Hi Ryan, I usually share many of your views on your reviews, and I think that details like the tongue being a bit short, the padding in the heel being a bit low in the heel, and the round shoelaces are good spots...The mid foot lockdown is very good which does not require much of a structured heel counter - Good to have Altra address this - makes the shoe far more versatile on technical trails. But where I lose you completely is when you compare the MB to a hiking shoe, especially vs the Olympus. The Olympus is a fast packing / hiking shoe with a rocker that works even at lower speeds. The MB has a high toe rocker which leads more towards mid foot to forefoot strike - so definitely aimed at the faster runner. As for the weight, comparing it to the EVO Speedgoat and saying you were expecting it to be crazy light, the EVO is (was) the popular choice of a racing trail shoe from Hoka. To compare the MB to the EVO is actually a good thing for Altra, as it was a stripped back version the 4, and Jim Walmsley's choice. With more stack in the forefoot because of zero drop, it's actually very light for this amount of cushioning. Lastly, to say that you would not go further than 20-30 miles in this shoe? Really?. With a 30mm stack height (not 32mm), that's plenty! Though the ground feel is definitely better than the Olympus, which is a good thing, I think. I also think it would be good for you to revisit the EGO midsole and compare it the to the EgoMax. Definitely more energy return, though definitely firmer on the MB and the Torin 5 or Paradigm 6. You're right to say it probably has to do with the outsole, especially the pattern I think - which actually gives it good stability, so again, I was a bit surprised you would say otherwise. Anyway love your reviews and please keep them coming, but sorry for speaking my truth😂
I was kind of hopeful that this would be a competitive race day shoe for 50+ miles. However I found similar issues to you. I wore Altra for multiple years and was a diehard fan, but recent changes and updates from other companies allows me to pivot away from Altra. I found the heel slips in my size. Sizing down removed the heel slip issue but lack of structure still didn't settle with me. This also introduced a new problem, sizing down meant zero space between the edge and my toes. Any wear or chafing and I would be S.O.L. In addition, the cylindrical lacing, as you mentioned, added too much pressure on top of my foot. The tightness was required to prevent the heel slipping. The outsole and the grip seemed excellent. It was less weight than say a Hoka Speedgoat 4, but still not light enough to compete with the soon to be released Hoka Tecton X and that isn't mentioning the price is closer to the Tecton X and not a speedgoat 5. I think if they went with flat laces, they increased the height of the tongue and ankle/heel and added some support to the heel I would be all over it! This shoe's heel has the same issue the Craft CTM Ultra 2 has, super thin unsupported heel. Makes no sense in a ultramarathon trail race day targeted shoe!
While not really designed for it, I found that tying the last two eyelets with a runner's knot helped the lock down a little. I've still yet to give them a good run test though, so we will see.
Another fantastically honest review. I forked out for the Olympus 4, and never managed to get anything that resembled a lockdown, even with a runners knot. I ended up losing like $75 after putting about 10 miles on it. No more Altra for me, but I was curious about this one. Sounds... Weird.
Altra is hard to get a good lockdown due to the shape, so much pressure is put on the top of the foot close to the ankle and if that's not perfect, the whole thing just kind of falls apart. Hoping the BOA version of this is much better
@@RyanClaytonFilms interesting. I was at the point of discomfort in the tongue area yet still slipping around all over the place. Found it truly odd! Back to Speedgoat Evo's for me until the 5 comes out! Stocked up on 3 pairs in my size just in case 😂
@@RyanClaytonFilms This was/is exactly my problem. I recently purchased the MB and found that I couldn't get a good lock down unless I really snugged the laces. Unfortunately, with the super thin tongue, this put a lot of pressure on my foot. Second, I have a high arch and instep and this shoe's midfoot just feels too low for me. It's kind of weird because generally shoes with a low midfoot cannot really be snugged too much because there's not enough "reach" of the material on either side of the foot, but this one allowed for it, but in combination with having to snug tightly, it just wasn't the right fit for me. I returned them without running because there would be no point - they hurt just walking around the house. I recently discovered your page and really like your reviews. I also like that you have done a few of the 100's I have (ie, Grindstone, Cruel Jewel, probably others) and feel you relate well to the ultrarunners needs.
