Altra Olympus 6 Review | WORTH IT In 2025?
In this article, I’m going to share my HONEST Altra Olympus 6 review for those who are wondering whether they are still WORTH IT in 2025. As a seasoned trail runner with over 12 years of experience testing trail running shoes, I recommend them for those who are looking for a maximum-cushioned, zero-drop trail runner with exceptional toe room. The Olympus 6 is Altra’s most cushioned trail option, let’s find out why!
For this review, I have put in over 100 miles into testing my own personal pair of the Altra Olympus 6 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 as an update to the popular Olympus line, the Olympus 6 quickly earned praise from trail runners for its upgraded breathability and improved traction. Compared to the Olympus 5, the updates are subtle but meaningful – increased lug depth for better grip, outstanding ventilation, and the same plush cushioning Altra fans love.
Altra Olympus 6 Pros and Cons
- Exceptional toe room with Altra’s Original FootShape design
- Plush 33mm stack height
- Outstanding breathability with improved ventilation system
- Reliable grip with Vibram Megagrip outsole and deeper 3.5mm lugs
- Heavy at 15.5 oz (439g) for a trail runner
- May feel unstable on technical terrain due to high stack
- Zero-drop requires adjustment period for some runners
Should you buy the Altra Olympus 6?
Buy if
- You want MAXIMUM cushioning with a ZERO-DROP platform
- You need a trail running shoe with a WIDE toe box for natural toe splay
- You are looking for all-day comfort on long distances and ultra runs
- You want reliable Vibram Megagrip traction for varied terrain
DON’T Buy if
- You prefer a lightweight, responsive trail runner
- You need a shoe for highly technical terrain requiring precise footwork
- You have narrow feet that may swim in the spacious toe box
- You’re not used to zero-drop and don’t want to transition gradually
Altra Olympus 6 Price
Right now, the Altra Olympus 6 retails for $170, however you can find them for lower on REI.com at times.
Get The BEST deal on the Olympus 6 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 🙂
Compare To Similiar Products
One of our top rated trail runners of this year. Built like a "tank" can withstand all the elements while keeping you comfortable and also provide impressive traction
Extremly versatile trail runner with performance of a hiking shoe. One of the best protection systems for runners up against rough terrain. Very good traction and stability.
The Sense Ride 5 is a performance trail running shoe that excels in stability and support. The budget-friendly price is also what makes it a great choice
Altra Olympus 6 Comfort & Fit: 8.5/10 (20%)
I was very impressed with the fit of the Olympus 6 when trying them on, the toe box room is substantial and one of the “roomiest” I’ve ever experienced. No top of foot pressure.
While most max-cushioned trail runners feel restrictive in the toe box, the Olympus delivers plush comfort without sacrificing toe room. I measured the toe box width at 103 mm with my caliper – significantly wider than most competitors. My toes could actually spread naturally without any compression or hot spots.
The midsole is extremely cushioned with its 33mm stack height of compression molded EVA foam. The shock absorption was very impressive, it didn’t come from any overly soft or cushy feeling underfoot. What stood out to me most is that the outsole and midsole absorb impact like a tank, they are very firm and feel impenetrable.
I felt the shoe did a great job of cradling my foot while providing a cloud-like feel underfoot. The zero drop platform (which I confirmed at a true 0.4mm difference) maintains proper alignment while still offering substantial protection.
I was able to maintain comfortable strides even after 10+ miles on trail—no sore feet, no uneven pressure points. The 5.0mm removable insole adds another layer of comfort without feeling sloppy. What really impressed me was the achilles pillow, which provides excellent heel comfort while keeping debris out.
The breathability is a major improvement over previous versions. I did test the GTX version, however they improved with Gore-tex invisible fit which is said to be more breathable.
Admittedly, I did feel the Gore-tex invisible fit to be more breathable than the standard version that’s also after testing it in multiple models.
The strategic ventilation holes combined with the mesh upper kept my feet cool even on hot summer runs. I’d rate the breathability an almost perfect 4.5/5 based on my testing.
As for fit, I found they run about half a size big based on my testing. I’d recommend sizing down 1/2 size from your normal running shoe size for the best fit. The high toe box volume (measured at 28mm) allows for natural toe movement without feeling sloppy.
No heel slipping or pressure points—just a secure, comfortable fit. The thick hiking-boot style laces feel like kevlar, they do a great job of maintaining tension throughout my long runs.
Traction: 8.5/10 (20%)
The Altra Olympus 6 is equipped with a Vibram Megagrip outsole, an industry-leading compound created specifically for exceptional grip and traction on varied terrain.
The lugs themselves gained 0.5mm in depth (now 3.5mm vs 3.0mm in the previous model), providing noticeably improved traction in loose conditions. To my surprise, the outer lugs are slightly .3 mm deeper than the rest of the shoe which really boosted my traction on steeper inclines.
