Buy $75 and Get FREE Shipping - TODAY!!!
Altra Experience Flow 3: Low Cushion Has Never Felt So Good

Altra Experience Flow 3: Low Cushion Has Never Felt So Good

by Dave's Running in Reviews

Reviewed by Charlie Jakubowski, Manager

If you are deep into the running shoe scene you may have heard of this niche brand called Altra. Altra has carved a small space in the run specialty market by capturing a small section of runners and walkers that enjoy minimal cushion, wide toe boxes, and lower heel drops.  In this review, we will be discussing Altra’s Experience Flow 3’s fit/sizing, ride, and specifications to get you more accustomed to their brand.  Before that, here is a general overview of the shoe.

ALTRA Experience Flow 3 — At a Glance

Category Low Cushioned Daily Trainer
Support Neutral
Drop 4mm
Weight ~9.2 oz (Men’s 9) and ~7.5 oz (Women’s 8)
Best For Daily miles, tempos, and walking
Ride Feel Firm, Responsive, and controlled
PROS
  • Wide Toe box 
  • Stable Ride
  • Amazing Upper
CONS
  • Adjusting to a lower drop
  • Women's toe box fits weird

ALTRA Experience Flow 3 Review

Altra is a brand that aims for a more holistic approach to running.  Their brand and shoes are based on the barefoot/low cushion running movement that happened back during the 2010s (Altra was established 2009, first shoe release was 2011).  During this time, a Harvard professor by the name of Daniel Lieberman published a study that explored how barefoot running can actually improve our performance and prevent injury from happening.  In his paper, he found that barefoot runners tended to land more on their mid/fore foot area compared to those in running shoes that heel striked.  Barefoot runners tended to have less impact and stress on their joints compared to the heel strikers.  This study, along with Christopher McDougall’s book Born to Run, shifted the running community and running shoe market in a way that had never been seen before.

While running completely barefoot can not always be achieved, Altra provides a great middle ground with shoes that are barefoot inspired and keep us from causing serious harm to our feet but don’t promote heel striking.  The Altra Experience Flow 3 isn’t just known for their holistic approach to running.  This shoe is great for daily running, walking, cross fit, and weight lifting.  Having a shoe that allows our foot to be in the most natural position allows for a wider range of activities to be performed.

ALTRA Experience Flow 3 Fit and Sizing

Due to the wide toe box that Altra designs their shoes with, the Experience Flow 3 will be different compared to most other shoes.  The heel collar and midfoot will feel similar to a normal running shoe but the toe box is going to fit wide.  A wider toe box allows for the toes to splay better and keep them from cramping up.  Our Dave’s team has found no issues with heel slipping or the shoe running short or long.

The only issue we have had with the Experience Flow 3 is that the women’s style can have a weird tightness just before the toe box.  It doesn’t hurt or cause discomfort to the toes, but the metatarsal area can have a weird rubbing sensation.  This does not affect the toes from what we have gathered but for a shoe that is known for a wide toe box it is strange that this happens.  I would recommend trying one on in store before purchasing. 

Specifications for the ALTRA Experience Flow 3

So far this review has touched heavily on the wide toe box that Altra provides with their shoes but something we haven’t really covered is the low/zero heel drop.  If you don’t know what heel drop is, I recommend checking out our Anatomy of a Shoe article to get a fuller understanding of all the different running shoe terms.  The Altra Experience Flow 3 comes with a 4mm heel drop, one of the first Altra shoes to go away from their traditional zero drop.  This has been consistent in all versions of the Experience Flow and it doesn’t affect the foot to the point that you will start heel striking.  I like the 4mm heel drop because it allows those who have never been in an Altra shoe to comfortably transfer to an Altra shoe without worrying about injury to the calf or Achilles.  Then once you feel ready for your next pair of Altra’s, maybe trying out a zero drop style could be in the cards.  

Altra’s Experience Flow 3 also uses their EGO™ P35 foam.  This foam is a nice blend of soft and firm.  There isn’t an overabundance where it feels super squishy but it isn’t so firm that you feel directly on the ground.  The upper of the shoe received a nice update as well.  Altra’s Experience Flow 3 went with a softer, more breathable upper compared to last year’s model.  The heel collar also saw some extra padding coming its way to help make sure there is no irritation or blisters formed.  The tongue feels good which is good because Altra has had some problems with tongues in the past.  To circle all the way back to the toe box, it is wider than the Experience Flow 2’s and gives more volume as well. 