Ryan, thanks. Appreciate the honest review - a little disappointed to hear about said issues and yes, the weight?! Still…That said … still looks pretty cool
Great review. Loved the honesty. I was on the fence about it, so I will wait for the full review. I had a feeling the midsole would be stiff even though the Torin 5 is fairly soft (not as soft as quantic).
Well. That was a slaughter, haha. Thanks for sharing your thoughts Ryan. Though I love the Olympus 4, I've been a bit off Altra during the last year. I reckon this shoe will not bring me back.
Nice review mate for someone who’s not run in Altra it’s a big ask to buy this shoe in a stacked market! Also Altra have claimed this is for technical trails but at 3.5mm lugs not sure 🤔 prefer 5mm for technical although it is with Mont Blanc in mind the double boa version that comes out in May will be better for someone that likes splay in the toe box & tight upper might be a better option 👍
Was so looking forward to these I don’t get how companies that have a whole market to themselves keep disappointing they’re “fanboys”. Jeep is another great example.
Yeah I don't know, I'm definitely not a fanboy anymore, gotta keep these reviews honest. It's weird how some things can seem to slip through the cracks, but hope they improve for the next one!
Didn't even run in mine that I got a few days ago; sizing was off for me, and heel slippage was an issue on both shoes without even running. BUMMER. Might give.... the BOA version in a 1/2 size down a try, but ehhh... it's an Olympus Lite, nothing else.
@@RyanClaytonFilms Fair - maybe the 10.5 Olympus fits my shape better than the 10.5 MB, just a lot of extra room at the toes and I could not get the cinch down right without hurting top of my foot (lacing, as you noted), that stupid short tongue... that back heel slippage was the deal breaker for me. Alas.
Have you checked out any of Topo Athletic’s shoes? I had their MTN Racer before switching to Altra when it wore out (after a TON of abuse) because I wanted to try zero drop and regret it. I run in their Cyclone as well on road and am a big fan.
it's been mentioned, but would love to see this compared/contrasted with the Olympus (and the Speedgoat). I like the Olympus 4s overall, but after 4 or 5 hours the top of my foot where the shoes are tied hurts enough I have to swap out shoes. Was really exited for this one but may have to look into the Speedgoats for the first time.
Yeah I agree there are some shoes that do that to the top of your foot. I’ll definitely be comparing these to the Olympus and speedgoats as we get into the spring!! Thanks!
Good review. It looks like they didn't do a good job on the design. I use the Olympus 4 for a long time now and Olympus 5 is not coming out till late this year even though they showed it at TRE show in December. It seems the focus should be on the Olympus not Monteblanc. They are really pushing this new shoe in many outlets. It looks nice but I am glad I saw your review. I think the heel pad issue is a good catch. I notice that all my Altras catch more rocks than my Hokas. I run in both.
I have a pair on the way that I'm going to quickly hop across the border to pick up - a bit less stoked the more I hear about the shoe but hoping it breaks in well for you after a few more runs! I know it's basically a max stack shoe so flexibility will be limited but what did you think about the flexibility given the stack height?
Good luck with yours! It’s less stack than the Olympus and also less flexible. They say they’re doing for a more performance based shoe so it would make sense that it’s a bit more firm, but hopefully it does break in a bit
I know why this shoe was created, but I believe that Altra went in the wrong direction with this one. Not only have they discontinued the king mt, but there is no minimal, stiff, grippy, quick trail shoe. I say this as a recent convert to Altra (last year) and the escalante racer is the best shoe I have ever run in from any brand. It works for me on just about everything from slow recovery efforts, to quick efforts, to long runs. Everything. Now I'm looking for it's trail companion. Currently using the timp 2, superior 5 and my trusty peregrine 10's for those sloppy conditions, as altras are unpredictable and flat out dangerous in the wet.
