If you’re searching for a max cushion trail running shoe for ultramarathons, the Altra Olympus 275 should be on your radar. Built for long-distance comfort, rugged terrain, and durability, this update to the Olympus line offers improvements in weight, materials, and traction.
In this review, I’ll cover comfort, fit, traction, durability, and whether the Olympus 275 is worth it compared to other trail shoes in 2025.
Check out the full video review of the Altra Olympus 275 shoes here.
👉 Where to Buy: Altra's website
Altra Olympus 275 Key Specs
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Stack Height: 33 mm cushion, zero drop
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Weight: ~10–11.9 oz (depending on size)
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Upper: Kevlar-reinforced Matryx® woven material
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Outsole: Vibram Megagrip with 3.5 mm lugs
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Toe Box: Altra FootShape™ design
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Extras: Integrated scree sleeve for debris protection
First Impressions: Olympus 275 on the Trails
The Olympus 275 immediately stands out for its cushioning. With 33 mm underfoot, it’s one of the most protective shoes you can buy in 2025 for technical and long-distance trail running. On my test runs, it handled rocky climbs and steep descents with confidence.
It’s not a bouncy shoe like some plated trail options (e.g., Hoka Tecton X 3), but instead offers consistent comfort and stability over hours of running. That makes it ideal for ultra-distance events or backcountry adventures.
Comfort and Cushioning: Ultra-Ready Protection
If you’re running 50K, 100K, or 100-mile races, the Olympus 275 delivers the comfort you need. The ride is plush but slightly firm—protective without feeling unstable.
Compared to the Olympus 6, the 275 feels lighter and slightly more responsive. Long runs felt smoother, and my legs stayed fresher over time.
Fit and Sizing: Roomy but Some Heel Slip
The FootShape toe box is a big selling point—there’s room for natural toe splay, which becomes essential during long ultras.
That said, I did notice heel slippage on descents. A runner’s loop or lace-lock technique helps, but if you want a snug, performance-oriented fit, this may not be the perfect shoe.
Traction and Durability: Vibram Confidence
The Vibram Megagrip outsole is one of the best in the game. I tested the shoe on wet rock, loose gravel, and technical climbs, and grip was never an issue.
Durability looks excellent thanks to the Kevlar-reinforced upper—a huge upgrade for runners who shred shoes quickly. Add in the scree sleeve, and this feels like a shoe designed for mountain ultras and multi-day adventures.
Altra Olympus 275 vs Olympus 6
Olympus 275 Improvements:
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Lighter overall feel
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Kevlar upper (more durable)
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More breathable mesh design
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Slightly firmer but more stable ride
Olympus 6 Strengths:
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Softer, slightly more cushioned ride
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Familiar fit for longtime Altra fans
If you loved the Olympus 6, the 275 is a more technical, race-ready upgrade.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
✅ Max cushion comfort for ultra distances
✅ Durable Kevlar-reinforced upper
✅ Vibram Megagrip outsole with reliable traction
✅ Lighter than the Olympus 6
✅ Roomy Altra FootShape toe box
Cons:
❌ Heel slippage for some runners
❌ Firmer ride may not suit everyone
❌ Premium price...? Seems fair to me anyway...
Who Should Buy the Altra Olympus 275?
This is the right shoe for:
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Ultrarunners who need maximum protection
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Trail athletes running on rugged terrain at any distance
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Distance-focused runners who prioritize comfort and durability
You may want to skip it if:
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You’re looking for a fast, responsive shoe
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You need a locked-in race fit
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You’re budget-conscious
Final Verdict: Is the Olympus 275 Worth It?
The Altra Olympus 275 is one of the best ultra-distance trail shoes of 2025. It’s protective, durable, and designed to keep your feet comfortable over extreme distances. While it’s not perfect for speed sessions or technical racing, it excels in its intended purpose: long, rugged miles on the trail.
👉 Where to Buy: Altra's website
If you’re planning a big ultra, mountain adventure, or just want maximum comfort on the trails, the Olympus 275 is worth the investment.
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