Customer Reviews Altra Paradigm 5

I used to LOVE the Paradigm...until they put the GuideRail thing in. They already had a stability shoe (the Provision) so why tinker with what worked? They took a perfectly good high-cushion shoe and made it completely unworkable for most people with a neutral foot. The Torin Plush is OK, but not truly a replacement for the old Paradigm, and the Duo is worse as an attempt at a replacement, esp. the weird sole pattern. I tried these on at a store, just to ensure I could not use them--and there was NO way. It feels so much stiffer than before, and my body wanted to fight the Guide Rail, even on the running pad inside the store. Very disappointed in the tinkering Altra did with the original design.

I did like the shoe when I got it. It was comfy and was a great show but normally my shoes last for a good six months. These barely lasted me 2. It's been less than two moths and I am buying another shoe. Everything about this shoe was great. I have plantar fasciitis and a heel spur and I liked it but again didn't seem to last and all my other Altra's held up so much better.

I'm an avid runner and retired marathon runner. Discovered Altra paradigm few years ago and fell in love with the shoe. Prior to discovery I'd been a fan of Hoka however began to develop foot pain and injuries. This year's model is not the same shoe. It's too narrow and stiff. Very disappointed.

I have gotten shin splints since walking in these shoes

What a bummer. I love the Escalante and Lone Peaks wide toe box and footshape technology. I am needing some more cushion for my road runs as I increase my mileage and was directed to these after the Provisions were insanely narrow. I have more than normal wide feet with a slight bunion on both feet- but like barely there. And even so, my toes are squished into the toe box and that bunion area presses into the mesh and becomes unsupported by the sole of the shoe. Dear Altra, you have a loyal following because of the zero drop and natural foot shape of your shoes. Please bring back your older foot shape designs. It's obvious changes that are not in line with your brand and message were produced with recent designs. You provide a niche shoe that is needed in this industry and we are better movers because of it. My running form has changed drastically for the better in my Escalante's! Here to continue being a customer when you bring back what you're best at! :)

Your shoes used to be the only ones I could wear with Morton's Neuroma in both feet... the latest styles have all gotten narrower, so disappointing.

Purchased Paradigm size 10 shoes every 6 mos for 4 years. My Paradigm 5 shoes purchased in Sept 2020 outside material noticeable frayed after 4 mos. In Jan 2021 new Paradigm shoes size 10 are too large/loose inside the shoe and makes walking difficult on treadmill & outside. I am concerned that this shoe may cause me to trip while walking. Your shoe quality has gone down since your company was purchased by VFC. I am in my 70's and wear these shoes 8 hours a day and basically just walk in them. I have always loved these comfortable shoes. I am so disappointed in my Paradigm 5 shoes and don't know what to do.

Altar shoes are all plastic/rubber/mesh anymore. Gone are the well-constructed provision shoes that I have worn It for many years. Disappointed in the constant "improvement". Please bring back the original provision with upper leather and solid sole not the current plastic type that recently came unglued at the front while I was walking on level ground and caused me to fall and break my humerus. Brand new shoes.....right out of the box!!!!!! Altra wants to replace them, but what is best and safe? Switching brands.

I have never had a shoe as comfortable as The Paradigm 4.5. It was the miracle that gave my life back from Morton's Neuroma and Plantar Fasciitis. It was like stepping on a cloud with perfect support. I could wear it all day, walk trails or city streets or work out and remain pain free. No orthopedic shoe or insert could do this. The Paradigm 5 does not provide this miracle. It is NOT nearly as comfortable, my personal mobility is limited once more and the pain has returned. VERY DISAPPOINTING. Also...I loved the all black model that blended in with any situation, rather than making you look like you're going on a run...everywhere you go.

To me the best shoe was the paradigm 4.5 and I just don't understand the colors!!! Why doesn't each shoe come in just basic black or basic white!? Would be so much better