@@RyanClaytonFilms I just want a normal heel cup Ryan. Not a baggy wide skater shoe that gets even wider after 100km. Not a weird lightweight, zero structured thing either. Yikes
@@RyanClaytonFilms I’ve tried every make I think! I really like Altra forefoot shape! Actually I haven’t tried Nike trail in a while. My main complaint is grip actually - always want a bit more!
@@peakproofuk try out the Topo Mtn Racer - foot shape but a strong heel counter. I’ve enjoyed the ride of mine. Feels like Timp level cushion with better traction and the drop is still low-ish at 5mm.
I wanted to love this shoe but the pair I recently purchased caused pain & suffering. The inner heal has rough, abrasive stitching that rubbed my heals bloody raw during a hilly 5 mile hike. I don't see anyone else having this type of issue, perhaps the pair I have are defective? I will reach out to ALTRA.
I tried them out now. Wow is this even an Altra? Its too narrow for me over the front of the foot, and the upper is too tight there too. The toes have no way near as much space as in Torin for example. Feels like they really tried hard for low weight but compromised by turning them into a pair of Hookas... Returning :(
I was so bummed out by this shoe. I'm glad you felt the same way about it. In the last couple months I've had to return the Superior 5, the Timp 3, and now the Mont Blanc. 💔💔💔
"Felt like a hiking shoe"... That's what I've felt with every Altra I've tried for a couple years. I've finally given up on the brand more specifically that their "foot shaped" last doesn't fit my foot. My feet swim in their shoes and feel incredibly insecure on trails. That tongue too, come one man. For a shoe that's like $200?!
Thanks for stopping by, what questions do you have for the full review?? Leave a comment and I'll answer it ✌
It's like the duo
Really nice video, love the sincere honesty hard to find these days everyone afraid to not get their free stuff....
Thank you so much!
A comparison video between the Mont Blanc and Olympus 4 would be cool :)
Great idea!
Agreed. This is what I wanted to hear.
Yes! That would be a great comparison! I'm on the fence with the Mount Blancs....love my Olympus's
Hi Ryan, I usually share many of your views on your reviews, and I think that details like the tongue being a bit short, the padding in the heel being a bit low in the heel, and the round shoelaces are good spots...The mid foot lockdown is very good which does not require much of a structured heel counter - Good to have Altra address this - makes the shoe far more versatile on technical trails. But where I lose you completely is when you compare the MB to a hiking shoe, especially vs the Olympus. The Olympus is a fast packing / hiking shoe with a rocker that works even at lower speeds. The MB has a high toe rocker which leads more towards mid foot to forefoot strike - so definitely aimed at the faster runner. As for the weight, comparing it to the EVO Speedgoat and saying you were expecting it to be crazy light, the EVO is (was) the popular choice of a racing trail shoe from Hoka. To compare the MB to the EVO is actually a good thing for Altra, as it was a stripped back version the 4, and Jim Walmsley's choice. With more stack in the forefoot because of zero drop, it's actually very light for this amount of cushioning. Lastly, to say that you would not go further than 20-30 miles in this shoe? Really?. With a 30mm stack height (not 32mm), that's plenty! Though the ground feel is definitely better than the Olympus, which is a good thing, I think. I also think it would be good for you to revisit the EGO midsole and compare it the to the EgoMax. Definitely more energy return, though definitely firmer on the MB and the Torin 5 or Paradigm 6. You're right to say it probably has to do with the outsole, especially the pattern I think - which actually gives it good stability, so again, I was a bit surprised you would say otherwise. Anyway love your reviews and please keep them coming, but sorry for speaking my truth😂
Thanks for stopping by and watching/commenting Elliot, love that we can all have such different opinions, have a great day!!
