- Time of past OR future Camino
- May-July 2023
For 2024 Pilgrims: €50,- donation = 1 year with no ads on the forum + 90% off any 2024 Guide. More here. (Discount code sent to you by Private Message after your donation) |
---|
That's what I was hoping to hear. They are just different but I don't feel anything rubbing and my toes love the roomy abode haha. I plan on wearing them on a week long trip full of walking next month and I'm sure I'll be adjusted by then!I love my Altra Lone Peak's. I do remember noticing the difference at first but, honestly, I don't think it lasted too long for me. I believe they are designed to resemble what it is like to walk bare footed, although I may have just made that up. lol I don't really notice it anymore and, like you, love the wide toe box. I am on my second pair, having worn out my first. I am firmly in the Altra camp.
Thanks for your post. Which version 3,4,5 or 6 are you wearing?I love my Altra Lone Peak's. I do remember noticing the difference at first but, honestly, I don't think it lasted too long for me. I believe they are designed to resemble what it is like to walk bare footed, although I may have just made that up. lol I don't really notice it anymore and, like you, love the wide toe box. I am on my second pair, having worn out my first. I am firmly in the Altra camp.
I have the 6'sThanks for your post. Which version 3,4,5 or 6 are you wearing?
The 6 for me but oh I see you were asking the other person!Thanks for your post. Which version 3,4,5 or 6 are you wearing?
I'm about the walk the CP, too, so I'm interested in your switch of footwear. I would have guessed that the cushy Altras would be ideal for the hard stony surfaces. What advantage did the Hoka Stinsons have? I'm having a hard time figuring out the best shoe for this walk! (Walked before in Salomon Ultra X.)We walked the Portuguese Camino and I had to change from Altras because of more walking on harder off trail roads and cobblestones. I bought Hoka Stinsons for that walk. We gave many trails on area aand still use my Altras on trails.
For rocky surfaces... the Timp has a rock-plate and you can remove it when you reach softer terrain. Ideal flexibility for some days... I find the toe box not as roomy as my LPs so those are the ones for my coming walk. The LPs are also lighter than the Timps... and over several hundred thousand steps, that does matter to me.I'm about the walk the CP, too, so I'm interested in your switch of footwear. I would have guessed that the cushy Altras would be ideal for the hard stony surfaces. What advantage did the Hoka Stinsons have? I'm having a hard time figuring out the best shoe for this walk! (Walked before in Salomon Ultra X.)
One of the things I liked about my Lone Peak 4s was that the heel and midfoot felt locked in. The lacing is always fussy with Lone Peaks, but it does help to snug the lacing from the bottom up. Also, I've learned to oversize walking shoes to allow for feet swelling and thicker socks. I wear a size larger in walking shoes than I normally got for dressier shoes. As long as the shoes don't feel sloppy, you might try going up a half or full size and then taking the time to lace snuggly. All that said, I've not had a problem with toes slipping forward. Toe protection is another thing though. Stub a rock and I will feel it.I tried on Altra Lone Peaks and loved the cushioning, but on a downhill slope (big fake rock in the shoe department) my toes squished against the front of the shoe. Has anyone had this problem and overcome it with tighter lacing in the mid-foot or in some other way?
The Hokas have a cushion walk and are not zero gravity shoes. I can't tell you the details of how they are constructed. We shop at REI and allow patrons to purchase shoes and give a try out and if they are not working one can return them for full value. I tried about 3 different shoes before I settled on the Hokas. I am now on my second pair.I'm about the walk the CP, too, so I'm interested in your switch of footwear. I would have guessed that the cushy Altras would be ideal for the hard stony surfaces. What advantage did the Hoka Stinsons have? I'm having a hard time figuring out the best shoe for this walk! (Walked before in Salomon Ultra X.)
plenty of room in the toes with your Hokas?The Hokas have a cushion walk and are not zero gravity shoes. I can't tell you the details of how they are constructed. We shop at REI and allow patrons to purchase shoes and give a try out and if they are not working one can return them for full value. I tried about 3 different shoes before I settled on the Hokas. I am now on my second pair.
