Altra Paradigm 6 Review
September 1, 2021
The New Paradigm 6 Has Quite a Big EGO
With a new EGO MAX foam midsole, the Paradigm is now softer and more secure
Likes
- Plush cushioning
- Improved lockdown
- Supportive stability
Dislikes
- Breathability is lacking
- Heavier feel
- Needs a style update
What's New
In a category of its own, the Altra Paradigm 6 is one of the only zero-drop, highly cushioned road running shoes to offer moderate stability, and thanks to the most recent update, the shoe is now more comfortable than ever. The Paradigm's new EGO MAX midsole provides a luxuriously soft yet responsive ride, and the InnovArch stability system has been slightly trimmed down for a more natural feel while still encouraging better foot placement for improved efficiency while running. These updates are coupled with Altra's Guide Rails technology in the midsole to make the Paradigm 6 even more stable and supportive, which will benefit all runners who need a little extra assistance to prevent overpronation.
The Bottom Line
The Paradigm 6 possesses most of the signature Altra attributes like a roomy toe box and zero offset, but this shoe is more maximalist when it comes to cushioning. Our testers loved the updated EGO MAX midsole and commented that it was very soft underfoot without being mushy or unstable. Furthermore, the Paradigm 6's midsole is not the most responsive, but it does offer just enough bounce to make these stability trainers a comfy counterpart for long runs when the pace is not a concern. Our testers did note that Altra could reduce the weight of the Paradigm and give the upper a modern design moving forward. Both updates could make the Paradigm more competitive within the stability category against competitors like the HOKA Arahi 5, which is lighter than the Paradigm while offering similar levels of support and protection. Regardless, the Paradigm 6 is well suited for overpronators who love lots of cushioning underfoot and cruising through long training runs.
Shoe Performance
Shoe Softnessi
FirmSoftRide/Energy Returni
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protectioni
LowHighFlexibilityi
RigidElasticUpper Supporti
StructuredAdaptableSpecifications & Fit
How It Fits
| Toe Box | Width: Wide | Height: Medium |
| Midfoot Volume | Medium |
| Heel Width | Medium to wide |
| Arch Height | Medium |
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Coming Soon |
| Stack Height | Coming Soon |
| Terrain | Road |
| Stability | Moderate Stability |
| Sizing | True to size |
Our In-Depth Look
Shoe Softnessi
Justin: "The cushioning of the midsole is much improved in this model of the Paradigm. I found it soft with just a little bit of bounce. The midsole isn’t at all mushy like some shoes of similar stack heights, and it is plenty comfortable."
Crystal: "The Paradigm 6 feels very soft underfoot. The EGO MAX midsole is excellent and provides soft landings that feel great out on the run."
Ride/Energy Returni
Crystal: "This shoe has a noticeable bounce in each stride. The energy return is not the highest, but it does create a nice ride that I really enjoyed. I will be using the Paradigm for my longer slower runs moving forward."
Justin: "The Paradigm 6 has a small but noticeable energy return. It is not exceptional by any means, although the subtle bounce does help heighten the overall experience of the run."
Underfoot Protectioni
Crystal: "This shoe provides an impressive amount of underfoot protection. The midsole is stacked high and dampens the forces of striking the ground without any issues. Overall, the Paradigm was highly protective in my opinion."
Justin: "The Paradigm continues to be a really protective shoe. I think the change to the EGO MAX foam was a great decision that really improved the underfoot experience of version 6. I also felt that the stability of the Paradigm 6 was the same if not better than previous models. Runners can look forward to plenty of protective cushioning for long runs."
Flexibilityi
Crystal: "This shoe provides a moderate amount of flex, which helps smoothly transition me from heel to toe."
Justin: "There is a bit of flex to the Paradigm 6's midsole. It isn’t anything particularly noteworthy, but I did notice that it was helping to move me a bit through my stride, which was appreciated."
Upper Supporti
Justin: "The new upper of the Paradigm fits my foot better than that of the previous model. I really enjoyed feeling more locked in. That said, I would like to see a more modern look moving forward and a little more breathability in the upper as well."
Crystal: "This shoe features a decent amount of upper structure support/hold. The material wraps around the upper part of your foot comfortably."
Men's Altra Paradigm Running Shoes
The Altra Paradigm is Altra's maximum cushioned everyday neutral running shoe. It's best for easy runs and recovery runs, and has a zero drop platform.
Women's Altra Paradigm Running Shoes
The Altra Paradigm is Altra's maximum cushioned everyday neutral running shoe. It's best for easy runs and recovery runs, and has a zero drop platform.
Individual Thoughts
Reviewer Picture
CrystalOverall Score: 8/10
This is a great recovery shoe and/or everyday training companion. It provides a lot of protection and keeps the knees and other joints happy. I would recommend sizing up, as this shoe seems to run small, but overall, it's a great shoe!
Shoe Softness
FirmSoftRide/Energy Return
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protection
LowHighFlexibility
RigidElasticUpper Support
StructuredAdaptable
JustinOverall Score: 7/10
This is an excellent update to the Altra Paradigm. I found the underfoot experience more enjoyable in this model because of its bouncy midsole and solid stability. The upper fits a bit more snugly/securely than the previous version as well, and for me, that was a positive thing. I do think that the upper still needs some work to compete with more modern shoes. Specifically, I felt there could be more breathability and, perhaps, fewer materials overall. The Paradigm will primarily be a recovery shoe for me when I need good cushioning and stability. An updated upper and less overall weight could make the Paradigm more frequently used in my shoe rotation.
