For over a decade, Altra has been the rebel of the running world, famous for two non-negotiables: a ‘FootShape’ toe box that actually looks like a human foot, and a ‘Zero Drop’ platform born from the founders melting midsoles in a toaster oven to level them out. But recently, the brand did the unthinkable – they started adding a heel drop. The Altra FWD VIA 2 represents the next evolution of this controversial pivot, offering a 4mm drop that bridges the gap for runners who crave Altra’s signature roominess but need a little relief for their calves and Achilles. It’s a bold move that signals Altra is no longer just for the zero-drop cult; they are coming for the masses, and with the VIA 2, they might finally have the max-cushion cruiser to do it.
As a running shoe reviewer, I’ve seen brands fumble the first version of a shoe only to come back swinging with the sequel. The original Altra FWD VIA was… confusing. It promised max cushion but felt like a brick. It offered a rocker but felt clunky. I’m here to break down whether the Altra FWD VIA 2 finally delivers on the promise of a soft, low-drop cruiser.
Here is the brutal, honest truth about the Altra FWD VIA 2.
- Soft, protective, high-stack ride
- Excellent, roomy toe splaye
- Wide base equals stability
- Upper runs uncomfortably warm
- Lacks pop, slow cruising only
- Poor lockdown for narrow feet
Altra FWD VIA 2 is a reliable long-distance workhorse that perfectly blends Altra's signature wide toe box with a 4mm drop for runners who want ultimate comfort without the strain of a zero-drop shoe.
Key specifications:
Brand: Altra
Model: FWD Via 2
Weight: 9.8 oz. (278 g) for US 9 model
Heel: 37 mm
Toe: 33 mm
Heel drop: 4 mm
Carbon plate: No plate
Price of Altra FWD VIA 2
Introduction: Altra FWD VIA 2
The FWD VIA 2 is Altra’s dedicated “max cushion” road shoe that features a 4mm drop. This is a departure from Altra’s traditional zero-drop philosophy, placing it in their “Forward” (FWD) or “Experience” category. It is designed for runners who want the signature Altra foot-shaped toe box but need a little heel elevation to relieve stress on the Achilles and calves. This model is strictly a daily trainer meant for eating up road miles comfortably, not for running fast.
How is it different from the Altra FWD VIA (v1)?
The difference is night and day, specifically in the ride quality.
- Softer Foam: The v1 was criticized universally for being harsh and firm despite looking like a max-cushion shoe. The v2’s EGO™ P35 foam is significantly softer (claimed 19% softer) and makes the shoe actually comfortable for long runs.
- Better Flow: The rocker on the v2 feels smoother. The v1 felt “slappy” and disjointed; the v2 rolls you forward more naturally.
- Heavier (Slightly): Paradoxically, the v2 might feel slightly bulkier due to the plush upper and dense foam, but the trade-off for actual cushioning is worth it.
Upper
The upper uses an engineered spacer mesh that is thick, plush, and clearly built for comfort over weight savings.
The Good: It screams “premium.” The tongue is incredibly plush (bordering on too thick for some), and the heel collar is packed with padding to prevent slipping. The “Original FootShape” fit is genuinely wide. If you have bunions or just hate squished toes, this is a sanctuary for your feet.
The Bad: It runs warm. The mesh is dense, and in high heat, your feet might feel like they are in a sauna. Additionally, because the volume is so high, runners with low-volume (shallow) feet might struggle to get a tight lockdown without bunching up the laces.
Midsole
This is my favorite part of show reviewing.
The Tech: Altra swapped the firm foam of version 1 for the new EGO™ P35 foam. This is a nitrogen-infused supercritical foam.
The Feel: This is a massive improvement. The previous version felt like running on hardened clay; the VIA 2 actually compresses. It provides a soft, protective landing that isolates your legs from the pavement. However, do not expect a “super shoe” bounce. It is soft but behaves more like a shock absorber than a trampoline. The rocker geometry is present to help roll you through your stride, which is necessary because the thick stack of foam makes the shoe fairly stiff.
Outsole
Altra didn’t skimp here. There is a generous amount of rubber covering the high-wear areas. Performance: Grip is solid on wet and dry roads. The durability looks excellent; this shoe should easily last 400+ miles. The downside is that this rubber adds weight, contributing to the shoe’s overall heaviness.
Who is this shoe for?
- The Altra Fan: If you love Altra but your calves are tired of zero-drop, this 4mm drop is the perfect transition.
- The Recovery Runner: Perfect for the day after a hard workout when your legs are trash and you just want to jog slowly in something soft.
- The Wide-Footed Runner: Few max-cushion shoes offer this much room in the forefoot.
Verdict
The Altra FWD VIA 2 is a successful course correction. It is not the most exciting shoe you will ever wear, and it certainly isn’t fast. However, it is a reliable, protective, and comfortable workhorse. If the first version disappointed you with its firmness, the VIA 2 deserves a second chance. It finally competes with shoes like the Hoka Bondi or Brooks Ghost Max, offering a similar protective ride but with a much better toe box.
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Prateek is the founder of Athletico, a Toronto-based running community of over 90,000+ running enthusiasts. A lifelong running gear nerd, Prateek has been testing and reviewing running shoes since 2021, with a focus on honest, real-world performance rather than marketing hype.
With 20+ 10K races, four half marathons, and a first full marathon planned for April 2026, Prateek brings both experience and curiosity to every review. From daily trainers to race-day shoes, each product is tested on the road, track, and long runs because the best insights come from miles, not spec sheets.
Through in-depth reviews and practical buying guides, Prateek helps runners make smarter choices about their gear, train with confidence, and enjoy the process of running a little more.