Performance Review: On the Run

Personally, the Altra Experience Flow 3 is my favorite running shoe of the year so far.  I’ve never really given Altra a chance but our Altra representative convinced me to give them a try and I couldn't be happier.  Not only is it my daily running shoe, I use it to lift as well.  So what makes this shoe so great?  

The ride is incredible.  I really enjoy high cushion trainers as that is what I am used to.  However, the Experience Flow 3 has really made me reconsider the type of shoes I run in and the benefits of lower cushion, lower drop shoes.  When running I feel more in control of where I am stepping down.  I can focus more on mid-foot/fore-foot striking where in other shoes I always felt like I was hitting my heel after a couple of miles.  Because I have been able to focus more on form, I also feel stronger.  Sure, my calves are more sore than normal due to the lower heel drop but not in a painful, OMG I’m hurt way.  The ride feels smooth and controlled the entire way.  I have better control over my pace too.  

As for the upper, it is the best feeling upper Altra has released yet.  I’ve tried on many of their shoes to get a good understanding of their feet and feel.  Most of the time I had some issue or annoyance when trying them on the treadmill.  The Experience Flow 3 has given me zero issues.  The tongue feels secure and doesn’t move around when running.  The toe box is, of course, spacious but doesn’t dig down into the top of my toes.  I have zero slipping in the heel too.  Overall, I don’t have much to say about the upper.  It’s a solid fit and outside of the women’s styles feeling a little narrow around the forefoot, there’s not much to comment on.  

My final note is that this shoe is incredibly versatile in what it can do.  I stated previously that I use it for lifting and what’s great about the Altra Experience Flow 3 is that I feel like I’m grounded.  I’m not off balance or falling forward when squatting down.  My calf raises get a full range of motion too.  I also don’t have to take my shoes off in the gym which is nice as well. 

The Final Verdict

Overall, I have zero complaints about Altra’s Experience Flow 3.  Anyone looking for a do-it-all shoe has found the right one.  It’s a daily trainer option good for tempos and intervals.  It works as an everyday walking shoe and even cross training.  I think anyone looking to improve their running form and performance could benefit greatly from the Altra Experience Flow 3.  It allows for more control and clearly understanding of where the foot is striking down.  If you are curious about the Altra Experience Flow 3, stop by a local Dave’s Running Shop to try them out!

Meet the Reviewer


Charlie Jakubowski

Charlie Jakubowski

Charlie is the manager at Dave's Running and has been in the run specialty industry for 4 years, with 10+ years of running experience under his belt. He wear-tested the Clifton 11 for several weeks across easy runs, long runs, and daily wear before writing this review — at Dave's, our staff strives to give you the most honest, real-world take by testing every trainer, racing shoe, and walking shoe we sell.

Have questions about whether the Hoka Clifton 11 is right for you? Stop by any Dave's Running Shop location in Sylvania, Perrysburg, Delta or Findlay for a free shoe fitting, or ask about our gait analysis if you're dealing with foot pain, orthotics, or a doctor's recommendation. We've been helping Northwest Ohio get faster, go farther, and feel better since 1973 — runner or not.