I tested them on wet and dry, technical and well-groomed trails and they performed excellently. The Olympus 6 traction is comparable to some dedicated hiking shoes that cost significantly more.
Compared to other max cushioned trail runners like the Hoka Challenger 7, the Olympus 6 holds its own or even surpasses them in grip. The strategic lug pattern follows the natural foot shape, providing stability where you need it most.
One area where these trail runners excel is on long, moderate terrain. During my 10 mile long training runs, the grip remained consistent from start to finish, especially transitioning from trail to road. The full-length rubber coverage ensures no weak spots in traction.
The large drainage port is a thoughtful design element that prevents mud buildup in wet conditions, something I really appreciated during several rainy test runs.
Overall, the Olympus 6 has excellent traction for a moderated-cushioned trail runner. While not as aggressive as some specialized shoes for extreme deep mud or technical terrain, it provides reliable grip across a wide range of conditions that most trail runners will encounter.
Stability & Support 8.5/10 (20%)
Despite the towering 33mm stack height, the Olympus 6 provides surprising stability on trail. The wide platform (I measured the heel base at 98.9 mm) creates a stable foundation that helps prevent ankle rolls on uneven terrain.
The Original FootShape design allows your toes to spread naturally, which directly improves stability—especially on hillside sections or quick descents. Your foot can function more naturally within the shoe, leading to better balance and control.
I have never been a fan of zero-drop because of the simple fact that you can easily injure yourself switching from a low to high heel-to-toe drop. However, the inherent zero drop on this model was a little bit more enticing to me because of the high stack height.
The well-designed upper hugs your midfoot while giving your toes more room to play, helping your foot move with the shoe, not against it. This connection to the shoe is crucial when navigating technical terrain.
The torsional rigidity, which I rated at 4.5/5 during testing, provides good resistance to twisting forces without making the shoe feel like a brick. This balance helps the shoe adapt to terrain while maintaining structural integrity.
One weakness is that the high stack height can feel a bit wobbly on extremely technical terrain or steep side hills. While the wide base helps mitigate this, physics simply can’t be denied – a 33mm stack will never feel as planted as a lower-profile shoe.
I was impressed with the moderate flexibility despite the substantial cushioning. This gives just enough ground feel to navigate obstacles while maintaining the plush protection that defines this shoe.
Overall, the Olympus 6 provides good stability for its category, though runners seeking maximum control on technical terrain might prefer a lower-stack option like Altra’s Lone Peak series.
Weight 6.5/10 (15%)
One clear drawback to the Olympus 6 is the weight. At 15.5 oz for a men’s size 10.5, this is significantly on the heavier end for trail running shoes. It really feels like a “Tank” and is very bulky. For a frame of reference, Altra lists the 6 at 12.5 ounces 3 ounces off from our measurement.
For comparison, the Altra Lone Peak 9 weighs 11 oz, and the Timp 5 comes in at 9.7 oz.
These aren’t lightweight racers by any means. However, the substantial cushioning makes up for the extra ounces, and I rarely noticed the weight once I was moving on trail.
One issue I ran into was how hard it was to accommodate for the natural external rotation of my left foot. My left foot naturally turns outward while running, and I consciously correct for that. Since the shoe is so “bulky” It was hard for me to make those conscious adjustments.
In fact, the Olympus 6 is Altra’s max-cushioned trail runner and was never designed to be an “ultralight” option. There’s always a trade-off between cushioning/protection and weight. The 33mm of plush EVA foam adds ounces but provides outstanding protection that your feet will thank you for on ultra-distance runs.
Regarding weight, foot fatigue wasn’t as much of an issue as I expected during testing. I compared the Olympus 6 to the Hoka Speedgoat 6 which is slightly lighter at 10 ounces.
Interestingly, I felt less foot fatigue in the Olympus 6 despite the slight weight disadvantage, likely due to the natural foot positioning and superior fit.
If you’re looking for the lightest possible option, this isn’t your shoe. But if you prioritize comfort for long days on trail, the extra weight is a reasonable compromise.
How’s The Overall Protection Of The Olympus 6?
The Altra Olympus 6 doesn’t incorporate a traditional rock plate for foot protection. Instead, it relies on its substantial 33mm stack height to provide a natural barrier between your foot and the trail.
The EVA midsole is thick enough to absorb impacts from rocks and roots without transferring that shock to your feet or ankles. I deliberately ran over rocky sections and barely felt anything through and through.
The toe area features reinforced protection with durable overlays that saved my toes numerous times from rock kicks. The heel is similarly reinforced with substantial cushioning in the achilles area.
