Released today (Oct 1st 2025), the Altra FWD VIA 2 is amongst Altra’s most cushioned road shoe to date, and it leans hard into that “max comfort” identity.
If you’ve run in the Experience Flow 2, this one will feel familiar, but with more soft underfoot protection thanks to more of that new EGO™ P35 midsole foam.
I’ve been using it for easy runs and recovery days, and I think it really shines for those steady-effort, build-the-base kind of sessions.
There are some clear strengths here, like the softer, smoother ride and surprisingly stable platform, but it’s not a shoe I’d reach for when speed is the goal.
Still, for marathon training or daily miles where comfort is king, this one delivers.
Key specifications
- Price: $165 at altrarunning.com
- Weight: 9.8oz / 278g (US men’s size 9)
- Drop: 4mm (Stack Height: 37mm heel / 33mm forefoot)
- Upper: Engineered mesh with reinforced weave around toe box edges
- Midsole: Well balanced Altra EGO™ P35 foam
- Outsole: Rubber with extra coverage vs. Experience Flow 2
- Extra attributes:
- Subtle rocker shape geometry
- FootShape™ Fit (Altra’s roomiest toe box)
- APMA Certified (promotes good foot health)
Sizing and fit
The FWD VIA 2 fits true to size with a secure midfoot and heel lockdown. Altra’s Original FootShape™ toe box gives your toes space to splay.
The padded collars and heel counter help the upper disappear once you're moving. It feels nicely dialed in, even with the softness underfoot.
I also appreciate the elastic finger loop at the rear but it would benefit from a vertical orientation.
Performance review
If you’re after a fast shoe with snappy turnover, this isn’t it but that’s not the point of the FWD VIA 2.
What it does do well is soak up impact and deliver consistent, gentle comfort across longer distances.
The new EGO™ P35 foam, also used in the Altra Experience Flow 2 (the more traditional daily trainer sibling to this one), is the highlight of the show.
Alastair Dixon
It feels soft without being mushy, and there's enough structure underfoot to keep things stable even when legs are tired.
That balance makes it ideal for recovery runs, marathon base mileage, and those back-to-back long training days where you’re trying to keep fatigue at bay. You can even run a marathon in them if you're not interested in chasing PRs.
Compared to the Experience Flow 2, the FWD VIA 2 clearly adds more cushioning and a bit more heft, but it still feels surprisingly light for a shoe this padded and cushioned. Below is a picture of the two side by side:
FWD VIA 2 (left), Experience Flow 2 (right)
I appreciate the added outsole rubber, it grips well on wet pavement and adds a feeling of sure-footedness when cruising through relaxed miles.
Transitions feel natural thanks to the rocker geometry, though it’s worth noting the heel rubber doesn’t have the same rounded shaping the Experience Flow 2 does, so landings are more dependent on that rocker + foam behavior.
Breathability isn’t great, but that works in its favor during colder training months. I could see it feeling stuffy in summer, though. I also appreciate the upper's reinforced / tighter knit areas around the toe box.
This isn’t a shoe I’d use for tempo runs but it complements a rotation nicely, especially if you’ve got tempo shoes for speed workouts.
This is the one you’ll want when your legs need a break, but your training plan still says “run.”
Alastair Dixon
My verdict
The Altra FWD VIA 2 is a super comfortable, max-cushioned daily trainer best suited for runners who prioritize protection and ease over speed.
It’s dependable and easy to enjoy, especially if you’re logging higher mileage or prepping for a marathon.
The EGO P35 foam is a real win, offering softness without compromising on stability, and the roomy toe box and plush upper make it feel great even deep into a run.
It’s a natural fit for anyone already in Altra’s lineup who wants more cushion than the Experience Flow 2, or anyone seeking a soft, neutral daily trainer that helps keep fatigue in check over time.
