Shoe of the Week: Altra Torin 2.5

While there are plenty of neutral shoes that offer thick cushioning, only a few can come close to the supremely smooth, soft and resilient ride of the Torin 2.5. Although it has plenty of cushioning underfoot, it’s a well-balanced combination of lightweight impact dampening and energetic responsiveness that defines this shoe. On one hand, it’s all about pillowy comfort, but the high cushioning doesn’t entirely mute the foot-to-ground proprioceptive feel like it does in some maximalist models. The layer of A-bound foam acts like a spring board, helping a runner’s foot carry energy into the start of the next stride. The most unique factors of this shoe are the two traits all Altra shoes are built on—a wider, foot-shaped toe box and zero-drop (or level) platform from heel to toe.

The latest version of the Torin has a new engineered upper that both improves the fit of the shoe but also looks sharper and more colorful than previous editions. Not everyone appreciates (or can tolerate running long miles with) a zero-drop platform, but those who do swear by it. Our wear-testers thought this shoe was sublime for moderate to long runs, noting the step-in feel and the energetic midsole. All testers commented on the unique shape of the shoe (and a few balked at it for aesthetic reasons), but most didn’t realize this shoe had a zero-drop platform until they were told—and knowing that information didn’t change their positive opinions of it.

This is the shoe for you if … you’re looking for a neutral shoe that’s both supremely cushioned but also has some smooth-riding pep for faster types of runs and workouts.

RELATED: Fall 2016 Road Running Shoe Buyer’s Guide

Price: $125

Weights: 9.1 oz. (men’s), 7.5 oz. (women’s)

Heel-to-toe Offset: 0mm; 24mm (heel), 24mm (forefoot)

Info: AltraRunning.com

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