Who Bought Lone Peak 4.0? (Currently discussing 4.5!)

[LesBrass]

Its time for me to buy new shoes. There are times when I think I have to quit this walking business because finding shoes is so difficult . Those of you who know me will already know my problem

My feet are as wide as they are long...my husband calls me sponge bob (square feet). My second toe is also longer than my big toe. If my shoes aren't right my pinkie toes become a mess of blister and sadness

I buy men's ...my foot is EEE wide but new balance 4E felt snug. In Europe we have waaaaay less wide fit choice.. And no roomy normal width will work...I'm painting a grim picture... In the hope that you'll hear the despair in my post.

So...I loved Lone Peak 3... Hated Lone Peak 3.5... Is the new fit on Lone Peak 4.0 more like the older shoe?

Also I read reviews saying the support/cushion feel goes very quickly and feels hard underfoot?

Anyone have the Lone Peak 4?

Many thanks in advance...I'm going to sit hear now wishing and hoping for arrows that point to my perfect shoe

 

[moxy]

I have LP4.0 (The blue ones) and I taking them to the CP in September. I jumped from boots to Lone Peak 3.5 and then to 4.0. I feel the toe box in the 4.0 is wider than the 3.5. I bought them one size bigger than what I regularly wear since feet tend to sore (feel larger) during hikes. If 3.0 worked for you, Im sure that 4.0 will as well.
When it comes to cushion, it is definitely better the the 3.5 however, they are zero drops so don't expect the same support a a regular trail runner. You can always replace the insole for better support.
And don't worry about buying men's shoes due to its size, I've met other women in the AT doing the same including equipment. And since Altra is great at comfort but not that great fashion design, we will still look like we have big clown shoes. If you wore 3.0 you know what I mean . Good luck.

 

[linkster]

I have not worn the Lone Peak. I have switched from Hoka Bondis to Altra Olympus. What do I like about them?

1) Toe box - I really like the shape of the toe box. It is anatomically correct for my feet. They help to accommodate my wide feet.

2) Cushion - The ultra cushion makes it feel like you have a spring in your step. They absorb stones etc. and you do not even feel them. They do start breaking down somewhere about ~400 miles for me. You may consider staging an extra pair with a bounce box if on a long camino. Last year I bounced and extra pair of Bondis along the Frances.

3) Sole - The sole is very sticky in all kinds of terrain. It did not matter whether it was wet or not. They just grab to the surface.

4) GaiterTrap - I like the GaiterTraps. It saves me from having to put a split ring, and velcro on the shoes.

5) Non waterproof - I like that they are not waterproof. They breathe well, and dry quickly,

6) High heel Achilles - I like that the back of the shoe is higher. It allows me to lace lock and eliminate any heel slip ... especially since I upsize my shoes for the Camino. I also like that there is no plastic etc. in the back of the shoe. The Bondis had a piece of plastic that caused me some problem when I wore a hole in the inside back of the shoe.

I am not sure about the availability and returns, but Amazon in the states makes trying different shoes easy.

 

[edandjoan]

Hello!
Very disappointed in the new model and the fit was horrible. I have been such a fan of Altra, but the changes in the hiking shoe and running shoe models I have been wearing have made for a bad fit for me.
For the walk in May on the Way of Saint Francis we both wore Topo Athletic Ultraventures. Loved them. And we put them to the test. Lots of muddy paths and rain--got them dry all but one night. And one day 5 miles through a foot of snow. Plus the road walking. Over 500k in them and I think I can get another 200k.

 

[Jbirk]

I used TIMPs 1.0 on the CF and switched to the LonePeak 4.0 mids for the VF and love them. Just bought another pair for my upcoming Norte. I feel the toebox is wider than the 3.5 which I also own. My wife is trying out the new TIMP 1.5 and likes them as well. There is more padding than the Lonepeaks

 

[CarolamS]

Hi
I will be very interested in this thread as my feet are similarly very wide. I recently bought my first pair of Altra's, the LP4.0 after reading so many great reviews. I wanted something non-Goretex after reading DaveBuggs excellent reasoning. However...they are not wide enough so are just waiting to be returned. (I've only worn them indoors, I am in the UK and bought them from Runners Need.) I can feel the outside edge of the toe box but the main problem is the stitching across the base of the tongue, I am too wide there and have a high arch so it makes my foot ache. Different ways of lacing makes no difference because it is the stitching. These shoes are also a size larger than my normal size so I am not keen to go any bigger.

To prevent blisters between my pinky and next toe I wear Injinji toe liner socks with light merino walking socks on top. Currently I have some Merrell MQM Flex GTX shoes (one size up) and these have been great. In fact comparing the innersoles of these with the LP's I would say Merrell just win on width but it is only a very small difference. The design of the shoe is just better for my wide feet and I have never felt an edge anywhere. The Merrell's weigh 31.5g more per shoe which is not much different either. They are a different shoe, designed for a slightly different purpose: MQM stands for Moving Quickly in the Mountains, so they are not trail runners more a hybrid. Nor are they zero drop.

I wore them from Porto to SdC on the inland route and they were comfy on all the different surfaces. Plus my feet stayed dry when it poured during my day in SdC. Recently in the UK I walked in long wet grass and I did get very wet feet (should have taken my ankle gaiters).

So I am going to stick with these shoes if I make it out to the Ingles in September. I will just change into dry socks at lunch time which should counter the reduced airiness from being Goretex.

