Altra Lone Peak 8 Trail Running Shoe Review
A more durable version of our favorite Lightweight Zero-Drop Shoe
The Altra Lone Peak 8 trail running shoe on the Mammoth Crest Loop in the Sierra.
October 25th, 2024
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Our Verdict
The Altra Lone Peak 8 is a trail shoe model that consistently earns shoutouts on top shoe lists, including our own. Winner of Best for Long Distances in our Best Women’s Trail Running Shoes guide, the Lone Peaks are also one of our favorite zero-drop trail shoes.
The Altra Lone Peaks are a staple among many Treeline Review testers because they perform well for trail running, backpacking, and long thru-hikes. Between our testers we have worn all eight iterations of this shoe on just about every terrain and in every condition imaginable. Believe us when we say we take great interest in updates to this shoe, and are always eager to share our findings.
Due to its patented FootShape toe box, which gives your toes room to spread out and decreases the chance of blisters or injuries, the Lone Peaks are excellent for long distances. In fact, the roomy toe box is often the most lauded aspect of the Lone Peaks, from customer and media reviewers alike. Plus, the 0mm drop between the heel and toe encourages a natural midfoot strike and is another reason people seek out this shoe.
Perhaps best of all? The updated Lone Peak 8 costs $10 less than the previous model. It’s rare to see the price of a shoe go down after it’s been updated, but we aren’t complaining.
Altra Lone Peak 8
Men's
Women's
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Specs
Price: $140
Weight (per shoe): 10.7 (men’s), 9.2 oz (women’s)
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0 mm
Stack Height: 25 mm / 25 mm (heel/toe)
Closure Type: Laces
Cushioning: Moderate
Rock Plate? Yes
Cushioning: Moderate
Ideal use: Long, technical trail runs
Comparison table
| TRAIL RUNNING SHOE | WEIGHT MEN'S | WEIGHT WOMEN'S | CUSHION | HEEL DROP | STACK HEIGHT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Altra Lone Peak 8 Men's Women's |
10.7 oz | 9.15 oz | moderate | 0 mm | 25 mm |
| Hoka Speedgoat 6 Men's Women's |
9.8 oz | 8.2 oz | maximum | 5 mm | 35 - 40 mm |
| Salomon Speedcross 6 Men's Women's |
10.5 oz | 9.2 oz | moderate | 10 mm | 32 - 22 mm |
| La Sportiva Bushido III Men's Women's |
10.5 oz | 8.8 oz | moderate | 6 mm | 13 - 19 mm |
| Hoka Challenger 7 Men's Women's |
8.9 oz | 7.3 oz | maximum | 4 mm | 24 - 26 mm |
What we liked
Treeline Review writer Sam Schild trail running in Arizona in the Lone Peak 8.
Comfort over long distances
Roomy toe box
Zero drop for natural foot feel on trail
Improved grip
What could be better
Durability concerns
Zero drop isn’t for everyone
Lone Peak 7 Vs. Lone Peak 8
Updates to the Lone Peak 8 include a ripstop mesh upper to address previous durability concerns, as well as updates to their proprietary Altra EGO midsole and a stickier MaxTrac outsole.
Dirty girl gaiters (on left) and Altra Gaiters (on the right). The Altra Lone Peaks in this photo are older models that still have the gaiter ring. This has been removed in the newest model. Photo by Liz Thomas
As they did with the Lone Peak 7, Altra provides a wide option to the lineup of Lone Peaks. We appreciate when shoes are accessible to more people, so we’re glad to see Altra continuing the wide option.
However, one downfall with the newer models of the Lone Peaks is the removal of the gaiter ring. While you can still attach their patented Four-Point Light Gaiters or two-point Dirty Girl Gaiters, you’ll need to hook them to the laces. Our testers found this pulled a little uncomfortably. We are bummed Altra removed the rings from the front of the shoe, but gaiters are still possible to attach at least.
Features
Comfort
Due to the wide toe box, most folks find their toes don’t rub as much as with more narrow shoes. Thus, this shoe is very comfortable and less likely to cause blisters or chafing. Additionally, the moderate cushioning along with a lower stack height than most trail running shoes, and the zero drop, means you get a relatively natural running feel with enough cushion to keep you comfortable over long distances.
