ON THE RUN
Keith: The very first thing I noticed when I stepped into the Altra Experience Flow 2 was the softness. It’s way softer than the original. The second most apparent change was that the 4mm drop was barely noticeable with the softer heel. It felt so natural that I might’ve guessed I was running in a new version of the zero-drop Rivera if I hadn’t known better.
It took a couple miles for me to really feel what this shoe is all about. That’s when it hit me—this version feels lighter, more energetic, and just more fun to run in. I was a big fan of the first Flow for its firm cushioning and quick turnover, and while the Flow 2 felt a little slower to get going at first, once I found my rhythm, it was smooth sailing.
Faster paces felt easier to hit, and my foot strikes were light and quick. It rides lower to the ground and feels more natural, not just compared to the original, but to most shoes out there. I think even longtime Altra loyalists will appreciate how connected and comfortable this update feels.
Sidney: Honestly, when I first heard Altra was launching the Experience lineup with a 4mm drop, I was scratching my head. This is the brand known for zero drop, natural foot movement, and that barefoot-adjacent feel — so why suddenly play in the same sandbox as everyone else? Wasn’t that kind of... against everything Altra stood for?
Fast forward to now, and I totally get it. This shoe is the missing link — the perfect bridge for runners who’ve been curious about Altra’s roomy toe box and natural fit but weren’t quite ready to commit to zero drop. And for longtime Altra fans? That tiny bit of drop adds just enough pep to feel fresh without losing the brand’s signature vibe.
It’s honestly become my go-to for everything: long days on my feet, daily errands, and, of course, running. Soft, roomy, and versatile — it ticks every box I didn’t even know I had.
THE FIT
Keith: The fit has improved. While the original Experience Flow drew some people to Altra for the first time because of its slimmer appearance, version 2 is definitely more recognizable as what the brand is known for. The toe box isn’t actually that much wider, but it feels lighter on foot and more breathable too. The upper is one aspect of the shoe that I feel is undeniably better. It will fit a wider variety of foot shapes and for those switching over from a Torin or a Lone Peak, they won’t feel the squeeze like they might have in the original. The only thing I miss about the first Flow is the achilles pads in the heel counter, but admittedly, I think I’m alone here as I have heard many people complain about them. So even that is probably an overall plus change for the Flow 2.
Sidney: The fit? Oh, let’s talk about the toe box. It’s not clown-shoe wide, but just... free. You’ve got just enough room to splay, stretch, and feel like a human again. Honestly, it makes me wonder why I ever crammed my toes into the narrow toe prisons of other shoes.
The upper’s also gotten a glow-up — softer and lighter. If you’re coming from a Torin or Lone Peak, you’ll feel right at home — no pinching, no pressure, just breathable bliss.
THE FEEL
Keith: The cushioning is where the Experience Flow 2 really steps up its game. Transitions feel much more natural due to more flexibility and a much less aggressive rocker shape. Thanks to the new P35 midsole, the ride is softer, lighter, and noticeably more energetic. Most runners will appreciate the extra bounce and plush landings—it just feels easier on the legs. It’s a big upgrade for long runs compared to version one, which had plenty of fans looking to the FWD Via for that 4mm drop feel over longer miles. With the Flow 2, they might not need to reach for that backup anymore. Not to say that it won’t still crush your daily mileage with ease, it will.
Sidney: Where this shoe really wins my heart is the ride. Smooth as soft-serve and just as addictive. The new midsole (shout out to the P35 magic) gives it a softer feel without making it mushy. It’s the kind of shoe you put on time and time again, for work, for your run, just because it's that good.
Transitions feel seamless, like flipping through pages of a good book. No clunky heel-to-toe nonsense, just flow — hence the name, I guess? It’s easy on the legs, forgiving on joints, and just a real gem.
THE NITTY GRITTY
Keith: If you’re all about a firm ride, this update might throw you off—but honestly, that’s a pretty small crowd. For the rest of us, it’s a big win and an exciting glimpse into the cool stuff Altra’s cooking up with their new tech.
Sidney: These are the cool, calm cousin of the original Flow — softer in all the right places, especially at the heel, where the 4mm drop shines. I am just so happy Altra decided to make a shoe with a drop.
THE RUNDOWN
Keith: At around 150 miles in, I can confidently say the Flow 2 is wearing in really well. I’ll admit I had some doubts about how durable it would be with everything getting softer and lighter. But so far, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how well it’s holding up. I was a big fan of the original Experience Flow. Probably way more than most, so I braced myself for updates that might cater to the masses and lose what I loved. I’m so glad I was (gulp!) wrong. Altra made smart, thoughtful changes that actually elevated the shoe to the next level. If you’ve never tried Altra before, this is the one that might just convert you to the funky wide toe box crew!
Sidney: If you’re all about stiff midsoles and punishing feedback, the Flow 2 might not be your flavor. But if you’re into shoes that feel like a nap for your feet (while still keeping you quick and nimble), then welcome to your new go-to. It’s soft, it’s smooth, it’s sneakily energetic — and best of all, it gives your toes room to live their best lives.
Altra, you nailed it. This one’s a keeper.
