THE CASE FOR THE ALTRA OLYMPUS AS THE BEST BACKPACKING SHOE

[@dougsphoto]

Hi thx for you review. I share your views on using the trail runner as a hiker shoe with maybe an occasional run but also your concerns about that foam sole I just don’t see it durable enough after all we can’t all go and buy new shoes all the time. What’s good business for Altra is bad business for our pocket. But I’ve been looking at the Altra Mont Black as it’s got a similar midsole but it hasn’t got that foam sole it’s got much better cover with the Vibram sole and it’s a light shoe so I think it will be a creat casual runner/hiker and doesn’t have to be used as a racer. I’d like to hear your opinion on them oh and ps they are on sale now so they’re very affordable. Thx

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Thanks so much for this comment. It was an excellent view and well said! I haven’t gotten the Mont Blanc yet. I am not sure they would work for me. I agree whole heartedly about the Altra durability. They are in the business of selling shoes. They make them just durable enough to be super light and break down quickly, because they are light…I mean, they are for trail running. Not really backpacking. I don’t know if there is a perfect balance out there between comfort, durability, and weight. The Olympus has really worked for me. I tried the Timps briefly and hated them. Based on the stack height, I don’t think I would like the Lone Peaks either. So, until I find something better, I will stick with the Olympus. I bought another pair of the 4s when the Olympus 5s came out. I wanted the 5s, but, they are $180. These shoes are getting super expensive. The 4s were on sale. I guess they are getting rid of all the 4s. Appreciate your comment. Best of luck! ✌️

[@dougsphoto]

Hi yeh I personally almost think it’s better to be one model behind that way you get them at a better price and you have so many reviews to use to your advantage to see which shoes last or not. Like now the Timp 3 are really cheap but there’s so many reviews showing them falling apart that I wouldn’t touch them and even Altra wrote to me saying they the 4 should be better. But that’s kind of the point should is not the write word to use. Don’t they test these shoes. I still have Nikes from a few years ago and there soles still look like new I think Altra will have a real problem if another brand decide to make a zero drop foot for shoe and I kind of which they would as now Altra has no real competition :( but thx and enjoy your O4’s 🥾

[@Raevenswood]

How are those Mont Blanc holding up now? I've read review after review about problems with the uppers ripping and heel lift and all kinds of other problems. Regarding the Olympus 4 If you can get 400 miles out of a trail running shoe you are doing well. Seems like 400 miles is about what people are getting from these that are running ultramarathons in them. thru hiking is way less stressful on the shoe than running a 100 mile marathon on a trail. Like he mentions you can get years not months out of shoes like Keen but those things weight around 3lbs a pair where the Olympus weight about 20oz per pair. It's just logic that the light weight performance shoe isn't going to last as long but the tradeoff is they perform well and are very comfortable.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

I recently switched to the Lone Peak 6s… I know it is less stack…but, they seem to work well for me. ✌️

[@brianwofford3831]

Good video, I bought a pair of Olympus 5's today and was doing some research. Your video helped my process.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Appreciate it Brian. They have worked for me. My only update is that the tread in the middle seems to wear down faster than the outside, Becuase it is a softer material.

[@RVAHikerGirl]

Hands down my favorite hiking shoe. As long as they continue to make it I will be wearing them. I put 700 miles on my 3.0's and the only reason I got a new pair is because they were getting slick and were losing their grip on rocks because I wore them out. My toe flap never came off luckily. I now have about 300 miles on my 4.0's and they are feeling great. My feet never hurt in these shoes. Stack height and zero gravity are for me! #AltraFanForLife

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

My sentiments exactly! #altrafanforlife 🤣😊. I just love the comfort in these. Thanks so much for your wonderful comment and thoughts on this. Much appreciated!! Crow✌️

[@diggersdentysonu.k.m.d8813]

Hope that you have had a top week all most the weekend can't wait hope all the family are well all ways a big big like 👍 from me ture legend

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Thanks my friend! You are always so kind. Much appreciated! Crow✌️

[@WanderingMonkHikes]

Excellent video Crow. I started wearing Altra Lone Peaks about 3 years ago. I’d worn Merrill’s as my go to shoe, but I didn’t like the everlasting wetness that waterproof shoes create. My Altras dry in a couple of hours like you said. My shoe grip well on rocks, both dry and wet, and on the trail. The wide toe box is great! These things are the Birkenstocks of trail shoes. But I thing the Olympus may be my go to shoe for hiking through Pennsylvania. I wonder if those soles will be more comfortable on the sharp rocks there? At 65 years old, I look for all the advantages that I can find!🤣 Stay on the path my friend!

