If you’re after a comfy, zero-drop running shoe with a nice cushion and a roomy toe box, the Altra Torin 8 might just catch your eye. Known for its plush 30mm stack height and classic Altra foot-shaped fit, this shoe is designed for longer tempo runs and runners transitioning from traditional shoes. Let’s dive into what makes the Torin 8 tick!
Weight & Stack Height
-
Weight: About 9.35 oz (265g) for men’s US9 — not super light, but solid for a cushioned shoe.
-
Stack height: 30mm with zero drop, giving you plenty of cushion underfoot without compromising natural foot positioning.
Fit — Roomy Toe Box, Snug Midfoot
The Torin 8 keeps Altra’s signature wide toe box, perfect for letting your toes spread naturally. Initially, the toe box feels a bit shallow but loosens up nicely after 20–30 km, becoming more spacious.
The midfoot is snugger than the Torin 7 thanks to raised sidewalls and a jacquard mesh upper. This means a more secure fit around the arch, but some runners might need a break-in period. If you have wide feet, consider trying the Wide version.
The heel cup is stiffer and better molded compared to the previous model, reducing heel slip and rubbing. Still, those with sensitive heels might find it a bit firm.
Feel & Ride — Stable, Slight Rocker, Smooth Transition
The ride feels stable and slightly firmer than before, thanks to the EgoMax foam midsole and a subtle rocker design. This gives you a smooth, forward roll during your stride, making it great for tempo runs or longer distances where you want to maintain pace with less effort.
There’s a tiny toe spring, meaning the toes tilt up slightly near the front. This is common in more traditional running shoes and helps with a fluid stride, though it’s a bit different from the flat-foot-shaped feel of some other Altras.
Durability — Solid, With Some Trade-Offs
The outsole features partial rubber coverage with some exposed EVA foam. That means the shoe might wear faster on rough or abrasive surfaces, so it’s best for road use or smooth trails.
The upper is upgraded to a thicker jacquard mesh, adding durability and a secure fit but also a little extra weight.
Watch out for the inner liner near the heel—because of the stiff heel cup, some runners may notice faster wear from friction if the fit isn’t perfect.
Pros & Cons — The Highlights
Pros:
-
Wide, comfortable toe box for natural toe splay
-
Stable, molded heel reduces slip
-
Durable midsole and upper mesh
-
Smooth forward roll helps with tempo runs
Cons:
-
Exposed EVA outsole may wear quickly on rough terrain
-
Snugger midfoot may feel tight at first
-
Stiffer heel cup might bother sensitive feet
-
Heavier than some competitors, not ideal if you want a super light race shoe
What’s New from the Torin 7?
Not a huge overhaul, but meaningful improvements:
-
Upper: Jacquard mesh replaces engineered mesh for better midfoot security and durability.
-
Heel: Molded collar locks your heel in place much better.
-
Fit: Slightly snugger midfoot, making the fit feel more precise, especially at higher speeds.
-
Ride: Slightly firmer and more rockered, encouraging quicker turnover on tempo runs.
Who Should Consider the Altra Torin 8?
-
Runners wanting a cushioned zero-drop shoe with room to wiggle their toes.
-
Those transitioning from traditional shoes who want a bit more support and stability.
-
Tempo runners and marathoners who want a smooth, stable ride without losing that natural foot shape.
-
Folks who don’t mind a bit of extra weight for durability and cushioning.
Final Thoughts
The Altra Torin 8 strikes a nice balance between cushion, stability, and natural foot shape. Its stiffer, rockered design helps maintain a quicker cadence and feels great on longer tempo runs or races. Just keep in mind the snug midfoot and firm heel cup might not be for everyone, especially if you prefer a softer, more flexible shoe.
If you like your shoes to feel roomy up front but locked in at the back and are okay with a little extra weight for the cushion, the Torin 8 is definitely worth a look.
Got wide feet or sensitive heels? Try the wide option and consider your foot’s needs before committing.
Happy running! 👟✨
Leave a Reply