I was kind of hopeful that this would be a competitive race day shoe for 50+ miles. However I found similar issues to you. I wore Altra for multiple years and was a diehard fan, but recent changes and updates from other companies allows me to pivot away from Altra. I found the heel slips in my size. Sizing down removed the heel slip issue but lack of structure still didn't settle with me. This also introduced a new problem, sizing down meant zero space between the edge and my toes. Any wear or chafing and I would be S.O.L. In addition, the cylindrical lacing, as you mentioned, added too much pressure on top of my foot. The tightness was required to prevent the heel slipping. The outsole and the grip seemed excellent. It was less weight than say a Hoka Speedgoat 4, but still not light enough to compete with the soon to be released Hoka Tecton X and that isn't mentioning the price is closer to the Tecton X and not a speedgoat 5. I think if they went with flat laces, they increased the height of the tongue and ankle/heel and added some support to the heel I would be all over it! This shoe's heel has the same issue the Craft CTM Ultra 2 has, super thin unsupported heel. Makes no sense in a ultramarathon trail race day targeted shoe!
While not really designed for it, I found that tying the last two eyelets with a runner's knot helped the lock down a little. I've still yet to give them a good run test though, so we will see.
I will probably try that, my initial concern was creating more pressure right at the top of the shoe, but it might work!
excellent insight, on the first impression video.., I might try them on.., I might just wait for the speedgoat..
That sounds like a good plan!
Dude! What a review! Thank you 🙏🏽 👍🏾
Thank you!!
Another fantastically honest review. I forked out for the Olympus 4, and never managed to get anything that resembled a lockdown, even with a runners knot. I ended up losing like $75 after putting about 10 miles on it. No more Altra for me, but I was curious about this one. Sounds... Weird.
Altra is hard to get a good lockdown due to the shape, so much pressure is put on the top of the foot close to the ankle and if that's not perfect, the whole thing just kind of falls apart. Hoping the BOA version of this is much better
@@RyanClaytonFilms interesting. I was at the point of discomfort in the tongue area yet still slipping around all over the place. Found it truly odd! Back to Speedgoat Evo's for me until the 5 comes out! Stocked up on 3 pairs in my size just in case 😂
I threw my Olympus 4 in the trash 🤣. No lockdown, no response like most other Altras
@@bildotunechi oh you got lucky getting some extra pairs of the EVO’s!!
@@RyanClaytonFilms This was/is exactly my problem. I recently purchased the MB and found that I couldn't get a good lock down unless I really snugged the laces. Unfortunately, with the super thin tongue, this put a lot of pressure on my foot. Second, I have a high arch and instep and this shoe's midfoot just feels too low for me. It's kind of weird because generally shoes with a low midfoot cannot really be snugged too much because there's not enough "reach" of the material on either side of the foot, but this one allowed for it, but in combination with having to snug tightly, it just wasn't the right fit for me. I returned them without running because there would be no point - they hurt just walking around the house.
I recently discovered your page and really like your reviews. I also like that you have done a few of the 100's I have (ie, Grindstone, Cruel Jewel, probably others) and feel you relate well to the ultrarunners needs.
Ryan, thanks. Appreciate the honest review - a little disappointed to hear about said issues and yes, the weight?!
Still…That said … still looks pretty cool
You bet! Thanks for stopping by!! I wish I had a better first impression, but gotta tell the truth!
@@RyanClaytonFilms I can handle it. Just.
Great review. Loved the honesty. I was on the fence about it, so I will wait for the full review. I had a feeling the midsole would be stiff even though the Torin 5 is fairly soft (not as soft as quantic).
Glad it was helpful!! Thanks!
Great review Ryan 👍👍👍
Thanks Wayne!
Well. That was a slaughter, haha. Thanks for sharing your thoughts Ryan. Though I love the Olympus 4, I've been a bit off Altra during the last year. I reckon this shoe will not bring me back.