Hope you find your perfect shoes

 

[LesBrass]

You fab people... Already great advice. I can order and try a few pairs at home... Honestly I am a walking/camino addict but the shoe search breaks me... Its good to know I'm not the only hobbit out there

 

[LesBrass]

I have LP4.0 (The blue ones) and I taking them to the CP in September. I jumped from boots to Lone Peak 3.5 and then to 4.0. I feel the toe box in the 4.0 is wider than the 3.5. I bought them one size bigger than what I regularly wear since feet tend to sore (feel larger) during hikes. If 3.0 worked for you, Im sure that 4.0 will as well.
When it comes to cushion, it is definitely better the the 3.5 however, they are zero drops so don't expect the same support a a regular trail runner. You can always replace the insole for better support.
And don't worry about buying men's shoes due to its size, I've met other women in the AT doing the same including equipment. And since Altra is great at comfort but not that great fashion design, we will still look like we have big clown shoes. If you wore 3.0 you know what I mean . Good luck.

Great thanks... this does back up what I'd read about the width. I've tried insoles and always end up with tiny heel blisters where the insole isn't an exact match... Perhaps I need to try again.

Ps... I'm long since over style... I'd wear the boxes if they'd sole them

 

[LesBrass]

I have not worn the Lone Peak. I have switched from Hoka Bondis to Altra Olympus. What do I like about them?

1) Toe box - I really like the shape of the toe box. It is anatomically correct for my feet. They help to accommodate my wide feet.

2) Cushion - The ultra cushion makes it feel like you have a spring in your step. They absorb stones etc. and you do not even feel them. They do start breaking down somewhere about ~400 miles for me. You may consider staging an extra pair with a bounce box if on a long camino. Last year I bounced and extra pair of Bondis along the Frances.

3) Sole - The sole is very sticky in all kinds of terrain. It did not matter whether it was wet or not. They just grab to the surface.

4) GaiterTrap - I like the GaiterTraps. It saves me from having to put a split ring, and velcro on the shoes.

5) Non waterproof - I like that they are not waterproof. They breathe well, and dry quickly,

6) High heel Achilles - I like that the back of the shoe is higher. It allows me to lace lock and eliminate any heel slip ... especially since I upsize my shoes for the Camino. I also like that there is no plastic etc. in the back of the shoe. The Bondis had a piece of plastic that caused me some problem when I wore a hole in the inside back of the shoe.

I am not sure about the availability and returns, but Amazon in the states makes trying different shoes easy.

Thanks... I've tried olympus after my VdlP and the first Lone Peak 3... I loved the squishy comfort underfoot but they were too narrow... Maybe they've changed that so I might test another pair?

 

[LesBrass]

Hello!
Very disappointed in the new model and the fit was horrible. I have been such a fan of Altra, but the changes in the hiking shoe and running shoe models I have been wearing have made for a bad fit for me.
For the walk in May on the Way of Saint Francis we both wore Topo Athletic Ultraventures. Loved them. And we put them to the test. Lots of muddy paths and rain--got them dry all but one night. And one day 5 miles through a foot of snow. Plus the road walking. Over 500k in them and I think I can get another 200k.

Ahhh... This was me with the 3.5... They felt just awful after the 3.0. I've heard great things about Topo so maybe another to try.

I'm hoping to do 800km so good to know they'll last!

 

[LesBrass]

I used TIMPs 1.0 on the CF and switched to the LonePeak 4.0 mids for the VF and love them. Just bought another pair for my upcoming Norte. I feel the toebox is wider than the 3.5 which I also own. My wife is trying out the new TIMP 1.5 and likes them as well. There is more padding than the Lonepeaks

Great thanks... Another one on the list

 

[LesBrass]

Hi
I will be very interested in this thread as my feet are similarly very wide. I recently bought my first pair of Altra's, the LP4.0 after reading so many great reviews. I wanted something non-Goretex after reading DaveBuggs excellent reasoning. However...they are not wide enough so are just waiting to be returned. (I've only worn them indoors, I am in the UK and bought them from Runners Need.) I can feel the outside edge of the toe box but the main problem is the stitching across the base of the tongue, I am too wide there and have a high arch so it makes my foot ache. Different ways of lacing makes no difference because it is the stitching. These shoes are also a size larger than my normal size so I am not keen to go any bigger.

To prevent blisters between my pinky and next toe I wear Injinji toe liner socks with light merino walking socks on top. Currently I have some Merrell MQM Flex GTX shoes (one size up) and these have been great. In fact comparing the innersoles of these with the LP's I would say Merrell just win on width but it is only a very small difference. The design of the shoe is just better for my wide feet and I have never felt an edge anywhere. The Merrell's weigh 31.5g more per shoe which is not much different either. They are a different shoe, designed for a slightly different purpose: MQM stands for Moving Quickly in the Mountains, so they are not trail runners more a hybrid. Nor are they zero drop.

I wore them from Porto to SdC on the inland route and they were comfy on all the different surfaces. Plus my feet stayed dry when it poured during my day in SdC. Recently in the UK I walked in long wet grass and I did get very wet feet (should have taken my ankle gaiters).

So I am going to stick with these shoes if I make it out to the Ingles in September. I will just change into dry socks at lunch time which should counter the reduced airiness from being Goretex.

Hope you find your perfect shoes

Thanks... That's interesting... Will order and try!