Upper
The Lone Peak 8 is constructed with a seamless, stitchless upper, so you’re less likely to experience chafing or rubbing. The upper is almost entirely ripstop mesh and is one of the most breathable shoes we’ve tested. It’s also been updated to resemble the Lone Peak 6 upper, likely to address durability concerns in the Lone Peak 7.
Midsole/Cushioning
Altra updated their proprietary Altra EGO midsole to improve the comfort and responsiveness of this model. The cushioning is moderate, and we’ve found other Altra models, like the Timp 5, to have more cushioning. If cushion is your priority, we recommend shoes like the Hoka Speedgoat 6 (see our in-depth review). If you want a zero-drop trail shoe with more cushion, check out the Timp 5.
The Altra Lone Peak 8 has been updated for an improved, stickier MaxTrac outsole.
Outsole and Traction
The Altra Lone Peak 8 has been updated to include a stickier MaxTrac outsole. While this is an improvement on the previous model, we also found the Altra Timp 5 offers better grip. If traction is your top priority, we recommend the Scarpa Spin 2.0 or the Salomon Speedcross 6 (which we also wrote an in-depth review on).
However, the grip of the Altra Lone Peak 8 will get the job done in most trail conditions. We’ve tested them in just about every climate and terrain and have not had big issues with the grip.
The Altra Lone Peaks are a zero drop shoe that have an equal height at the toe and heel. Photo by Craig Lloyd.
Zero Drop
The Altra Lone Peak 8 retains the feature Altra is best known for, which is its zero drop. The stack height at the heel is the same as the stack height at the toes (25 mm). This is popular with folks who want to encourage a more natural running gait, or who want to feel the ground more when they run.
If you tend to heel strike when you run, however, you may appreciate a shoe with more stack height and cushioning at the heel.
One of the authors, for example, has hip arthritis on her left side and has found the more cushioned and higher-stacked Hoka Speedgoat 6 to be a better option for her.
However, in her younger, more pain-free years, she was known to trail run in an earlier version of the Lone Peaks and Timps and still recommends them.
Lacing
One small update is that the Lone Peak 8 uses Ghillie lacing (basically the round laces rather than flat ones) with an optional pull-through for a customized fit. This is different from the Lone Peak 6/7.
Tongue
The tongue of the Lone Peak 8 is fully gusseted. This helps secure the fit and prevent debris from entering the shoe.
Weight
Weighing 10.7 oz per men’s shoe and 9.2 oz per women’s shoe, this is on the heavier side for trail running. However, the weight isn’t so high as to feel cumbersome or like your feet are too heavy.
The Altra Lone Peak 8 requires little, if any, break-in time, as long as you’re accustomed to zero drop. Otherwise, we recommend easing into these shoes with a few shorter runs or hikes before fully switching over.
Break-in Time
If you’ve ever worn a zero-drop shoe, you shouldn’t have to worry about any break-in time. However, for folks who are new to zero-drop shoes: be prepared to give your body a little time as you transition, especially if you’ve been wearing high-drop, highly cushioned shoes.
Fit
We noticed the sizing of the 8s is slightly larger than the 7s. When testing the Lone Peak 8, one of our testers went with a half-size smaller than usual, which greatly improved how they felt on their feet. It’s worth trying them on before purchasing, if possible.
Comparison of Altra Lone Peak outsoles. Starting from the left: Altra Lone Peak 5, Altra Lone Peak 4, Altra Lone Peak 6, Altra Lone Peak 7.
Durability
In more recent models of the Altra Lone Peaks, durability hasn’t exactly been a standout feature. The uppers in particular have been unreliable, with one of our testers noticing holes after 200 miles. Altra seems to have heard and heeded these complaints, however, with their newest model, which mainly consists of durability updates.
So far, after hundreds of miles from multiple testers, these seem to be an improvement. The uppers are more delicate compared to other trail running shoe models we’ve tested and loved, but for the zero-drop and long-distance capabilities of this shoe, we’re willing to put up with that.
