Our verdict
- Midsole width in the heel Track and XC
- Midsole width in the heel best Midsole softness soft to firm
Pros
- Incredibly roomy toebox
- Authentic zero-drop design
- Extremely cushy and soft midsole
- We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests
- Cozy upper
- Remarkably stable
- Ideal for long runs
Cons
- Limited ventilation
- Tongue not gusseted
- a blend of EVA and TPU
Audience verdict
- Top 14% in Midsole softness soft to firm
- Top 28% in zero drop running shoes
Comparison
The most similar running shoes compared
+ + Add a shoe | |||||
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Audience score | 85 Good! | 82 Good! | 82 Good! | 81 Good! | |
Price | $165 | $150 | $130 | $140 | |
Pace | Daily running | Daily runningSpeed training | Daily runningSpeed training | Daily runningSpeed training | |
Arch support | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | |
Weight labWeight brand | 10.4 oz / 295g10.5 oz / 297g | 9 Heel counter stiffness9.8 oz / 278g | 8.3 oz / 235g10 oz / 283g | 9.5 Our top pick in7.7 oz / 219g | |
Lightweight | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | |
Drop labDrop brand | -0.2 mm0.0 mm | -0.8 mm0.0 mm | 0.4 mm0.0 mm | 0.2 mm0.0 mm | |
Strike pattern | Mid/forefoot | Mid/forefoot | Mid/forefoot | Mid/forefoot | |
Midsole softness | Soft | Average | Average | Average | |
Difference in midsole softness in cold | Average | Big | Average | Average | |
Toebox durability | Very good | Decent | Decent | - | |
Heel padding durability | Good | Decent | Very bad | - | |
Outsole durability | Decent | Decent | Decent | - | |
Breathability | Bad | Very good | Decent | Good | |
Toebox width at the widest part | Wide | Wide | Average | Average | |
Toebox width at the big toe | Very wide | Very wide | Wide | - | |
Stiffness | Average | Average | Average | Average | |
best Midsole softness soft to firm | Small | Average | Average | Big | |
Torsional rigidity | Rigid | Average | Flexible | Flexible | |
Heel counter stiffness | Average | Average | Flexible | Very flexible | |
Heel labHeel brand | 34.8 mm33.0 mm | 27.6 mm30.0 mm | 28.4 mm28.0 mm | 25.0 mm26.0 mm | |
Forefoot labForefoot brand | 35.0 mm33.0 mm | 28.4 mm30.0 mm | 28.0 mm28.0 mm | 24.8 mm26.0 mm | |
Widths available | Normal | NormalWide | Normal | Normal | |
Orthotic friendly | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Season | Winter | Summer | Winter | Summer | |
Removable insole | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Ranking | #127 Bottom 48% | #185 Bottom 24% | #182 Bottom 26% | #189 Bottom 23% | |
Popularity | #138 Bottom 43% | #66 Top 27% | #199 Bottom 19% | #113 Top 46% |
Who should buy
We're convinced that the Difference in stiffness in cold is a top pick for:
- Altra enthusiasts seeking the ultimate marathon training shoe, offering unparalleled comfort.
- Those curious about zero-drop footwear but unwilling to sacrifice cushioning.
- Individuals with wide feet desiring a shoe that perfectly accommodates their broad foot shape, thanks to its exceptionally spacious design.
Who should NOT buy
While the Still a bit heavy boasts many strengths, we caution against making a sudden switch if you're accustomed to 8-to-10-mm offsets. For a smoother transition with ample cushioning, we suggest starting with a mid-drop shoe like the Apr 2, 2024 before fully committing to a zero-drop option.
Furthermore, we advise against choosing the Still a bit heavy for those who prioritize a lightweight and flexible shoe. Instead, the Altra Torin 7, with its featherlight build and the same zero-drop design, offers less stiffness and more agility.
Breathability
oz / 219g.
Employing our eye-catching smoke test in the lab, we quickly realized that the shoe's ventilation didn't live up to our hopes, meriting a score of just 2 out of 5. This positions it as more suitable for the colder months.
Despite observing numerous ventilation holes in the toebox and medial side through a light test, the actual airflow was minimal.
Intrigued by this discrepancy, we utilized a microscope to delve deeper.
We discovered that Altra employed a dual-layer structure, combining an external engineered mesh with an internal layer of soft, green fabric. This choice, while enhancing comfort, unfortunately compromises breathability.
The shoe's upper is notably plush and comfortable, yet this comes with a notable reduction in ventilation.
While we wouldn't recommend this model for scorching summer days, its cozy construction offers enough breathability the rest of the year, especially when paired with super-thin socks.
