Altra Lone Peak 2.0 Review
Initial Thoughts
Altra has made some significant changes to its Lone Peak 2.0 compared to the prior model 1.5. The changes are noticeable immediately when taking the shoes out of the box. Version 2.0 has a significantly beefed up midsole and outsole which have added some weight and protection compared to the more minimal prior version.
They have also added some cushioning to the tongue and improved the laces (I had a problem with the laces on model 1.5 coming undone). One thing that hasn’t changed is the zero-drop that Altra is known for as well as the roomy toe box. The technical details are as follows.
Technical Details (according to company website)
| Lone Peak 2.0 | Lone Peak 1.5 | |
| Platform/Drop | Zero Drop | Zero Drop |
| Stack Height | 26 mm | 23 mm |
| Weight | 10.9 oz | 9.9 oz |
| Retail Cost | $120 |
Fit and Feel
When first trying on the Lone Peak 2.0, I was pleased to find that Altra has maintained the generally comfortable feel I became accustomed to with the prior model 1.5. The comfort comes from the combination of the wide toe box, mesh upper with minimal seams, and secure lacing system that provides a snug feeling through the arch. I found the shoe to run true to size and consistent with prior models (I wore size 12 in both the 2.0 and 1.5 models). The shoe also offers a slight toe bumper and velcro at the heel for attaching gaitors.
Over the last month I have put the shoe through the ringers with runs ranging from speed work on the treadmill to multiple hour long runs on technical terrain with significant elevation gain/loss. The additional protection underfoot and the sticky rubber outsole made the shoe well suited for long runs on the trails. While the shoe has additional heft compared to the prior model, the dual layer EVA midsole offers a firm, stable ride. What you sacrifice with the added weight is made up for by additional cushioning and protection when bombing downhill. As with prior Altra models, I did not have a problem adjusting to a zero-drop shoe, but if you have never tried a zero-drop shoe, it may take some getting used to.
While running through the summer months in Northern California, I haven’t had a chance to test the shoe in wet conditions to comment on how it drains. I have heard the honeycomb pattern on the upper is designed to improve how the shoe drains (“Quick Dry Trail Mesh” according to the company) but we shall see.
Conclusion
Overall, this is a solidly built shoe that I would include in my rotation. The added cushion and 
protection make it well suited for multiple hour efforts on the trails, even more so than previous Lone Peak models. The traction and snug wrap through the arch provide a secure feeling when descending steep or technical trails. At almost 11 oz., it doesn’t have a minimal or racing feel to it, but it also isn’t a brick and fits into the middle of the pack. If you are comfortable with a zero-drop shoe, this could be an everyday trainer that could withstand plenty of miles.
This review was conducted by Brian Miller of El Dorado Hills, CA, right at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Brian has dozens of ultra finishes to his name and recently finished 3rd OA at the Tahoe Rim Trail 50 mile and clocked a sub 20hr at last years’ Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run. He’s running Wasatch 100 tomorrow.