Gotta speak the truth! ✌️I would stick with the Olympus if you’re liking it
Nice review mate for someone who’s not run in Altra it’s a big ask to buy this shoe in a stacked market! Also Altra have claimed this is for technical trails but at 3.5mm lugs not sure 🤔 prefer 5mm for technical although it is with Mont Blanc in mind the double boa version that comes out in May will be better for someone that likes splay in the toe box & tight upper might be a better option 👍
yeah I am hoping the boa version is a winner!
Was so looking forward to these I don’t get how companies that have a whole market to themselves keep disappointing they’re “fanboys”. Jeep is another great example.
Yeah I don't know, I'm definitely not a fanboy anymore, gotta keep these reviews honest. It's weird how some things can seem to slip through the cracks, but hope they improve for the next one!
Didn't even run in mine that I got a few days ago; sizing was off for me, and heel slippage was an issue on both shoes without even running. BUMMER. Might give.... the BOA version in a 1/2 size down a try, but ehhh... it's an Olympus Lite, nothing else.
Yeah I wonder if a half size down would help me, unfortunately I think it’s just the design being off. I am excited about the Boa version though!
Ouch but good to know. Too long? I have had huge issues with the lone peak 6 being too long too.
@@movemorenowjames no it’s not too long for me, just has to do with the shape and padding around the heel
@@RyanClaytonFilms Fair - maybe the 10.5 Olympus fits my shape better than the 10.5 MB, just a lot of extra room at the toes and I could not get the cinch down right without hurting top of my foot (lacing, as you noted), that stupid short tongue... that back heel slippage was the deal breaker for me. Alas.
@@ericperramond3463 yeah I’m with ya
Have you checked out any of Topo Athletic’s shoes? I had their MTN Racer before switching to Altra when it wore out (after a TON of abuse) because I wanted to try zero drop and regret it. I run in their Cyclone as well on road and am a big fan.
I'd love to try out some Topo's!
Interesting review, Ryan. An odd shoe seems to be not one thing or the other. A racing Olympus? My go to is still my LP5 🙂
those sneakers were nice but I returned em back to runmoore... arch and shoe werent good fit for me and that orange and light blue didnt help
it's been mentioned, but would love to see this compared/contrasted with the Olympus (and the Speedgoat). I like the Olympus 4s overall, but after 4 or 5 hours the top of my foot where the shoes are tied hurts enough I have to swap out shoes. Was really exited for this one but may have to look into the Speedgoats for the first time.
Yeah I agree there are some shoes that do that to the top of your foot. I’ll definitely be comparing these to the Olympus and speedgoats as we get into the spring!! Thanks!
Good review. It looks like they didn't do a good job on the design. I use the Olympus 4 for a long time now and Olympus 5 is not coming out till late this year even though they showed it at TRE show in December. It seems the focus should be on the Olympus not Monteblanc. They are really pushing this new shoe in many outlets. It looks nice but I am glad I saw your review. I think the heel pad issue is a good catch. I notice that all my Altras catch more rocks than my Hokas. I run in both.
Yeah that is a good point, rocks in the heel will probably be an issue in the Mont Blanc! Thanks for stopping by!
I have a pair on the way that I'm going to quickly hop across the border to pick up - a bit less stoked the more I hear about the shoe but hoping it breaks in well for you after a few more runs! I know it's basically a max stack shoe so flexibility will be limited but what did you think about the flexibility given the stack height?
Good luck with yours! It’s less stack than the Olympus and also less flexible. They say they’re doing for a more performance based shoe so it would make sense that it’s a bit more firm, but hopefully it does break in a bit
I'm crying. :D
🙌
@@RyanClaytonFilms I'm seeking a successor to my EVO Speedgoat. Maybe Tecton X, but May is far away.
Ever consider taking the hit and trying the Topo Mtn Racer 2?
I have considered it and might try it out!
Hey Ryan! From left field, what jacket were you running in?
It's the Salomon Agile Wind. thanks!
I’m unsure how this shoe is heavier than the Catamount. Is that midsole just a brick?
Yeah, most of the weight is coming from the midsole, everything else is super light
@@RyanClaytonFilms was there actually anything decent about the midsole to justify all that weight?