 

[jvankleeck]

Its time for me to buy new shoes. There are times when I think I have to quit this walking business because finding shoes is so difficult . Those of you who know me will already know my problem

My feet are as wide as they are long...my husband calls me sponge bob (square feet). My second toe is also longer than my big toe. If my shoes aren't right my pinkie toes become a mess of blister and sadness

I buy men's ...my foot is EEE wide but new balance 4E felt snug. In Europe we have waaaaay less wide fit choice.. And no roomy normal width will work...I'm painting a grim picture... In the hope that you'll hear the despair in my post.

So...I loved Lone Peak 3... Hated Lone Peak 3.5... Is the new fit on Lone Peak 4.0 more like the older shoe?

Also I read reviews saying the support/cushion feel goes very quickly and feels hard underfoot?

Anyone have the Lone Peak 4?

Many thanks in advance...I'm going to sit hear now wishing and hoping for arrows that point to my perfect shoe

I’m a lone peak lover myself, but for the Camino I went with the TIMP 1.5 by Altra instead for the added cushion. I’ve not regretted them and I’m in Foncebadón now.

 

[Kaleo]

If you are looking for Altra Lone Peak 3.0, you can find them in a men's 7 at REI "Garage" https://www.rei.com/rei-garage/product/149862/altra-lone-peak-30-neoshell-mid-hiking-boots-mens
Sierra Trading Post also has low-cut men's Lone Peak 3 https://www.sierra.com/s~altra-lone-peak/specdataor~gender!men/

 

[Dochim]

Great thanks... this does back up what I'd read about the width. I've tried insoles and always end up with tiny heel blisters where the insole isn't an exact match... Perhaps I need to try again.

Ps... I'm long since over style... I'd wear the boxes if they'd sole them

When I buy new insoles, I take the old ones out and lay them over the new ones. I draw around the new ones (upside down), in pen and then cut them to size. If you’re wearing altras, which are wide, it’s a good idea to buy the insoles too large so that there are no gaps around the toe box. Altras and really squidgy soft insoles are like walking on marshmallows.

 

[Priscilla NC]

I walked my first Camino in Altra LP 2.5's. They were great. My next buy was 3.5, which was ok. When I was getting outfitted for my recent Camino, my pedorthist told me that I would be better off wearing the Timps (whatever the latest model was in late winter).

He had me try on both the LP 4's and the Timps -- I went with the Timps and they also worked out extremely well.

Hope you find your perfect fit too!

 

[john newman]

I wore LonePeak 4.0 from Vézelay to Santiago de Compostela, via del Norte and Primitivo, about 1900km.
I took out the inner sole and used dr Scholl’s orthotics to give more arch support.
My first pair lasted to San Sebastián. My second pair have a couple of hundred k’s left in them.
I was very happy with the choice. No foot or toe problems.

 

[Bob Howard]

Its time for me to buy new shoes. There are times when I think I have to quit this walking business because finding shoes is so difficult . Those of you who know me will already know my problem

My feet are as wide as they are long...my husband calls me sponge bob (square feet). My second toe is also longer than my big toe. If my shoes aren't right my pinkie toes become a mess of blister and sadness

I buy men's ...my foot is EEE wide but new balance 4E felt snug. In Europe we have waaaaay less wide fit choice.. And no roomy normal width will work...I'm painting a grim picture... In the hope that you'll hear the despair in my post.

So...I loved Lone Peak 3... Hated Lone Peak 3.5... Is the new fit on Lone Peak 4.0 more like the older shoe?

Also I read reviews saying the support/cushion feel goes very quickly and feels hard underfoot?

Anyone have the Lone Peak 4?

Many thanks in advance...I'm going to sit hear now wishing and hoping for arrows that point to my perfect shoe

I've posted previously about the Altra Timp (1.0 on last summer CF, now 1.5). I also have a wide foot and my 2nd toe is longer than my big toe. I found the Timp to be one of the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn. And, for me at least, they were noticeably roomier in the the toe box. I prefer them over them over the Lone Peak. Try both in the store--or Zappos, or from Altra directly.

 

[formysons]

Its time for me to buy new shoes. There are times when I think I have to quit this walking business because finding shoes is so difficult . Those of you who know me will already know my problem

My feet are as wide as they are long...my husband calls me sponge bob (square feet). My second toe is also longer than my big toe. If my shoes aren't right my pinkie toes become a mess of blister and sadness

I buy men's ...my foot is EEE wide but new balance 4E felt snug. In Europe we have waaaaay less wide fit choice.. And no roomy normal width will work...I'm painting a grim picture... In the hope that you'll hear the despair in my post.

So...I loved Lone Peak 3... Hated Lone Peak 3.5... Is the new fit on Lone Peak 4.0 more like the older shoe?

Also I read reviews saying the support/cushion feel goes very quickly and feels hard underfoot?

Anyone have the Lone Peak 4?

Many thanks in advance...I'm going to sit hear now wishing and hoping for arrows that point to my perfect shoe

I bought Lone Peak 4 for my Portuguese camino in August. I love them, super wide toebox, so no more "get these shoes off my feet!!@?~" Lots of space for my toes !!!! Luuuuuuv them

 

[David]

I also have wide feet - clowns ain't in it! and eventually moved from boots then to shoes to trekking sandals - I wear the Keen Newport H2 - superb comfy fit with contoured foot bed and super-wide at the front.

The only footwear I have ever owned that ten minutes after putting them on I am not conscious of wearing them.

When out doing first aid (with my Berlingo) I met a woman with 'square' feet who was having a terrible time with her footwear - took her to the outdoor shop in Astorga and they fitted her with the Newport H2 - she was sooooo happy.

