The Altra Lone Peak is Altra’s flagship lightweight trail running shoe, now reached its 6th iteration since originally releasing. Both the Lone Peak 5 and Lone Peak 6 incorporate Altra’s signature wide FootShape toe box allowing full toe splay and relaxation for lower fatigue on long distance trail runs. They also utilize a zero drop midsole platform keeping the heel and forefoot at equal heights from the surface, encouraging better running posture, midfoot footfalls, and low-impact stride efficiency.
However, with every successive model, Altra makes incremental innovations to aspects like the bouncy midsole foam composing the shoe, the fit and volume of the synthetic and mesh upper, and general protection from the elements to boost overall off-road versatility and trail running performance step by step.
Comparison Table between altra lone peak 5 and lone peak 6:
| Feature | Altra Lone Peak 5 | Altra Lone Peak 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | 2022 | 2022 |
| Weight | 21 oz | 19.9 oz |
| Drop | 0mm drop | 0mm drop |
| Outsole | Multi-directional Maxtrac rubber | Multi-directional Maxtrac rubber |
| Midsole | Full-length EGO foam | Full-length EGO Max foam |
| Insole | 5mm Contour Footbed | 5mm Contour Footbed |
| Upper | Breathable mesh with synthetic overlays | Breathable mesh with synthetic overlays + StoneGuard rock protection |
| Retail Price | $129.95 – $134.13 | $119.99 – $155.76 |
Features Comparison:
Materials:
The Lone Peak 5 utilizes EGO foam in the full-length midsole for bounce and energy return. Abrasion-resistant Maxtrac rubber covers the entire multidirectional outsole for grip and durability on rough terrain. The upper features a breathable mesh fabric with durable synthetic overlays in high wear areas.
The Lone Peak 6 implemented next-gen EGO Max foam in the midsole, even thicker than the LP5 for maximum shock absorption and cushioning. The outsole configuration remains the same durable Maxtrac rubber as the 5. The upper combines breathable mesh with synthetic prints for structure and StoneGuard rock plates shielding the foot.
Durability:
Both the LP5 and LP6 contain a rock guard in the midsole to protect the underside of the foot from bruising and midsole breakdown. Testers also praise the abrasion-resistant mesh of the uppers combined with reinforced synthetics in high wear areas for enhancing each shoe’s lifespan and reducing mid-run damage. The 6 seems slightly more durable with the addition of explicit StoneGuard panels.
Fit & Comfort:
Both iterations boast Altra’s FootShape toe box which allows ample space for horizontal toes splay and generous vertical clearance, key for sustained comfort over ultra distance trails. However, multiple product reviewers emphasize that runners should consider sizing up by at least a half size in both the Lone Peak 5 and 6 since the narrow mid and heel sections run quite small.
The added midsole plushness stemming from Ego Max foam does make the Lone Peak 6 the more cushioned model resulting in a plusher step-in feel out of the box for less foot strain mile after mile.
Cushioning:
Equipping the midsole of Lone Peak 6 is next-generation Ego Max foam, representing a thicker, softer, and more shock absorbent foam material composition versus Ego foam in the Lone Peak 5. This endows the Lone Peak 6 with greater underfoot cushioning softness leading to superior comfort and reduced muscle strain or fatigue throughout extended trail running sessions.
However, wear testers note that while the 6 feels more plush and resilient cushioning the foot, it remains suitably responsive and lively under a runner’s stride. Meanwhile the Ego foam in the Lone Peak 5 still provides ample impact cushioning during footfall, just with a comparatively firmer and more muted feel.
Value:
The Altra Lone Peak 5 retailed from $129.95 to $134.13 across variants. With similar durable components, capable performance and renowned comfort, this represented a good value at the moderate price point. However, current pricing on the 6 ranges from just $119.99 up to $155.76, undercutting the 5 and adding value through midsole, outsole and upper enhancements.
Considering these performance upgrades, early discounts and renowned Altra quality, the Lone Peak 6 becomes an even stronger value recommendation.
Performance comparison:
Walking Comfort:
Both models provide all-day walking comfort courtesy of the thick cushioning absorbing heel and forefoot impacts combined with the spacious toe box allowing a natural stride. In fact, their zero drop platform specifically aims to minimize walking strain and discomfort. However, testers give the edge to the Lone Peak 6 as the next-gen Ego Max foam midsole feels plusher and bouncier, reducing fatigue from long periods on foot.
Running Performance:
When used for intense trail running and technical terrain, both the LP5 and LP6 receive high praise from testers. The grippy, multi-directional lugs handle mixed surfaces well while the engaged toe box and zero drop design encourage solid footing and control. However, the LP6’s extra midsole foam manages hard impacts better leading to greater shock attenuation and a smoother heel to toe transition when running long distances over challenging trails.
All Day Standing Comfort:
Even without the luxurious new Ego Max midsole of the 6, multiple wearers confirm the Lone Peak 5 keeps feet comfortable and pain-free during extended periods of standing still thanks to its moderate Ego foam cushioning. It also stays cooler thanks to the breathable mesh fabric lining the interior. Yet the thicker, softer foam of the 6 likely takes the crown for all-day standing and walking comfort.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while both the Altra Lone Peak 5 and Lone Peak 6 deliver quality cushioned trail running shoes with Altra’s signature foot shaped toe-box, the updates made to the Lone Peak 6 allow it to edge out its predecessor.
The enhanced EGO Max midsole foam provides noticeably plusher cushioning for better shock absorption and added comfort over long distances without reducing responsiveness. Meanwhile, the updated mesh upper with targeted StoneGuard rock protection plates improves durability helping the shoe hold up better against abrasive trails.
These refinements, along with subtle weight savings, make the Lone Peak 6 a compelling next step for the successful franchise that dedicated trail runners should strongly consider for foot protection, underfoot comfort, and confident traction during demanding mountain runs or challenging terrain. Both represent wise investments for avid off-road runners, but the Lone Peak 6 has the well-rounded performance to make it today’s top choice.