Altra Lone Peak 8 Review: Are They Still Worth It in 2025?
In this article, I’m going to share my HONEST Altra Lone Peak 8 review for those who are wondering whether they are still WORTH IT in 2025.
As a seasoned trail runner with over 15 years of experience testing trail running shoes, I recommend them for those who are looking for a lightweight, naturally-feeling pair of trail runners with an incredibly spacious toe box.
For this review, I have put in over hundreds of miles into testing my own personal pair of the Altra lone peak 8 throughout 2024 with continued testing in 2025.
I’m very familiar with how they feel and perform on the trails. I’ll go over comfort/fit, traction, stability & support, weight, overall protection, and durability. I’ll be giving a score of each category based on OBJECTIVE testing standards and an overall score with recommendations at the end.
Released in 2024, the lone peak 8 quickly earned praise from trail runners for its improved ripstop mesh upper and enhanced durability. Compared to the Lone Peak 7, the updates are subtle but meaningful- reinforced heel collar, larger gaiter trap, and enhanced toe bumper protection for a more reliable ride.
Lone Peak 8 Pros and Cons
- Top Zero Drop Shoe On Market
- Incredible toe box comfort and width
- Ripstop mesh upper for enhanced durability
- Versatile performance for trail running and hiking
- Outsole durability could be better
- Limited wet rock traction
Should you buy the Altra Lone Peak 8?
Buy if
- You want the GREAT value for a zero drop shoe made for NATURAL foot movement
- You want a trail running shoe with an AMAZING wide toe box
- You are looking for versatile shoes for trail running AND hiking
- You want a trail runner that will perform on long-distance adventures
DON’T Buy if
- You prefer high-drop traditional running shoes
- You need maximum grip on wet rock and technical terrain
- You want the most durable outsole on the market
- You’re not ready for the zero drop transition period
Altra Lone Peak 8 Price
Right now, the altra lone peak 8 retails for $140, but I found some awesome deals on Amazon and REI.com for as low as $110.
Get The BEST deal on the Lone Peak 8 at the LOWEST Price Available! (Do NOT pay retail):
Disclosure: These links may provide a discount and in return, give us a commission in order to run the website 🙂
Altra Lone Peak 8 Comfort & Fit
I was blown away by the footshape fit of the Lone Peak 8. The toe box is incredibly spacious – I measured it at 84.2mm with my caliper. I didn’t have any compression on my toes whatsoever, even during long 15+ mile trail runs when my feet swell.
Then.. everything came back down to Earth. The midsole uses Altra’s ego foam with mediocre cushioning. The cushioning is definitely nothing to write home about, it is definitely not on the same level as the Hoka or Brooks trail shoes.
I had a small amount of sore spots I found in my arches while testing out these shoes, especially after a mile or more in.
However, the ripstop mesh upper breathes incredibly well, preventing hot spots during those summer trail sessions.
The padded tongue was more impressive than the midsole, it eliminated any lace bite. Even with tight lacing, there are no compressive spots. The upper protects you from the compressive force while maintaining that locked-in feel.
One big downside to the lone peak 8 is the heel collar padding. Although it’s comfortable initially, the padding tends to compress and lose cushioning over time. I noticed some heel irritation after about 40 miles of testing.
As for fit, I didn’t need to size up or down. The lone peak 8 runs true to size.
The roomy toe box is particularly beneficial for particularly wide feet. Unlike most shoes that compress the big toe, the foot shape design allows natural toe splay.
This extra ample room prevents the painful pressure that can develop during long distances when feet inside traditional running shoes start to swell.
Comfort & Fit Score: 7/10 (20%)
Traction
The altra lone peak 8 is equipped with the max trac outsole, an in-house outsole created by Altra for reliable grip on surfaces.
I really felt the Max-Trac outsole is a downgrade compared to Vibram or even Contagrip outsoles. The outsole is too soft and the lugs are not as grippy.
The 3mm chevron-shaped outsole lugs provide okay multidirectional grip. I tested them on hard-packed trails, loose dirt, and dry rocky terrain where they performed decently, with some slipping.
Compared to aggressive options like the Salomon Speedcross 6, the lone peak 8 focuses more on versatility than maximum grip. Altra was able to create an outsole that works well across different terrains without being overly specialized, which makes it more universal.
One big area where these trail running shoes struggle is wet rock traction. While I was running on slippery granite, the grip was limited, especially compared to stickier rubber compounds. The softer rubber trades some wet traction for comfort.
Overall, the lone peak 8 has mediocre traction for most trail conditions. If you are looking for something that needs extreme grip, look elsewhere.
Traction Score: 6.5/10 (20%)
Stability & Support
The zero drop platform of the lone peak 8 promotes natural stability by strengthening your lower legs and encouraging midfoot lockdown. The wide toe box allows your toes to splay naturally, creating a stable base.
The stone guard protection gives you confidence on rocky terrain. The firm midsole acts almost like a protective platform, helping your foot move naturally while preventing sharp rocks penetration.
The 23 mm heel and 22 mm forefoot stack creates a minimal 1 mm drop that feels essentially flat. This promotes natural proprioception and balance on uneven terrain.
The zero drop platform encourages a more natural heel strike pattern, which many runners find reduces impact stress.
However, runners transitioning from traditional drop shoes should expect a break in period as their lower legs adapt to the new platform. This is ESSENTIAL, as you can easily injure yourself.
The Stability & Support of the lone peak 8 are very good for a zero drop design, given the varied terrain we put it through during our rigorous testing.
Stability & Support Score: 8/10 (20%)
Weight: 8/10 (15%)
One strength of the lone peak 8 is the reasonable weight. At 10.2 oz (288g) for men’s size 10.5, they’re lighter than many traditional trail runners while providing excellent protection.