I love the Altra's as well. I did have a terrible time with the stones/gravel along sections of the Frances earlier this year. The bottoms of my feet were taking a beating. In Sahagun, I saw the Pilgrim Feet Store. Went in, described the issue and walked out with some cushioned insoles that were a game changer. I know others may have differing opinions, but this was my reality. (64 years old in great shape for an old guy.)So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
There are a number of people who will not ‘adjust’ to a zero-drop shoe. While it can take a week to two weeks to allow foot and ankle structures to adjust, that is not a given. Altra shoes are enjoyed by many, many others do not because of the zero drop design.So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
I used to use Merrills, and after I put my first pair of Ultra Lone Peaks on I have been wearing them EVERY day since ( Camino Frances 2019) !! It took a week or so to get used to the zero heel drop but now and since, LOVE them.So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
I am using Altra Olympus 4 with zero drop (front to back) but thicker cushioning than other Altra models. The insole I use is called "Sole". It is an excellent insole and is also zero drop. I deliberately went with Hoka Speedgoats first, because with only 4 millimetre drop, it eased me into the zero drop Altras without problems. The Altra Olympus 4 has gaiter rings on the front and velcro gaiter attachments on the rear and work well with Dirty Girl gaiters to keep sand, dirt, small gravel out of the shoes, and to keep the shoes a bit drier on rainy days. Edit: Altra also distribute their own gaiters, but these do not seem to measure up to the Dirty Girl gaiters.So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
Did you do the ankle lacing that helps to hold your ankle in place? I changed to this kind of lacing and it works very well for me. I forget the technical name for it...I tried on Altra Lone Peaks and loved the cushioning, but on a downhill slope (big fake rock in the shoe department) my toes squished against the front of the shoe. Has anyone had this problem and overcome it with tighter lacing in the mid-foot or in some other way?
I go barefoot most of the time, so I didn't notice the difference. I do have sofsoles inserts. I'll start walking from SJPDP on Friday - Buen Camino!So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
I didn't try ankle-lock lacing (wasn't aware of it) and I may have been too quick to dismiss the Altras because I hadn't considered walking a camino in running shoes as opposed to light hikers, like my old Salomons, that seem to have more stability and a good solid base for stones. All of the comments here about running shoes are certainly making me reconsider. Thanks to everyone!I am using the Altra Lone Peak 6s on my training hikes. I like them a lot. I have orthotics, so I put the orthotics under the replaceable inner cushion and it works well. (I can see where buying a nicer, cushier innersole to replace the one that comes with the shoe would work nicely.) I use the ankle-lock lacing (not sure if that's the right technical term) to hold my ankles back when going downhill and works well. I do not like the shoes so much on pavement. I use a different style of Altras for pavement walking.
My feet seemingly never recovered from baseball for 18 years haha. I like my cushion now. Buen Camino to you!I go barefoot most of the time, so I didn't notice the difference. I do have sofsoles inserts. I'll start walking from SJPDP on Friday - Buen Camino!
For what it is worth two different podiatrists I’ve consulted with like Altras and the Lone Peak for hiking. But it’s a matter of preference. My husband still prefers traditional hiking boots. It will be interesting to see how we both feel after we are on the CaminoI didn't try ankle-lock lacing (wasn't aware of it) and I may have been too quick to dismiss the Altras because I hadn't considered walking a camino in running shoes as opposed to light hikers, like my old Salomons, that seem to have more stability and a good solid base for stones. All of the comments here about running shoes are certainly making me reconsider. Thanks to everyone!
The 6’s are immiserating, particularly compared to the 4s and 4.5s. The sixes are being returned to REI in record numbers, according to the clerk I returned mine to.I have the 6's
Equally as large as the Altras. My feet measure 11 ee. I hike in size 12plenty of room in the toes with your Hokas?
I love my Altras and tend to wear them loose, but if my toes are hitting the front of the shoes in up and down climbs, tightening the laces (I do it not just at the top but from the beginning of the laces all the way to the top) takes care of the problem.I tried on Altra Lone Peaks and loved the cushioning, but on a downhill slope (big fake rock in the shoe department) my toes squished against the front of the shoe. Has anyone had this problem and overcome it with tighter lacing in the mid-foot or in some other way?
