Chase your new personal record in the Altra Vanish Carbon. The carbon plate in the Vanish gives your foot the propulsion it needs to reach maximum speed so you can run faster than ever before. Itrsquos shaped with a three-prong fork to let your feet to splay naturally and improves flexibility in the forefoot without sacrificing the pop that a carbon plate adds to your stride. The EGO PRO midsole material is Altrarsquos lightest and most responsive foam. This makes the shoe soft and cushioned, while still giving you an amazing energy return that powers you to the finish line faster. The Vanish Carbon also has an active stance rocker that rolls you through your stride quicker. This shoe stays true to Altrarsquos signature features and philosophy. It has balance cushioning with a zero heel-to-toe drop that allows for optimal alignment, cultivates better form and encourages a low-impact landing. To give your big toe the ability to remain in a straight position for maximum power and stability, a FootShapedtrade toe box accentuates the natural shape of your foot and lets your toes splay. The upper consists of a highly breathable, lightweight engineered mesh. So yoursquore ready for race day, it still has Altrarsquos wide toe box, but fits a bit slimmer for a locked-in feel throughout the midfoot compared to other Altras. The Altra Vanish Carbon will have you speeding by your competition.
Chase your new personal record in the Altra Vanish Carbon. The carbon plate in the Vanish gives your foot the propulsion it needs to reach maximum speed so you can run faster than ever before. Itrsquos shaped with a three-prong fork to let your feet to splay naturally and improves flexibility in the forefoot without sacrificing the pop that a carbon plate adds to your stride. The EGO PRO midsole material is Altrarsquos lightest and most responsive foam. This makes the shoe soft and cushioned, while still giving you an amazing energy return that powers you to the finish line faster. The Vanish Carbon also has an active stance rocker that rolls you through your stride quicker. This shoe stays true to Altrarsquos signature features and philosophy. It has balance cushioning with a zero heel-to-toe drop that allows for optimal alignment, cultivates better form and encourages a low-impact landing. To give your big toe the ability to remain in a straight position for maximum power and stability, a FootShapedtrade toe box accentuates the natural shape of your foot and lets your toes splay. The upper consists of a highly breathable, lightweight engineered mesh. So yoursquore ready for race day, it still has Altrarsquos wide toe box, but fits a bit slimmer for a locked-in feel throughout the midfoot compared to other Altras. The Altra Vanish Carbon will have you speeding by your competition.
Chase your new personal record in the Altra Vanish Carbon. The carbon plate in the Vanish gives your foot the propulsion it needs to reach maximum speed so you can run faster than ever before. Itrsquos shaped with a three-prong fork to let your feet to splay naturally and improves flexibility in the forefoot without sacrificing the pop that a carbon plate adds to your stride. The EGO PRO midsole material is Altrarsquos lightest and most responsive foam. This makes the shoe soft and cushioned, while still giving you an amazing energy return that powers you to the finish line faster. The Vanish Carbon also has an active stance rocker that rolls you through your stride quicker. This shoe stays true to Altrarsquos signature features and philosophy. It has balance cushioning with a zero heel-to-toe drop that allows for optimal alignment, cultivates better form and encourages a low-impact landing. To give your big toe the ability to remain in a straight position for maximum power and stability, a FootShapedtrade toe box accentuates the natural shape of your foot and lets your toes splay. The upper consists of a highly breathable, lightweight engineered mesh. So yoursquore ready for race day, it still has Altrarsquos wide toe box, but fits a bit slimmer for a locked-in feel throughout the midfoot compared to other Altras. The Altra Vanish Carbon will have you speeding by your competition.
Chase your new personal record in the Altra Vanish Carbon. The carbon plate in the Vanish gives your foot the propulsion it needs to reach maximum speed so you can run faster than ever before. Itrsquos shaped with a three-prong fork to let your feet to splay naturally and improves flexibility in the forefoot without sacrificing the pop that a carbon plate adds to your stride. The EGO PRO midsole material is Altrarsquos lightest and most responsive foam. This makes the shoe soft and cushioned, while still giving you an amazing energy return that powers you to the finish line faster. The Vanish Carbon also has an active stance rocker that rolls you through your stride quicker. This shoe stays true to Altrarsquos signature features and philosophy. It has balance cushioning with a zero heel-to-toe drop that allows for optimal alignment, cultivates better form and encourages a low-impact landing. To give your big toe the ability to remain in a straight position for maximum power and stability, a FootShapedtrade toe box accentuates the natural shape of your foot and lets your toes splay. The upper consists of a highly breathable, lightweight engineered mesh. So yoursquore ready for race day, it still has Altrarsquos wide toe box, but fits a bit slimmer for a locked-in feel throughout the midfoot compared to other Altras. The Altra Vanish Carbon will have you speeding by your competition.