 

[mla1]

Last year I bought Lone Peak 3.0s -- and loved them. But it's time for a replacement. I cannot wear the Lone Peak 3.5 for some of the reasons mentioned above -- especially for the the way that the plastic around the laces cuts into a high arch. The 4.0 is better than the 3.5 but, for me, it is still too tight over the top of the foot (with little give because of the plastic bits). Just last week I tried on the Timp 1.5, and they feel pretty good. They are top of the list now. To see here (in this thread) that other people have liked them is very helpful! Thanks everyone!

 

[May2016]

I’ve had Lone Peak 3, 3.5 & now the 4. The 4 are by far my favourites so much so that I’ve already bought an extra 2 pairs for when they bring out the next model. I do all my hiking & running here in Australia in them & plan to walk the Portuguese Camino in them. Have never had a blister & have also completed 2 1/2 marathons in them.

 

[LesBrass]

So I bought Lone Peak 4.0!

They felt pretty much like the Lone Peak 3.0... until the first downhill towards Roncesvalles. The cut is different and my second toe hurt a lot. I ended up wearing my Teva's for most of the walk because the Lone Peak 4.0 just hurt. I only walked for 9 days but in the end I really had to stop wearing them.

Oh how I miss the Lone Peak 3.0 I think I'm going to lose that nail (sorry for the feet photo

 

[mla1]

I hate it when they change the designs. Sorry about your poor foot LesBrass. I might try the Altra Timps next. They feel like they have more space than the lone peak 4s. Much better for high arches. I have heard other people say Topo runventure or terraventure are good lone peak substitutes. (I am not sure if those are the exact names.)

 

[henrythedog]

You fab people... Already great advice. I can order and try a few pairs at home... Honestly I am a walking/camino addict but the shoe search breaks me... Its good to know I'm not the only hobbit out there

My wife’s a hobbit also - hairy feet and two breakfasts. We both struggle with shoes so when anything fits, we buy in bulk. Nobody ever got promoted for suggesting that manufacturers use more expensive materials or avoid a shortcut.

 

[LesBrass]

My wife’s a hobbit also - hairy feet and two breakfasts. We both struggle with shoes so when anything fits, we buy in bulk. Nobody ever got promoted for suggesting that manufacturers use more expensive materials or avoid a shortcut.

I have found some lone peak 3.0s on Amazon.com... I’m very tempted to buy a few pairs and ask a friendly American to forward them on ... they’re cheaper than in France as well!

 

[CarolamS]

Thanks for the update I was wondering what you'd chosen Sorry they didn't work out though. Hope you get your LP3's.

 

[Kanga]

I tried some LPs thinking that I might need something more than my sandals in early spring on the Primitivo. Nope. Hated them. Walked the Primitivo in my sandals and they were fine. Wore waterproof socks when it was freezing.

I love the way I keep trying to re-invent the wheel.

 

[LesBrass]

I tried some LPs thinking that I might need something more than my sandals in early spring on the Primitivo. Nope. Hated them. Walked the Primitivo in my sandals and they were fine. Wore waterproof socks when it was freezing.

I love the way I keep trying to re-invent the wheel.

I wish I could wear my Teva's the whole time. I can do around 15km in them but after that I get blisters. For my walk this autumn I have an old pair of LP3.0 that I can take and I'll mix them with Teva's... if I can get my hands on the LP3.0's I'm going to buy them all

 

[spreadsheetdirtbags]

I feel your pain on the shoe front - I've got wide feet (in the toe box) but also 'high volume' feet (tall between my arch and the top of my foot). Typical 'wide' shoes don't always work for me because they aren't 'big' enough for my 'high volume' feet even if they are (rarely) wide enough in the toe box. I have the latest Lone Peaks, BUT these are my first pair of Altras, so I can't help on the comparison. I can say that I find them very, very comfortable fit-wise, which basically never happens for me. They feel a bit like 'clown shoes' because the toe box is just so wide. I agree with the comment about the 'cushion' fading quickly, but this didn't bother me. The LP do have a very limited 'tongue' for me (because of my high-volume), but it is enough to get them laced.

 

[john newman]

Wore them from Vézelay to SDC, very happy (2 pairs over the 1900 km, changed them over at San Sebastian)
Lots of Vaseline when it’s wet and wring out the socks. Easy to dry overnight.
I use orthotics in them to prevent plantar fasciitis.
Love the big toe-box for my manky old feet.
I had pains just about everywhere but hardly ever in my feet.
I still use them (in Auckland now), so no worries with longevity).
John

 

[peregrina2000]

I have worn Lone Peak 3.5s (EDIT — thanks to MLA’s sharp eyes for pointing out that I have been wearing the 3.0, NOT the 3.5) for two caminos and need a new pair. Now it turns out there is not only a 4.0 but also a 4.5. I bought a 4.0 pair on closeout at REI, but can of course return them if the 4.5 would be better. I have tried to find a 3.0pair online, but no luck so far. So I am going to have to change models.

Does anyone have experience in comparing the 3.0, 4.0, and 4.5? I confess that when I tried on the 4.0s, I didn’t detect any difference with my 3.0s, but I know that some people have found a big difference.

Thanks, buen camino, Laurie

 

[Bob Howard]

While you're looking at the new Lone Peak, give the new Time (1.5) a try. It's basically the Lone Peak with more cushioning, and an even roomier toe box.

 

[SeñorJacques]

I have worn Lone Peak 3.5s for two caminos and need a new pair. Now it turns out there is not only a 4.0 but also a 4.5. I bought a 4.0 pair on closeout at REI, but can of course return them if the 4.5 would be better. I have tried to find a 3.5 pair online, but no luck so far. So I am going to have to change models.