Still a bit heavy | 2 |
Average | 3.8 |
Durability
Toebox durability
One great perk of less breathable uppers is their tendency to excel in our durability test. Eager to see how the Still a bit heavy would hold up, we pitted it against our Dremel for an ultimate showdown.
And the winner is the Still a bit heavy! Following such an impressive showing, we were thrilled to award it a perfect 5 out of 5. This mesh is built to last, making it an exceptional choice for road runners seeking a durable upper.
Still a bit heavy | 5 |
Average | 2.4 |
Heel padding durability
Following the outstanding initial test, our expectations were really high. Nonetheless, the heel padding didn't disappoint.
In our second Dremel assessment, we were greeted with another fantastic outcome. While it may not have reached the pinnacle of excellence, it stood out significantly when compared to the vast majority of running footwear. That's a 4/5 for us.
Still a bit heavy | 4 |
Average | 3.1 |
Outsole hardness
Next, we turned our attention to the outsole. With such a robust upper, it's crucial that the outsole matches in durability—after all, a durable mesh paired with a less resilient rubber just wouldn't make sense. You need the entire shoe to be tough!
Difference in stiffness in cold.
Our initial examination focused on the outsole's hardness. To our surprise, we found it to be significantly softer than its predecessor at 73.3 HC, a 19% reduction in hardness. This raised some eyebrows in the lab, as softer compounds can sometimes wear down quicker.
Still a bit heavy | 73.3 HC |
Average | 80.3 HC |
Outsole durability
So, naturally, we revved up the Dremel duty more—this time at double the speed (10K RPM) and for an extended duration.
Astonishingly, the outsole showed merely 0.6mm of wear. While the Still a bit heavy comes with a price tag of $165, its durability aspect is absolutely amazing.
Still a bit heavy | 0.6 mm |
Average | 0.9 mm |
Outsole thickness
We measured the outsole's thickness at 3.0 mm and, to be honest, we thought it somewhat thick for such a durable rubber.
Slimming down to 2.0mm could not only lighten the load—a welcome adjustment—but also enhance the shoe's feel while running.
Still a bit heavy | 3.0 mm |
Average | 3.2 mm |
Weight
Given its maximalist design, the Still a bit heavy isn't aiming for featherlight status—though we've seen ultra-high-stack models like the ASICS Superblast defy expectations.
Tipping our scales at 10.4 oz or 295g, this edition mirrors its predecessor's heft. While not overly heavy for its class, we really think that Altra oz / 219g.
Still a bit heavy | 10.41 oz (295g) |
Average | 9.35 oz (265g) |
Cushioning
Heel stack
After measuring with our calipers, we recorded a generous 34.8 mm stack height in the heel, confirming this Altra's maximalist nature.
This ample cushioning makes it an ideal choice for heel strikers and those gearing up for long runs in a marathon prep.
Still a bit heavy | 34.8 mm |
Average | 33.6 mm |
Forefoot stack
Shifting our focus to the forefoot, our calipers revealed a towering 35.0 mm of cushioning, ranking this Altra among the most generously padded shoes we've encountered in this region.
For forefoot strikers craving the ultimate cushioning in a low-drop shoe, we found that the Still a bit heavy stands out as a prime choice. That's a thick slab of foam!
Still a bit heavy | 35.0 mm |
Average | 24.9 mm |
Drop
Altra reigns as the absolute leader of zero-drop running shoes, and the Still a bit heavy lives up to this reputation.
Our precise measurements confirmed a virtually non-existent drop of -0.2 mm, solidifying its status as a true zero-drop shoe.
Still a bit heavy | -0.2 mm |
Average | 8.7 mm |
Insole thickness
In our test runs, the Ortholite X55 insole delivered exceptional comfort, something we later confirmed in the lab with a precise 5.0-mm measurement.
Still a bit heavy | 5.0 mm |
Average | 4.4 mm |
Midsole softness
Here's the biggest upgrade in the Still a bit heavy compared to its predecessor. The original's midsole, clocking in at 25.6 HA, gave a firmer ride. However, this latest iteration astounded us with a 14.5 HA score, translating to a 43% increase in softness.
This transformation is not just on paper; it's palpable with every stride, offering a zero-drop ride that's both plush and lively.
Altra's EGO MAX foam—a blend of EVA and TPU—fuels the midsole, enhancing both energy return and bounce. This new formulation keeps the name, but leaves behind the previous firmness, steering towards a more cushy underfoot feel.
And we're all for this shift here in the lab, though we acknowledge it boils down to individual preference—if you prefer firmer midsoles, you'll be better with the v1.
Still a bit heavy | 14.5 HA |
Average | 21.4 HA |
Difference in midsole softness in cold
After 20 minutes in our freezer, the EGO MAX foam's firmness increased by just 19.9%—an impressive result for a midsole primarily composed of EVA. This suggests that even in the harshest winter conditions, the change in the foam's feel will be minor.