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Birkenstocks of the trail…🤣🤣✌️. I have heard great things about the Lone Peaks. I heard they are great. Appreciate ya! Thanks for such a wonderful comment. Crow✌️

[@MetroOnTheMove]

Nice! Glad to see you finally swapped out the old pair. Hope you eventually try out the Topo Terraventures as they are roomy in the foot box, very comfortable and seem to last longer than Altras. Keep trekking Crow! Let’s keep moving!

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Appreciate it Metro! Yeah, those old Olympus were pretty rough before I changed out. Yeah, Topo is my next try. Crow✌️

[@MetroOnTheMove]

@@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING I think your toes were coming out of your last pair! Almost looked like sandals! Glad to see you got the new pair you were saving for. I know you were talking about this new pair months ago. Look forward to hiking with you again soon my friend! Cheers

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

🤣✌️

[@alexwbanks70]

I've had the Lone Peaks, Timp 1.5, Timp 2.0 and the Olympus 4's. The Timp 1.5 and Olympus 4's are the same feel/fit except for the stack height. Those two are my favorite and I bought an extra pair of the Olympus before they go and screw them up like they did the Timps.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

I agree whole heartedly. I hope they do t change the Olympus much. Crow

[@SideTrailAdventures]

Just upgraded to the Olympus 4.0s...LOVE EM! Great video....really liked the break down.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Awesome! Thank you! I think you will like them. So far, the best version yet for me. Crow

[@BackpackingWithJason]

I literally just bought Altras Olympus 4 , two days ago. So far there really comfortable and I love the wide foot box. Great reviews on the shoes Crow!!

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Great to hear! Thanks Jason. I hope they treat you as well as they did me. I have really enjoyed my three pairs of the Olympus. It is really a game changer. Crow

[@dubc3615]

Shoes are super important in everyday life. Those seem very nice and designed very well for the trail. Awesome information Crow!

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Appreciate it Dub C! I love these shoes. Crow✌️

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Ive been running/hiking in the HOKA speedgoats since January. Very similar to the Olympus. I really like the amount of cushion. I've been dealing with some Plantar Fascitis and the increased cushion has helped a bit I think. I ran 20 miles on the AT one morning during trail days and I had no issues with the PF. I'm at the end of the life of that pair. I was planning to go back to my goto shoe, the Lone Peaks, but maybe I'll give the Olympus a shot. Nice review dude.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

I know you have a lot of trail running miles and can testify to how they react to the trail. I have heard incredible things about the HOKA Speedgoats. I have also heard incredible things about the Lone Peak 5s. Thanks so much for your input on this my friend! All the best to you and your family. Crow✌️

[@ArizonaKid]

See I’ve never really thought about this , thanks for sharing

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Appreciate it! Thanks so watching my friend. Crow✌️

[@Taffwildmanofthewoods]

Crow good to see you looking well 👍 people forget the importance of looking after ones feet when hiking. It's so important to have strong, flexible and comfortable footwear. Good review especially new hikers. Take it easy atb Taff 🤠👊

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Appreciate it Taff! Yeah, it all starts with the feet! Thanks so much for your kind words. Crow✌️

[@pacman311085]

Interested in trying out a pair of altras, good review for consideration, I'm currently rotating two pairs of New Balance hieros V6 with goretex,one pair is pretty much finished, very comfortable all rounder I find with the wide sizing option,the vibram sole probably isn't as grippy on them as other trail runner's available though

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

I recently switched to the Lone Peak 6s. They have a great tread and have been great so far. The Olympus 5s are soooo expensive. Thanks for watching it. Crow✌️

[@tap42al]

Great info. Thanks

[@OutdoorOperator]

Great video. I've been using the Timp 2.0s and really like them. Big fan of zero drop. Might have to consider the Olympus for my next pair.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

They have worked for me. I haven’t had the timps, but, I have seen lots of people who love them. The real difference is the stack. Great comfort. Hope they worn for you. Crow✌️

[@safromnc8616]

