I have been an Altra guy due to the wide toe box, but i took the chance and decided to try the Ultra 3. I had the Xtrem 2 and hated them due to sizing issues and blistering due to inside stitches rubbing my toes. But the Ultra 3 are the best shoes i have ever had for trail and OCR!!!!! True to size, comfortable, wide toebox, and grip for days!!!
The tongue is too thin causing the laces to irritate around the top of my ankle. Unable to get a good lockdown without the laces digging into my foot. May have to try a thicker sock.
Narrow, powerful, locked in. Surprisingly forgiving for easy runs. I would hesitate to wear this for super long runs (they do make the ultra..) due to the narrow outsole as it can run a little harsh, but this shoe just blasts when you want to go fast. The foam and rock plate make give it a snappy ride. The upper is surprisingly roomy so I usually wear thicker socks to get an ideal lockdown. The grip is outstanding especially on wet rock, though not as good on softer trails compared to something with deeper sharper lugs. The ride is so snappy that downhills can sometimes be a little sketchy if you’re not precise with your step choice but once you spend a little time in them these shoes are just a joy.
Bought these to use them for my Spartan Ultra (50k) race and was really impressed. It had rained days before the race and also rained on the race day and with THESE shoes I had no trouble running through slippery rocks, mud or even open water! I saw multiple reviews about them fitting small and even with my a little wider foot I still wore my size and yes they felt tight with my compression socks, I thought that my feet were going to be bleeding after the race as I wore no tape or added inside cushion, but no! No damage to my feet at all(I did apply some body glide to me feet before putting my socks). I LOVE these shoes, been using them for hiking after race day and highly recommend them!