Does anyone have experience in comparing the 3.5, 4.0, and 4.5? I confess that when I tried on the 4.0s, I didn’t detect any difference with my 3.5s, but I know that some people have found a big difference.

I absolutely love my Lone Peak 4.0s, which I've been wearing since not long after they were released. As it looks like they may be due for a replacement by the time I begin my Camino next May I've been eyeing the new 4.5s ... but the reviews on Altra's site aren't promising. (Specifically, I'm concerned about that new loop stiching on the heel, which seems to be causing many folks blisters in the exact same place that I'm prone to getting them.) So I'll probably go ahead and buy another pair of 4.0s while they're still available in my size.

If only manufactuers would stop "updating" shoes and apparel that have a good track record already! I'm having the same problem with finding a new pair of my favorite convertible hiking pants, which Columbia has seen fit to "improve" in the last few months by removing some useful details and adding a bunch of super ugly branding. But that may be the subject for another thread ...

 

[LesBrass]

I have worn Lone Peak 3.5s for two caminos and need a new pair. Now it turns out there is not only a 4.0 but also a 4.5. I bought a 4.0 pair on closeout at REI, but can of course return them if the 4.5 would be better. I have tried to find a 3.5 pair online, but no luck so far. So I am going to have to change models.

Does anyone have experience in comparing the 3.5, 4.0, and 4.5? I confess that when I tried on the 4.0s, I didn’t detect any difference with my 3.5s, but I know that some people have found a big difference.

Thanks, buen camino, Laurie

My favourite shoe is without a doubt the Lone Peak 3.0... It was perfect for my foot and I sooooo wish I'd bought 10 pairs. The lone peak 3.5 was too narrow and resulted in a lot of little toe blisters. I recently tried the Lone Peak 4.0 and whilst the width felt right I did lose toenails on both feet on my second toes... both of which are just a smidge longer than my big toes.

As you know I've tried so many other shoes... Hokas feel sooo wonderful and comfortable but I bought a size too big... but I will try again. I was surprised to see you mention a 4.5! I will be soooo interested to find out what's different that the 4.0!

I'm all out of 3.0's and I can't find any anywhere...I'm ooh so happy to think this new version might be the one!

Watching with interest <3

 

[Dani7]

Well. Now I’m feeling a bit of anxiety. I just bought a pair of Lone Peak 4.0 and they should arrive any day. I have narrow feet but quite flat footed. I have a pair of altra superiors that I like bit noticed they have zero traction (lugs) on sole and do for hiking down from Roncesvalles or muddy areas, not good. I hope my feet like them. Bought a size bigger I’m worried now my toes won’t be problem but pressure points at heels. Argh choosing Camino shoes. Exasperating

 

[Priscilla NC]

My 'foot guy' fixed me up for my first Camino in 2016 with Altra 2.5s. They were perfect. He cautioned me about the 3.0 model, but I had bought a couple of pairs of the 2.5s and skipped this one. I got the 3.5s and did't like them as much.

The 4.0 was out before my second Camino this past spring. Foot Guy moved me to the Timps (1.0) because of my specific foot issues, and they were even better for me than the Lone Peaks. I will, I guess, see how the Timp 1.5s are.

I agree that changing models all the time is frustrating.

 

[Former member 49149]

I have just done a quick trawl of names of shoes. I once was in Vienna and saw that their shoe shops cater for wide feet, though I am not sure if that carries over to walking shoes. To keep you busy, here are some names, though I am sure you have tried many of them! Dachstein, Meindl, Lowa, Hanwag, Keen, Scarpa, Merrell, and a link to a newspaper review of walking shoes:

https://www.independent.co.uk/extra...men-wide-feet-plantar-fasciitis-a6837471.html

 

[mla1]

I also have lamented the end of the Lone Peak 3.0s (Laurie - I thought your Altras were also 3.0s???). The 3.5s didn't work for me -- they added a lot of plastic on the top that made them too tight over my high arch. The 4.0s were better but not great. But, I was recently in the US and went to REI where I tried on multiple pairs of the same size 4.0s and found one pair that felt a bit better than the others. I bought it to try. I'm hoping the shoes will loosen up on the top. I also tried on the Altra Timps 1.5, and I liked them a lot -- but they did not have my size. That might be where I go next. (They seem to fit a bit smaller. I need to size up a half size.) They do not have as much plastic structuring stuff on the top of the shoe, they feel very squishy on the bottom (in a good way), they are wide and they seem to have traction. I've read some reviews on line and people do use them for long distance hiking (rather than just trail running). Finding the shoes is so much harder than doing the walks!

 

[peregrina2000]

I also have lamented the end of the Lone Peak 3.0s (Laurie - I thought your Altras were also 3.0s???). The 3.5s didn't work for me -- they added a lot of plastic on the top that made them too tight over my high arch. The 4.0s were better but not great. But, I was recently in the US and went to REI where I tried on multiple pairs of the same size 4.0s and found one pair that felt a bit better than the others. I bought it to try. I'm hoping the shoes will loosen up on the top. I also tried on the Altra Timps 1.5, and I liked them a lot -- but they did not have my size. That might be where I go next. (They seem to fit a bit smaller. I need to size up a half size.) They do not have as much plastic structuring stuff on the top of the shoe, they feel very squishy on the bottom (in a good way), they are wide and they seem to have traction. I've read some reviews on line and people do use them for long distance hiking (rather than just trail running). Finding the shoes is so much harder than doing the walks!