I sympathise. After trying so many recommendations I keep returning to Merrill Moab 3 boot. Not as light as some and not as heavy as others. Firm but not too firm. They do need a different inner sole for extra cushioning. I discovered even new Merrills which are pretty much good to go on day one, improve radically with a few weeks prep walking. After experience on my my training walks I am now taking my orthotics and some sponger more cushioning inner soles. I can then alternate according to conditions. The whole shoe journey is a path of discovery and then changes as our feet age.It's a bit of an impossible debate/question unfortunately, as we are all different.
We need to consider differences such as:
- Age (older feet lose their cushioning)
- Body Weight & Pack Weight
- Feet and arch types/shapes
- Foot 'health' and many other elements.
I have some Lone Peak 5s. There is no way on earth I could wear them on a Camino.
I bought them as so many people here love them.
I put them on last night to walk to the shop 1 km away and changed them before I even left the house.
Why?
The soles feel so thin, and offer me no cushioning.
But others love them!
But then again I'm struggling to find the right footwear for my next Camino.
I'll go out and buy more to trial soon..........in frustration.
I'm not heading out to walk 1,100 kms with footwear that doesn't feel right for the task......
I used to wear Salomon Boots. Loved them. But my physio says they are too heavy for my damaged knees now.
Tried Altra's. Felt great at first. But rarely wear them now.
La Sportiva. Too narrow.
Hoka. Great support and cushioning. Will wear these if I can't find something better.
Sandals. Don't work for me. I need better arch and ankle support.........
I use them for evening wear on Camino.
By the way, I tried my custom orthotics in the Altras. Didn't really help much as the whole shoe structure is too light. For me.
It great to gather lots of insights, ideas and opinions, but ultimately. you have to go with what works for you.......
I'm still looking.......
I feel ya about the still looking. My Merrill's were too heavy and hot. I live in my Mizuno running shoes haha I should just take those. I used to have a lot of problems with the bottom of my feet aching but I've been in those Mizuno's so long (and my work shoes with ample cushion) that I forgot i had that pain. That pain came back when I wear the Altra's. Like you it 'feels' too thin. I am going to give them another month. I had considered returning them but I just don't know what else yet. I'll consider the cost a price for research.It's a bit of an impossible debate/question unfortunately, as we are all different.
We need to consider differences such as:
- Age (older feet lose their cushioning)
- Body Weight & Pack Weight
- Feet and arch types/shapes
- Foot 'health' and many other elements.
I have some Lone Peak 5s. There is no way on earth I could wear them on a Camino.
I bought them as so many people here love them.
I put them on last night to walk to the shop 1 km away and changed them before I even left the house.
Why?
The soles feel so thin, and offer me no cushioning.
But others love them!
But then again I'm struggling to find the right footwear for my next Camino.
I'll go out and buy more to trial soon..........in frustration.
I'm not heading out to walk 1,100 kms with footwear that doesn't feel right for the task......
I used to wear Salomon Boots. Loved them. But my physio says they are too heavy for my damaged knees now.
Tried Altra's. Felt great at first. But rarely wear them now.
La Sportiva. Too narrow.
Hoka. Great support and cushioning. Will wear these if I can't find something better.
Sandals. Don't work for me. I need better arch and ankle support.........
I use them for evening wear on Camino.
By the way, I tried my custom orthotics in the Altras. Didn't really help much as the whole shoe structure is too light. For me.
It great to gather lots of insights, ideas and opinions, but ultimately. you have to go with what works for you.......
I'm still looking.......
I thought the lonepeaks were horrendous on the camino and my feet were trashed by the end of the first week, despite having worn lonepeaks at home for many years. check out something with a more substantial sole- i switched to the keen newport sandals and they were fantastic for the remaining 400 miles. i saw numerous pilgrims switching to the keen sandals mid way and never looking back. good luck!So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
I love the Altra Lone Peak 5 that my kids suggested and bought for me to try. I have not done any Camino yet, however I have been wearing it when I walk the local trails since last summer. This is also the most comfortable shoe for me, so far, even after walking for 4 hours with a 20-30 minutes break. The trails in the area are mostly flat. By the way, my shoe is one size bigger. Hope you find one that works for you. Buen Camino.I love my Altra Lone Peak's. I do remember noticing the difference at first but, honestly, I don't think it lasted too long for me. I believe they are designed to resemble what it is like to walk bare footed, although I may have just made that up. lol I don't really notice it anymore and, like you, love the wide toe box. I am on my second pair, having worn out my first. I am firmly in the Altra camp.
