The Altra Torin 8 is an excellent option for runners and walkers who want a zero-drop shoe without sacrificing cushioning. Unlike conventional running shoes with 6-10mm of heel-to-toe drop, the Torin 8 maintains identical stack height in both heel and forefoot, promoting a more natural foot position. It also has a wider toebox than most other running shoes, allowing your toes to spread naturally while you run or walk. 

The Torin 8s have 30 mm of stack height, which makes them comfortable for long runs. The zero-drop platform strengthens your feet, so they’re excellent for shorter daily runs as well. They’re also very versatile, and we use them for walking and long days on our feet, as well as mixed surface runs on gravel, pavement, and even dirt. 

The Altra EGO MAX midsole delivers a firm yet cushioned ride. Rather than mimicking the ultra-plush feel of brands like HOKA or On, the Torin 8 provides a solid, stable platform that strengthens your feet while still offering sufficient protection from the everyday impact of running. This balance makes them ideal for runners who prefer a more grounded feel without sacrificing comfort.

They have a rubber outsole that covers almost the entire tread. Compared to many road running shoes, which have large sections of exposed midsole foam, the almost full-coverage rubber outsole offers excellent traction and increased durability. This makes the Torin an excellent choice for running and walking on any surface. 

They have a comfortable mesh upper and well-padded tongue, ankle, and heel areas. Notably, Altra has maintained the improved tongue design introduced with the Torin 7, addressing comfort issues from earlier models. The mesh upper provides breathability, which helps keep your feet from overheating.

Whether you’re zero-drop curious or a long-time minimalist shoe runner who wants cushion for longer road runs, the Torin 8 is a great option