Oh, ML, you are so right. I have the 3.0s. I have just ordered the Timp 1.5 (also on closeout at REI so a new model must be on the way). I guess I should order a second pair in the next size up as well, based on what you say. Thanks for the suggestion. Others have recommended the Timp but so long as I could get the Lone Peak 3.0 I didn’t want to tempt fate. But there don’t seem to be any available anywhere. So time to move on. And I totally agree with you about the frustration of shoe buying!

 

[VNwalking]

Throwing a rock in this pond...with a suggestion to think outside the box beyond Lone Peak.

I just got a pair of Oboz and so far am happy with them. My first forray outside of Keenland, and it was scary. They'd always worked for me but relentlessly (IOW, each year!) discontinued the shoe that worked so well for me the year before. Finally I hit the wall with that when this year's model gave me blisters. So...adios, Keen. Enough already.

Its good to know I'm not the only hobbit out there

Hardly. I'm a duck.

If only manufactuers would stop "updating" shoes and apparel that have a good track record already!

AMEN.
D**n their greedy 'product development' eyes is all I can say. I wish they would leave well enough alone.

 

[peregrina2000]

I would ordinarily not spend 15 minutes watching a video about footwear (or rather, lack of footwear). But given my current dilemma, I thought @gerardcarey’s most recent post was very informative. Not that it gave me any solutions, but it does reinforce the idea that our feet are much better off in a less structured shoe. https://www.caminodesantiago.me/community/threads/is-less-more-pilgrim-footware.65609/

I won’t be going barefoot, though!

 

[katie@camino]

While you're looking at the new Lone Peak, give the new Time (1.5) a try. It's basically the Lone Peak with more cushioning, and an even roomier toe box.

I found LP has much better grip than Timps, which I found quite slippery. However, I don't have the best balance!

 

[peregrina2000]

So, now that I am in possession of three new pairs of shoes — Lone Peak 4.0, and two Timp 1.5 (1/2 size difference), I have to say that the only difference I am noticing is that the Timp is clearly higher off the ground, which must mean that as others have said, it has more cushioning. I clearly have a lot of space in the bigger Timp, and the smaller one is the same size as the Lone Peak, so I don’t think I need to go up a half size in the Timps, though others have had to.

But just walking around my house, I do not notice any clear advantages of disadvantages from one shoe to the other. What kinds of things should I look for? I have done tests with one of one shoe on one foot and one of another on the other, and also up and down the stairs and around the house with each pair. And they all feel comfortable. The only thing that feels weird is when I have Timps on one foot and Lone Peaks on the other and can definitely notice the difference in height.

Looking at the bottoms of both shoes, the Lone Peaks seem more rugged and “grippier” than the Timps.

If the only difference is the extra cushioning, I think I will stick with the Lone Peaks, because in comparison to the Salomon shoes I had been wearing for years before I got my Altras, the LPs are already like walking on air!

 

[mla1]

Hi Laurie! That's so great that they all work! And that you have choices! and you've had time to do experiments!
I think the general word among the north american long distance backpackers is that the Lone peaks are grippier than the Timps on the wet rocks, etc.
You could choose by colour. You and those shoes are going to spend a lot of time together!
I'm just now planning a short trip to the UK in February -- thinking it will be the last trip for my Lone Peak 3.0s. Sadly. In the meantime I am wearing a pair of Lone Peak 4.0s around the house to try to loosen them up over my high arches. I'm hoping they might work in the spring with thinnish socks!

 

[peregrina2000]

Hi Laurie! That's so great that they all work! And that you have choices! and you've had time to do experiments!
I think the general word among the north american long distance backpackers is that the Lone peaks are grippier than the Timps on the wet rocks, etc.
You could choose by colour. You and those shoes are going to spend a lot of time together!
I'm just now planning a short trip to the UK in February -- thinking it will be the last trip for my Lone Peak 3.0s. Sadly. In the meantime I am wearing a pair of Lone Peak 4.0s around the house to try to loosen them up over my high arches. I'm hoping they might work in the spring with thinnish socks!

Well, I’ve had enough bad foot disasters to know that just because they feel good walking around my house is no guarantee they will feel good after once I’m well into Camino mode. But since I had absolutely no problems with the Lone Peaks, I am tempted to stick with them. ML, have you considered getting a silicone orthotic for your high arches and inserting it into the LP (which would then probably have to be a bit bigger?). I was unsure whether the no drop feature of the Altras would be messed up with an orthotic, but I had no problems during either camino in 2018 or 2019 with my Lone Peaks and a custom orthotic.

 

[mla1]

Yes the living room and the Camino aren't quite the same on shoes! I would stick with them too if I were you. The problem with the lone peaks for high arches isn't around the footbed -- it's that the new versions of the shoes (after 3.0) have a bunch of added plastic stuff on the tops of the shoes that makes them more rigid than the old ones were. And so they can cut into the top of my foot. Very annoying. The Timps have less structure to them and don't do that.
But, as is always the case -- if you try on several pairs of shoe of the same size, they will not all be sewn exactly the same. So I got a pair of Lone Peaks 4.0 that are not quite so tight over the top. Fingers are crossed that they are going to work! I love the zero drop thing!

 

[islandwalker]

So, now that I am in possession of three new pairs of shoes — Lone Peak 4.0, and two Timp 1.5 (1/2 size difference), I have to say that the only difference I am noticing is that the Timp is clearly higher off the ground, which must mean that as others have said, it has more cushioning.

