Altra Timp 5 Boa review: the most comfortable running shoe with a unique lacing system that you must try
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Altra Timp 5 Boa: A two-minute review
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Yes, completely different shoes from the Inov-8. Altra’s hallmarks are a very wide toe box and zero drop – two features I appreciate and drew my attention to the brand in the first place.
However, it was the unique assembly system of the ‘Boa’ version of the Timp 5’s that peaked my curiosity. Replacing traditional laces, there is a dial that tightens and loosens the lace, allowing for quick and precise adjustments. Like ski boots.
I was worried about how well this system would work, expecting the cord to always be loose, but those worries were unfounded after a couple of weeks of 5 mile hikes, rolling hills and all kinds of terrain.
Quick and easy repairs are a breeze with this strapping system, which was a godsend because I broke two fingers during the review (unrelated, I promise – I packed it in the skate park when I rolled back the years on my daughter’s scooter), and I had limited use of one hand.
So I’ve settled on Timp 5 Boa’s because the traditional dials were tricky, but this dial is controllable with one hand.
I like the look of the Timp 5 Boas too, although the mesh upper is difficult to clean after a muddy trail run so it’s smart for later use as a day shoe.
And at 10oz / 286g, they’re heavier than a typical running shoe – I found them a little slow on the run (compared to those lighter Inov-8 shoes), so my pace was slower than I’d like.
I tend to drop shoes, but I found a little strain on my achilles after logging miles in those Altra shoes. You may not be affected in the same way.
A photo 1 of 5
The stretchy ‘sock’ fabric would cut off the outside of my ankle on occasion, too, if I placed the tightness incorrectly on my feet. Again, that may not be a problem for you.
I don’t think I’ve found my new fast-trail shoes, sadly, but the Timp 5 Boa’s are very comfortable and durable. These are my new top picks for long days on my feet, and I will definitely get a lot of use out of them.
The Altra Timp 5 Boa’s cost $185 / £155 on the Altra website, but you can find discounted prices at some leading retailers – I’ve seen 40% off even at the time of writing, which sounds reasonable.
Altra Timp 5 Boa: Details
|
Element |
Altra Timp 5 Boa |
|
Weight: |
10oz / 286g |
|
Top: |
Quick drying air mesh |
|
Sorry |
Altra EGO™ MAX |
|
Outsole |
Vibram® Megagrip |
|
Heel to toe drop |
0 mm |
Altra Timp 5 Boa: Scorecard
|
Section |
Comment |
The result |
|
Price |
There is no discount at the time of writing at Altra, and it is very expensive |
4/5 |
|
Design |
The wide toe box gives the feet room to breathe, the zero heel drop may not suit everyone |
4.5/5 |
|
Features |
The unique lacing system works with the beauty of minimal maintenance and firm support, the Vibram midsole adds durability. |
4.5/5 |
|
Working |
Very comfortable, but not a fast shoe |
4/5 |
Altra Timp 5 Boa: Should I buy?
Buy if…
Don’t buy if…
Think again
Altra Timp 5 Boa: how I tested
- Used as my first everyday shoe and running shoe for 1 month
- My normal running distance was 25km a week
- I ran in mixed places; technical paths, footpaths and roads, flat and hilly, and used these as everyday shoes
I’ve been very comfortable in the Altra Timp 5 Boa’s for a month, using them as my everyday shoe for walking, hiking and commuting. I also completed a lot of races – about three a week for a month, with an average weekly distance of around 25km.
I live in the mountainous countryside and most of the running I do involves mixed terrain and I run in all types of weather. I have run on trails, footpaths and roads; wet and dry; flat and hilly. Almost any situation you can imagine.
First updated: December 2025
