Looking to switch up the shoe game? Altra offers a different, unique style of shoes you didn’t know you needed. One of the more popular styles of Altra’s is the Escalante or Escalante Racer. Their Escalante series of shoes have gained a lot of attention for their superior design, cushioning, and performance. But what sets the Altra Escalante 3 and Altra Escalante Racer apart from one another? In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the differences between these two shoes and compare them to the Altra Escalante 2.5.
Altra History
Altra is an American footwear company founded in 2009 by Golden Harper. The company is based in Logan, Utah and produces running, hiking, road-running, trail-running, and walking shoes. Altra shoes are designed to promote natural foot position and proper gait mechanics and are known for having a wide toe box and zero-drop platform.
Altra has won numerous awards for their high-quality shoes and is a top choice for athletes and runners. The company is committed to helping people be active and live an active lifestyle, and has made it their mission to help people stay healthy, fit, and injury-free. Altra is a leader in the running and athletic footwear industry, and is dedicated to providing the best products and customer service.
A Breakdown of Altra Shoes
On the official Altra site, you can see exactly what every one of their shoes is made of and more. Anything from the shoe’s weight to what each portion of the shoe is made of is included in the breakdown. But in order to make an educated decision, you first need to know a little more about each category and what it may mean for you.
FootShape Fit
FootShape fit is all about ensuring your feet have enough space to work their magic naturally.
Shoe shape has really shifted over the years. And while a narrower toe area might look more stylish to some, it doesn’t allow for your feet and toes to be able to spread out like they are naturally want to do.
Altra took the typical shoe shape, a narrow heel and toe area, and expanded it to design the original FootShape fit. You can find the original design now used in most of their road and trail shoe models. But since the original FootShape was created, Altra has designed two additional FootShapes to offer a wider range of fits for all.
Since the launch of the original FootShape, the standard FootShape has become their most commonly used shape. But for the ones out there that need a slimmer fit for their feet, Altra created the slim FootShape that started exclusively in the Altra Rivera. The slim FootShape has now expanded into over 4 shoe designs at this time.
Additional Altra Shoe Features
Every part of the Altra shoe was designed for optimal benefit with the shoe wearer in mind.
The upper part of the Altra shoe is made of lightweight and breathable materials. With a sock-like fit, it helps to keep the foot secure and comfortable. Even the lacing system was designed to ensure a secure fit and prevent slipping.
Cushioning also placed a large role in the shoe design. Altra’s midsole cushioning is designed to provide cushioning and responsiveness during the running motion. The cushioning is also designed to reduce the impact on the feet, allowing for a more comfortable run.
You’ll find that Altra shoes also feature an adaptive fit system. This system adapts to the shape of the foot, providing a custom fit that reduces the risk of blisters or other discomfort. The adaptive fit system also helps to keep the foot securely in place, reducing the risk of slipping or sliding.
Overall, Altra shoes are designed to provide a more natural running experience. The design features of the sole, upper, and cushioning help to improve stability, reduce impact, and provide a more comfortable fit. The adaptive fit system also helps to provide a secure and personalized fit that helps to reduce the risk of discomfort.
Escalante 3
For the faithful lover of the cult followed Altra Escalante shoes, I’ll go ahead and warn you. You’re probably not going to be so happy with the update.
But if you’re new to Altra shoes in general, especially zero drop shoes, you are in for a treat!
This shoe has a sleek, modern design that appeals to runners of all types. The upper is made of a lightweight knit material that ensures breathability and comfort. The midsole is made of a combination of EVA foam and Altra’s signature Zero Drop technology, which provides a natural feel and a responsive ride. The outsole is made of a durable rubber that provides plenty of traction and grip.
What Changed from Escalante 2.5 to 3
With the Altra Escalante 3, the upper area got a little face lift. Still semi-stretchy, the 3 now uses what is described as a sock-like knit for the top part of the shoe. While it may not sound like a huge change, the overall feel of the Escalante 3 is a lot more stiff.
To be clear, the majority of the shoe structure remains the same. But if you were someone that wore the 2.5’s regularly, the new sock-like knit feels like a large shift in comfort. A more solid upper structure gives you more stability though, so it can be a good thing for those in need of that.
When comparing the Altra Escalante 2.5 and Escalante 3, there are a few key differences. The Escalante 3 has a more modern design, with a knit upper and a durable rubber outsole. The midsole also features Altra’s Zero Drop technology, which provides a natural feel and a responsive ride. The Escalante 2.5 has a more traditional design with a mesh upper and an EVA foam midsole. The outsole is made of a durable rubber that provides plenty of traction.
Where to Buy the Escalante 2.5 or 3
Women’s Altra Escalante 2.5
Men’s Altra Escalante 2.5
Women’s Altra Escalante 3
Men’s Altra Escalante 3
Escalante Racer
Next, let’s examine the Altra Escalante Racer. This shoe has a more streamlined design than the Escalante 3, with an upper made of a lightweight, breathable mesh material. The midsole features Altra’s Zero Drop technology and a responsive EVA foam cushioning. The outsole is made of a sticky rubber that ensures plenty of grip and traction.
The Altra Escalante Racer is a lightweight racing shoe designed to provide maximum speed and agility. It features a low-profile design with a light, breathable upper and a midsole made from Altra’s Quantic™ foam for cushioning and responsiveness. The outsole is made from their durable MaxTrac™ rubber, and the shoe also features Altra’s InnerFlex™ technology for increased flexibility.
Difference between Altra Escalante 3 and Racer
The biggest difference between the two shoes is their weight. The Escalante 3 is slightly heavier than the Escalante Racer, weighing in at 9.2 ounces for a men’s size 9. The Escalante Racer, on the other hand, weighs just 7.3 ounces for a men’s size 9, making it a great choice for those looking for a lightweight racing shoe.
When it comes to fit, the Altra Escalante 3 and the Altra Escalante Racer both feature Altra’s signature FootShape™ Toe Box for a more natural fit. The Escalante 3 also features Altra’s InnerFlex™ technology, which provides increased flexibility and agility, while the Escalante Racer features a low-profile design for a more streamlined fit.
In terms of price, both the Altra Escalante 3 and the Altra Escalante Racer are similarly priced, with the Escalante 3 retailing for $120 and the Escalante Racer retailing for $130.
Where to Buy Escalante Racer
Women’s Altra Escalante Racer
Men’s Altra Escalante Racer
Overall, the Altra Escalante 3 and Altra Escalante Racer are both great options for runners. And next time you’re out there running and need a little motivation, read up on our unusual ways we get through a run over on another post. No matter which Altra shoe you choose though, you’re sure to be happy with the performance and durability of Altra Running Shoes.
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