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T3
T3
Technology
Matt Kollat

RARE PHOTOS: Altra gives its everyday road runner its biggest update in years - The Real Truth

Altra Torin 9.

Altra has unveiled the Torin 9, the latest version of its flagship road running shoe, bringing meaningful upgrades to one of the brand's best-known models rather than reinventing a winning formula.

The new trainers retain the zero-drop platform and roomy FootShape fit the Torin's been known for, while introducing a grippier outsole and a redesigned midsole.

The Utah-born brand has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence over the past year, becoming the fastest-growing name in parent company VF Corp's portfolio.

Its revenue climbed more than 30% over the last financial year as more runners embrace its distinctive approach to footwear.

(Image credit: Altra)

Visually, the Torin 9 pairs a clean white engineered mesh upper with a striking lime-to-orange gradient wrapping around the midsole, giving the shoe considerably more personality than many of its neutral-training rivals.

There are nine colourways to choose from, including the base White/Black/Safety Yellow to the more subtle Turtle Dove/Desert.

Better grip, same natural ride

The biggest update is the all-new Vibram XS DURA outsole, developed exclusively for Altra and claimed to provide 8.5% more grip than the Torin 8.

This is said to make the shoe more confidence-inspiring on wet pavements, painted crossings and other slippery urban surfaces, addressing one of the few areas where previous Torin models lagged behind the competition.

(Image credit: Altra)

Underfoot, Altra has introduced its new P35X dual-density foam, combining a softer inner layer with a firmer outer section to create a ride that's both more energetic and more stable.

The upper has also been refined with a reshaped heel, an elevated tongue, and an updated collar construction, while maintaining the generous toe box and zero-drop geometry.

At 269g (men's US 10.5), with a 28mm stack height and Altra's signature 0mm drop, the Torin 9 remains firmly aimed at runners seeking a plush, neutral daily trainer that comfortably handles everything from easy recovery runs to marathon training.

The Torin 9 is launching on 6 July for $160 in the US and £135 in the UK. EU and AU prices and availability TBC.

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