OK - So can't do zero drop - I'm flat footed and strung way tight. I wore hiking shoes (Keens and Merrells) for a long time (never waterproof). I finally landed on Salmings, a trail runner, made by a running shoe company and a few ounces lighter than your Altra. Gotta have the drop. FYI - If I KNOW I'm going to be getting wet (a lot) I do have waterproof socks. Waterproof shoes - you are spot on.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Great stuff! Yeah, the zero drop is not for everyone. Especially for those with flat feet. I’m going to check out those shoes. Appreciate your comment my friend. Crow✌️

[@NordikSmeelyCooter]

I bought some Altra Lone Peaks that were on clearance couple months back, just used them for the first time last week in the Smokies, and I loved them,,now I'm thinking on getting the Olympus 4.0's ,because I'm thinking the extra cushioning would make and ultimate hiking shoe..got to save up to pull the trigger on that $170 price tag,,thanks for the info

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Yeah, they are great. You are right on the price. It is a stretch at $170…but, they have really helped me with blisters and foot pain at the end of the day. Appreciate ya! Crow✌️

[@z0uLess]

A polish woman that hiked the length of Norway said that the Olympus 5 would dig into her heel from the sides causing issues. I tried Olympus 5 last summer for a 350 km hike over 12 days and I got the same pains as she was getting. The problem with this shoe is that its made for running and when you are walking you heelstrike more ... it has a very unconventionally wide heel

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Good point! Thanks for watching it. ✌️

[@FOLLOWINGWALKERSWORLD]

Great review. Wow! When you give up the attorney life, shoe sales are an option. Lol They would be my go to if I didn’t absolutely love my Topo Ultradventures. 👍👍✌️

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

🤣🤣✌️…Yeah, maybe I will sale some shoes later…🤣. I am going to try the topos soon. I have heard great things. Appreciate ya Tom! Crow✌️

[@northeastfamilyadventures9186]

I know a lot of guys that swear by those shoes. I do not have a pair... yet. We're not fast movers, and I prefer waterproof with the cold and snow we deal with half the year. We're not so pro yet to have multiple pairs of hiking shoes... rather have a solid pair of good all rounders. With how expensive gear starts to get, need to save some bread somewhere. I do like the idea of mesh for summer hiking though. I've seen an uptick in advertising for super meshy hiking shoes with the main benefit being quick drying.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

That is a good point about hiking in areas where there is a lot of snow. I would think the waterproof shoes would be a must there. In Alabama, it is a rare occurrence for snow. But, you are right, the cost of this stuff just gets higher and higher…appreciate ya my friend! Crow✌️

[@manahil189]

Wow the vid is amazing. stay safe. 👍😊 Stay in touch. 🌹

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Appreciate it my friend! Crow✌️

[@manahil189]

@@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING i hope that you will also visit.😊

[@vy4648]

I returned the 4.0 after a 7 miles hike. It is not as cushion as the 3.5 which I have been wearing for over a year. I was very disappointed since the 4.0 is a very nice looking shoe. I agree with you that the Olympus is a lot more durable than the Lone Peak. I went through 5 pairs of Lone Peak in less than 3 years.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Yeah, I have felt that too, I hate now taken two trips with the Olympus and I felt the difference between the 3.5 and the 4.0. But, I still love them. Appreciate you input on this my friend. Crow✌️

[@SeniorHiker77]

Yes you are an old hiker. Lol. Very nice review Brad I guess my next pair will be the Olympus.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

I hope you enjoy them as much as I did. I just think they are the most comfortable shoes I have ever had. Crow

[@DaveOffGrid]

Thanks for the incredible in depth info Brad! I'm not sure if you meant to drop your video around the same time as Darwin? :D haha jk. I've been hearing great things about the most popular manufacturer of backpacking shoes so I'll have to keep them in mind. Great call on the injinjis. Also, if you haven't already, consider waterproof socks to throw on for those stream crossings. Waterproof shoes may not make sense but the socks seem to.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Great idea on the waterproof socks. I just got a pair…seal skins. I can’t wait to try them out. Appreciate your wonderful comment. Crow✌️

[@MinuteontheMountain]

Great review, Crow.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Thanks so much John! Appreciate it. Crow✌️

[@dirtbagoutside]

Do you still love them? Have you tried the new 5s?

