[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Hi! This is a review from a trail runner who prefers ground feel and minimal stack height! I've also completed several trail ultras and marathons (trail and road) in minimal footwear. I wanted to see how this particular max cushion, high stack zero drop shoe would perform and provide comfort given an injured left heal. I have also worked in run specialty shops. I was so happy to be selected to test the Altra Olympus 6 with my particular preferences. I gave this model 5-Stars because I would and will absolutely continue to rotate this model on training runs. Especially on buffed trails, for hill repeats, hikes and any time I'm feeling like I want a bit more cushion than I prefer. I would recommend this model over other high stack, max cushion models/brands bc of its responsiveness. Sizing and On Foot Feel: I requested a size 8. I am still torn if I would have felt even more secure and comfortable in a 7.5. Regardless of that, I love how they feel around the midfoot, feel secure. I just would like to get them a little more snug around the midfoot, hence why I think a 7.5 would have been perfect. Of course, I love the ample toe box space, so my toes can fully splay, but at the same time not getting smashed into the front of the shoe when going downhill. I should also mention the heel feels pretty secure as well, not too tight, but not loose, either. Under Foot Feel and Performance: This shoe is responsive and not over the top bulky. The cushioning is comfortable without being too "squishy". I think that, not too squishy feel, helps reduce the perception of being on such a thick stack. Which I was concerned about b/c I though I'd feel "wobbly" or have a sensation of slipping off the foot-bed. I didn't get that sensation, and that was a big positive! Activities I Tested the Olympus with: Walks with the dog, hikes, runs, hill repeats, and even a morning of race timing. Surface tested on; Trails that transition quickly between buffed and bEAST Coasty (rocks, roots, boulders). Hill repeats on a look out access road; transitions between asphalt and crushed stone surfaces. What I Enjoyed Most: I LOVED the performance of the shoes during hill repeats; security around mid-foot and the cushion for the downhill abuse on the soles of the feet. I will keep using them on those days. As well as for longer trail run days at a local nature preserve surrounded by miles and miles trails of every kind of surface. (ALTRA gave me this free product to try.)
