Altra is a well-known footwear brand with many high-quality and reliable running shoes with zero drop and wide-toe boxes, but the best among all others is Altra Rivera. This LINE has many new models, such as Altra Rivera 2 and 3.
Both these footwear are designed to offer utmost comfort, balanced cushioning and a barefoot-like feel while running and walking. But the question is which Rivera shoe is better, either Rivera 2 or 3.
To answer this question in detail, I have designed this article. So let’s start with a comparison of both shoes to know which is pricier, more stable and flexible for better running experience.
Comparison Table Between Altra Rivera 2 vs 3:
| Features | Altra Rivera 2 | Altra Rivera 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Launched In | 2022 | 2023 |
| Stability | Less stable | More stable |
| Flexibility | More flexible | Less flexible |
| Sizing | 7-14 for men and 6-12 for women | 7-15 for men and 5.5-12 for women |
| Weight | 8.1 oz for men and 6.6 oz for women | 9.8 oz for men and 8.2 oz for women |
| Cushion | Less cushioned | More cushioning |
| Outsole | Rubber and foot pod | FootPod |
| Midsole | Neutral inner flex technology and Altra EGO foam | Altra EGO |
| Upper sole | Engineered mesh upper | Layered mesh |
| Retail Price | $130 | $140 |
Altra Rivera 2 Vs 3: Good, Bad and The Worst:
Now you have an idea about both shoes, their price, size, weight and materials used. It is the time to go through the main differences between these two shoes:
1) Comfort
Both Altra Rivera 2 and 3 are comfortable shoes, but their comfort level varies from one another, which means one is more comfortable than the other.
Altra Rivera 2 has less cushioning midsole, which makes this shoe more responsive and enhances natural foot gait, while the thin upper of Rivera 2 enhances foot movement.
Altra Rivera 3 has a cushioning and soft midsole, which provide more comfort on the ground or trails, while the thick upper of Rivera 3 provides protection and support to your feet while running.
It means Rivera 3 is more comfortable than 2 because of the soft midsole and thick upper.
2) Popularity
When it comes to the popularity of both shoes, overall both shoes are famous but Altra Rivera 3 is more popular than 2 because the new version has some updates such as utmost comfort and versatility.
Altra Rivera 2 is famous because it is lightweight and more responsive than 3, which allows natural foot movement while running.
Altra Rivera 3 is famous because of its comfortable and cushioned midsole with high stack height, breathable upper, and wide fit, which make it more popular than Rivera 2.
3) Running
Altra Rivera 2 and 3 offer excellent running experiences but Rivera 2 is more famous for running because it is lightweight, which attracts runners who want to run for long miles on the road, provides a natural running feel with a zero drop feature, and is perfect for all-day training activities.
Altra Rivera 3 provides a smooth and soft ride because of extra cushioning and zero drop that attracts runners who prefer minimalist shoes with balanced cushioning, but the only drawback is that the wide toe box of these shoes may feel tight to some runners in the midfoot.
4) Walking
Both Altra Rivera 2 and 3 are neutral daily trainers and runners which are also good for walking because of the comfort, cushioning and versatility these shoes provide on the ground.
However, Altra Rivera 3 is more suitable for walking because of extra balanced cushioning to enhance shock absorption and breathable mesh upper that keeps feet comfortable and cool all day.
5) Flat feet
All Altra shoes, including Rivera, are perfect for flat feet because of zero drop and wide toe box with ample cushioning. All these factors reduce pressure on the feet and enhance stability, which makes shoes supportive and comfortable while running and walking with flat feet.
6) Design
Altra Rivera 2 has a streamlined design with an engineered mesh upper that allows the feet to stay comfortable, dry, and cool while running on all types of terrain, even wet. The Speedform Fit knit upper construction also makes these shoes comfortable with a snug fit.
The midsole of Altra Rivera 2 is equipped with Neutral Innerflex technology and Altra EGO foam, which make shoes lightweight and provide balanced cushioning that can enhance foot alignment and form.
The outsole of Altra Rivera 2 is made from continental rubber and foot pod technology that enhances durability, traction and flexibility on all types of terrains.
Altra Rivera 3 has a minimalist design with layered upper mesh for increased airflow along the shoes and speed foam knit upper construction for enhanced support and secure fit.
The midsole of Rivera 3 is made from Altra EGO Max for a softer and more responsive feel compared to Rivera 2.
The outsole is also equipped with foot pod technology, rubber and wavesole pattern for enhanced traction, flexibility and response.
What do customers think?
Altra Rivera 2 and 3 are perfect shoes for almost every runner type, but there are some things better in Rivera 2, while other things are perfect in Rivera 3. So to make you clear of these factors, I have compiled customer reviews. So let’s go:
Altra Rivera 2: Customers love the wide toe box and sizing of these shoes, but they also feel disappointed that the toe box is not so tall at the shoe front, which makes the shoe feel small and imperfect for long road and track runs.
A customer also said that the laces are thin and loose after some time, and the underfoot cushioning is something bad with a less breathable mesh upper that makes these shoes imperfect on hot days.
Some people are happy with the wide toe box and zero drop of Rivera 2 which make these shoes perfect for short runs.
Many people like the fit and size of these shoes, which make them great and comfortable for all-day runs.
Altra Rivera 3: Customers consider these shoes very comfortable, but they also report that they are not as flexible and breathable as Altra claims.
For some customers, laces are slippery and loosen as Rivera 2 but overall the shoes are perfect for daily runs but not more than 250 miles.
People also like the comfortable fit and size, which make these shoes perfect for long walks, easy hikes, and short trips.
The shoes are also perfect for people with wide feet because of the wide toe box, and the colors and design of these shoes are also the love of many runners.
Conclusion: Which Is Better For You??
Which shoes are better? Are you still confused about both the running shoes of Altra? Rivera 2 and 3 are designed as running shoes because of the wide toe box and zero drop effect, which make both footwear perfect for daily runs and walks.
However, Altra Rivera 3 is better than Rivera 2 because these shoes offer extra cushioning and support on all types of terrains. Also, the customer reviews revealed that these shoes are the love of many runners because of their true size, fit, toe box, and support.
But before making a purchase, keep your running needs and preferences in mind then choose the shoes.