I feel ya about the still looking. My Merrill's were too heavy and hot. I live in my Mizuno running shoes haha I should just take those. I used to have a lot of problems with the bottom of my feet aching but I've been in those Mizuno's so long (and my work shoes with ample cushion) that I forgot i had that pain. That pain came back when I wear the Altra's. Like you it 'feels' too thin. I am going to give them another month. I had considered returning them but I just don't know what else yet. I'll consider the cost a price for research.
Hokas are my next choice. I just do no live near any stores that have them in stock to try on. I don't like to buy online but I will if I have to.
I would need a new pair so it's a consideration! Just wasn't sure how long they would lastIf they are comfortable, why not? I have walked two caminos in Mizunos, they just fit me perfectly
My third camino was done in Olympikus, a Brazilian brand hard to find in other places, but that had a similar shape. Light, cushioned and breathable, I love my sneakers
If your wondering about if to use the Lone Peaks or not, this question tells me you have probably not done any of the Camino’s yet. That shoe is great for the Pacific Crest trail or on soft dirt trails. Camino’s no matter which has mostly black top, cement or gravel trails with short sections of actually dirt paths. I am currently on the Del Norte using the Olympus 5. I used the same Olympus last year on the Del Norte putting in 1000 km with them. The extra cushion is essential on these hard surfaces. At about 300 km, the cushion gets worn down some but adequate enough. My feet don’t seem to fit in any hola that isn’t some godly bright color so I’m using these Ultra’s. Also not crazy about the zero drop but the shoe and arch support and vibrim sole is pretty good. I’m putting the full length Norte then the Porto to Santiago Camino’s now on these Olympus 5 so time will tell how they hold up. At 180 km I just started developing a squeak in one of the shoes for the last 2 days but today it has stopped. Also trying the gortex version this year which are heavier than the non gortex but still no heavier than a lightweight boot. Stick to max cushion for any Camino and you’ll enjoy the way much more. Just my 2 centsSo I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
DO NOT BUY INSOLES. USE WHATEVER IT IS THAT YOU HAVE BEEN WALKING IN ALREADY> DO NOT START YOUR WALK WITH A NEW SHOW! You need running trail shoes or running shoes. Flat bottoms are terrible for walking. Shoes need to have rounded fronts and backs to allow the natural form of walking. Altra Lone Peak have an arch at the back and the front so they are good. Other trail runners will do the trick. I use Salomon X Ultra myself but walking shoes are a personal choice. I recommend that you consult a podiatrist if you think that you have a foot ailment.So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
I loved mine. At first. I walked a number of days and kilometers in them to stretch my calves and get used to the zero drop. As I started on longer treks I kept getting pain and tenderness in my arch. I had to abandon them because I couldn’t get my feet como after walking.So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
@Sirron ,So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
I wore altra lone peaks on my camino earlier this year. I loved them. You may wish to look into arch supporting socks or similar. My plantar fasciitis started acting up as I got close to Santiago. And I did get blisters on the balls of my feet (but not the toes! Yay altras. Some additional cushioning by way of insoles or socks may be helpful. Buen camino!So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
I have a pair of lone peaks and love them however I would not recommend them for the camino. I did the camino this July from St. Jean. Many parts of the camino are rough trail, lots of rocks and stones. The lone peak is a minimalist shoe. you will feel even stone that you step on. I would seriously recommend a shoe with more stability for the camino.So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
Wearing right now Lone peak 5, did 170 km in 4 days and it feels great. Walked 2 days in rain and this shoes dries super fast! I strongly recomend this shoes.So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
I finished the Camino in August wearing Lone Peak 6. Not one blister, I loved them. It didn’t take me long to get used to them in training they felt great from the start. They were completely trashed by the end of 500 miles however, still felt good though. My two walking partners both used Altra Olympus and were equally in love, again no foot problems. Altra is the way to go for me. I bought a pair of Olympus 4 to replace them when I returned they were on sale. They have more padding underfoot and a vibram sole. I have not put in extensive miles in them so I can’t give you honest feedback yet. The lone peak had more of a barefoot feel, I was advised by a running expert not to add an insole for my particular foot strike. I also used Darn tough hiking socks in merino wool. I cannot give you a higher recommendation for Altra or darn Tough. They were outstanding.So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
I see that these shoes have a loyal and enthusiastic following!So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
Be careful of the timp 4 - we are walking on CF at moment and my wife’s sauconys needed replacing sooner than we had estimated - we bought the Altra timp 4 in Burgos as these were the only shoes that could her injured toe from skiing boots. The toes are great in both feet but the tongue in the timp 4 was cutting into her ankle/lower leg on both left & right - so we cut / reshaped the tongue and over the last 40 km the shoes have been great - we don’t know about the tongue on other Altras - strange design fault on the timp 4You could try Altras with more cushioning like the Timp or Olympus(max cushion).