Last updated at 02/27/2026 02:10:52
Altra Vanish Carbon Womens Dark Purple US 8.5 Carbon Half-Plated Slim FootShape Fit
Free delivery between 3–10 Mar
originally posted on altrarunning.com
I only wear Altra shoes and love the original fit of Altra. As an obstacle course racer I typically wear the Lone Peak for racing, Escalante for road training and Solstice for gym work but have been wanting to try the new carbon technology for longer road runs. This shoe fits great, I didn't have any heel rubbing or tongue issues other reviewers mentioned and I wore these straight out of the box for 8 mile run and then a 10 miler the following week. The shoe has great return and I feel the rocker motion in a beneficial way. I felt a little more soreness in unexpected places which my guess is from the carbon plate, but nothing that lasted longer than a few twinges during the run.I wear a 9 in most Altra except the Rivera and I sized up to 9.5 based on reviews and it ... MoreI only wear Altra shoes and love the original fit of Altra. As an obstacle course racer I typically wear the Lone Peak for racing, Escalante for road training and Solstice for gym work but have been wanting to try the new carbon technology for longer road runs. This shoe fits great, I didn't have any heel rubbing or tongue issues other reviewers mentioned and I wore these straight out of the box for 8 mile run and then a 10 miler the following week. The shoe has great return and I feel the rocker motion in a beneficial way. I felt a little more soreness in unexpected places which my guess is from the carbon plate, but nothing that lasted longer than a few twinges during the run.I wear a 9 in most Altra except the Rivera and I sized up to 9.5 based on reviews and it fits with room. Love the bright orange color. I would definitely buy these again and I'm tempted to try the Vanish Tempo after liking these so much
originally posted on altrarunning.com
My everyday trainers have been Altras for a couple years now- mostly recently the Provision 6 and Timp 3, but also now the Vanish Tempo. And I've tried carbon foot-plate shoes from other brands. My takeaway has consistently been that I love the feel of the carbon footplate for special occasions (races), but have always felt that my poor toes get smooshed together. Enter the Vanish Carbons! I love them. Super lightweight and so much fun to run in. I had to order a half size up compared to my Provision 6 and Timp 3 (went from a womens 8 to a womens 8.5, so that's something to consider. Highly recommend these for race day!
originally posted on altrarunning.com
The 2 stars are for the sole. There is zero structure to the top of the shoe the tongue is a hot mess, and the heal has the same weird thing that happens with the new monte blanc shoes, it slips. If altra could just fix the upper portion it might be a $199 price point, but current price point is not worth it. I have several $50-70 less expensive carbon shoes that out perform. Also, after 5 miles the sole is already starting to wear through the colored tracks...zero durability.more details below:I was really excited to get these shoes as a Spring splurge. While the carbon sole does increase my running turnover (maybe 10sec over a mile), there is zero structure to the rest of the shoe..which doesn't make any sense in relationship to the cushion and design of the ... MoreThe 2 stars are for the sole. There is zero structure to the top of the shoe the tongue is a hot mess, and the heal has the same weird thing that happens with the new monte blanc shoes, it slips. If altra could just fix the upper portion it might be a $199 price point, but current price point is not worth it. I have several $50-70 less expensive carbon shoes that out perform. Also, after 5 miles the sole is already starting to wear through the colored tracks...zero durability.more details below:I was really excited to get these shoes as a Spring splurge. While the carbon sole does increase my running turnover (maybe 10sec over a mile), there is zero structure to the rest of the shoe..which doesn't make any sense in relationship to the cushion and design of the shoe. I would say that this is stand fit and not slim...the heel cup has the similar slip issues as the Monte Bloc, and the tongue is pretty terrible (folds/slips). I would not use this shoe for anything that requires a transition; it is a pain to put on. I have similar carbon shoes from other shoe companies that were at a $50-70 price point difference that out perform these shoes and are far more comfortable to run in. I really wanted to like these and had purchased them specifically for an upcoming race. they are overpriced and have zero structure. They also have zero durability. The soles were coming off after 5 miles. This is a miss for team Altra, and I'm tired of seeing positive reviews from people that are compensated for their reviews. This shoe could be a win if it had more structure and was priced below $200.
