Advice for Road Runners: The latest Altra Women's Paradigm 7 stability road running shoes are much lighter than the previous model. However, the overall feel and fit should feel very similar to the last edition. Meaning you should be able to transition into these with ease.
Underfoot Feel
With a thick layer of EGO MAX cushioning, the Altra Paradigm 7 running shoes should feel soft and protective underfoot.
'Balanced Cushioning' means there's no difference between the height from the heel to the forefoot.
These are stability running shoes because they feature GuideRail support. The sides of midsole walls rise up to guide your feet and ankles throughout the gait cycle as and when you need it. Making them a particularly good option for runners with differences between their feet.
Upper Fit
The main adjustments to the Paradigm 7 are in the upper. While the heel collar and tongue are plusher, the fabric is much lighter. Overall, the Paradigm 7 are nearly 40 grams lighter than the previous model.
Altra running shoes all have foot shaped toe boxes, but have different fits across models. The Paradigm 7 features Altra's Standard FootShape Fit. While this isn't as broad as their Original FootShape Fit, it fits generously in the toe box.
Ideal Run Type
We position the Altra Women's Paradigm 7 stability running shoes in our Float Experience category. That's because they offer a soft and plush underfoot feel, and are best suited to slower paced runs. This also means they should feel great for longer distances.
In our experience, GuideRail support works well for runners who suffer from knee and hip discomfort as a result of greater ranges of internal rotation. The contoured cushioning helps align the feet, ankles, knees and hips.
Shoe size is a personal preference and everyone's feet are different, but we want to ensure you avoid any pain or discomfort from bruised toenails, rubbing, blistering or pins and needles.
Your running shoes should have enough width to allow you to spread your toes and should have some space at the front (we recommend having a half to one thumb's width of space from the end of your longest toe to the front of your running shoes).
This usually means that your running shoe will be at least a half size bigger than your regular shoe size though this can vary from brand to brand.
Technical Features:
- Approximate weight: 232.5 grams
- Drop: 0mm
- Stack height: 30mm
- Standard FootShape Fit toe box
- InnerFlex midsole design allows the foot to flex naturally
- GuideRail provides additional medial support when required