As @Perambulating Griffin said you do also have to get used to the zero drop of Altra shoes.
Lone Peak 6 Review (Aug 2022)So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
I adjusted very quickly, even with my achilles/calf issues. Maybe you would prefer the Altra Olympus as it has more cushioning?So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
I found the comfort unparalleled but the problem I faced was they weren't favorable for my arches. I have very high arches and the zero drop wrecked my achilles - both of them. I was so in love with the comfort that I thought I could just get through it, alas - nope. It was an ordeal for me.So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
That's one concern I had. I wore mine to work the other day and as I was walking around the building, I suddenly felt a sharp pain in my achilles. Now, I've never had achilles issues before. And most likely, it was just a stretching of it. Never happened again but it's something to cause me a thought or two. I'm going to keep wearing them over the next month to see how it goes. If I don't feel comfortable with them, I'll switch to Hokas or something else!I found the comfort unparalleled but the problem I faced was they weren't favorable for my arches. I have very high arches and the zero drop wrecked my achilles - both of them. I was so in love with the comfort that I thought I could just get through it, alas - nope. It was an ordeal for me.
Good question because sadly at 48 I'm not as young as I think I am haha!Just a thought..........and hard to tell from our Avatar pictures.
I wonder if those who like Lone Peaks are younger and lower bodyweight?
Whereas those of us who are older (poor cushioning in the feet) and heavier, may struggle more with the lightweight construction and soles?
Who knew so many comments about one particular brand of shoes? haha. I'm glad for the information though!Wow this thread is a deep examination isn’t it!
Something I really liked about my Lone Peak 6’s on my last Camino was the integrated gaiter system. Really effective. Little stones getting into the shoe are really annoying and it used to happen to me daily. The shoe is cut low. But the simple gaiter system eliminated the problem.
Yeah I wish I had bought those the first time. I was just going by recommendations. I'm out in a rural area with no outdoor stores in less than 90 minutes away. With a full time job, marriage , kids and way too many animals, just didn't have the time to go somewhere to try or. Or I was being impatient and impulsive haha. Anyways I ordered the Lone Peaks on Amazon.I adjusted very quickly, even with my achilles/calf issues. Maybe you would prefer the Altra Olympus as it has more cushioning?
