Customer Reviews Altra Provision 5

I bartend. This is my 5th pair of Altra’s. I feel like they keep everything in line with the zero drop technology. My feet are narrow and these seem to run just a bit more narrow than their provision predecessors, but for me this is a good thing. I’m on my feet 10 hour days and when I’m done they might be tired but they never hurt. I also had a back injury that was bothering me and after wearing these for two days (no break in period needed) my back was even feeling better. I have high arches. These shoes support natural arch support and I find that they are really the only brand I care to purchase. The downside is I wear them everyday - I rinse them off twice a week and so they don’t last long. I can make a pair last about 8 months to a year and then I have to repurchase, but I don’t mind because the relief and alignment they provide are well worth the trade off. This is my 3rd pair of provisions and I’ve had two pairs of the off peak high top all weather hikers. These shoes do what shoes are supposed to do. Support overall posture and alignment so your body can feel better being active.

This was smaller and possibly narrower than other Altras I've bought in the past, so I had to return the item. However, I was amazed at the extremely short shoe laces provided, a definite minus, even if they had fit properly. No room at all for a runner's knot--that is, I tried to do this, and there too little left over to tie the shoes! This seemed strangely stingy. Since the fit was too snug for me, it is actually hard to assess how these would have been a half size larger, although the laces were a real turnoff.

When they arrived, the shoelaces were damaged- frayed at the end and I couldn't lace - so I didn't make a big deal and just switched them out, as you can see, but after wearing them 4 or 5 times, I tripped on a pickle ball court because the bottom layer (orange - see photo) was unglued. Unacceptable. Obviously someone had sent these back damaged and they came right back to me. Unusual for Zappos but completely unacceptable.

Not the usual Altra’s wide toe box

Appreciated that on these don't look as boxy as others in this category. Two things bugged me enough to return though: The width around the ball of the foot was a bit snug over bunions. The top is stretchy but in the past I find if it stretches too much it will wear and fray. Also found these too cushy. Like walking on a life preserver.

This is the first pair of shoes I have bought that I did not have to "break in" - they are the most comfortable sneakers I have ever owned.

Everything about these shoes is perfect for me! A year after a foot injury and surgery that I will never completely recover from, I need a shoe that offers support and cushioning. I am not a runner but I am a walker in these shoes.