Altra Olympus 6 vs. Altra Timp 5: Which Trail Running Shoe Should You Choose?

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to choose the right trail running shoe, you’re not alone. Between different foams, fits, weights, and outsole patterns—it’s easy to get lost in the details. But today, we’re keeping it simple. We’re putting two of Altra’s most popular trail shoes side by side: the Altra Olympus 6 and the Altra Timp 5.

Whether you’re heading out for an all-day ultra or tackling fast, rocky climbs, one of these shoes could be the perfect match for your feet. Let’s break it down in plain English.

🥾 The Basics at a Glance

👣 Fit: Room to Wiggle or Locked-In Precision?

• Olympus 6 is the go-to if you’ve got wide feet or just love a roomy toe box. It offers generous space for toe splay and overall foot comfort, especially on long hauls. That extra width and volume can be a game-changer for preventing blisters and pressure points.

• Timp 5, on the other hand, fits a bit snugger—especially around the midfoot and heel. It feels secure and more performance-focused, which is great for uneven or rocky trails. If you find it a bit tight, going up half a size or swapping the insole can help.

🧠 Pro Tip:
If you value lockdown and stability for technical trails, the Timp 5 may feel like a glove. If comfort and toe freedom are non-negotiable, the Olympus 6 takes the cake.

🏃‍♂️ Feel: Cushy Clouds or Responsive Rock-Hopper?

This is where the two shoes really part ways.

• Olympus 6 is plush. Think of it as the Cadillac of Altra’s trail lineup—soft compression-molded EVA foam cushions your ride and protects you from trail impact. But with that comfort comes weight. It’s not the shoe for speed but excels in slow-and-steady ultra adventures.

• Timp 5 uses Ego Max foam, which is firmer and lighter. You’ll feel more connected to the ground, and it responds better to quick movements. It’s nimble, great for climbing, and doesn’t feel like a burden on your foot.

🧠 Reality Check:
If you’re heading out for a 50K or want to cruise through easier trails in comfort, go Olympus. If you’re flying through technical switchbacks or need agility over speed, Timp all the way.

🧗 Traction: Equal Grip, Different Goals

Both shoes come equipped with Vibram Megagrip outsoles, which provide excellent traction on most surfaces—wet rock, dry dirt, or packed gravel. The lug patterns are similar, and neither shoe is particularly great in deep mud, but both handle standard trail conditions like champs.

Durability is also close, though the Olympus 6 has more exposed EVA foam on the bottom, which might take a beating over sharp rocks. The Timp 5’s outsole is a bit more protected and might last slightly longer in harsh conditions.

🛠️ Durability: Which Shoe Lasts Longer?

• Olympus 6 has been updated with a sturdier upper and improved bonding on the outsole. It’s built for endurance—not just in distance, but in lifespan too.

• Timp 5 is equally rugged, though some early users noted the overlays may peel with heavy use. That said, many have clocked hundreds of miles with no issues. Its midsole foam also seems to hold its shape better over time than the softer Olympus.

🧠 Long-Term Take: If durability is a key concern and you’re tough on your shoes, the Timp 5 may edge out slightly ahead in longevity.

✅ Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?

Choose the Altra Olympus 6 if you:

• Have wide feet and need extra room.

• Prioritize comfort and cushioning over technical performance.

• Are training for ultras or spending all day on your feet.

Choose the Altra Timp 5 if you:

• Want a lightweight, nimble shoe for technical or rocky terrain.

• Prefer a snug, secure fit for fast trail running.

• Appreciate ground feel and performance response over plushness.

🤔 Still Not Sure?

Take Altra’s quick quiz or better yet—try both on if you can. The right shoe isn’t about specs alone—it’s about how it feels on your foot, under your conditions.

Whether you’re chasing FKTs or just enjoying the quiet of the trail, finding a shoe that matches your style can make every mile feel that much better.

Happy trails! 🏞️