Altra Provision 3.0 Shoe Review

Altra Provision 3.0 Shoe Review

When I saw the Altra Provision 3.0, I got a little excited. The previous two models looked very similar and seeing the redesigned 3.0, I had to get a pair.

Below is a picture of the updated 3.0 model. The updated shoe is sleek, looks fast, and just looks better in my opinion.

Altra Provision 3.0

If you read my Altra Provision 2.5, then you already know I have been a fan of this running shoe model. I really like the wide toe box and foam like cushion, which in some models, is similar to some Hoka running shoes.

One of the things that I was really hoping would be different with this model is the break-in time. Some of the other versions required 20-30 miles before they felt that great.

Earlier I mentioned that the updated shoe looks much better than the previous model. Here is a picture of the Provision 3.0 and 2.5 side by side.

Altra Provision 3 and 2.5 Compare

Below are pictures of the Provision 3.0 shoes that I wore for this review. There are 6 available colors for this shoe (3 men/3 women). I wouldn’t say I love the colors, but there are a few decent options. My favorite are the grey/blue.

Altra Provision 3.0 Verdict

If you are looking for a stability shoe that has a similar Hoka One One cushion and a wide toe box, I recommend trying the Altra Provision 3.0 running shoe. If you aren’t used to a zerodrop shoe, I would slowly increase the mileage or you can quickly trigger feet aches and pain.

The redesigned upper is more comfortable than previous versions. The increased arch support is something I noticed as soon as I put on the shoe.

I really liked Altra for the past few years, but think this is the last time I will be wearing them. I think my aging body prefers running shoes that have 8-10mm drop.

If you are patient and check Amazon often, you can typically find some deals on this performance stability running shoe.

Where to Buy Altra Provision 3.0 »

Here are a few a few pros and cons about the Altra Provision 3.0 shoe.

Pros Cons
  • Wide Toe Box
  • Lightweight (10.3oz)
  • True Sizing
  • Price ($120 retail)
  • Sole Durability
  • Color Options
  • Break-in time

About the Altra Provision 3.0

The Altra Provision 3.0 is a performance stability shoe designed to assist runners who over pronate who prefer a little bit of extra support. The StabiliPod technology used in these shoes, aids with excess pronation. The redesigned upper has a widened sole and lighter guide rail really help to provide extra support.

These shoes require some break-in time, but feel great after about 20-30 miles. Even though these shoes are true to size, you could probably order a 1/2 size up if you want a little extra room.

These shoes are lightweight in that they are 10.3 oz (size 9) and are great for those longer to mid-distance runs. Like all Altra shoes, these shoes have a wider toe box, allowing feet and toes to remain free and improve balance.

Altra Provision 3.0 Shoe Specifications

  • Weight : 10.3 ounces (size 9)
  • How It Fits: True to Size
  • Heel Drop: 0mm
  • Heel / Forefoot Height: 22mm
  • Sizing: Standard running shoe length
  • Heel: Medium to wide
  • Midfoot: Medium
  • Forefoot: Wide
  • Previous Model: Altra Provision 2.5

Altra Provision 3.0 Initial thoughts

The Altra Provision 3.0 looked sweet online so I was pumped to see how they looked in person. When I opened the box, the shoes looked sweet and felt lighter than the 10.3oz as advertised.

I was interested to see how the guide rail would feel along with the wider heel. The guide rail seemed to help with support.

Similar to previous Altra Provision models, the first few steps in these shoes seemed a bit rigid and stiff. After 20 miles or so, they started to loosen up and felt more responsive. Don’t expect these to feel like Hoka’s right out of the box, because they won’t.

Altra Provision 3.0 Sole

The Altra Provision 3.0 sole is made of Ultralight EVA, which provides lightweight and increased durability.

One of the main updates for the Provision 3.0 was the widened heel with an increased crash pad providing additional support and cushion every time you land.

The StabiliPod technology in the midsole provides support in 3 areas of sole, improving comfort and support. The Natural Ride System (NRS) design includes a natural foot-shaped outsole that promotes a natural running motion.

Altra Provision 3.0 Upper

The Provision 3.0 changed a bit from the previous version. The big thing relates to the guide rail, which improves stability.

I’m all about having increased support and that is one of the main reasons that I have been wearing these shoes for the past few years. The mesh upper dried quickly after each of my runs, allowing me to wear back to back days if desired.

The A-Wrap feature secures your foot while allowing your feet the extra room for a comfortable and stable run. I also noticed that heel seemed to be a bit more snug, something that helped with the fit of the shoe.


Where to Buy the Altra Provision 3.0

AltraRunning.com | Amazon.comRoadRunnerSports.comHolabird Sports | eBay

*Contact me or tweet me if you need discounts

Altra Provision 3.0 Shoe Ratings
  • 9/10
    Overall Rating - 9.0/10
  • 9/10
    Upper - 9.0/10
  • 8.8/10
    Sole - 8.75/10
Sending
User Review
2.64 (14 votes)

What are your thoughts on the Altra Provision 3.0 running shoes?

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9 comments

  • Thanks for the great review! Thinking about giving these a try, I have traditionally ran in the Saucony Kinavara and Pure Cadence. In terms of sizing do you wear the same shoe size in your Altra’s compared to Brooks – Pure Cadence?

    • Thanks Ed. Recently I have ordered a 1/2 size up for Altras. For the Provision 2.0 I wore the same size as the PureCadence, but with the latest version I ordered a 1/2 size up and they didn’t feel too big. I am always on the cusp of 11 and 11.5 so its kind of annoying for me.

      If you have any other questions, let me know. Would be happy to help! Thanks again for the comment.

  • Malcolm Wilson

    Nice review! 1 question is the media side higher than the lateral side? I Hated that in the 2.5 version and gave them away!

    • Thanks Malcom! The height of the medial/lateral side felt similar to me when I had them on. I was just checking out the 2.5’s in my closet and agree with you that the difference in medial height wasn’t that cool. I still liked the shoe though as it didn’t bother me while running. Let me know if you have any other questions. Thanks for the comment!

  • are they any good on trails?

    • Ryan, what kind of trails are you talking about? I wore them on a limestone / paved trail and they were fine. If you are talking about muddy and slick trails, I would not recommend these shoes for those kinds of conditions. Let me know if that helps!

  • I’m 240 with flat feet that are 4E in width. Will I be okay here?

    • Sergio, thanks for the comment. What are you currently running in? These shoes are supportive and definitely had a wider forefoot than most running shoes. Thanks!

Let me know if you have questions, comments, or feedback!

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