Catamount has less stack and also uses supercritical foam, which is lighter than traditional EVA.
I know why this shoe was created, but I believe that Altra went in the wrong direction with this one. Not only have they discontinued the king mt, but there is no minimal, stiff, grippy, quick trail shoe. I say this as a recent convert to Altra (last year) and the escalante racer is the best shoe I have ever run in from any brand. It works for me on just about everything from slow recovery efforts, to quick efforts, to long runs. Everything. Now I'm looking for it's trail companion. Currently using the timp 2, superior 5 and my trusty peregrine 10's for those sloppy conditions, as altras are unpredictable and flat out dangerous in the wet.
Yes, these are interesting times for sure. Hope 2022 is a better year and we see some solid releases
Cool
I was on the fence between the Mont Blanc or the peregrine 12 and I ended up going with the peregrine 12
I'm trying that one out next!!
Some of the things, like the length of the tounge you'd expect a serious shoe company of altras size to get right literally every time
Yep 🧐
Seems like Altra’s heals are their Achilles heal.
Ouch 😜
@@RyanClaytonFilms I just want a normal heel cup Ryan. Not a baggy wide skater shoe that gets even wider after 100km. Not a weird lightweight, zero structured thing either. Yikes
@@peakproofuk I’d try Nike, saucony, or Salomon
@@RyanClaytonFilms I’ve tried every make I think! I really like Altra forefoot shape! Actually I haven’t tried Nike trail in a while. My main complaint is grip actually - always want a bit more!
@@peakproofuk try out the Topo Mtn Racer - foot shape but a strong heel counter. I’ve enjoyed the ride of mine. Feels like Timp level cushion with better traction and the drop is still low-ish at 5mm.
I wanted to love this shoe but the pair I recently purchased caused pain & suffering. The inner heal has rough, abrasive stitching that rubbed my heals bloody raw during a hilly 5 mile hike. I don't see anyone else having this type of issue, perhaps the pair I have are defective? I will reach out to ALTRA.
Your not the only one that’s having issues with the heel, Altra should be able to get you a different model
@@RyanClaytonFilms I'll check with them, thank you for your helpful video and response.😀👍
You are welcome!
I tried them out now. Wow is this even an Altra? Its too narrow for me over the front of the foot, and the upper is too tight there too. The toes have no way near as much space as in Torin for example. Feels like they really tried hard for low weight but compromised by turning them into a pair of Hookas... Returning :(
Yeah unfortunately that's what I felt too
First! Let's goooo!!! MB!!!!
I'm excited for the full review and seeing how the shoes open up!
Yeah I hope it does!!
I miss the Torin 4
That was a good shoe!
What I find amazing is I have watch 4 reviews of this shoe, each review puts out the same problems. How did Altra get it so far off the mark.
That is the million dollar question here...
Do they have these for women?
Yeah they do👍 link in description should go to both
I was so bummed out by this shoe. I'm glad you felt the same way about it. In the last couple months I've had to return the Superior 5, the Timp 3, and now the Mont Blanc. 💔💔💔
Yeah I’m not sure where they’re going with this
reference size
I mentioned I am a US 11.5 👍
@@RyanClaytonFilms OK, thank you so much. 👌👋👋
"Felt like a hiking shoe"... That's what I've felt with every Altra I've tried for a couple years. I've finally given up on the brand more specifically that their "foot shaped" last doesn't fit my foot. My feet swim in their shoes and feel incredibly insecure on trails. That tongue too, come one man. For a shoe that's like $200?!
Yeah, I hear ya Daniel! Should have been tested in a wider group of runners
Seemed you destroyed the Mont Blanc, but I disagree with your opinion on the outsole since it has vibram the best rubber out there.
I didn’t destroy them at all, just gave you a few things to watch out for. Also it seems like you missed where I said I liked the outsole.
While vibram is great, Saucony's pwrtrac is better in every way.