As Mia1 says, I've also noticed that while the Lone Peak 4.0's and the Timp 1.5's appear to have the same material in their outsoles (DuraTread™ Rubber with TrailClaw™), if I stand outside on a wet, sloping rock with my Lone Peak on my right foot and my Timp on my left foot, the foot with the Timp will slip and the one with the Lone Peak will not. My older model Lone Peaks used to slip on wet rocks, but the 4.0 (advertised as having a new, grippier sole) gripped well over the last 800 kilometers (and is now worn out).

 

[LesBrass]

So... has anyone tried the 4.5?

I’ll need to buy another pair later this year... I wonder what changes have been made?

 

[katie@camino]

I bought the 4.5 but am still wearing my 4s and saving my 4.5s for my next Camino in July. Walking around the house in the 4.5s i think the only real differences I noticed were 1 - shorter shoelaces, 2 - slightly roomier despite being the same size and 3 - nicer colour.

 

[katie@camino]

As Mia1 says, I've also noticed that while the Lone Peak 4.0's and the Timp 1.5's appear to have the same material in their outsoles (DuraTread™ Rubber with TrailClaw™), if I stand outside on a wet, sloping rock with my Lone Peak on my right foot and my Timp on my left foot, the foot with the Timp will slip and the one with the Lone Peak will not. My older model Lone Peaks used to slip on wet rocks, but the 4.0 (advertised as having a new, grippier sole) gripped well over the last 800 kilometers (and is now worn out).

Yep, I definitely think the Timps are noticeably far more slippery than the LPs

 

[SeñorJacques]

I bought the 4.5 but am still wearing my 4s and saving my 4.5s for my next Camino in July. Walking around the house in the 4.5s i think the only real differences I noticed were 1 - shorter shoelaces, 2 - slightly roomier despite being the same size and 3 - nicer colour.

Thank you for the info. I'm a big fan of of the Lone Peak 4's but haven't had a chance to try on the 4.5s yet so this is all great to know, since it looks like I'm going to have to get a new pair before I start my Camino this spring. Definitely attracted to the updated colorways and more room in an already roomy shoe is good news for my stupidly wide feet. Did you happen to notice any issues with the new loop on the back of the heel? I remember reading some feedback somewhere that it was causing abrasion issues for some people. And how do you feel about the new lacing system?

 

[peregrina2000]

I edited the title to reflect the fact that though some of us are still in 4.0s, the 4.5 is now available. These shoes have more frequent updates than phones!

 

[LesBrass]

I have a pair of 4.0's but wearing them on the CF last year I lost a toenail and my second toe also went black with bruising... I know exactly where the pain started as I stoped to adjust my sock thinking it was the problem... the downhill to Roncesvalles.

I switched to Teva's whenever I could after than and wore the 4.0's as little as possible.

Move forward 8 months and I am wearing them on my walks at home with zero problems. I wonder if I have stretched them into shape? I've never had this problem on any other version of LP? But the good news is that they seem ok and I'll be able to use them.

I will need a new pair later in the year but I hope there will be more updates by then.

 

[Theresa Brandon]

After a year of wearing Altras, and doing the Ingles in Timp 1.5, I rather reluctantly had to give them up as I developed gradual and increasingly painful Achilles Tendonitis over that time. I switched to Hoka and Salomon and the pain cleared up rapidly. I did like the comfort and lightness of the Altras but the zero drop didn't work for me in the long run.

 

[ManShootsSnaps]

Its time for me to buy new shoes. There are times when I think I have to quit this walking business because finding shoes is so difficult . Those of you who know me will already know my problem

My feet are as wide as they are long...my husband calls me sponge bob (square feet). My second toe is also longer than my big toe. If my shoes aren't right my pinkie toes become a mess of blister and sadness

I buy men's ...my foot is EEE wide but new balance 4E felt snug. In Europe we have waaaaay less wide fit choice.. And no roomy normal width will work...I'm painting a grim picture... In the hope that you'll hear the despair in my post.

So...I loved Lone Peak 3... Hated Lone Peak 3.5... Is the new fit on Lone Peak 4.0 more like the older shoe?

Also I read reviews saying the support/cushion feel goes very quickly and feels hard underfoot?

Anyone have the Lone Peak 4?

Many thanks in advance...I'm going to sit hear now wishing and hoping for arrows that point to my perfect shoe

I used 3.5’s but found that after several long mile days on multi-day hikes .. they were not providing enough cushioning ( especially at the heel.. pain)
I used Brooks for a 100 mile hike in the Autumn and found them to be ok... BUT .. i had a couple of blisters under toes.. which i never got with the Altras .. Im now waiting for a pair of Topo Atheltic Ultraventures to be delivered in advance of my May Camino VDLP ... Recently became aware of the brand and they too have the Wide Toe Box ( they make a point of having it as a feature accross their range) In addition their Trail range includes Zero, 3mm and 5mm drops if thats an issue for you
The Ultravnetures sound perfect for me as its a 5mm drop, has deep cushioning at the heel (helpful for gravel and road sections !) and the Virbram sole ( grip) is apparently more grippy and harder wearing than Altras .. Cost is similar to Altra (whom I believe were acquired by North Face .. which may explain why numerous customers are mentioning changes they don't like) I see another reply in here mentikning that they used the Topo Ultraventures on their Camino last year ... sooooo

 

[ManShootsSnaps]

