I used to be curious in regards to the Altra FWD By way of 2, In order for you a gentle, high-stack coach that also feels pure underfoot, the Altra FWD VIA 2 is value testing. It retains the extensive, foot-shaped match Altra is thought for however shifts to a 4 mm drop with a delicate rocker, which makes this shoe really feel extra “roll by” than traditional zero-drop fashions. Some runners aren’t minimize out for zero-drop footwear, and that’s high quality…Altra clearly had them in thoughts with this replace.
The Altra FWD VIA 2 introduces a brand new EGO P35 midsole for smoother transitions, a refined higher, and beneficiant outsole protection for sturdiness. Right here’s the way it performs in coaching.
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Earlier than attempting the Altra FWD By way of 2, I had a couple of questions:Â
Is the Altra FWD VIA 2 Good for Lengthy Runs?
Sure. The Altra FWD VIA 2 was designed for lengthy, regular efforts. The high-stack EGO P35 midsole absorbs influence with out feeling mushy, serving to legs keep recent throughout high-mileage runs. If you happen to’re coaching for a half or marathon, this shoe performs nicely for base mileage and restoration days.
What’s New within the Altra FWD VIA 2?
The second model swaps within the new EGO P35 foam for a softer, extra responsive experience. The rocker geometry feels smoother, and the higher offers higher ankle consolation. Whereas the unique VIA felt agency, this replace leans into plush consolation and a extra pure transition.
Does the Altra FWD VIA 2 Run True to Measurement?
For many runners, sure. It matches true to measurement with Altra’s roomy Authentic FootShape toe field. If you happen to’re between sizes or have slim ft, it’s possible you’ll favor your smaller measurement because the toe field runs spacious.
Can You Use the Altra FWD VIA 2 for Strolling or Standing All Day?
Completely. Its excessive stack, gentle foam, and extensive platform make it simply as snug for strolling or lengthy hours in your ft. Many runners use the VIA 2 as an all-day shoe for journey, errands, or restoration days.
Is the Altra FWD VIA 2 Good for Marathon Coaching?
Sure. The Altra FWD VIA 2 is among the most snug marathon-training footwear Altra presents. Its low drop and excessive cushion scale back stress on joints and enable you deal with lengthy runs. You would race a marathon in it if consolation is your high precedence, however it pairs finest with a sooner, plated shoe for race day.
Altra FWD VIA 2 vs Altra Expertise Circulation 2
Each share Altra’s rocker design and low drop, however they serve totally different functions. The VIA 2 presents extra cushioning and a relaxed match for simple miles, whereas the Expertise Circulation 2 is lighter and snappier for sooner paces.
Is the Altra FWD VIA 2 Zero-Drop?
No. The Altra FWD VIA 2 has a 4 mm heel-to-toe drop…larger than Altra’s conventional fashions however simpler for runners transitioning from normal trainers. It nonetheless promotes a pure stride with a smoother heel-to-toe roll.
What Type of Runner Ought to Purchase the Altra FWD VIA 2?
This shoe fits impartial runners who worth consolation, stability, and a pure really feel. It’s supreme for long-distance athletes and anybody looking for a gentle every day coach for constant or larger mileage.
How Sturdy Is the Altra FWD VIA 2?
The VIA 2 has full-rubber outsole protection that grips nicely and extends shoe life. You may anticipate about 300–400 miles relying in your stride and floor, which is above common for a max-cushion coach.
Is the Altra FWD VIA 2 Price It?
At $165, it’s priced competitively for a premium cushioned coach. It delivers consolation, versatility, and sturdiness with out hitting “tremendous shoe” costs. If you happen to’re searching for one shoe to deal with the majority of your coaching, this one’s a stable funding.
Now let’s get into an trustworthy Altra FWD By way of 2 shoe evaluation.
Fast Info
Stack top: 37 mm heel / 33 mm forefoot
Heel-to-toe drop: 4 mm
Weight: 10.3 oz
Value: $165
Class: Impartial, max-cushion highway coach
Altra FWD VIA 2 Match and Really feel
The engineered mesh higher feels gentle and safe, with padding by the tongue and collar. It matches comfortably with out pinching and disappears when you begin working. The Authentic FootShape design permits pure toe splay and long-run consolation. If you happen to’ve by no means worn Altra earlier than, the foot formed higher permits your toes to splay. This implies it matches “wider” than many different manufacturers however it’s not a real extensive. That being stated, I haven’t had any points with the match.
So far as breathability, you’ll discover it’s respectable however not good…supreme for cooler months however barely heat in summer time. The plushness is thicker.
I put on a ladies’s measurement 11, and the match is per different Altra fashions. Runners who usually want a large match ought to discover this shoe roomy sufficient.
Altra FWD VIA 2 Journey
The EGO P35 midsole provides the shoe a easy, steady experience. It’s not overly bouncy however strikes a steadiness between softness and rebound. With its 4 mm drop and refined rocker, transitions really feel environment friendly with out forcing a selected footstrike. I admire that Altra has made a 4 mm drop shoe as a result of let’s face it, not each runner is made for 0 mm drop footwear and that’s okay. Now those that are extra injured inclined in 0 mm drop footwear, have an Altra mannequin that’s an choice.
The place does the Altra FWD By way of 2 match into my rotation? This shoe excels at restoration runs, base mileage, and lengthy cardio days. It’s not constructed for velocity exercises and that’s okay. It’s made for the runs that make up most of your week. Positive you may run a marathon in it, however the cushion is actually finest for every day runs.
Outsole and Sturdiness
The complete-rubber outsole presents traction on moist pavement and lightweight trails. It’s sturdy sufficient for 300–400 miles, and I’ve already logged about 50 miles with out noticeable put on. Grip has been good even in rain and on desert terrain. You’re going to get about the identical mileage you’ll anticipate with a every day coach.
Altra FWD VIA 2 Conclusion
The Altra FWD VIA 2 is a comfort-first every day coach. It combines excessive cushioning, a pure really feel, and a steady platform for constant miles. It’s not your race-day shoe…it’s your everything-else shoe. For marathon coaching, base constructing, and restoration, that is certainly one of Altra’s finest cushioned choices but.
Who Ought to Purchase the Altra FWD VIA 2
Runners looking for a max-cushion every day coach for restoration or lengthy runs
Athletes preferring a large toe field and pure foot movement
Runners transitioning from conventional 8–10 mm drops
Those that want a steady shoe for strolling or standing all day
Who Ought to Not Purchase the Altra FWD VIA 2
Runners searching for a light-weight, quick tempo coach
Athletes preferring zero-drop footwear solely
Funds-conscious runners who don’t want max cushioning
My Present Shoe Rotation:
Simple/Day by day Runs:Â Salomon Aero Glide 3, Mizuno Neo Zen, Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, adidas Adizero Evo SL, Newton Gravity 12, ASICS Superblast 2
Lengthy Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Levels Eleos Shoe Assessment
Path Operating/Mountain climbing: 361 Futura,  Speedland SL: PDX, Hoka Tecton X 3Â
Races/Speedwork:Â Adidas adizero adios professional 4, 361 Levels Livid Future 2.0, ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris, Puma Quick-R Elite 3, Nike Streakfly 2, Nike Vaporfly 4
Interested by how I do gear opinions? You may examine that right here.
You Can See All Present Shoe Critiques Right here.
Seeking to be taught extra about trainers? In my e book, I discuss why you want an excellent working shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, impartial vs. steady, and even myths of trainers.
Questions for you:
What’s your favourite working shoe?
Have you ever tried the Altra FWD VIA 2?
