Great runs start with comfort for your feet and gear that keeps you feeling good for miles. That’s the sweet spot Altra and Smartwool have spent decades perfecting, and this spring’s lineup proves it.
Altra running shoes are built around the unique Altra Fit system that lets your toes spread naturally for comfort, balance, and strength (paired with a zero- to low-drop design). And, Smartwool has mastered merino that moves with style to spare. Check out our curated picks for men’s and women’s running shoes, performance apparel, and socks from these two storied brands.
Altra Torin 8 (Men’s)
Altra built its reputation on a winning combination: a roomy toe box that engages the forefoot as nature intended, plus a glove-like fit in the midsole. Add a zero-drop platform, and the Torin 8 (Altra’s longstanding, bestselling road shoe; with a ninth-gen version debuting July 1) feels natural from the first stride. A plush midsole smooths out long miles and delivers excellent performance for everyday runners. Upgrade to the GTX version for road running in all elements.
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Smartwool Run Ankle Socks (Targeted Cushion)
These low-profile socks do the quiet work that keeps your runs on track. Strategic cushioning (under the ball and heel of the foot) softens impact, while breathable mesh and a seamless toe prevent irritation. Quality merino wool manages sweat and odor while holding up to the rigors of training.
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FWD VIA 2 (Women’s)
The most supple and responsive yet, Altra’s FWD VIA offers max-cushion lovers the brand’s most room for your toes. It’s built for comfort, with a softer new Altra EGO P35 midsole, plus a 4mm drop for smooth, efficient, and natural toe-off. An engineered mesh upper and plush new tongue combine with Altra Fit for a fluid ride that rewards longer efforts.
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Run No Show Socks
All business, no show. These socks keep a low profile but show up big on race day. A sewn-in binder and internal heel gripper keep them locked in place, while responsibly sourced, expertly crafted merino wool adds durability.
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Escalante 4 (Men’s)
The Escalante 4 is a love letter to longtime Altra fans. The shoe is a lighter and more flexible incarnation of the fan-favorite Escalante 1.5 and 2.0, featuring the same beloved Altra EGO midsole foam for stability and comfort. Add a zero-drop footbed and room for your toes, and you’ve got a shoe that’s ready for everything from daily errands to fast training runs. (Escalante 5 arrives in July.)
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Run Ankle Socks (Zero Cushion)
Smartwool’s Run Zero Cushion Ankle Socks retain the comfort while freeing the bulk. Zero cushion also means excellent breathability with the odor resistance of merino wool that’s backed by a trio of trademarked features: Shred Shield reduces wear, while the Virtually Seamless toe and Indestructawool technology enhance comfort and deliver durability.
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Experience Flow ST (Women’s)
The ST stands for stability, and Flow is about, well, flow. Shoes designed to counter pronation can feel heavy-handed. Not these. The Experience Flow ST uses subtle medial support, a 4mm drop, and a rocker geometry that keeps your stride stable without cramping your style (or your toes).
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Men’s Active Lined 7” Short
These shorts strike a rare balance between technical performance worthy of your hardest workouts and comfortable style for all-day wear. The outer shell and zipped rear pocket are made from recycled stretch-woven fabric with a quick-dry finish, while the liner blends merino wool and Lyocell (a soft, moisture-managing fiber made from responsibly sourced wood pulp), which manages heat and moisture without added bulk.
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Men’s Active Short Sleeve
This is the kind of shirt you forget you’re wearing until it’s time to roll into 7-11 for a post-workout treat. Merino manages sweat and odor, recycled polyester adds durability, and the relaxed cut keeps airflow moving. Offset seams reduce chafing on long efforts, while subtle reflectivity enhances visibility for those pre-dawn or after-dark workouts.
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Women’s Active Lined 4” Short
These shorts are built for movement, cut in a comfortable yet flattering style from quick-drying stretch fabric. A brief liner (made with a blend of merino wool and TENCEL Lyocell fiber) keeps you cool, while a zippered side pocket secures cards and keys. An adjustable waistband adds subtle practicality.
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Women’s Active Crop Bra
Equal parts support and freedom, this crop bra thrives in both lower-impact and higher-sweat sessions. The breathable, four-way stretch fabric moves with you, while the merino blend keeps moisture in check. It’s not overbuilt, but for yoga, Pilates, or recovery days, that’s exactly the point.
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This article is sponsored by Altra and Smartwool.
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