Altra-Specific Notes
As mentioned in the break-in time section, keep in mind that these shoes are zero drop. If you are accustomed to high-drop shoes (6+ mm), or if you tend to wear more cushioned running shoes, it may take some time to feel comfortable in Altra shoes. We recommend wearing them on a few short runs or hikes before going all-in.
Another note of caution: we do not recommend using microspikes or other added traction for running on snow and ice with Altras. We’ve noticed that how traction devices attach to an Altra shoe causes the uppers to bunch, which results in unwanted rubbing and blisters on your feet.
The added traction device attached to the shoe also wears out the uppers faster. Sure, you'll see thru-hikers do it because they have to add winter traction to the shoes they're already using. But if you have options, switch your shoes out if you know it'll be an ice-gripping day.
If you’re looking for a shoe with better ice traction or that can take microspikes, go for the Salomon Sense Rides, La Sportiva Jackals, or the Scarpa Ultras.
Additionally, if you have narrow feet, Altra Lone Peaks may not be the best fit for you. Some of our narrow-footed friends have complained the toe box is too wide and their feet slide too much. However, one of the authors has narrow feet and did not have fit issues with the Altras. So, we recommend trying them on if you’re unsure. If you do have narrow feet, we recommend checking out the Salomon Sense Ride 5 or La Sportiva shoes, like the La Sportiva Prodigio.
Should I buy the Altra Lone Peak 8?
Despite its durability concerns with the upper, we recommend this shoe for your longer mile runs, for those looking to transition to zero-drop shoes, or for wider feet. Once they’ve transitioned to being able to wear zero-drop shoes, most people find that a new pair requires very little to no break-in period.
If you are looking for comfort for miles—the Lone Peak 8s may be for you.
Other shoes to consider
Altra Timp 5
Price: $155
Weight (per shoe): 9.8 oz (men’s), 8.6 oz (women’s)
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0 mm
Stack: 29 mm
Closure Type: Laces
Cushioning: High
Rock Plate? No
What we liked: Grippy Vibram Megagrip outsole, natural foot shape, wide toe box, stable upper
What we didn’t like: Zero drop isn’t for everyone, slightly narrower than the Altra Lone Peaks (which is also good for some people)
The Altra Timp 5 is earned Best Zero-Drop trail running shoe in our Best Men’s Trail Running Shoes guide. It offers excellent grip, a comfortable fit, and just the right amount of cushion. This is one of our favorite zero-drop shoes for long days on the trail, whether that’s running, hiking, or backpacking.
Compared to the Altra Lone Peak 8, the Timp 5 has slightly more grip and cushion, so it performs better in wet conditions and is a more versatile shoe overall. It’s also a little lighter.
As far as fit goes, the toe box on the Timp is roomy but not quite as roomy as the toe box on the Altra Lone Peaks. Not only is the Lone Peak’s toe box wider, but it also comes in wide, unlike the Timps. So if you have particularly wide feet, or want a more minimal-feeling shoe for better ground feel, then the Lone Peak 8 may be better for you. Otherwise, we feel the Timps have more to offer. You can read our full review of the Altra Timp 5 here.
Altra Timp 5
Men's
Women's
Salomon Speedcross 6
Price: $140
Weight (per shoe): 10.5 oz (men's), 9.2 oz (women's)
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10 mm
Stack height: 32-22 mm
Closure Type: Quicklace single-pull
Cushioning: Moderate
Rock Plate? No
What we liked: Excellent traction, especially in rough conditions
What we didn’t like: Not ideal for crossover to pavement, narrow fit
The Salomon Speedcross 6 shines on rocky, steep, muddy, technical terrain. If that’s the primary terrain you’ll be on, we recommend this shoe. However, the high drop and narrow fit causes quite a different feel and experience than the Altra Lone Peaks, so it depends on your priorities. The grip of the Lone Peaks should serve you fine in most conditions. Plus, the Salomon Speedcross 6 isn’t ideal for flatter terrain, so the Lone Peaks are more versatile that way.