Thank you!Lone Peak 6 Review (Aug 2022)
A very comfortable shoe for gentle trails and lite duty. I took this shoe on our first stage of the Camino. The stage we completed was between St. Jean de Porte, France and Los Arcos Spain 80+ miles. Generally this section of the Camino in my opinion didn’t require an actual boot so a trail shoe would work. Before leaving for the Camino I did several miles with my complete kit (~15 lbs with water + snacks). The hikes ensured I was accustom to the zero drop (for me it meant no heal) and got a general sense of the shoe. So with approximately 20+ miles in I felt ready. After ~40 miles I changed up the lacing on one shoe to get a feel for the enhanced arch support those holes offered. For me, I could feel the difference and was indifferent so I left them alone. While on the trail I could feel every rock underfoot big and small. Some may find this trail surface fidelity comforting, I’m not sure. I forced myself to think of it as a foot massage. After 9 days and 80+ miles of Camino hiking I noticed the tread showing clear signs of wear, the letters on the bottom are pretty much gone except for a “T” and an “r”, also color has broken through the knobs. With more than 420 miles to go and the current level of wear I don’t think these shoes would have made it to Santiago. I’m not sure if the projected failure would have been because the shoe was being used in a way that is outside the intended use case (on the Camino) or for some other reason, like I was walking in them heavy, my pack was ~15 lbs. I find them to be stylish (I have gray), I like how the laces catch and seem to lock into each other and don’t come undone. I like the back lip and flexibility material so I can kick them off at the end of the day. Overall for me I liked them, for the way I am with them, I think they are best for lite duty trail travel with minimal additional weight. I don’t think the tread will last that long approximately 100 to 200 miles, after that or some time after 175 I would expect to start to see a hole appear. Still it is a very comfortable shoe for groomed trails that lack rocks or objects of that nature.
Thank you. I'll probably try the Olympus next and see how they do.If your wondering about if to use the Lone Peaks or not, this question tells me you have probably not done any of the Camino’s yet. That shoe is great for the Pacific Crest trail or on soft dirt trails. Camino’s no matter which has mostly black top, cement or gravel trails with short sections of actually dirt paths. I am currently on the Del Norte using the Olympus 5. I used the same Olympus last year on the Del Norte putting in 1000 km with them. The extra cushion is essential on these hard surfaces. At about 300 km, the cushion gets worn down some but adequate enough. My feet don’t seem to fit in any hola that isn’t some godly bright color so I’m using these Ultra’s. Also not crazy about the zero drop but the shoe and arch support and vibrim sole is pretty good. I’m putting the full length Norte then the Porto to Santiago Camino’s now on these Olympus 5 so time will tell how they hold up. At 180 km I just started developing a squeak in one of the shoes for the last 2 days but today it has stopped. Also trying the gortex version this year which are heavier than the non gortex but still no heavier than a lightweight boot. Stick to max cushion for any Camino and you’ll enjoy the way much more. Just my 2 cents
Brooks Cascadia, ASICS & Salomon Speedcross all have 10mm drops and if you trade out the insoles for, say, a good Superfeet you may find that one of the three are good for you. My experience with the Brooks Cascadia was that it was super comfortable but it broke down super quick (three months of everyday use), I also ran with the Salomon Speedcross and found that it was WAY too rigid and I couldn't feel the terrain the way I like and I had incessant blisters, so no bueno.I see that these shoes have a loyal and enthusiastic following!
I’ve tried really hard with flat shoes (ie small heel to toe drop) and just can’t get them to work. My knees just hurt too much. I ended up having to pack the shoes out with insoles, which means that eventually my heel came loose.
So - can I ask the opposite question? Anyone got recommendations for shoes/boots with greater heel to toe drop?
Robo, It would give me absolute satisfaction to help you on your shoe quest and I have an idea that may work for you: Norda.It's a bit of an impossible debate/question unfortunately, as we are all different.
We need to consider differences such as:
- Age (older feet lose their cushioning)
- Body Weight & Pack Weight
- Feet and arch types/shapes
- Foot 'health' and many other elements.
I have some Lone Peak 5s. There is no way on earth I could wear them on a Camino.
I bought them as so many people here love them.
I put them on last night to walk to the shop 1 km away and changed them before I even left the house.
Why?
The soles feel so thin, and offer me no cushioning.
But others love them!
But then again I'm struggling to find the right footwear for my next Camino.
I'll go out and buy more to trial soon..........in frustration.
I'm not heading out to walk 1,100 kms with footwear that doesn't feel right for the task......
I used to wear Salomon Boots. Loved them. But my physio says they are too heavy for my damaged knees now.
Tried Altra's. Felt great at first. But rarely wear them now.
La Sportiva. Too narrow.
Hoka. Great support and cushioning. Will wear these if I can't find something better.
Sandals. Don't work for me. I need better arch and ankle support.........
