One of Altra’s most popular trail runners just got a little more dialed in. The brand’s Timp series has been battling toe-to-toe against competitors like HOKA for the last several years, adding various improvements to keep the attention of consumers in an increasingly crowded marketplace. We liked Altra’s slight change of direction with the Timp 5, which dropped weight and price, even with the addition of a Vibram outsole and EgoMax midsole.
The upgrade of that classic trail running shoe was enough to convert even a super shoe lover like longtime GJ reviewer Craig Randall into a believer of the shoe’s zero-drop stability.
One year later, Altra has doubled down on the Timp 5’s technical advancements, adding a BOA system for precision fitting. The shoe also gets a BOA PerformFit Wrap over the instep. This helps lock the heel for some extra stability and control, according to a joint press release from BOA and Altra.
The Timp 4 and Timp 5 have increasingly focused on high performance across varied terrain, from roads to trails. While the BOA system upgrade adds another reason for hikers and trail runners to give the Timp series a try, it also adds $20 to the cost. That brings the price tag of the Timp 5 BOA to $175. Available for both men and women, the shoe comes in either black or white/coral.
This is the first Timp with BOA, but the brand does have another BOA model. The Mont Blanc BOA launched a couple of years ago as the brand’s first model with the dial-to-fit design.
Altra Torin 8
But That’s Not All
Longtime Altra fans have two other product releases to salivate over this week: the Torin 8 and Torin 8 GTX. This update to Altra’s bestselling road shoe, ideal for training or long-distance racing, also gets a few updates.
For starters, it’s got a Jacquard Mesh Upper to supposedly boost the shoe’s breathability and comfort. Like the Timp 5, the new Torin now also comes with an EgoMax midsole for reliable cushioning. Add in a molded heel collar, and you’ve got a solid road running shoe for the reasonable (for these days) price of $150.
But if you’re thinking about running with these puppies into inclement weather, you can shell out an extra $20 for the GTX version. Waterproof, windproof, and lightweight, it’s got the GORE-TEX Invisible Fit tech, which “guarantees to keep you dry.”
The Torin 8 is available for men and women, and it comes in several color options, while the GTX version only comes in a black/gray design.
With these updates, it’s worth noting the older versions will likely be phased out soon, so keep your eyes open for discounts and stock up if you love a current model!
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