Is the Escalante Racer 2 good for beginners?

Only if you already run in low or zero-drop shoes. The firm 22mm stack and 0mm drop load the calves and Achilles, so new zero-drop runners should build up mileage slowly.

How does it differ from the regular Escalante?

It is lighter and leaner, with a firmer, more responsive ride and a lower stack. The standard Escalante is softer and more forgiving for daily training.

Can I use it for marathon racing?

It works for runners who prefer firm, low shoes, but most will want more cushioning over 26.2 miles. It is best for 5K to half-marathon efforts.

Does it fit true to size?

Most runners take their usual Altra size. The wide toe box gives room up front, so those between sizes often size down for a snugger heel.

Is it a stability shoe?

No. It is a neutral shoe with no posted support, so overpronators should look at Altra's stability models instead.

What is the drop and stack height?

It has a 0mm heel-to-toe drop and a 22mm stack height, which keeps you close to the ground.

Where is the Altra Men's Escalante Racer 2 cheapest?

At Amazon, for $89.99, 36% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

Where can I buy the Altra Men's Escalante Racer 2?

15 stores we checked sell it, including eBay, Relay, The Running Well Store, Runner's Republic, Marathon Sports.

Altra Men's Escalante Racer 2

Best price now

$89.99at AmazonChecked 1 h ago

36% under what the other stores charge

Compared across 15 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when. As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

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What reviewers say

Runners who like zero drop and a wide fit rate the Racer 2 as a fast, honest shoe with excellent ground feel. Many say the firm ride and thin cushioning limit it to shorter, harder efforts, and some find the knit upper runs warm or loose in the heel.

What people mention

Ride firmnessMixedRunners like the responsive, ground-connected feel but say it is too firm for easy or long miles.
Toe boxPraisedThe wide FootShape fit is the main draw, letting toes splay without rubbing.
WeightPraisedOwners notice how light it feels on fast efforts and race day.
Outsole durabilityCriticisedThe thin rubber wears quickly for high-mileage runners on rough roads.
Zero dropMixedFans of natural movement love it, but newcomers report calf and Achilles soreness during the transition.
Upper fitMixedThe knit breathes well but some find it loose around the heel or warm in heat.

About the Altra Men's Escalante Racer 2

The Altra Escalante Racer 2 is a road running shoe built for speedwork, road racing, and fast training runs. It keeps the simple design and FootShape fit of the Escalante in a leaner, lighter, more responsive build. The shoe weighs 8.8 oz (249 g).

The upper is an updated engineered knit that is breathable. The midsole uses Altra EGO foam, which is responsive and gives a direct connection to the ground with a touch of firmness. An InnerFlex midsole with grid-like grooves adds flexibility, and FootPod technology in the rubber outsole supports the foot's natural movement.

The shoe has a 0mm heel-to-toe drop and a low 22mm stack height for quick turnover. The FootShape fit gives a roomy toe box and space through the midfoot so the toes can move freely. Cushioning is low and support is neutral.

Best for

Road running, speedwork, and road racing

Upper

Engineered knit

Midsole

Altra EGO foam with InnerFlex grooves

Outsole

Rubber with FootPod technology

Drop

0mm heel-to-toe

Stack height

22mm