I use them for evening wear on Camino.
By the way, I tried my custom orthotics in the Altras. Didn't really help much as the whole shoe structure is too light. For me.
It great to gather lots of insights, ideas and opinions, but ultimately. you have to go with what works for you.......
I'm still looking.......
Where is this Pilgrim Feet Store in Sahagun?I love the Altra's as well. I did have a terrible time with the stones/gravel along sections of the Frances earlier this year. The bottoms of my feet were taking a beating. In Sahagun, I saw the Pilgrim Feet Store. Went in, described the issue and walked out with some cushioned insoles that were a game changer. I know others may have differing opinions, but this was my reality. (64 years old in great shape for an old guy.)
Planning for the Portuguese and Mt Kilimanjaro in 2023, I will be wearing the latest version of Lone Peak or Timp and will have insoles in reserve.
Buen Camino!
Hi there! I have the Speedgoats which of course are like walking on marshmallows...ahhh...and I have the Altra Lone Pine which has the wonderfully wide toe bed, but hard heel/sole. Since you mentioned both Hoka and Altra, would you say that the Altra Olympus 4 would be the perfect combination of Hoka heel/sole comfort and the Altra wide toe bed comfort. Basically I'm looking for the child of a Hoka/Altra union (LOL!).I am using Altra Olympus 4 with zero drop (front to back) but thicker cushioning than other Altra models. The insole I use is called "Sole". It is an excellent insole and is also zero drop. I deliberately went with Hoka Speedgoats first, because with only 4 millimetre drop, it eased me into the zero drop Altras without problems. The Altra Olympus 4 has gaiter rings on the front and velcro gaiter attachments on the rear and work well with Dirty Girl gaiters to keep sand, dirt, small gravel out of the shoes, and to keep the shoes a bit drier on rainy days. Edit: Altra also distribute their own gaiters, but these do not seem to measure up to the Dirty Girl gaiters.
haha I think I want that child too. Ihave adjusted to walking in the Lone Peaks and agree toe box is awesome but It doesn't have enough cushion for me to walk the CaminoHi there! I have the Speedgoats which of course are like walking on marshmallows...ahhh...and I have the Altra Lone Pine which has the wonderfully wide toe bed, but hard heel/sole. Since you mentioned both Hoka and Altra, would you say that the Altra Olympus 4 would be the perfect combination of Hoka heel/sole comfort and the Altra wide toe bed comfort. Basically I'm looking for the child of a Hoka/Altra union (LOL!).
I think they would be the perfect child in that regard. I am currently on the Portuguese Caminho a few stages north of Lisboa. It's been a bit tough I'll admitHi there! I have the Speedgoats which of course are like walking on marshmallows...ahhh...and I have the Altra Lone Pine which has the wonderfully wide toe bed, but hard heel/sole. Since you mentioned both Hoka and Altra, would you say that the Altra Olympus 4 would be the perfect combination of Hoka heel/sole comfort and the Altra wide toe bed comfort. Basically I'm looking for the child of a Hoka/Altra union (LOL!).
In regards to my posting just above about the Altra Olympus, I did replace the factory insole with a Sole brand zero drop insole with some arch support. If you put a good replacement insole into these Altra Olympus, you would need to ensure that the replacement is a Wide, to fill that WIDE toebox . I needed it to be Wide for my Altra Olympus, but regular (not wide) for my Hoka SpeedboatsI think they would be the perfect child in that regard. I am currently on the Portuguese Caminho a few stages north of Lisboa. It's been a bit tough I'll admit
(being 79), but the one thing I'm NOT having problems with, is my feet. I guess that's two things. LOL. I have happy feet.
I'm also happy that my AWESOME albergue tonight has a pool, and I'm the only one here. They are expecting no one else. They said the would cook me a nice dinner any time I want, and breakfast any time I want in the morning. It is Casa das Portas on about stage 4. It is listed under Azinhaga, Port., but in reality is before Azinhaga on the edge of the town of Pombalinho. Full disclosure: I have no involvement with this place other than being a happy customer. Sorry, off topic. Back to my Altra Olympus, I almost laugh when I look down at my feet while walking. They look almost look like clown shoes, because the toebox is so wide. And the cushioning is so thick, what's not to like?