I used 3.5’s but found that after several long mile days on multi-day hikes .. they were not providing enough cushioning ( especially at the heel.. pain)
I used Brooks for a 100 mile hike in the Autumn and found them to be ok... BUT .. i had a couple of blisters under toes.. which i never got with the Altras .. Im now waiting for a pair of Topo Atheltic Ultraventures to be delivered in advance of my May Camino VDLP ... Recently became aware of the brand and they too have the Wide Toe Box ( they make a point of having it as a feature accross their range) In addition their Trail range includes Zero, 3mm and 5mm drops if thats an issue for you
The Ultravnetures sound perfect for me as its a 5mm drop, has deep cushioning at the heel (helpful for gravel and road sections !) and the Virbram sole ( grip) is apparently more grippy and harder wearing than Altras .. Cost is similar to Altra (whom I believe were acquired by North Face .. which may explain why numerous customers are mentioning changes they don't like) I see another reply in here mentikning that they used the Topo Ultraventures on their Camino last year ... sooooo

Apologies for terrible typos ..

 

[uncletim]

I'll have to try the Topo Ultraventures on.

the lone peak 4.5 has that seam in the rear many have an issue with.

Altra Timp 2.0 maybe?

does anyone know which Hoka trail runner has the widest toebox? my last pair wasn't wide enough, Clifton 6, only used for local walking and running, not Camino.

 

[ManShootsSnaps]

Update. 2 pairs of Topo’s Ultraventures arrived last night .. between UK size 8.5 and 9 , i have gone with the UK 9 ... toe box is wide, perhaps not as wide as Lone Peak, but definitely works for me.
Im a UK 8 in a shoe (small feet i know) but I think the Topo’s may run slightly smaller, and the 9 with my trail socks are snug There is a noticeable increase in cushioning at the heel compared to the Altra... and that (with 5mm drop and toebox) were key to my interest .. Only 1000 miles will tell

 

[Jbirk]

Has anyone tried the new Altra Tushar Boot? Looks promising for those who like to wear a real boot while walking.

 

[Keith H]

Yep, I definitely think the Timps are noticeably far more slippery than the LPs

Some were saying the Timps needed to ‘roughen up’ maybe? The founder of Altra said the new Timp 2.0s should be grippier though.

 

[katie@camino]

Some were saying the Timps needed to ‘roughen up’ maybe? The founder of Altra said the new Timp 2.0s should be grippier though.

I'm not sure how much more roughed up my Timps needed to get! Walked 300km on them - granite sets, beach, mountain trail, concrete. They continued to be pretty slippery. Definitely didn't feel safe with them.

Walked 370km in Lone Peaks too - snow, rain, concrete, dirt. These felt a LOT more grippy. No issues whatsoever.

Just read the blurb on the Timps 2 - they don't really say much about the grip - seems like they've continued with same material as the previous iteration. Olympus (which my Mum swears by) and LPs have such a better grip, don't know why they're not using the same material.

 

[katie@camino]

Thank you for the info. I'm a big fan of of the Lone Peak 4's but haven't had a chance to try on the 4.5s yet so this is all great to know, since it looks like I'm going to have to get a new pair before I start my Camino this spring. Definitely attracted to the updated colorways and more room in an already roomy shoe is good news for my stupidly wide feet. Did you happen to notice any issues with the new loop on the back of the heel? I remember reading some feedback somewhere that it was causing abrasion issues for some people. And how do you feel about the new lacing system?

I'm just seeing this, will check the lacing. Haven't used them since but from memory the back loop seemed a little smaller but i don't see how it would bother me...

If you've got extremely wide feet, I really think you'll love them!

 

[SeñorJacques]

I'm just seeing this, will check the lacing. Haven't used them since but from memory the back loop seemed a little smaller but i don't see how it would bother me...

If you've got extremely wide feet, I really think you'll love them!

Thanks for the feedback! I ended up finding a new pair of 4.0s on closeout (for less than $60) - they're identical to my existing pair and will be these ones I'll be wearing on my Camino in May, so I'm set for now. Maybe the 5.0s will be out by the time I get back!

 

[edandjoan]

So... has anyone tried the 4.5?

I’ll need to buy another pair later this year... I wonder what changes have been made?

I have tried on the 4.5's and they are much, much better than the 4's. I loved the 3's infact I have been an Altra fan for years (road and trail), but in the last couple they have disappointed me. I have purchased and really like some Topo Athletics shoes. I wore the ultra ventures last year on the Way of St. Francis and they were excellent. They took a beating from snow to rain to mud and even a bit of sunshine.

 

[Mariy]

Wore the Lone Peak 4 waterproof version on the Camino without any problems. Even when my feet swelled up, or when wearing double socks, my feet still had room.

 

[katie@camino]

Thanks for the feedback! I ended up finding a new pair of 4.0s on closeout (for less than $60) - they're identical to my existing pair and will be these ones I'll be wearing on my Camino in May, so I'm set for now. Maybe the 5.0s will be out by the time I get back!

That's great! Yeah, I doubt the changes are big enough to justify paying full price for 4.5s when you can get 4.0s for that price! Buen Camino!!

 

[Former member 94614]

I tried some LPs thinking that I might need something more than my sandals in early spring on the Primitivo. Nope. Hated them. Walked the Primitivo in my sandals and they were fine. Wore waterproof socks when it was freezing.

I love the way I keep trying to re-invent the wheel.

which waterproof socks worked well for you? i am planning to wear sandals the whole way (frances)

 

[Kanga]

which waterproof socks worked well for you? i am planning to wear sandals the whole way (frances)

I wear Sealskinz and Dexshell.