Altra Provisioness Shoe Review

As a runner, if you're anything like me, you like testing out the latest gear and feeling 'in the know' about what's happening in the industry. After changing my stride several years back from a serious heel striker to a mid foot striker, I have gradually moved away from shoes that were super rigid with a ton of support. 

For years, I have run in the Brooks Adrenalines, which have done me well. But I started branching out a bit buying Nikes that had less stability and I really liked how they felt on runs.

And after Altras hit the market, I was definitely curious about how a zero drop heel would feel. Zero drop essentially means that the ball of your foot and your heel are on the same plane. Well, it turns out, if you're running on the mid to forefoot, it doesn't feel all that different!

I ordered the Provisioness 1.5 because it's a light stability shoe with a 'stability wedge' that can provide a little extra arch support for those who need it. I prefer the shoe without the wedge, personally. 

What I really like about the fit of the shoe is that the toe box is W I D E so your toes have some room to breathe, whereas other shoes often have my feet cramped. I also like how comfortable the footbed is. The downfall for me, is that near the ankle it feels a bit looser than I'd like, so I find myself lacing them pretty tight. 

The shape is a little different, but you get used to that in no time. Plus, I love this color combo. 

I've probably taken these out on about 10 runs ranging from 1 to 8 miles and haven't had any cramping in the calves. I did have that little hip issue, but I have no idea if it had anything relation to the shoes.

Of course, I would definitely recommend easing into a shoe like this if you haven't been transitioning to low or no drop shoes. 

Another feature I really like about these shoes is the reflective pull loops, which makes it much easier to get the shoe on! There is a loop on the top of the tongue and the back of the heel. Every shoe should have these. 

Overall, I would give the Provisioness a 7.5 out of 10. I'm still debating if I would go down a half size next time (I ordered my regular running shoe size). 

Want to see more? Check out Altra on Instagram. 

By the time you're reading this, we are likely en route to London, so I'll talk to you from the other side of the pond!

Have you tried any new running shoes or products you're loving lately? 

Disclosure: All thoughts and opinions are my own. I received a discount on the Altra shoes in return for a review.