Related Posts

Mizuno Wave Rider 30 Review: Restyled and Reclassed

Mizuno Wave Rider 30 Review: Restyled and Reclassed

Reviewed by Charlie Jakubowski, ManagerThis year’s catalog of running shoes has featured many great models and brands, but one that has flown under the radar is Mizuno.  For the Wave Rider’s 30th birthday, Mizuno completely overhauled their iconic daily trainer for a softer and nimbler feel.  Before we get into the nitty gritty, we will cover the Wave Rider’s fit/sizing, ride, and then the updates.  As always, here is a general overview. Mizuno Wave Rider 30 — At a Glance Category Neutral Daily Trainer Support Neutral Drop 8mm Weight ~9.2 oz (Men’s 9) and ~8.1 oz (Women’s 8) Best For Daily miles, long runs, and speed walking Ride Feel Stable, smooth, and natural PROS Incredibly smooth ride  Full Length Wave Plate Secure heel CONS Low Volume Upper Breathability can be a concern Mizuno Wave Rider 30 Review Before Mizuno redesigned the Wave Rider, the 20th to 29th version saw small updates throughout the years.  Mainly, Mizuno started to soften their foams, moving away from traditional EVA foams to a softer nitrogen-infused blend.  Eventually creating what we now know as Mizuno’s ENERZY foam.  While the 20s did change the Wave Rider a bit, Mizuno set out to reinvent their classic daily trainer and spice up a shoe that had been relatively consistent from version to version.   When the Mizuno Wave Rider 30 was released, it was a shock to see the changes they made.  Initially some were worried that the shoe wouldn’t have that classic Mizuno feel and fit.  However, this has not been the case.  The Mizuno Wave Rider 30 has felt amazing on foot for almost all of our customers.  The colorways have also been a big success and have a great blend of bright and darker colors. Mizuno Wave Rider 30 Fit and Sizing  The fit and sizing for Mizuno’s Wave Rider 30 has felt pretty solid.  It is on the narrower side of things so if you have a wider foot I would recommend a wide width style.  There are a few drawbacks to the upper that may cause some irritation or annoyance with the foot but more on that later.  On the sizing side of things, the Wave Rider 30 has felt pretty true to size.  Not too long or too short.  It lands right in that sweet spot. What's New in the Mizuno Wave Rider 30? Everything has been changed in the new iteration of the Wave Rider.  Let’s start down below with the cushion.  This year’s model uses a dual density foam where two foams are layered together to create a unique ride.  The bottom layer of foam is standard EVA, a type of foam that can be used in any shoe.  Above this layer is Mizuno’s Enerzy NXT foam which is a nitrogen infused foam that helps reduce weight and provide a comfortable landing pad.  Sandwiched between these foams is a plate.  Now this isn’t like a carbon fiber plate or nylon plate that you see from super-shoes.  Mizuno’s Wave Plate is there to help reduce impact to the feet and provide a smoother transition while in motion.   Next, the upper has seen some revision as well.  It’s a better crafted upper (called a jacquard mesh) that is more durable than a standard knit upper. The tongue has switched from a standard tongue to a gusseted tongue which helps hold the foot better.  The heel is secure and I don’t notice any slipping when running.  Mizuno Wave Rider Performance Review: On the Run Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the pleasure of testing the Wave Rider 30.  Normally, I am not a fan of narrow fitting shoes.  I ran with New Balance shoes most of my running career due to their slightly wider fit and even transitioned to the Altra Experience Flow 3.  I’ve tried some narrower shoes in the past but nothing seemed to work well for me.  However, the Mizuno Wave Rider 30 has carved out a substantial role in my running shoe rotation.  It’s a great daily trainer that allows me to run how I want.  Slow pace, faster intervals, or just walking around this shoe covers it all. Let’s start with the ride.  