As Altra unveiled the Via Olympus 2, the latest addition to its road running collection, my speed sensors pricked up to the tune of jolt-free stride and bouncy sprints. I love a good mountain run, but I’m also partial to a road route.
My achilles heel? No matter how many miles I clock-up, I never really know whether to go soft or hard. I mean, both have their benefits, don’t they!
Designed for the “modern runner”, Altra claim their latest sneaks offer a “harmonious blend of plush cushioning and exceptional performance”. The verdict: they’re not wrong.
The standout feature of this shoe is the midsole compound, meticulously engineered to offer a remarkably softer underfoot feel. The maximum cushioning with a 33mm stack height absorbs the impact on every stride, ensuring a comfortable feel without compromising on high-performance. The heel securely wraps around your foot, and the “Rocker Shape Geometry” encourages propulsion and a more efficient toe-off.
From road to trail, I felt as if this shoe moulded to the natural contour of my foot, whilst allowing for a smooth, dynamic transition from heel strike to toe-off. Up hills, the balls and toes of my feet were propelled and secure. On the flat, I was completely cushioned with added bounce. At speed, my heel strike was elevated without compromising my posture.
Would I go back to thin-soled runners? No fucking chance!
The Via Olympus 2 is available in 4 colours and weighs in at just 323g/11.4oz
Availability and Pricing
altrarunning.eu and at select retailers.
€170 / £145.
