Altra Paradigm 4.0

Overall a work horse of a shoe, probably the most miles I've ever had on a pair of shoes (at least 1200+ miles). A bit too heavy to run really fast tempos or workouts in, but the shoe is capable of anything from short and easy to long and quick. Not as comfortable as I had hoped for a max cushion shoe, but the Altra footshaped shoe is significantly better than other companies in my opinion.

Initially, this shoe felt like I was running in a pair of bricks! They are tall and dense. Once I put about 20 miles on them, the shoe started to feel very comfortable on my feet. I also like how the Paradigms helps my form: it is easier to lift my feet and land underneath myself, while avoiding my previous habits of over-striding + heel-striking. As a result, it is effortless to stay on goal pace during my runs, and even find myself running faster. I typically use the Paradigms for recovery runs and long runs, however I have also used this shoe for tempo and progression runs as well.

Pros: probably the best cushion on the planet. That is a lot of Ego midsole! Even so, the combination of Zero Drop and the EVA diagonal slice still makes this feel like an actual running shoe.

Cons: It’s heavy, but you knew that when you purchased a shoe with a maximal TPU midsole. (It still weighs less than most Boost shoes, and you get better cushion.)

Knit Upper: Like the Escalante, the knit upper is comfy but not secure. (I believe this is more secure than the Esc, but still similar issue.) The knit also retains a lot of moisture, so if you sweat a ton or plan on encountering rain or puddles, be advised.

Great shoe for recovery miles and to save your legs a beating a few times per week.