Shoe Review: Altra Provision 6

A side view of the women's Altra Provision 6.

The Altra Provision 7 has been released!

The bestselling Altra Provision has been updated. We carry a full range of sizes and colorways in the new Altra Provision 7.

Women's Altra Provision 7 | Men's Altra Provision 7

The Altra Provision 6 provides the reliable support you need without any of the weight you don’t. The latest version of the Altra Provision combines gentle stability with a lightweight ride to keep you moving.

The Provision 6 features the same Foot Shape technology Altra lovers have come to expect, including a zero-drop platform and a generous toe box. A softer, bouncier midsole and a more durable outsole make the latest version the most comfortable one yet. Updated colorways give the shoe a sleek, modern look.

Fleet Feet reviewers tested the Altra Provision 6 during daily walks, recovery runs and speedwork. Here’s everything you need to know about the latest version of the Altra Provision.

Tech Specs

Altra Provision 6

Weight

8.3 oz (W), 10.1 oz (M)

Drop

0 mm

Category

Stability

Use

Daily training

Surface

Road, Track

EGO Midsole Adds Explosiveness

A shot of the men's Altra Provision 6.

The Altra Provision 6 offers plenty of support and stability for all types of runners. The latest version of the Provision has the signature Altra zero-drop platform with a new addition of Altra EGO foam to the midsole.

Altra EGO foam replaced the Ultralight EVA foam featured in the Altra Provision 5. The result is a lighter, bouncier and more responsive underfoot feel.

“They provide stability, but still plenty of that springy, propulsiveness that makes me want to keep running,” one reviewer says.

Innerflex grooves in the midsole provide flexibility and movement to help you run freely.

“I like how these shoes are stiffer in the heel and more flexible at the midfoot and toe,” says one reviewer.

The outsole offers plenty of grip and traction for rainy runs. Several reviewers noticed the shoes were so grippy that they could hear every step, but this went away after a few runs.

The Provision 6 features Altra’s signature GuideRail design and InnovArch technology. The GuideRail design provides gentle support by encouraging natural foot placement, and the InnovArch technology provides additional support under your arches.

Reviewers appreciated the stability and structure of the shoe.

“I love how supportive these shoes feel under my arches. I have flat feet, and they really cradle my feet,” one reviewer says.

Lightweight Upper Gives You Room to Breathe

Bird's eye shot of the men's Altra Provision 6.

Altra shoes are known for their roomy toe boxes and the Provision 6 is no different. Because Altra shoes have a zero drop platform, your toes splay out more than they would in a traditional shoe with a higher heel to toe offset.

Reviewers noticed how comfortable the toe box is in the latest version of the Provision.

“I love the shape of the forefoot. I know that’s characteristic of Altra, but for me, it was a totally wonderful feeling for my wide forefoot,” one reviewer says.

Although your toes will enjoy the extra space, the rest of the shoe provides a lockdown, secure fit.

“The snug connection in the midfoot was such a soft, secure feeling. I really liked the suction feeling of the laces and midfoot wrap,” one reviewer says.

A breathable engineered mesh upper and soft, plush materials hold you in without holding you back. Extra padding around the heel adds support, while reflective strips on the back of the heel add visibility.

“The tongue is super cushy and provides a soft and smooth feel against the top of my foot. The heel collar feels soft and smooth, with excellent padding to protect my ankle bones,” says one reviewer.

Reviewers also appreciated the flared heel tab, protecting your heels and achilles from rubbing and chafing.

The latest version of the Altra Provision offers more depth and a higher instep than the previous version, making it a perfect fit for runners and walkers craving some extra space.

Altra Provision 6 vs Altra Provision 5

A side by side shot of the Altra Provision 6 and the Altra Provision 5.

Tech Specs

Altra Provision 6

Altra Provision 5

Weight

8.3 oz (W), 10.1 oz (M)

9.2 oz (W), 11.2 oz (M)

Drop

0 mm

0 mm

Category

Stability

Stability

Use

Daily training

Daily training

Surface

Road, Track

Road, Track

The latest version of the Altra Provision offers the same structured support and accommodating fit as its predecessor, with an updated midsole and a more breathable upper.

The Altra EGO foam midsole is a softer, bouncier upgrade to the previous version of the Provision, which utilized Ultralight EVA foam.

The Altra Provision 6 shaves off about one ounce of weight on both the women’s and men’s versions, and the result is a lighter, more responsive feel.

Additional rubber on the outsole provides more traction and durability for rainy day runs, while an engineered mesh upper provides ventilation. A lockdown fit hugs the midfoot for a secure feel.

Final Thoughts

The Altra Provision 6 is a great option for runners seeking moderate stability on a zero-drop platform. The shoe combines support, comfort and responsiveness in a lightweight package. Plus, fresh colorways and updated designs are easy on the eyes.

For runners who have never tried a zero-drop shoe before, the Provision 6 may be a good place to start. Reviewers appreciated the light yet supportive feel of the shoe.

“These aren’t something I would typically put on for a speed workout, but the zero drop experience and ground contact do make them fun to run fast in,” one reviewer says.

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