Mizuno did a good job at blending their Energzy NXT foam with a standard EVA foam.  What this does is allow for a comfortable, soft ride without the foam feeling like it’s breaking down underneath the foot.  The Energzy NXT is directly below your foot as you move and allows for the comfort to stand out while the EVA foam takes the beating of the concrete for you.   Sandwiched between these two foams is a Wave Plate.  Now this is not like Mizuno’s old Wave Plates that were only felt in the heel and mid foot.  The Wave Rider 30 now features a full length Wave Plate (first time ever) that is used for reducing impact to the body and providing a more stable ride.  While some people may have concerns about a plated daily trainer, the Mizuno Wave Rider 30 doesn’t feel like a plated shoe.  In my opinion, I don’t think Mizuno wanted the plate to stand out like other brands do.  Yes it is there to help you move but there is also the benefit of reducing impact and creating that stable feel.  Without the plate I think the nitrogen infused foam would not be as soft and structured as it is.  In addition it would make Mizuno’s Wave Rider 30 fade into the background of the running shoe market.   Moving along, the upper is a good solid fit.  The knit is tighter allowing for more durability but this does restrict how breathable the upper can be.  It isn’t horrible and my foot hasn’t been super sweaty or uncomfortable after runs.  I do like the tongue fit as well.  There is a small area for the lace to lay properly and keep from digging into the top of the foot.  The toe box doesn’t feel narrow either like I was expecting.  Take this with a grain of salt as I do have a narrow foot.  I also experienced no heel slipping either and I have been securely locked into place for my runs.   The Final Verdict From my time on foot and the miles logged, I love the Mizuno Wave Rider 30.  This has shot very high up on my list of favorite running shoes of the year.  The ride is incredibly smooth and transitions super easy from any part of the foot.  I also enjoy the versatility the Mizuno Wave Rider 30 brings to my line up.  No matter the day or workout, I can reliably grab this shoe and expect good performance.   In the store, I have pulled this shoe with a variety of other options for different customers.  Loyal fans of different brands have been shocked by Wave Rider 30’s feel and fit.  I’ve had many customers switch from their ole’ reliables to the Mizuno Wave Rider 30.  This shoe is a certified work horse and can be put up against the likes of an Asics Novablast 6, Brooks Ghost 18, or the Hoka Clifton 11.  I can’t recommend this shoe enough and if you are curious you should stop by your local Dave’s Running Shop and try some on! To conclude, the Mizuno Wave Rider 30 is a great shoe for anyone looking to get into running, start back up, or continue their training.  You can even use it for daily wear as well.  For a brand that has been flying under the radar the past couple of years, I believe the Mizuno Wave Rider 30 is the first step in Mizuno making a big splash into the running shoe market.  Men's Wave Rider 30  Women's Wave Rider 30 Meet the Reviewer Charlie Jakubowski Charlie is the manager at Dave's Running and has been in the run specialty industry for 4 years, with 10+ years of running experience under his belt. He wear-tested the Wave Rider 30 for several weeks across easy runs, long runs, and daily wear before writing this review — at Dave's, our staff strives to give you the most honest, real-world take by testing every trainer, racing shoe, and walking shoe we sell. Have questions about whether the Mizuno Wave Rider 30 is right for you? Stop by any Dave's Running Shop location in Sylvania, Perrysburg, Delta or Findlay for a free shoe fitting, or ask about our gait analysis if you're dealing with foot pain, orthotics, or a doctor's recommendation. We've been helping Northwest Ohio get faster, go farther, and feel better since 1973 — runner or not.

