Altra Paradigm 4.5 Running Shoes

Delivering a stabilised ride with maximum cushioning, the Altra Paradigm 4.5 Running Shoes uses multiple technologies to keep your feet feeling happy no matter what distance you are covering.

Engineered Knit Mesh

Quick drying engineered knit mesh encases each foot in breathable comfort. The mesh allows air to fully permeate the entire upper, sucking in cool, fresh air while at the same time pushing out hot, muggy air. This system creates a microclimate within the shoes that allows you to feel comfortable throughout the run. Lightweight and breathable allows a more streamlined, comfortable run to reduce any unwanted bulk so you maintain focus. Furthermore, the knitted mesh features a much more closed knit providing structural integrity without the need for overlays that adds weight to the shoes. In addition, as you start to tire and fatigue kicks in during the longer runs, the Guiderail really starts to earn its place. The Guiderail works to keep your foot in the most natural position possible, preventing the early stages of overpronation. The footshape technology allows the toes to be relaxed and allows them to spread out naturally with the big toe remaining in a straight position for additional comfort, speed and stability. Lastly, a traditional lacing system adds familiarity and provides confidence to you, the wearer that you can rely on this system. The laces provide a nice snug and locked in fit which in turn prevents any in shoe slipping that can occur during high-intensity activities.

Altra Ego Midsole

The midsole unit uses Altra Ego which is a dual-nature midsole compound with a responsive, yet soft feel for increased energy return. the Dual-Layer EVA cushioning reduces the wear and tear placed on joints, lessening the potential risk of injury in susceptible areas. Secondly, the midsole features Altra's zero drop platform. Every Altra shoe features the Zero Drop Platform that places the heel and forefoot the same distance from the ground for natural alignment and a low-impact landing.

FootPod Technology Outsole

The Paradigm 4.5 features an outsole technology that actually maps the bones and tendons of your foot to help it bend and move naturally. Furthermore, the outsole offers stabilipod technology that acts as a stabilising tripod by enhancing the three natural stability zones in your foot to help prevent excessive foot collapse or pronation. Lastly, the outsole offers a durable rubber compound that enhances durability as well as traction, perfect for getting the best performances when road running.

About Altra

Altra started in the back room of a speciality running store in the Wasatch Mountains, United States of America. The store noticed they were getting runners from all over the country visiting and complaining of knee pain, shin splints and recurring foot pain. One person in particular noticed this, Golden Harper the founder of Altra. Golden studied running injuries in college and combining his knowledge of injuries and a video analysis at his store made it easy to see and more understandable that traditional running shoes promoted poor form and excessive impact.

This switched on the lightbulb in Golden Harper's head and made him want to help runners achieve their best without pain as well as run and live healthy, happy and naturally. Early concepts were made in a toaster oven and were created to try a new way to reduce the injuries of Altra's customers. The toaster oven served a purpose of melting outsoles off of traditional running shoes and then Golden removed the excess heel elevation. This helped Altra to start creating zero drop running shoes.

The zero drop was just one of the steps taken to return runners feet to their natural position, Altra built a distinctive footshape toe box specifically to help alleviate foot problems. It also enhanced stability and comfort while providing a more powerful push-off.