The Altra Mont Blanc Speed. All photos: iRunFar/Bryon Powell.
The brand Altra is on a roll with new designs, with the Altra Mont Blanc Speed ($185), the focus of this review, coming on the market just after the newly redesigned Altra Mont Blanc Carbon. And not too long ago, the Altra Mont Blanc BOA premiered. All three are very similar shoes, but I would consider the Mont Blanc Speed and the Mont Blanc Carbon to be fraternal twins rather than generational siblings, and the comparative focus herein.
At a high level their reviews are quite similar, however I am going to jump out and say it — and perhaps against the grain — my overall preference is for the Carbon model over the Speed — for performance and aesthetics. However, the Speed model does have redeemable qualities and a price point that is way more agreeable — $185 versus $260. The Carbon is an investment, but still worthy of my performance praise — the first Altra trail shoe I would consider racing in. The Speed, on the other hand, solidly falls into that reliable, balanced, and minimal trainer category — with a degree of firm cushion that warrants applause.
The Mont Blanc Speed is a true zero drop shoe, with a claimed 29-millimeter stack height from heel to forefoot. A slight rocker aids in faster turnover speed. It has an actual weight of 9.0 ounces (255 grams) for a U.S men’s 9, and considerable and desirable flexibility. The Mont Blanc Carbon is a touch lighter, with slightly more underfoot structure, whereas the Speed has a hint more upper structure for durability and rear foot stability. The shoe fits true to size and was designed on Altra’s standard last — more apt for speed and performance-based running. There is still ample room in the toebox for natural foot functioning. I experienced no unwanted rubbing or sources of irritation on either model. Both shoes are trail-ready out of the box.
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Altra Mont Blanc Speed Upper
A lateral view of the Altra Mont Blanc Speed.
The upper of the Altra Mont Blanc Speed is a dual mesh design with a tight, yet breathable forefoot mesh capped with a toe bumper — slightly thicker but less extensive compared to the Carbon. The mesh transitions into a thicker wrap-around engineered, ripstop material that nicely hugs and supports the heel. The dual mesh is anchored by sleek and camouflaged overlays that diagonally shoot rearward from the reflective lace stays. This design fully integrates the upper, which supports a great midfoot fit.
The Speed has additional medial and lateral heel support, yet less pillow cushion around the interior heel collar. Altra calls the construction on the Speed “stitch-and-turn,” used for both the collar and the tongue. The Speed’s tongue is also semi-gusseted but is appreciably longer and has more cushion. I happened to recently meet other fans of the Speed who noted this upgrade.
The laces are long and need to be tied with dialed in precision to perfect total fit. To do this I have either had to use the upper eyelet or retie my shoes twice prior to my run before feeling secure in the heel. Furthermore, I like how the laces loop through stiff reflective material — simple, but elegant and useful for running in low light. The Speed dons gaiter attachment points — something I never use, but they are there. I didn’t experience any memorable debris intrusions since the fit was golden once dialed.
Altra Mont Blanc Speed Midsole
A medial view of the Altra Mont Blanc Speed.
Previously, I described the Mont Blanc’s midsole, as found in the Altra Mont Blanc Speed, as mastery and something that feeds the company’s noteworthy ego — in a good way. Altra’s proprietary Ego foams tremendously enhance the underfoot feel while also providing support, comfort, and enduring propulsion. The Speed’s midsole is a combination of the Ego Max and Ego Pro — respectively designed as a foam rim surrounding a powerful foam core and integrated with a full-length TPU StoneGuard for extra protection. The combination works.
The Speed’s midsole design and construction is similar to that of the Carbon, except for the rock plate in lieu of the carbon plate. Some may argue that both Mont Blanc midsoles are substantially similar and that the carbon plate is a glorified rock plate. I recognize that but hold that I experience way more propulsive support and speed in the Carbon model especially on hill-based runs. Maybe it boils down to gait and running posture. From a practical point of view, the rock plate in the Speed model works well for protection and supports longer trail runs on gentle to less challenging technical trails. This is a prime reason why it excels as a nimble and reliable trainer with the ability to push longer mileage — comparable to, if not more so than, the Altra Lone Peak 9.
Altra Mont Blanc Speed Outsole
The outsole of the Altra Mont Blanc Speed.
The Altra Mont Blanc Speed has a Vibram Megagrip Litebase outsole, equipped with more rubber coverage than previous models. The lug depth (approximately 3 millimeters) and outsole design are the same on the Mont Blanc Carbon. Since “speed” is foundational — the last is narrow. This translates to amenable running on gravel roads, decomposed granite, smooth singletrack, and even some road running. Overall, the outsole provides decent grip and flexibility for variable running.
The midsole flex runs up the center with some lateral flex points and into the forefoot. There are many chevron-shaped lugs for adequate full foot support and quick turnover. It isn’t overly aggressive but can still perform preferably in dry and tamer conditions. Vibram Megagrip has been tested and cheered across many brands and trail running shoes. It is a reliable and superior outsole material and highly recommended across the spectrum of trail runners.
To maintain the feather weight, feel, and race quality of the shoe, the Lightbase addition keeps weight low without sacrificing too much grip and durability. I will say that snow and mud aren’t in the Speed’s wheelhouse. The occasional stream crossing and rainy run is suitable, but these shoes have really shined on the endless forest service roads and decomposed granite trails of southern Oregon. I don’t mind tarmac-to-trail transitions either with the Speed model — is seems to have more natural flex than the Carbon.
Altra Mont Blanc Speed Overall Impressions
A top view of the Altra Mont Blanc Speed.
Altra recently developed the Altra Mont Blanc Speed, which quickly followed the Mont Blanc Carbon. Why? They are the same, but different.
I feel speedier in the Carbon model and feel the firm comfort as a bonus to solid performance running. Yes, I think that plate worked for me out on the dirt roads. I consider it a race-ready shoe — depending on the terrain and weather. However, this is more about the Speed line.
The Altra Mont Blanc Speed offers a more agreeable price point for most trail runners. It is a great trainer that provides structure, support, and protection for those who appreciate a more minimal shoe, and more ground feel. The midsole is very welcoming throughout the gait cycle and the outsole accentuates the experience. The Speed model runs light and feel at home in drier conditions and easy-to-moderate terrain. It is a minimal, light-footed, and everyday trainer that shows up to do the work. I like having it in the lineup.
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Call for Comments
- Have you tried the Altra Mont Blanc Speed?
- What were your impressions?
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