Altra Torin 8 Review: Room to Run

Running is about the experience. Being present with yourself, the road or trail beneath you, and the environment around you. Altra has long aimed to support that connection by offering a natural ride that allows the feet to move freely, helping reduce stress on both body and mind. While the brand has seen some ups and downs in recent years, the Torin 8 strives to continue that mission with a familiar feel and a few updates.

The Torin 8 is the quintessential Altra experience. Zero drop, wide toe box, and flexible outsole packed into a neutral daily trainer with a stable, natural feel. Is that experience worth your miles? Let’s get into it.

SPECS

FIT

True to Size

SURFACE

ROAD

WHAT'S NEW

Molded Heel Collar
Jacquard Mesh Upper
EGO Max Midsole

COMPS

Topo Athletic Magnifly 5

PROS

CONS

IS THIS SHOE FOR YOU?

If you’re looking for a wide toe box and a natural ride, the Torin 8 is definitely worth considering. It’s especially deemed a look if you already enjoy zero drop or have been running in lower drop shoes and are ready to take the next step. That said, making the jump to zero drop isn’t something to take lightly. It’s a process that requires patience and gradual adaptation. If you’re willing to put in the time, the Torin 8 can be a reliable partner for those looking to run more naturally without sacrificing comfort.

WRAP UP

At its core, the Torin 8 delivers the classic Altra experience: zero drop, a roomy FootShape toe box, and a flexible outsole. That experience is wrapped into a neutral daily trainer built for runners who value a natural, connected ride, whether you’re easing into zero drop or already comfortable with it. It’s not without its flaws. The midsole leans a bit firm for longer runs, the heel collar can rub if you wear low-cut socks, and transitioning to zero drop definitely takes time. But if you’re after a solid shoe that promotes a natural footstrike and gives your toes plenty of room, the Torin 8 deserves a look.

The Altra Torin 8 is available now at Run N Tri Mobile. Aaron and staff provide a premier fitting process that includes proper measurement of the length and width of your feet, arch, and leg axis. A gait analysis is performed to identify pronation or lack thereof and pressure points.

In addition, an interview is conducted to determine the best type of shoe for your needs and goals. So stop by Run N Tri Mobile so they can put you in the latest offering from Altra or one of the nine other brands carried in the shop.