To learn more about the Salomon Speedcross 6, read our in-depth review.
Salomon Speedcross 6
Men's
Women's
Salomon Sense Ride 5
Price: $140
Weight (per shoe): 10.1 oz (men’s), 8.7 oz (women’s)
Heel-to-toe drop: 8.3 mm
Stack height: 29.6 mm / 21.3 mm (heel/toe)
Closure type: Single-pull Lace
Cushioning: Moderate
Rock plate? No
What we liked: Comfort, versatility, price, great for day-to-day use, lightweight, no break-in period, traction
What we didn't like: Sizing can be tricky, laces are divisive, narrow fit can be limiting
Like the Altra Lone Peak 8, the Salomon Sense Ride has been a tried-and-true trail running shoe for Treeline Review testers for years. The Sense Ride 5 offers great cushioning and traction over a variety of terrains, from technical mountain trails to rolling, smooth trails.
This shoe has a 4mm heel-to-toe drop compared to the Altra Lone Peak’s 0mm drop, which could be a good compromise for folks looking to transition from high-drop to zero-drop shoes.
The Sense Ride won Best Affordable Trail Shoe in our Best Men’s Trail Running Shoes guide, and Best Trail Running Shoe for Narrow Feet in our Best Women’s Trail Running Shoe guide.
Check out our in-depth review of the Salomon Sense Ride 5.
Salomon Sense Ride 5
Men's
Women's
Saucony Peregrine 14
Price: $140
Weight (per shoe): 9.4 oz (men’s) 8.5 oz (women’s)
Heel-to-toe drop: 4 mm
Stack height: 28 mm / 24 mm (heel/toe)
Closure type: Laces
Cushioning: Moderate
Rock plate? Yes
What we liked: Value for price, cushion, support, traction
What we didn't like: Narrow fit can be limiting for folks
The Saucony Peregrine 14 earned Best Affordable Trail Runners in our Best Women’s Trail Running Shoe guide. For cushion, support, traction, and use as an everyday trainer, this shoe offers great value for the $140 price.
While perhaps not as grippy as the Altra Lone Peak 8, this shoe is a mid-drop option that weighs less than the Lone Peaks. It also has a more narrow fit if that’s what you’re looking for.
Read our full review of Saucony Peregrine 14 to learn more.
Saucony Peregrine 14
Men's
Women's
How We Tested
Author and tester Sam Schild first wore Lone Peaks while thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, and also tested the Lone Peak 8 on trails in Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico. Additionally, several other Treeline Review testers have worn these on muddy, rocky, sandy, hard-packed, and slick trails all over the country. We’ve tested them on trail runs, during ultra races, and on many thru-hikes.
Author Sam Schild testing the Altra Lone Peaks on desert trails.
About the Authors / Why you should trust us
Becca Downs
Becca Downs ran D1 cross country and track for Indiana University—Purdue University of Indianapolis (IUPUI) and continued racing everything from elite miles to an ultramarathon in her post-collegiate years. She earned a USATF Level 1 certification and coached boys and girls high school cross country and track in Indianapolis for four years. Becca then joined the IUPUI women’s distance coaching staff as a volunteer assistant coach in 2020-2021.
She geeks out on trail running, track and field, and cries every time she watches a marathon (they’re just so beautiful!). After notching a few small FKTs under her belt in 2020, she was diagnosed with hip arthritis and now channels her passion for running into coaching, writing, creating training plans for her friends, hiking, and running when her hip allows it.
You can read more of Becca's work at her website or on her author page.
Sam Schild
Sam Schild is a thru-hiker, trail runner, cyclist, and mountain athlete based in Colorado. He’s been a runner since he was a child when he ran 5 days a week as cardiovascular training for soccer. As he grew older, he stopped playing team sports and focused on running and cycling.
After moving to Colorado a decade ago, he started trail running on the local trails. Since then, he has completed countless ultra-distance self-supported trail runs on trails throughout the American Southwest. He has thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, and the Colorado Trail twice, always in trail runners.
You can read more about Sam on his author page or his website.
