Altra Men's AL0A546V Solstice XT 2 Cross Training Shoe

Product Information

One of the main selling points of the Reebok Nano X3 is its versatility, and that comes courtesy of revolutionary midsole technology—coined the Lift and Run Chassis system—that delivers on two fronts. First, the dome-shaped heel offers rigid and sturdy support for lifts, which is a key component of CrossFit. And second, that same dome feature softens when you switch to cardio exercises, such as running and jumping, to absorb and reduce impact. The last thing to like about this model — which I somewhat touched on above — is that this is a good cross-training shoe for HIIT workouts, classes, and shorter runs. If you like using your cross-training shoes for this style of training, then I think you’ll enjoy how these shoes feel as a whole.

One thing to note about the sizing of the Solstice XT 2 is that they don’t come in half sizes for 13, 14, 15. If you’re a half size between 13-15, then I’d suggest going up, so if you’re a 13.5, then go 14. For starters, the plush EVA midsole offers cushioned height for improved comfort, while the upper is made from SuperFabric—a durable material that lets your feet breathe. This shoe is particularly capable due to its herringbone outsole, which enhances traction in a variety of multidirectional motions whether you’re working up a sweat indoors or out. DENVER (Nov. 10, 2021)/OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – Altra, a leading innovator in the performance footwear category, today debuts a new approach to cross-training with the launch of the Solstice XT 2, revamping the brand’s ‘gym and training’ category. The only concern I have with this model and running is that if you train outdoors and you’re running through mud or wet surfaces, then be very conscious of this shoe’s midsole and outsole durability. The shoe has a firmer caged upper than the first iteration of the Solstice, which makes for smoother and more supportive lateral and fast-paced movements. Additionally, the toe reinforcement provides another layer of protection when dealing with heavy weights.

Performance Comparison

This model has exposed midsole laters in the forefoot and midfoot, which isn’t a problem in most settings. However, on concrete and asphalt, if you’re cutting or digging your feet into the ground, then you may run into some issues with the outsole peeling away from the midsole in this model. Performance A soft and durable upper is made from Flexweave knitthat allows your foot to move and breathe when it needs to (toes included during flexing exercises), yet it remains solid during weight-centric movements. Plus, Floatride Energy Foam gives the shoe its lightness, but it also acts as a soft cushion for heavier landings, which means this shoe is suitable for short-distance runs. Reebok’s Nano X2 is a responsive shoe that will safely and easily transition from intense bouts of cardio to power lifts. And, given the Nano range is designed as a cross-training shoe, it shouldn’t be overlooked despite the fact that a newer model, the Nano X3, is on the market.

However, if you’re a hardcore lifter, doing mostly running, or needing a lot of protection for rope climbing, then look for another shoe (see some suggestions in “the Competition” section below).All told, the Solstice XT is a terrific generalist that you can comfortably use for kettlebell snatches, heavy bag work, hill sprints, and plyometric pushups. Also, the Bare-XF has a tight toe box that scrunches up the toes and metatarsals, preventing natural foot motion and leaving the feet feeling like they’re wrapped up in a medical cast. To the first limitation, if you’re going to be doing activities that require a lot of foot protection and abrasion resistance—like rope climbing—a shoe with a more robust upper will be preferable (I’m looking at you OCR crowd). Slim Fit: The slimmest-fitting Altra option still allows room for your toes to spread out naturally.

Its wide “foot-shaped” toe box allows metatarsals to spread and toes to engage while performing fully. Those who are more weightlifting-oriented and less running-oriented will probably prefer a lower, firmer midsole to stabilize their feet while under heavy loads. In the context of walking and standing all day for work, this model is comfortable and has become one of my go-to’s for walking the dogs, doing housework, and wearing for work. I like the low-profile Balanced Cushioning in this model and high-abrasion EVA foam does a good job of providing you with a comfortable ride. Altra Solstice XT 2 Sizing The smooth, flat profile of the outsole gives a stable, level platform for lifting and balance exercises, unlike shoes with deeper lugs that feel off-balanced for such activities.The Altra Solstice XT 2’s performance for lifting is okay. This model doesn’t have mind-blowing stability, however, I do like this shoe for lighter and moderate loads. I’ve squatted up to 315 lbs and deadlifted up to 455 lbs in this shoe and I’d suggest using these numbers as baseline thresholds for stability. Once I hit these numbers, I started to notice a little compression in this model’s midsole. The shoe features Altra’s signature FootShapethat promotes interior space for your foot to spread—which is ideal if you're in the wide foot camp. And, its Balanced Cushioning is positioned in such a way as to level your heel and forefront with the ground. I should also mention a couple of other caveats. They’re not really limitations, just restrictions on who will have a good experience with the Solstice XT. They breathe well and are lightweight which also helps increase their ability to perform in HIIT, class, and running contexts. This is one of the better, if not the best, shoes on the market for this style of training for wider-footed athletes. These are also solid shoes for walking and standing for long periods of time. Altra Solstice XT 2 Cons The Solstice XT has a low-level midsole that provides a stable platform when lifting. It also allows a balanced foot position for dynamic movements that require a lot of coordination and precision foot placement.