The Altra Via Olympus Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Altra VIA Olympus is a max-cushioned road runner designed for those seeking enhanced comfort during long-distance runs. This shoe is particularly suitable for runners who prefer a stable platform, thanks to its firm midsole that measures significantly at 31.5 HA. The combination of its supportive upper and wide fit ensures a secure and stable ride, making it an excellent choice for extended running sessions.


Pros

  • Comfortable and premium-feeling upper
  • Roomy, unmistakably-Altra fit
  • Secure lockdown even for narrow feet
  • Smooth and responsive ride
  • Good for any distance at an easy pace
  • Effective, but not obtrusive, rocker
  • Copious amount of padding
  • Breathable
  • Absorbs impact well

Cons

  • Cushioning on the firm side, but a toss-up on how firm
  • Doesn’t feel like a zero-drop shoe
  • Substantial break-in period
  • On the heavier side

Key Features

  • Sole Material: Made from durable rubber for enhanced traction and longevity.
  • Outer Material: Constructed with engineered mesh that promotes breathability and flexibility.
  • Closure Type: Features a traditional lace-up system for a secure fit.
  • Water Resistance: Not water-resistant, making it suitable for dry conditions.

Specifications

  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Outer Material: Engineered mesh
  • Closure Type: Lace-Up
  • Water Resistance Level: Not Water Resistant

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

Altra VIA Olympus Altra VIA Olympus 2 Altra Escalante 4 On Cloudsurfer Next
Price $170 $165 $130 $150
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.5 oz / 299g 10.4 oz / 295g 8.4 oz / 237g 9.3 oz / 264g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 1.6 mm -0.2 mm 1.4 mm 4.5 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size Slightly small True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Soft Balanced Firm
Difference in midsole softness in cold Big Small Normal Small
Toebox durability - Good Good Decent
Heel padding durability Bad Good Good Bad
Outsole durability - Good Good Decent
Breathability Moderate Warm Moderate Warm
Width / fit Medium Wide Wide Medium
Toebox width - Wide Wide Medium
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Flexible Stiff
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Flexible Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Moderate Flexible Moderate
Heel lab Heel brand 34.2 mm 34.8 mm 23.8 mm 33.8 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 32.6 mm 35.0 mm 22.4 mm 29.3 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Narrow
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 34% Bottom 39% Bottom 30% Top 21%
Popularity Top 44% Top 34% Top 26% Top 41%