Altra Timp 3 Review
The Timp is Back and Outfitted for any Trail
Likes
- Spacious toe box
- Secure midfoot fit
- Protective underfoot cushioning
- Durability that will last
Dislikes
- Not the best traction in wet conditions
What's New
The Altra Timp returns for its third iteration, and fans of the previous model will love the updates that further refine this versatile trail shoe. The most significant change from version two is the new upper design, which adds durability plus protection from trail debris. The rolled mesh design guards against abrasion, in addition to the use of more robust TPU overlays throughout the forefoot, adding further lateral stability so runners can securely manoeuvre through trails with ease. Combined with Altra's signature FootShape design, the new Timp 3 offers an improved fit and enhanced comfort that will carry you through your longest trail adventures.
Queue Eminem's "Without Me" — Guess who's back, back again... Timp is back, tell a friend!
That's right! The Timp is back, and Altra lovers everywhere should be excited. Although Altra has not made an abundance of changes from the Timp 2, the updated upper design increases stability and protection, delivering Altra's signature roomy feel. The Quantic foam midsole offers outstanding versatility with a balance of cushioning and responsiveness that can withstand the test of time and provide enough protection for even ultramarathon distances. If you are looking for a versatile trail running shoe with balanced cushioning that works for long trail runs while still feeling nimble, don't look past the Altra Timp 3.
The Bottom Line
Queue Eminem's "Without Me" — Guess who's back, back again... Timp is back, tell a friend!
That's right! The Timp is back, and Altra lovers everywhere should be excited. Although Altra has not made an abundance of changes from the Timp 2, the updated upper design increases stability and protection, delivering Altra's signature roomy feel. The Quantic foam midsole offers outstanding versatility with a balance of cushioning and responsiveness that can withstand the test of time and provide enough protection for even ultramarathon distances. If you are looking for a versatile trail running shoe with balanced cushioning that works for long trail runs while still feeling nimble, don't look past the Altra Timp 3.
Shoe Performance
Shoe Softnessi
FirmSoftRide/Energy Returni
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protectioni
LowHighFlexibilityi
RigidElasticUpper Supporti
StructuredAdaptableSpecifications & Fit
How It Fits
| Toe Box | Width: Medium | Height: Medium |
| Midfoot Volume | Medium |
| Heel Width | Medium |
| Arch Height | Medium |
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 11.0 oz (size 9) | Women's: 7.2 oz (size 8) |
| Stack Height | 31 mm (Heel), 21 mm (Forefoot) |
| Terrain | Trail |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | True to Size |
Our In-Depth Look
Shoe Softnessi
According to our tester, the Altra Timp 3 has a soft ride with a noticeable squish to the midsole, but thanks to its Quantic midsole, this shoe certainly does not lack any liveliness. Whether on hard-packed trails or softer terrain, the Timp 3 consistently provides a comfortably plush ride without sacrificing a responsive and nimble feel when it's time to pick up the pace.
Liz: "These shoes have a nice amount of softness for the trails. They don't feel dead underfoot, but they have a slight sinking-in softness upon impact that maintains comfort even on hard-packed or rocky trails."
Ride/Energy Returni
The Quantic midsole continues to be a highly versatile foam that's comfortable enough for longer runs while being more than capable of performing at faster paces. This makes the Timp 3 a great choice for a variety of runs, including as a great road-to-trail option for those who like to run a bit on the pavement on the way to the trailhead.
Liz: "I was surprised by the energy return provided by the Altra Timp 3. For the comfort that the midsole provides, the Quantic foam has a slight bounciness to it that seems to react immediately to changes of pace."
Underfoot Protectioni
Our tester was pleasantly surprised by the protection that the Altra Timp 3 provided. Sitting between the Lone Peak and the Olympus in terms of stack height, the Timp 3 is a highly cushioned shoe that is designed to withstand all conditions. With the Quantic midsole's ample cushioning, runners can glide confidently over rocks and roots without fear of discomfort or stone-bruising. However, it should be noted that our tester did experience some challenges when running in wet conditions.
Liz: "In the previous Altra models I have tried (older versions of the Lone Peak/Superior), I have always felt that I had to watch my step and avoid debris on the trail because I could feel the sharpness of every rock underfoot, but this is not the case with the Timp 3. There is a nimble feel to the shoe, yet I could run worry-free over the harsher sections of the trail."
Flexibilityi
The Timp continues to provide a quality experience in regards to flexibility. Coming in slightly on the more flexible side of our scale, the Timp 3 offers a pleasantly smooth flex that does not sacrifice any stability. Our tester enjoyed skillfully navigating through her local trails in these shoes.
Liz: "The Timp 3s have a flexible ride that adds a nimble feel to the shoe even on rough terrain. While I might want the extra stability provided by a stiffer shoe on long trail runs, I appreciated the smooth and flexible ride of the Timp 3 on my local trails."
Upper Supporti
The new upper is easily the biggest highlight of the Timp 3. Featuring a rolled mesh overlay and Altra's signature FootShape design, the upper has a roomy feel that is reminiscent of the original Timp. The additional TPU overlays throughout the midsole increase the lateral stability and also offer enhanced protection from trail debris. Whether on a lengthy ultra run or a leisurely stroll through the hills, the Timp 3s deliver continuous comfort over the entire run.
Liz: "When I first tried these on, I didn't think that I would enjoy the upper. The materials look hot, restrictive, and bulky, but I was surprised how much I ended up enjoying the upper while on the run. I tend to have fit issues due to my bunions and wide feet, but the Timp 3's upper was very comfortable (and surprisingly breathable) right from the start. I had some issues with heel slippage, but I used the heel-lock lacing system and that solved the problem."
Men's Altra Timp Running Shoes
Women's Altra Timp Running Shoes
Individual Thoughts
While I would still say that zero-drop shoes are not for me, I will definitely keep the Timp 3 in my running rotation. The midsole offered a wonderful blend of both softness and nimbleness on the trail, and the secure fit (after using heel-lock lacing) allowed me to focus on the rocky trails ahead. These are my favourite Altras that I have tried to date. They have the perfect (for me) balance of responsiveness, underfoot protection, and comfort. As a bonus, the grippy outsole had a smooth ride on the pavement on the way to the trails and gave me confidence on loose, rocky terrain. My only complaint was that they were a bit slippery on wet rocks and roots.