The lone peak 8 strikes an excellent balance between protection and weight. There’s always a trade-off between durability/protection vs weight, and Altra found a sweet spot with this model.
Regarding weight, I felt mild foot fatigue, but that was due to the cushioning rather than the weight itself.
For reference, I weighed my pair at exactly 10.2 ounces, which feels incredibly light on technical terrain compared to heavier trail runners.
The lightweight design doesn’t sacrifice protection, thanks to the stone guard and protective toe bumper that add minimal weight while enhancing durability.
Weight Score: 8/10 (15%)
How’s The Overall Protection Of The Lone Peak 8?
The Lone Peak 8 incorporates a stone guard for underfoot protection. The stone guard is firm and protective, giving you assurance on rocky terrain without adding excessive weight.
The ripstop mesh upper has reinforced areas around high-wear zones. The protective toe bumper extends up and over the toe box, protecting you from rocks and roots on the trails.
The midfoot overlays provide structure without being overly rigid. Whether you’re a heel striker or forefoot runner, the firm midsole protects you from sharp rocks while maintaining ground feel.
Shock absorption is good with this model considering the zero drop design. I was able to maintain comfortable strides on rocky terrain without joint pain or excessive impact.
I would say there are much better options for impact absorption out there such as the Hoka Mafate X or even Hoka Challenger 8, however those are not zero drop and have much higher stack heights.
If you are worried about debris getting into your shoes while running, the fully gusseted tongue design seals out dirt, pebbles, and trail debris effectively. They do have an insert for gaiters as well.
Altra Lone Peak 8 Overall Protection Score: 7/10 (10%)
Durability: 7/10 (10%)
I experienced some durability concerns with the lone peak 8 during extended testing. The ripstop mesh is an area of concern while the mesh is durable, the welded overlays pose a problem for durability. Welding materials when it comes to shoes brings down the weight, however puts them at risk of early delamination.
The Max Trac outsole showed a wear after 50 miles during testing, which is faster than some competitors. The softer rubber compound provides good comfort but wears more quickly on abrasive surfaces.
The heel collar padding is the weakest point, compressing significantly after 100 miles and causing some comfort issues.
Compared to previous models in the altra lineup, the new Altra Lone Peak shows improved upper durability. The ripstop mesh handles encounters with tree roots and rocky terrain better than the previous model. However, the welding process does not help.
The lone peak 8 will provide solid performance for 150+ miles, but the outsole may need replacement sooner than more durable options. Consider these durability concerns before purchasing.
Durability Score: 7/10 (10%)
Is the Altra Lone Peak 8 worth it?
If you are looking for a natural-feeling, comfortable zero drop trail running shoe then the Altra Lone Peak 8 is still a good consideration in 2025.
As a versatile trail runner, the Lone Peak 8 doesn’t boast the most aggressive traction or maximum durability. However, it appeals to runners seeking natural foot movement and very good comfort.
If you’re after a trail shoe that comes at a budget price with all the above traits, then the Lone Peak 8 is a good option at under $130.
Personally, I would upgrade to the Lone Peak 9+ at $155 with the upgraded Vibram outsole given the improved value.
The drawbacks to consider would be the outsole durability and limited traction compared to more aggressive models like the Salomon Speedcross 6.
Overall, as a trail runner seeking natural foot movement on a budget, I don’t think you can go wrong with picking up a pair of the Lone Peak 8. Whether you’re planning long distances on hiking shoes or need a favorite zero drop shoe for daily trail running, this model delivers good value.
Value: 4/5 (5%)
Scoring Breakdown
Comfort & Fit (20%): 7/10
Traction (20%): 6.5/10
Stability & Support (20%): 8/10
Weight (15%): 8/10
Overall Protection (10%): 7/10
Durability (10%): 7/10
Value (5%): 4/5
1.40 + 1.30 + 1.60 + 1.20 + 0.70 + 0.70 + 0.40 = 7.30 / 10
Our Rating: 7.3/10
Right now, the Altra Lone Peak 8 retails for $140, but I found some awesome deals on Amazon and REI.com for as low as $110.
Get The BEST deal on the Lone Peak 8 at the LOWEST Price Available! (Do NOT pay retail):
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Altra Lone Peak 8 good trail running shoes?
Yes! The Altra lone peak 8 are good trail running shoes for people looking for zero drop, natural movement. They have excellent toe box room and comfort with the footshape fit.
Does Altra Lone Peak 8 have a rock plate?
Yes, the Lone Peak 8 do have an incorporated rock plate in the forefoot.
Are The Lone Peak 8 Waterproof?
No, the lone peak 8 are not waterproof.
What Is The Biggest Difference Between The Lone Peak 7 and 8?
The big difference between the lone peak 8 and 7 is the ripstop mesh upper, enhanced heel collar, and larger gaiter trap. The 8 maintains the same fit and feel with improved durability.
Do The Lone Peak 8 Run True To Size?
Yes! Based on our testing there is no need to size up or down with the LP8.
Are these good for people with plantar fasciitis?
The wide toe box and zero drop platform can help reduce pressure on the plantar fascia. However, those with plantar fasciitis should consider their individual needs and may want more cushioning for comfort.
How We Tested and Our Methodology
I personally tested the altra lone peak 8 over 150+ miles since their release in 2024 with the sole intent of giving you the most unbiased review possible. Mountaineer Journey is a 100% independent publisher with years of testing and reviewing outdoor equipment.
This kind of hands-on experience helps me evaluate how a trail running shoe truly performs—whether it’s truly comfortable, grips well on varied surfaces, and holds up over time under real mileage.
We currently pay for the products we test ourselves; no company or manufacturer pays us to sway our opinions or decisions.
