Altra Timp 5 Review: A Lighter and More Affordable Trail Running Shoe

The rising costs of running shoes can be attributed to smaller companies not benefitting from economies of scale (e.g., Speedland) or larger companies incorporating expensive foam and plate technologies. As a gear tester with a focus on running shoes, I’ve developed a healthy skepticism.

It’s worth noting that Altra has managed to incorporate a more expensive material, a Vibram outsole, in its new Timp 5, while also reducing the weight of the shoes and dropping the price by $5. While this may seem like a modest saving, it’s notable in an era of extremely expensive one-time-use “supershoes” that cost hundreds of dollars (a prime example being adidas).

Given that carbon plates and high-tech foams are now common features in many top-tier shoes, I approached testing the Timp 5 cautiously.

With three decades of cramming my feet into tight climbing shoes, ski boots, and narrow running shoes, my feet have begun to rebel. On one hand, Altra’s unique foot-shaped last is quite appealing. However, the zero-drop design lacks the responsiveness found in my favorite shoes, feeling somewhat lifeless. Could the new Timp 5 sway a skeptic of zero-drop shoes like myself?

In essence: The industry suggests that achieving speed comes at a (high) cost. But perhaps that doesn’t always have to be the case. The Timp 5 is a practical choice for trail racers and, surprisingly, an increasing number of hikers. To my surprise, it was engaging enough to convert a runner like me, who typically prefers super shoes with thick stacks of foam, into a believer.

A Review of Altra Timp 5 Shoes

Previous Challenges with Timp and Upgrades

Performance of Timp 5

Final Thoughts on Altra Timp 5