Altra
Mont Blanc Speed
A lighter, cheaper zero-drop take on the Mont Blanc Carbon, swapping the plate for a TPU StoneGuard over EGO MAX and EGO PRO foams, with a Vibram Megagrip outsole. Reviewers rate it as a versatile long-distance trainer and racer for dry trails.
About the Mont Blanc Speed
Altra's lighter alternative to the carbon-plated Mont Blanc Carbon, the Mont Blanc Speed keeps the same Vibram Megagrip outsole with Litebase and the same dual-foam midsole, but uses a StoneGuard layer for underfoot protection from rocks and debris. Altra lists it for technical and all-day trail running and says it is built for speed and efficiency on climbs and descents.
The midsole combines an EGO MAX rim, which Altra says adds a little extra bounce and durability, with an EGO PRO core on a zero-drop platform. Litebase is the brand's way of cutting outsole weight, and the shoe comes in at 286 g in a men's UK 8.5, lighter than the Carbon. The ultra-lightweight, breathable upper uses the Standard FootShape fit. Next to the more cushioned Olympus 7, it is the race-leaning choice in Altra's trail racing line-up, which its Australian site pitches at ultra-distance racing.
Specs and features from altrarunning.com, altrarunning.com.au and our own spec data. A factual overview, not a review.
Video reviews
Watch Altra Mont Blanc Speed reviewsOpens YouTubeWhat the critics say
The reviews in briefRoad Trail Run's Dom Layfield and iRunFar's Molly Schmelzle both rate the Altra Mont Blanc Speed a dependable, protective shoe for long miles on dry trails, and good value beside the Mont Blanc Carbon. Layfield found it light enough to race, while Schmelzle missed the Carbon's propulsion and needed careful lacing to secure her heel.
- Positive: Enough cushioning and rock protection for long, rough miles
- Positive: Sure footing on rock, gravel and singletrack
- Positive: Good value next to the Mont Blanc Carbon
- Mixed: Firm, flatter ride suits some, while others would like more rocker
- Negative: Long laces and heel hold need careful lacing
- Negative: Less propulsive than the plated Mont Blanc Carbon
Paraphrased from published reviews. Read them in full:
The numbers
- Trail
- Type
- 286 g
- Weight
- 29 mm
- Heel stack
- 0 mm
- Drop
- No plate
- Plate
- Neutral
- Support
Weight for a men's US 9 / UK 8.5. New model: figures are early and get re-checked every month.
What it feels like
Fit
True to size
Testers found it true to size, with a forefoot roomy but narrower than most Altras; lace it fully for a secure heel.
What Reddit runners say
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On TikTok
Mont Blanc Speed on TikTokShort reviews and wear tests from runnersWhere to buy the Mont Blanc Speed
RRP around £180. Tap through for today's price.
Altra Mont Blanc Speed
In short
Worth a look if you want a light, protective zero-drop shoe for long runs and races on dry, moderate trails. Testers found it firm and flatter than rockered rivals, and it isn't made for mud or snow.
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