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

I almost bought the 5s…but, they put the 4s on sale…so I got another pair of 4s. I love the Olympus. They work for me. ✌️

[@dirtbagoutside]

Awesome to hear. I have always been a die hard Salmon trail runner fan for several years, but after my NPT thru hike last week, my feet got destroyed so I need a wider toe box shoe. I'm gonna try a few different styles, one probably being these and also Inno8 trailtalon 290 V2. Thanks for quick reply!!

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

If you don’t like the zero drop, you may want to take a look at the Hoka Speedgoat 5s…they have a little drop in them. Shoes are so personal. But, both of those are good shoes

[@snakewater1977]

great video ,,and awesome content,,new supporter here

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Thanks for coming! Appreciate it my friend! Thanks for coming over. Crow

[@philsellers1]

Great Review. Any thoughts on the Olympus 5?

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

I almost bought it a few weeks ago, when they came out. But, Altra had a sale through REI for the Timp 3s because the Timp 4 came out. So, I got the Timp 3s for $68…I am not sure I will like them. But, it was over a $120 savings. It was just hard to pull the trigger on $180 shoes. Maybe later. They looks great. The Olympus 4s have been amazing! Crow✌️

[@dougoutdoors]

I like my Altra Lonepeak's ok but I may like this one better! Thanks.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Thanks for watching Doug! Yeah, I love these shoes. They have really kept me from some foot pain at the end of the day. Crow✌️

[@whatsthatguydoin8603]

Thanks for the info.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Appreciate it! This was fun to put together. Crow✌️

[@debsmostexcellentadventure5353]

Can you get them in the uk? stay safe debs..

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

I have never looked into that. I assume so. Altras website…I think you can. Let me know if you are able to get them. I would like to know too. Crow✌️

[@mitnwes]

Great video. Love altras

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Appreciate it Wes! I had fun putting this together. Altras have been a game changer for me. Crow✌️

[@tomizet6671]

When Olympus 5 review? :)

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

I may get them soon…😊✌️

[@caityP]

Do these only work for backpacking if your carrying very light weight in your bag?

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

I wear them on every backpacking trip. They have been amazing. I use them no matter what weight I am carrying. Appreciate you watching my video! Crow✌️

[@cottontalesfromthetrail5474]

I will throw my two cents in: I wear the Altra Superiors now which have a rock plate in them. Durability is always a huge topic when discussing shoes. I hike 400 miles on my shoes no matter the brand because the cushion is what breaks down. The toe flap on all the shoes I saw on the AT would separate within 100 miles. If you put your foot between two rocks enough the mesh is going to tear on any shoe brand. So, with that said durability is in the cushion. If I hike in Brooks or Altra’s I change them at 400-450 miles. I love the Altra’s because it allows full inflection of my foot and keeps me connected to the trail. Since I was 60 before I started wearing the zero drop shoes I was worried about my Achilles’ tendon. I would advise starting slow in any zero drop shoe if you are 50+. I would walk barefoot long distances before I wore the Altra. If your pack weight is 40 pounds or greater do not wear Altra trail runners wear something that gives you more support. Great discussion! Happy Hiking!

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Appreciate it! This was an excellent comment. Thanks so much for that. Lots of good stuff in your analysis. Very well said. Thank you for always watching and having amazing comments. Crow

[@cottontalesfromthetrail5474]

@@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING You have such a great channel. I do love to watch because I have no idea what the video is going to be about next. Variety is the spice of life they say and so it is with your channel. Thank you for providing great topics. Happy Hiking!

[@BackpackingwithBuckley]

Jerk move Crow. 🤣 I want these and now I want them sooner than later.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

LOL...Yeah, they are so comfortable...but pricey...ouch. Crow

[@icebearhikes]

I like Altra Lonepeaks and Hokas.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Everyone tells me to try the Hokas. I also hear the Lone Peak 5s are awesome. Hope you are well my friend. Crow

[@MiscMitz]

That sounds like a great shoe.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Appreciate ya! Yeah, I love these things. Crow✌️

[@TerryYoungOutdoors]

I just got a pair of Lone Peak 6's. I love my Olympus, but the stack is so high that I turn my ankles quite often. We shall see.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

I have heard good things about the New Lone Peaks. The Timps just didn’t work for me. I hope the Lone Peaks work for ya! Crow✌️

[@comodice905]

Bloke it's not but nice try.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Thanks for watching it. Crow✌️

[@comodice905]

@@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING as the crow flies 2 clicks bloke