Key Features
- New Altra EGO P35 midsole foam
- Engineered mesh upper
- Updated plush tongue
- Roomy toe box
ON THE RUN
Joe: An unfortunate (and very permanent) encounter between a white upper and a jumbo Sharpie on my Altra Fwd Via gave me the perfect excuse to test out the new Altra FWD Via 2. I loved the original version for easy miles and long workdays, so I was curious to see how this update stacked up. Spoiler: it’s even better.
From the first stride, the FWD Via 2 feels plush, balanced, and, true to its name, propels you forward in that quietly confident “I could run forever” kind of way. The new EGO™ P35 midsole brings a softer, smoother ride with a surprising amount of stability for such a high stack shoe. Whether you’re cruising recovery miles or stretching out a weekend long run, it delivers that calm, consistent comfort that makes you forget about the shoe entirely – which, let’s be honest, is the ultimate compliment for a running shoe.
Sidney: Some shoes make a big first impression. Others slowly win you over, and the FWD Via 2 is definitely the second kind. It’s the shoe I kept reaching for on days when I didn’t want to think too hard about pace or how my legs were feeling. Easy runs, longer outings, even those “I’ll just see how far I go” days. At one point I was out for a trail run and decided to swing by my car to swap into these babies purely because I wanted a softer, bouncier feel. I hopped right back onto the trail in a road shoe (gasp), and honestly, I loved it.
What makes it work is how balanced the ride feels. The new Altra EGO™ P35 midsole is noticeably softer and more responsive than the original, so you get plenty of cushion without feeling unstable or disconnected from the ground. The rocker shape and low drop keep your body happy and moving forward while the roomy toe box lets your foot feel free and comfy as those toes splay out.
THE FIT
Joe: This shoe fits true to size with a secure midfoot wrap and solid heel lockdown. Altra’s Original FootShape™ toe box gives your toes all the space they need to spread out and relax, like slipping your feet into first-class seats.
The engineered mesh upper is lightweight and breathable, with subtle reinforcement around the toe box edges for structure without stiffness. The redesigned plush tongue adds to the comfort story, making step-in feel soft and welcoming. Combine that with a 4mm drop and a subtle rocker geometry, and you get an efficient toe-off that feels smooth and natural without forcing the motion.
Sidney:
Fit-wise, the FWD Via 2 feels instantly familiar in the best way. True to size, no weird pressure points, no break-in period. The midfoot feels secure without being tight, and the heel stays put without needing to crank down the laces, the overall fit is easy and comfortable.
As someone who spends a lot of time on my feet outside of running, I really appreciated how natural the toe box feels. My toes never felt cramped or rushed, even late into a run. Wearing the shoe at work all day then hopping straight into a run was no problem at all. The plush tongue and revamped upper are small details, but it adds to that “easy to live in” feeling from the moment you lace up.
THE FEEL
Joe: The real star here is the new EGO™ P35 foam – a midsole that strikes a perfect balance between softness and responsiveness. Altra states that it’s 19% softer and 15% more responsive than the original, and you can feel it from the first mile. The result? A buttery-smooth ride that cushions impact but doesn’t turn into mush.
There’s also more outsole rubber coverage than before, which adds grip and confidence on wet pavement without sacrificing that light, efficient feel. It’s the kind of shoe that encourages you to relax into your stride and enjoy the ride, whether that’s three miles or thirteen.
Sidney: Underfoot, the ride is calm and forgiving, but in a much better way than before. The EGO™ P35 midsole is the upgrade the FWD Via truly needed. The first version felt too mellow at times, almost flat and uninspired. Pairing the new midsole with the updated upper brings this shoe to life, adding softness and responsiveness without losing its easygoing nature.
The transition from landing to toe-off is noticeably smoother, making each stride feel natural and effortless rather than forced. There’s a little spring loaded energy here, ready to pounce when you ask for it. It doesn’t beg you to run fast, but it never holds you back either. It simply lets you move the way you want to move, which is exactly what I want from a daily trainer.
THE NITTY GRITTY
Joe: I’ve been using the FWD Via 2 mainly for easy runs and recovery days, but it’s versatile enough to handle steady-state efforts or long runs. Think of it as Altra’s answer to the Saucony Triumph or the HOKA Clifton, but with more natural feel and toe room.
Compared to the original FWD Via, this update is noticeably softer, smoother, and more refined. Compared to the Torin 8, it offers more protection and a plusher underfoot feel. It’s not a speed shoe, but it’s definitely not clunky – once you find your rhythm, it just rolls.
Sidney: The FWD Via 2 has become a quick grab for my daily runs. It’s a steady, reliable option that keeps things grounded while still feeling fun enough to stay interesting.
If I were reviewing the first iteration, I would’ve had a few critiques, but the FWD Via 2 addresses every questionable area from the original. If you’re looking for a daily trainer that feels stable, approachable, and quietly peppy, this one is an easy pick.
THE RUNDOWN
Joe: The Altra FWD Via 2 is a max-cushioned daily trainer that nails the blend of softness, stability, and smooth forward motion. It’s a big step forward from the first version, and a worthy option for runners who want comfort without sacrificing efficiency.
Bottom line: If your miles are piling up and your legs need a break, lace up the FWD Via 2. It’s built for long-haul comfort, everyday reliability, and that little spark of “wow, this feels good” every time you head out the door.
Sidney: The Altra FWD Via 2 is a shoe you trust. It’s comfortable without being boring, cushioned without feeling bulky, and supportive without being intrusive. It doesn’t demand anything from you, which is often exactly what runners need most. Honestly, I kept trying to find something to nitpick, and I really couldn’t. There’s nothing about this shoe that got in the way of the run.
If you’re looking for a daily trainer that takes care of your feet and legs so you can focus on showing up consistently, the FWD Via 2 delivers. It’s approachable, dependable, and quietly impressive. It's just a shoe that makes every run feel smooth.
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