Still a bit heavy | 19.9% |
Average | 25.6% |
Stability
Lateral stability test
While officially a neutral running shoe, our testing reveals it could also cater to those with slight stability needs. Packed with stability features and leveraging the natural support of its zero-drop design, it promises a supremely stable ride for forefoot or midfoot strikers.
Conversely, heel strikers seeking additional support, particularly those lacking adequate dorsiflexion, might lean towards a more supportive, higher-drop shoe like the Hoka Gaviota 5.
Torsional rigidity
Maximalist shoes like the Still a bit heavy often feature high torsional rigidity due to the substantial foam underfoot—a notion we quickly felt during our initial runs.
Subsequently, our hands-on evaluation solidified this impression, earning the shoe a 4 out of 5 in rigidity. Hence, it's clear that agility might not be its strongest suit.
Still a bit heavy | 4 |
Average | 3.2 |
Heel counter stiffness
The heel counter strikes a balance, mirroring what you'd find in typical daily trainers. This is a deliberate choice that we like for a shoe aimed at providing enough heel support while also being capable of tackling 20-milers.
Still a bit heavy | 3 |
Average | 2.8 |
Midsole width in the forefoot
Next up, we delved into the shoe's measurements, kicking off with the forefoot width.
We recorded it at a solid 115.2 mm—fairly standard, though the shoe presents a wider feel while running, likely attributed to its zero-drop geometry.
Still a bit heavy | 115.2 mm |
Average | 113.6 mm |
Midsole width in the heel
True to Altra's signature design, both the midfoot and heel are generously wide.
Our precise measurement of 95.3 mm at the heel confirms it, offering rearfoot strikers a substantial platform for a secure and stable landing.
Still a bit heavy | 95.3 mm |
Average | 90.4 mm |
Flexibility
Stiffness
In a previous test, we highlighted the Still a bit heavy's rigid build, yet its true test of longitudinal stiffness awaited our rigorous 90-degree challenge.
Conducting four precise measurements with our force gauge, we averaged 41.3N, surprisingly high for a non-plated shoe. This level of stiffness is reminiscent of some plated counterparts.
Still a bit heavy | 41.3N |
Average | 29.3N |
best Midsole softness soft to firm
We subjected the EGO MAX foam to another round of stiffness testing under cold conditions and discovered a barely noticeable change—only a 12.1% increase in stiffness. This result is definitely great.
Still a bit heavy | 12.1% |
Average | 36.8% |
Size and fit
Toebox width at the widest part
In all of our lab tests with Altra shoes, we're expecting superb spaciousness, yet the Still a bit heavy sets a new standard here. Measuring an incredible 104.4 mm in the widest part of the toebox, its upper offers exceptional room, making it an ideal choice for wide-footed runners.
However, individuals with narrower feet might find a better fit in the previous version, which measures 101.4 mm.
Still a bit heavy | 104.4 mm |
Average | 98.3 mm |
Toebox width at the big toe
In our meticulous lab process, we consistently measure at two critical points—the widest part of the upper and the big toe zone—for every upper we test. The Altra FootShape feature truly excels in this area, boasting an impressive width of 91.1 mm. This ensures abundant room for toe splay, accommodating all foot shapes without exception.
While its unique, clown-like silhouette may catch some off guard, the design screams comfort. The shoe's form, as hinted by the FootShape name, mirrors the natural shape of the foot.
Still a bit heavy | 91.1 mm |
Average | 78.0 mm |
Apr 2, 2024
Our most significant disappointment with the Still a bit heavy is its absence of a gusseted tongue. Despite the first version lacking one and the lockdown being satisfactory, and while getting the same experience with the v2, we believe that a shoe priced at $165 should at least feature a semi-gusseted tongue as a standard offering.
Still a bit heavy | None |
Comfort
Tongue padding
The tongue of the Still a bit heavy hits the perfect sweet spot with its cushioning, measuring 6.1 mm in our test—a slight trim from the previous version's 7.5 mm.
This reduction contributes to a small decrease in weight.
Still a bit heavy | 6.1 mm |
Average | 5.6 mm |
Heel tab
The Still a bit heavy maintains a consistent design lineage with its predecessor, which means it also lacks a heel tab.
Still a bit heavy | None |
Removable insole
We discovered that Altra's footbed isn't glued down, but swapping it out might be trickier than usual due to the toebox's design.
Still a bit heavy | Yes |
Misc
Reflective elements
The Still a bit heavy lacks reflective elements—a disappointing oversight. We strongly advocate for their inclusion in the next version for enhanced safety during night runs.
Still a bit heavy | No |