good Good Good Good
Breathability Moderate Warm Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Medium Wide Medium Narrow
Toebox width Wide Wide Wide Wide
Stiffness Moderate Stiff Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Moderate Stiff Moderate Flexible
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Moderate Flexible Flexible
Heel lab Heel brand 27.6 mm 34.8 mm 26.0 mm 28.4 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 27.7 mm 35.0 mm 25.8 mm 28.0 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 48% Bottom 39% Bottom 33% Bottom 42%
Popularity Top 18% Top 34% Bottom 37% Bottom 26%