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Feet function optimally when positioned naturally. We have developed a certification system, through which we evaluate shoes for their foot-healthy qualities.
Our feet are designed perfectly. With 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments we can flex, rebound, and absorb shock naturally, throughout many activities. Therefore, we recommend shoes that allow your feet to function naturally. Many manufacturers add features that can hinder our feet and toe alignment. Below are important features to consider when looking to purchase healthy shoes.
Altra Superior 2 | 3  

The Superior is a shoe best used for trail running, backpacking or hiking. It is lighter in weight compared to a conventional running shoe and has a zero drop platform, which promotes balance and even weight distribution. Although the stack height is slightly high, the Superior doesn't possess artificial arch support. This encourages muscle engagement in the foot arches. 
  1. Weight | 8.7 oz
  2. Stack Height | 21mm
  3. Zero Artificial Arch Support
  4.Some Motion Control

 
We recommend shoes that are flat from the heel to the ends of the toes. This means that you want to purchase shoes that do not have elevated heels or toe spring (a feature that lifts the ends of the toes higher than the ball of the foot).
Altra Superior 2 | 4.5

This is a quality running shoe. Although it is not completely flat (heel to toe), it possesses zero heel elevation and minimal toe spring.
We recommend shoes that are widest at the ends of the toes (like a baby’s shoe), not at the ball of the foot. This shape allows for natural toe splay, and will not compress your toes into a deformed position.
Women's Altra Superior 2 | 4

The Women's Superior offers moderate width in the toe box, allowing natural toe splay. However, it is not wide enough to accommodate Correct Toes for most people without modifications.

*We recommend women consider the men's Superior for added width and comfort


 
Men's Altra Superior 2 | 5 

The Men's Superior offers ample width in the toe box and is great for natural toe splay . Unlike the women's Superior, the men's version can accommodate Correct Toes for most people.
 
Natural feet are widest at the tips of the toes, not at the ball of the foot. Correct Toes helps place the toes back into their natural alignment. To make sure your shoe is wide enough to accommodate natural toe splay, remove the shoe liner from the shoe and stand on it while wearing Correct Toes. If your foot stays within the margins of the liner, this indicates a foot-healthy shoe. If your foot spills over the shoe liner considerably, then this shoe may be too narrow and could cause adverse effects.
Women's Altra Superior 2 | 2.5   

In this photo, the woman's toes extend beyond the width of the shoe liner. Therefore, we would not recommend wearing Correct Toes in this shoe without modifications. If modifications are made, be sure to lightly test Correct Toes in the shoe to ensure comfort.
 
The women's Altra Superior meets all of our foot-healthy criteria and is Natural Foot Approved.
Men's Altra Superior 2 | 4  

In this photo, the man's toes slightly extend beyond the width of the shoe liner. The men's Superior is wider than the women's version, so we would approve the use of Correct Toes in this shoe. Be sure to lightly test Correct Toes in the shoe to ensure comfort.
 
The Altra Superior meets all of our foot-healthy criteria and is Correct Toes Approved.
Unlike other companies that recommend “supportive” shoes, which can act like a cast, we recommend shoes that allow natural movement and articulation of your foot bones. We test each shoe for flexibility within each point of flexion and extension.
Altra Superior 2 | 3

This shoe is rigid and does not offer much flexibility. Test points in the heel counter, ends of toes, arch, and ball can be constricting, especially to users accustomed to a pliable shoe. The material has good flexion, which adds extra comfort compared to conventional footwear. The Superior could be a good transition shoe for those who enjoy wearing a "supportive" shoe.

Points of Flexion and Extension
  1. Material
  2. Heel Counter
  3. Arch
  4. Ball
  5.
Ends of Toes
 
The Altra Superior 2.0 offers great ground traction, making it a good hiking or off-road shoe. Additionally, the 2.0 features the Zero Drop™ Platform and FootShape™ Toe Box, great for proper weight distribution and healthy foot alignment. We believe the Superior is a better option compared to conventional footwear and can be a good transitional shoe. Also, we recommend women try the men's version of the Superior for additional width and comfort. Thank you, Altra, for offering healthier shoe options. 

If you have not already transitioned into thin, flexible footwear learn how to transition.
 
Sizing & Fit
Shop Altra Superior 2 Women's
Shop Altra Superior 2 Men's
 
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correcttoes · 2701 NW Vaughn St. · Suite 424 · Portland, OR 97210 · USA