Shock absorption is excellent with this model. The compression-molded EVA foam is a shock absorbing beast. The cushioning really keeps your joints happy mile after mile. Whether you’re a heel-striker or forefoot runner, the zero-drop platform and consistent cushioning have you covered.
While the Olympus 6 doesn’t feature a waterproof membrane in the standard model, the quick-drying mesh upper handles dew and light water crossings surprisingly well. For those needing full waterproofing, a GTX version is available. I tested the GTX version in my 10 minute submersion test without any water getting in.
If you’re worried about gravel, dirt, or other debris getting into your shoes, the fully gusseted tongue does an excellent job of keeping the elements out. This was a notable improvement over some competitors that let trail debris sneak in at every opportunity.
Altra Olympus 6 Overall Protection 9/10 (10%)
Durability 8.5/10 (10%)
The Altra Olympus model is literally tough as nails.Altra has done an excellent job reinforcing high impact areas while maintaining breathability.
The Vibram Megagrip outsole has held up extremely well during testing, showing minimal wear of only 0.6mm after 100+ miles. The lugs remain intact with minimal flattening even on abrasive surfaces.
The upper construction strikes an impressive balance between ventilation and durability. The strategic overlays protect the mesh in high-wear areas without creating failure points that plagued some earlier models.
While the plush EVA midsole will eventually compress as all foam does, the initial resilience I suspect it will maintain its cushioning properties for 300-500 miles for most runners. This is excellent for such a max-cushioned platform.
The Olympus 6 is built from quality materials that should last for hundreds of miles of trail running. While not indestructible, it balances durability with comfort better than most max-cushioned options on the market.
Is the Altra Olympus 6 worth it?
If you are looking for a max-cushioned, zero drop trail running shoe with exceptional toe room, then the Altra Olympus 6 is made for you.
As a premium cushioned trail runner, the Olympus 6 doesn’t pretend to be a lightweight speedster or a technical terrain specialist. However, it excels at providing all-day comfort for long distances on moderate terrain, as well as having the “tank-like” outer that is robust as other hiking shoes we have reviewed.
Don’t overlook the fact that they offer arguably the best combination of cushioning and natural foot positioning of any trail shoe we’ve tested to date.
Getting this level of quality with premium Vibram outsole for under $170 is a solid value.
The strengths of this shoe are the cushioning, toe room, breathability, and traction!
The drawbacks to consider would be the weight and potential instability on extremely technical terrain. Also, if you’re new to zero drop shoes, you’ll need to transition gradually to avoid calf strain. Other long distance trail runners to consider would be the Brooks Cascadia 18 or Norda 001.
Value: 4.5/5 (5%)
Scoring Breakdown
Comfort & Fit (20%): 8.5/10
Traction (20%) : 8.5/10
Stability & Support (20%): 8.5/10
Weight (15%) : 6.5/10
Overall Protection (10%) : 9/10
Durability (10%) : 8.5/10
Value (5%) : 4.5/5
1.70 + 1.70 + 1.70 + 0.975 + 0.90 + 0.85 + 0.45 = 8.275 / 10
Our Rating: 8.3/10
Right now, the Altra Olympus 6 retails for $170, but you can find sales from time to time on REI.com
Get The BEST deal on the Olympus 6 at the LOWEST Price Available! (Do NOT pay retail):
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Altra Olympus 6 good trail running shoes?
Yes! The Altra Olympus 6 are excellent trail shoes for people seeking maximum cushioning with a zero-drop platform.
What is the heel to toe drop on Altra Olympus 6?
Altra designs all their shoes with zero drop. We measured the Olympus 6 at a true 0.4 mm difference between heel and forefoot, which is effectively zero drop.
Is the Altra Olympus 6 waterproof?
The Altra Olympus 6 Do come in a waterproof version, which is $30 more than the original model.
Are The Altra Olympus 6 good for running?
The Altra Olympus 6 are a great option for a trail running shoe. Road running-wise it is a good option but not your best bet.
What is the difference between the Olympus 5 and 6?
The big differences between the Olympus 6 and 5 are breathability, traction, and overall comfort. The Olympus 6 features significantly improved ventilation, deeper 3.5mm lugs (vs 3.0mm), and maintains the same 33mm stack height while offering better fit and performance.
Are Altra Olympus good for hiking?
Yes! The Altra Olympus 6 makes an excellent hiking shoe, especially for those wanting cushioning for long days on trail. The do also come in a “mid” version for those who want better ankle support and protection while hiking.
How We Tested and Our Methodology
I personally tested the Altra Olympus 6 over the past year 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.
Over the past 15+ years, I’ve logged thousands of trail miles across everything from smooth single-file roads to steep, technical singletrack.
This kind of hands-on experience helps me evaluate how a trail running shoe truly performs—whether it’s truly stable, 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.