I wore Lone Peaks for several years. Now I wear Hoka Challenger. They're like walking on clouds. My feet still hurt after a lot of miles, but that's to be expected, especially walking on Roman roads.So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
Don't get me wrong I absolutely love my Altra Lone Peaks... but for the Camino Portuguese, man, I wish I would have brought a pair of shoes with more cushioning.So I've been wearing these around for the past few weeks just to see how I feel walking with them before my Camino in May. I love the extra room in the toe box. That's great. What is taking me longer to get use to is that the shoes are flat meaning no real difference in height from the heel to the toes. So how long do you think this took you to get used to? The bottom of my feet would hurt a lot while running when I ran years ago so I became use to wearing shoes that seemed like I was walking on clouds haha. I'm not saying the Altras feel bad now I just can "feel" the bottom of my feet making impact more it seems. Shoule I buy insoles? If so, any recommendations?
I don't want to panic and change shoes if users think I'll get use to it so just looking for comments from those with experience wearing these shoes!
I am a Altra fan I hike in them regularly on trail. For the Portuguese we switched up to Hoka Stinsons which great on hard surfaces like pavement and cobble stone.Don't get me wrong I absolutely love my Altra Lone Peaks... but for the Camino Portuguese, man, I wish I would have brought a pair of shoes with more cushioning.
Lone peaks are great for trail walking, off road walking, and even rocky ground is fine; but on concrete for extended periods of time (which you will get on the Portuguese) they really are not the best. You do you, but please consider taking a pair of shoes with more cushioning - either as a replacement or an addition.
I'm just experimenting with Hoka Stinsons for my next walk, so far impressed with the plush feel under foot which would have been an ideal antidote for Portuguese cobbles, my only reservation would be not as much feedback as my Altra Olympus which I would prefer on uneven terrain. I am considering taking both pairs as the next walk is 1000 miles +.I am a Altra fan I hike in them regularly on trail. For the Portuguese we switched up to Hoka Stinsons which great on hard surfaces like pavement and cobble stone.
The Hokas are a really good trail shoe too. It is getting use to non-zero gravity shoes. I put 500+ miles on my first Hokas. and have my second pair. They are good for on and off trail. My wife and I are combining 3 Comino walks this spring and are planning on wearing Hokas. We will be walking about 1000 miles. Probably carrying a second pair or arranging our children to mail the second pair before we need them.I'm just experimenting with Hoka Stinsons for my next walk, so far impressed with the plush feel under foot which would have been an ideal antidote for Portuguese cobbles, my only reservation would be not as much feedback as my Altra Olympus which I would prefer on uneven terrain. I am considering taking both pairs as the next walk is 1000 miles +.
I am getting used to the Stinsons, they're just quite a different feel to the Altras. If all goes to plan I should be doing the Via Francigena starting in Canterbury so I have the winter to decide on footwear.The Hokas are a really good trail shoe too. It is getting use to non-zero gravity shoes. I put 500+ miles on my first Hokas. and have my second pair. They are good for on and off trail. My wife and I are combining 3 Comino walks this spring and are planning on wearing Hokas. We will be walking about 1000 miles. Probably carrying a second pair or arranging our children to mail the second pair before we need them.
Now that's impressive, I'll just miss you in Italy , starting the VF in April . I did the Frances in October from St jean, prices are going up in the albergues...We start by walking The Jesus Trail in Israel, then fly to Florence t o walk The St Francis Way to Rome and last we are walking the Camino Frances from StJean for the second time.
I scrolled through and didn't see anyone respond..Are you using all the shoelace holes? I have noticed people don't use the last hole and for me it's a must as I don't want my feet to slip around in the shoe which will cause blisters and on down hills the constant blunt force can cause toe nail issues.I tried on Altra Lone Peaks and loved the cushioning, but on a downhill slope (big fake rock in the shoe department) my toes squished against the front of the shoe. Has anyone had this problem and overcome it with tighter lacing in the mid-foot or in some other way?
We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:
Do you accept cookies and these technologies?
We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:
Do you accept cookies and these technologies?