Review · Outdoors & sports
Altra Lone Peak 9+ review
Altra's long-running zero-drop trail shoe, with a Vibram Megagrip outsole, a 25 mm stack and Altra's roomiest toe box.
By the HearSmart research desk · Updated November 9, 2026
- Performance (40%)
- 8.4
- Ease of use (25%)
- 8.2
- Value (35%)
- 8.6
The Lone Peak 9+ suits a specific runner: one who wants a flat, zero-drop platform and as much toe room as possible. Altra lists a 0 mm heel to toe drop and a 25 mm stack, which it classes as mid cushion, so it feels closer to the ground than the Topo, Saucony and Merrell shoes. The 9+ moves to a Vibram Megagrip outsole for grip on wet and dry surfaces, and a lighter Altra EGO midsole. The Original FootShape fit is Altra's roomiest, with space for toes and through the midfoot. A StoneGuard sits underfoot for protection on rocks and debris, and the GaiterTrap tab lets a gaiter attach without straps. The upper is a no-sew ripstop mesh made from recycled polyester for durability. At 11.55 oz it is one of the heavier shoes here, and the moderate cushioning makes it less suited to runners who want plush foam. Altra also sells a GTX version for $180 and the older Lone Peak 9 for $145.
Who it is for
Hikers, thru-hikers and trail runners who want zero drop and the most toe room on this list.
Price
$160 for the men's version at the Altra US store when checked.
Men's Lone Peak 9+ $160.00
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 9, 2026.
Key features
- Zero drop with a 25 mm stack height
- Vibram Megagrip outsole
- Lighter Altra EGO midsole foam
- StoneGuard underfoot protection
- GaiterTrap hook-and-loop tab for gaiters
Strengths and weaknesses
- Strength: The roomiest toe box here, Altra's Original FootShape fit
- Strength: Vibram Megagrip grip
- Strength: StoneGuard protection against rocks
- Weakness: Mid cushion, the second lowest stack here
- Weakness: 11.55 oz, second only to the Nike Zegama in weight
- Weakness: Zero drop needs time to adapt to
Key facts
- Price: $160 (men's)
- Weight: 11.55 oz (327.4 g)
- Stack height: 25 mm
- Drop: 0 mm
- Outsole: Vibram Megagrip
Where it ranks
Altra Lone Peak 9+ is No. 6 in our Best Trail Running Shoes verdict.
Alternatives we scored
Visit altrarunning.com · Questions or corrections: editorial@hearsmart.org