Altra Provision 5 Review
Gentle Guidance That is Buttery Smooth
Likes
- Soft cushioning
- GuideRail technology
- Roomy toe box
Dislikes
- Rigid heel
- Lacks energy return
What's New
Altra didn't want to mess with a winning formula, so the updates to the Provision 5 are quite simple. A redesigned upper provides an improved fit and enhanced breathability. Engineered mesh in the forefoot wicks away sweat or moisture and helps keep the shoe light and airy.
The Bottom Line
The Provision 5 is a smooooooth operator, and if you're searching for a go-to shoe that will keep your gait in alignment while providing "sink-in" softness, look no further than this everyday trainer. GuideRail technology in the midsole offers subtle stability for overpronation when you need it while remaining unnoticeable to more neutral runners. Although the midsole is not especially snappy or responsive, long runs and recovery runs are the Provision 5's bread and butter.
Shoe Performance
Softness i
Ride/Energy Return i
Underfoot Protection i
Flexibility i
Upper Support i
Specifications & Fit
How It Fits
| Toe Box | Width: Wide | Height: Medium | |
| Midfoot Volume | Medium | |
| Heel Width | Medium | |
| Arch Height | Medium to High |
Shoe Specs
| Weight | 9.8 oz | |
| Stack Height | Medium | |
| Terrain | Road | |
| Stability | Minimum | |
| Sizing | True to Size |
Our In-Depth Look
Shoe Softness i
Ben: "While running, my feet literally sink into the insoles of the Provision. These shoes are very comfortable for running or even just standing on my feet all day."
Ride/Energy Return i
Ben: "The Provision 5 provides a smooth, cushioned ride when running slower than a seven-minute pace, but this shoe isn't as responsive as I would like at faster speeds. I can power through the pace, but the shoe doesn't feel like it's helping me."
Underfoot Protection i
Ben: "The Provision 5 is great on a variety of surfaces and handles small debris with ease. My joints have no problem on long road runs, and I especially enjoy the shoe on recovery days."
Underfoot Flexibility i
Ben: "The Provision 5 has a decent amount of flexibility in the forefoot, but the heel is noticeably less flexible. This heel rigidity does not get in the way of my running performance, though."
Upper Feel i
Ben: "The upper provides a secure fit in the heel, and the wide toe box gives my toes room to spread out. The Provision's guide rails do a good job of preventing overpronation, but they also make the shoe a bit more restrictive throughout."
Men's Altra Provision Running Shoes
Women's Altra Provision Running Shoes
Individual Thoughts
The Provision 5 is the first pair of Altras that I have ever worn for an extended period of time. While the zero drop takes a bit of getting used to, I appreciate the shoe's smooth, cushioned ride. The GuideRail system and generous toe box are nice bonuses for me. While I would not race in the Provision 5, I think it is a great choice for training runs.