Our verdict
The Altra Superior 4.0 was able to capture the appreciation and trust of a majority of those who have tried it. This neutral running shoe had praised showered over it because of its secure yet breathable façade, the highly reactive midsole foam, and the true-to-size-and-width configuration.
Pros
- Stretchy upper
- Secure fit
- Breathable
- Comfortable ride
- Responsive
- Lightweight
Cons
- Sole unit is a bit thin
- Shoelaces are too long
Who should buy the Altra Superior 4.0
The Superior 4.0 from Altra are for those who enjoy running on trails and experiencing enhanced steadiness on unpredictable ground. This shoe is for you if:
- Smooth and form-fitting upper
- You want a long-distance trail shoe that is compatible with forefoot and midfoot strikers
Similar and cheaper
- An upper with more stitch reinforcements and a wraparound overlay that covers the sides and the heel
- The forefoot has printed overlays that protect against surface impact and exposure to debris
- MaxTrac outsole compound is long-lasting and has the necessary firmness to counter the harsh nature of the trails
neutral running shoe
The outsole unit of the Altra Superior 4.0 is composed of a rubber compound called MaxTrac. This layer covers the entire midsole foam, protecting it from the abrasive nature of outdoor terrains. It has a grippy character that allows it to naturally deliver traction. Many trail shoes from Altra utilize this technology, including the well-known Lone Peak.
Heightened surface adhesion is provided by the TrailClaw, a set of extended gripping lugs that have a skewed construction. These protrusions act like claws that ensure surface stability and control, especially when handling upward and downward traversals.
Altra running shoes
The midsole unit of the Superior 4.0 is composed of Altra Quantic foam, a full-length foam that provides responsive underfoot performance and impact mitigation. It has a lightweight build that frees the foot from feeling encumbered.
The InnerFlex is a system of grooves in the midsole that encourages natural foot flexibility. Such a mechanism heightens the quality of the step.
Improved impact attenuation and anatomical counterpoise are afforded by the Zero Drop platform. This even heel-to-toe differential also enables the instinctive performance of the foot, accommodating slight biomechanical adjustments to accentuate speed and foot-to-ground steadiness.
A removable StoneGuard layer is placed above the primary cushioning system. It protects the foot from sharp trail debris and rough surfaces.
Smooth and form-fitting upper
A wraparound textile is used for the upper unit of the Altra Superior 4.0. This material has a light and breathable construction that allows the runner to experience cool and dry coverage. It is also smooth and form-fitting, traits that embody a supposedly comfortable in-shoe feel.
Stitched-on overlays reinforce the sides and the heel. These add-ons don’t have a substantial thickness yet they secure the foot and keep it in place.
The forefoot has printed overlays that protect against surface impact and exposure to debris.
The padded tongue and collar of this trail shoe cushion the topmost portions of the foot. Moreover, they help in the prevention of in-shoe wobbling and accidental shoe removals.
The FootShape toe box is a spacious forefoot design that allows the toes to splay naturally when standing idly or when gearing towards the liftoff.