Learn more
Hoka Clifton 11 Review: Consistency is the Name of the Game

Hoka Clifton 11 Review: Consistency is the Name of the Game

Reviewed by Charlie Jakubowski, ManagerThere is no better way of achieving your best than consistent, hard work.  The new Hoka Clifton 11 delivers a dependable daily trainer useful for a variety of needs.  In this review, we will be discussing the ride, fit/sizing, and updates to a staple in the running shoe scene.  Before that, here is a quick breakdown of the new Hoka Clifton 11. HOKA Clifton 11 — At a Glance Category Cushioned Daily Trainer Support Neutral Drop 8mm Weight ~9.2 oz (Men’s 9) and ~8.0 oz (Women’s 8) Best For Daily miles, long runs, and walking Ride Feel Plush, supportive, and smooth PROS Improved upper Smooth heel-to-toe transition, Locked down heel CONS No big updates Same outsole as the 10’s Lackluster design Bottom Line: The Hoka Clifton 11 remains what is has been for many years now, a very dependable daily trainer. Hoka Clifton 11 Review Hoka’s Clifton line has become one of the more recognized running shoes in the market.  I can still remember when the Hoka Clifton 9 came out and the attraction that shoe brought to Hoka’s brand.  However, with the 10th version, Hoka decided to change the Clifton model.  Increasing the heel drop, adding more foam, and readjusting the upper raised some eyebrows in the running shoe world.  While it was a curious mixup to an already stellar shoe, it didn’t lose Hoka any business.  Overall, there isn’t a whole lot of differences between the Hoka Clifton 10 and the Hoka Clifton 11.  The Clifton 11 feels more refined than what the Clifton 10 was.  Not as bulky, smoother ride, and a better fitting upper.  Personally, the heel collar feels ten times better in the Hoka Clifton 11 and gives a more secure fit.  The upper will be a recurring theme throughout this review as it is the main point of emphasis.  You might be wondering then, “What else did Hoka change?” and reader we got all the information down below.  What’s New in the Hoka Clifton 11?  Let’s start with the upper since this is the most noticeable change.  Starting with the heel, Hoka has added more padding and structure.  This results in a tighter, more secure feel.  Some wear testers did notice that this tighter fit rubbed just under their ankle bone but, there was no severe irritation or lingering problems.  The overall upper was changed to be more flexible and lighter.  If you felt that a standard width for the Hoka Clifton 10 was tight, the Hoka Clifton 11 should give a little more.  We at Dave’s Running Shop also felt that the upper was more breathable than last year’s model.  Finally, the tongue felt pretty standard and no one seemed to have issues with it moving or causing annoyance.    Next is the midsole/foam under the foot.  Hoka stated that not much has changed here.  Still an 8mm drop and the stack height remains the same.  The midsole hasn’t changed either so that bouncy, soft feel under foot should be consistent from both Clifton 10 and 11.  The only aspect that changed in the Hoka Clifton 11 is a new sockliner that is better for moisture management and gives a softer, springer feel.  Finally, the outsole which hasn’t received any noticeable changes.  In fact the outsole is the same exact outsole the Hoka Clifton 10 had.  Good rubber coverage in the heel and forefoot but exposed foam throughout the midfoot.  Sad to see no real change here as a big problem we noticed with the Hoka Clifton 10 was outsole durability. Hoka Clifton 11 Fit and Sizing  The fit and sizing of the Hoka Clifton 11 is much improved from its predecessor.  The Clifton 11’s redesigned upper cradles the foot nicely.  The heel is secure to prevent any heel slipping from happening.  Throughout the shoe, the upper allows for more stretch and isn’t as restrictive.  This is great if you have a foot that isn’t wide but also struggles with a standard width.  You can expect to shop true to size for the Hoka Clifton 11 and have little to no problems.  Hoka Clifton 11 Performance Review: On the Run The ride of the Hoka Clifton 11 is still similar to that of the Hoka Clifton 10.  Like we’ve discussed in earlier sections of the review, the midsole and outsole didn’t receive much attention.  There could be an argument to make that the ride for the Hoka Clifton 11 is smoother but it’s very miniscule.  The Hoka Clifton 11 is the same daily, neutral, cushioned running shoe that many Hoka fans love.  Where the Clifton 11 gets bonus points is with the fit.  Last year’s model was a bit sloppy and really lacked a locked down feel.  This year, however, the security from the upper is outstanding.  The heel stays in place, toes have room to move and spread out, and the tongue isn’t irritating.  If there is one concern to have with the Hoka Clifton 11, it is going to be the outsole.  Hoka’s Clifton 10 did have some durability problems and it doesn’t seem like Hoka addressed them in this year’s model.  At Dave’s, we don’t have too many miles logged on our Hoka Clifton 11’s, so we can’t say for certain that the Hoka Clifton 11’s will have durability issues but it is something to keep an eye on.  Hoka Clifton 11 Against Their Competitors There are many great daily trainers out there from a variety of brands.  With all the information that’s available, it can be hard to find a good comparison and know what you’re getting from each shoe.  Below we have compiled the different specs and aspects of popular daily trainers that are similar to the Hoka Clifton 11 to make your research easier.  The Final Verdict To conclude, the Hoka Clifton 11 isn’t going to blow your socks off.  It’s a small update to a shoe that is becoming an icon in the running shoe market.  Hoka’s Clifton 11 is consistent and looking to uphold a reliable reputation that they have been building over the past few years.  It makes sense as many brands have their staple shoe (think Brook’s Ghost or Nike Pegasus).  What makes this shoe so reliable and consistent is that it can be used for a variety of activities.  Running, walking, general fitness, or casual wear.  Whatever the case may be, the Hoka Clifton 11 is going to cover the bases.  Shop Men's Clifton 11  Shop Women's Clifton 11 Meet the Reviewer Charlie Jakubowski Charlie is the manager at Dave's Running and has been in the run specialty industry for 4 years, with 10+ years of running experience under his belt. He wear-tested the Clifton 11 for several weeks across easy runs, long runs, and daily wear before writing this review — at Dave's, our staff strives to give you the most honest, real-world take by testing every trainer, racing shoe, and walking shoe we sell. Have questions about whether the Hoka Clifton 11 is right for you? Stop by any Dave's Running Shop location in Sylvania, Perrysburg, Delta or Findlay for a free shoe fitting, or ask about our gait analysis if you're dealing with foot pain, orthotics, or a doctor's recommendation. We've been helping Northwest Ohio get faster, go farther, and feel better since 1973 — runner or not.

Learn more
ASICS Novablast 6 Review: The Fun Ride Is Back!!

ASICS Novablast 6 Review: The Fun Ride Is Back!!

The Novablast is back to being fun again. We put the ASICS Novablast 6 through easy runs, long runs, and a few faster efforts to see if the new forefoot foam and updated fit live up to the hype — and who this shoe is really for, runners and non-runners alike.

Learn more