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

The Altra Vanish Carbon 2 is a notable racing shoe designed for forefoot and midfoot strikers. With a low-drop geometry, it supports natural foot positioning, enhancing comfort during runs.

The shoe features a curved carbon plate that aids propulsion, while the upper construction offers a secure fit. Although energy return improvements could elevate its performance further, the existing attributes make it a competitive choice in the racing category.

Lab data indicates significant toe splay, which enhances stability and responsiveness during dynamic movements. Overall, the Altra Vanish Carbon 2 is a reliable option for athletes seeking comfort and responsiveness on race day.


Pros

  • Ideal for midfoot strikers
  • Unique racing shoe
  • Anatomically shaped toebox
  • Superior breathability
  • Full-length carbon plate
  • Excellent for tempo training too
  • Amazing tongue
  • Significant upgrade from v1

Cons

  • Insufficient energy return
  • Not a real zero-drop shoe
  • Durability concerns
  • High price tag

Key Features

  • Engineered Mesh Upper - This feature enhances breathability, allowing for total comfort and keeping your feet cool during workouts.
  • Slim FootShape Fit - The most slim-fitting option offered by Altra, it allows your toes to relax naturally, promoting a more natural stride.
  • Traditional Lacing System - This system keeps the midfoot securely locked in place, providing the stability you need during even the most intense runs.
  • Altra Ego Pro Midsole - Known as the lightest midsole in their lineup, it offers great cushioning, ensuring comfort with every step.
  • Balanced Cushioning Platform - This feature provides low-impact landings with a zero-drop design that helps bring you closer to the ground for improved stability.

Specifications

  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Synthetic
  • Inner material: Natural Rubber
  • Closure type: Lace-Up

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

Altra Vanish Carbon 2 ASICS Metaspeed Edge+ ASICS Metaspeed Sky+ ASICS Metaspeed Sky
Price $260 $250 $250 $250
Pace Competition Competition Competition Competition
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 7.4 oz / 210g 7.3 oz / 208g 7.2 oz / 205g 6.7 oz / 191g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 3.7 mm 8.1 mm 2.7 mm 2.5 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Heel Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size Half size small True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Firm - -
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Small - -
Toebox durability Bad - - -
Heel padding durability Good - Good -
Outsole durability Decent - - -
Breathability Breathable Breathable Breathable Breathable
Width / fit Medium Narrow Narrow Narrow
Toebox width Wide - - -
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff -
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Flexible Flexible -
Plate Carbon plate Carbon plate Carbon plate Carbon plate
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 33.1 mm 33.3 mm 33.5 mm 33.7 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 29.4 mm 25.2 mm 30.8 mm 31.2 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season Summer Summer Summer Summer
Removable insole
Ranking Top 18% Top 6% Top 7% Top 5%
Popularity Bottom 40% Bottom 47% Top 25% Top 17%