Altra Torin 7 Review: More Plush Love

What You Need To Know

Introduction to the Altra Torin 7

AUSTIN: Are you one of those running shoe nerds that like to know the origin story behind a shoe’s name? Maybe it’s just me. Apparently, the name Torin is of Irish origin and means “chief.” It’s similar to the Gaelic name Toirneach, meaning “thunder.” You know where this is headed, yes? There’s also a popular Norse god with a similar name who’s made regular appearances in Marvel films. So, does the Thorin 7 (I mean Torin 7) bring love and thunder? Let’s find out.

What we like about the Altra Torin 7

AUSTIN: Before diving into the specs, I’d like to thank the Altra engineers for listening to professional and amateur runners alike and fixing the tongue. I spoke with numerous runners who returned their Torin 6 exclusively on account of the tongue flap that aggravated the top and sides of their foot. Some clipped the tongue flap off with scissors, while others had no issues. But, if you were one of the folks that hated the Torin 6 tongue, take heart. The Torin 7 tongue has some extra padding and smooth fabric on the inside.

I received the Altra Torin 7 and Altra Paradigm 7 together and alternated them daily to pick apart the differences. Frankly, the two are similar in many respects: both use Altra’s Standard Footshape Fit, and both feature 30 mm Ego Max outsoles. Going even further, both models have updated engineered mesh uppers and FootPod outsoles for excellent traction on dry and wet surfaces. The Altra Torin 7 is lighter on paper, but the Paradigm 7 felt lighter on the run and includes GuideRails for some additional stability.

Altra added two millimeters of foam to the Torin 7, and I noticed the plush sensation within a few steps of putting the shoe on and going for a walk. I like the toe box space, too, though the volume felt low from the engineered mesh. The molded collar secures the heel but flares out at the top to eliminate Achilles tendon aggravation. Finally, should you need a bit more space, the Torin 7 is available in wide.

What we don’t like about the Altra Torin 7

AUSTIN: After multiple runs in the Altra Torin 7 at various paces, the shoe kinda felt flat. I don’t know if it’s the two extra millimeters of foam or the Georgia humidity, but I didn’t feel any noticeable responsiveness. Also, the forefoot mesh felt a bit constricting. I appreciate its ability to keep the foot secure, but my toes felt a little cramped. I had to stop a few times during some runs to retie for a better midfoot lockdown, but once I had the fit dialed in, I finished without any issues.

Altra Torin 7 Conclusion

AUSTIN: When it comes down to it, I believe the Torin 7 is the shoe to try for the Altra-curious. The cushioning is excellent, and the ride is smooth. I like the chosen updates, particularly the tongue and midsole. I’ve heard the term “plush” thrown around to describe the Torin 7, which is funny since Altra made a Torin and a Torin Plush at one point. The Torin Plush doesn’t exist anymore, but if you liked that style, look no further than the Torin 7. It may be love (and thunder) at first sight.

You can pick up the Altra Torin 7 for $150 at Running Warehouse (featuring free 2-day shipping and 90-day returns) using the buttons below.

Want to learn more about how our review process works? Check out this guide.