| ARCH SUPPORT | Support |
| TERRAIN | Road |
| PURPOSE | Running |
| WEIGHT PAIR | 7.3 oz / 206 g |
Altra Vanish Carbon Womens Dark Purple US 8.5 Carbon Half-Plated Slim FootShape Fit
Free delivery between 3–10 Mar
I only wear Altra shoes and love the original fit of Altra. As an obstacle course racer I typically wear the Lone Peak for racing, Escalante for road training and Solstice for gym work but have been wanting to try the new carbon technology for longer road runs. This shoe fits great, I didn't have any heel rubbing or tongue issues other reviewers mentioned and I wore these straight out of the box for 8 mile run and then a 10 miler the following week. The shoe has great return and I feel the rocker motion in a beneficial way. I felt a little more soreness in unexpected places which my guess is from the carbon plate, but nothing that lasted longer than a few twinges during the run.I wear a 9 in most Altra except the Rivera and I sized up to 9.5 based on reviews and it ... MoreI only wear Altra shoes and love the original fit of Altra. As an obstacle course racer I typically wear the Lone Peak for racing, Escalante for road training and Solstice for gym work but have been wanting to try the new carbon technology for longer road runs. This shoe fits great, I didn't have any heel rubbing or tongue issues other reviewers mentioned and I wore these straight out of the box for 8 mile run and then a 10 miler the following week. The shoe has great return and I feel the rocker motion in a beneficial way. I felt a little more soreness in unexpected places which my guess is from the carbon plate, but nothing that lasted longer than a few twinges during the run.I wear a 9 in most Altra except the Rivera and I sized up to 9.5 based on reviews and it fits with room. Love the bright orange color. I would definitely buy these again and I'm tempted to try the Vanish Tempo after liking these so much
My everyday trainers have been Altras for a couple years now- mostly recently the Provision 6 and Timp 3, but also now the Vanish Tempo. And I've tried carbon foot-plate shoes from other brands. My takeaway has consistently been that I love the feel of the carbon footplate for special occasions (races), but have always felt that my poor toes get smooshed together. Enter the Vanish Carbons! I love them. Super lightweight and so much fun to run in. I had to order a half size up compared to my Provision 6 and Timp 3 (went from a womens 8 to a womens 8.5, so that's something to consider. Highly recommend these for race day!
The 2 stars are for the sole. There is zero structure to the top of the shoe the tongue is a hot mess, and the heal has the same weird thing that happens with the new monte blanc shoes, it slips. If altra could just fix the upper portion it might be a $199 price point, but current price point is not worth it. I have several $50-70 less expensive carbon shoes that out perform. Also, after 5 miles the sole is already starting to wear through the colored tracks...zero durability.more details below:I was really excited to get these shoes as a Spring splurge. While the carbon sole does increase my running turnover (maybe 10sec over a mile), there is zero structure to the rest of the shoe..which doesn't make any sense in relationship to the cushion and design of the ... MoreThe 2 stars are for the sole. There is zero structure to the top of the shoe the tongue is a hot mess, and the heal has the same weird thing that happens with the new monte blanc shoes, it slips. If altra could just fix the upper portion it might be a $199 price point, but current price point is not worth it. I have several $50-70 less expensive carbon shoes that out perform. Also, after 5 miles the sole is already starting to wear through the colored tracks...zero durability.more details below:I was really excited to get these shoes as a Spring splurge. While the carbon sole does increase my running turnover (maybe 10sec over a mile), there is zero structure to the rest of the shoe..which doesn't make any sense in relationship to the cushion and design of the shoe. I would say that this is stand fit and not slim...the heel cup has the similar slip issues as the Monte Bloc, and the tongue is pretty terrible (folds/slips). I would not use this shoe for anything that requires a transition; it is a pain to put on. I have similar carbon shoes from other shoe companies that were at a $50-70 price point difference that out perform these shoes and are far more comfortable to run in. I really wanted to like these and had purchased them specifically for an upcoming race. they are overpriced and have zero structure. They also have zero durability. The soles were coming off after 5 miles. This is a miss for team Altra, and I'm tired of seeing positive reviews from people that are compensated for their reviews. This shoe could be a win if it had more structure and was priced below $200.
I do like this new Vanish shoe, and was glad to have it for my recent May marathon. But, it has some issues that dropped it from a 4 start to a 3 star for me. A previous review mentioned that the "fin" in the back of the shoe by the Achilles sliced into the heel. I also experienced this during my marathon. That part of the shoe is not flexible like you would typically find, and it created a painful and bleeding sore during my marathon. Over a month later, I still have a scab that is not completely healed. Regarding the sizing and fit, I actually appreciated that the upper wasn't as tight. I've had issues with recent Altra shoes being to "narrow" or tight from top to bottom, resulting in my toes going numb, so I actually liked non-constricting upper mesh. I went up a ... MoreI do like this new Vanish shoe, and was glad to have it for my recent May marathon. But, it has some issues that dropped it from a 4 start to a 3 star for me. A previous review mentioned that the "fin" in the back of the shoe by the Achilles sliced into the heel. I also experienced this during my marathon. That part of the shoe is not flexible like you would typically find, and it created a painful and bleeding sore during my marathon. Over a month later, I still have a scab that is not completely healed. Regarding the sizing and fit, I actually appreciated that the upper wasn't as tight. I've had issues with recent Altra shoes being to "narrow" or tight from top to bottom, resulting in my toes going numb, so I actually liked non-constricting upper mesh. I went up a half size because it was recommended in online reviews, but you might want to stick with your normal size if you wanted more of a snug feel. I also experienced the bleeding of black dye on my socks, less of an issue than the bleeding heal, but something to expect with this shoe. And just to put it out there - Altra, please make more road shoes with the original shoe shape!!
After running in Hokas for 8 years, I decided to try Altras because of the wide toe box. I have bunions and having a wide toe box feels great. There are 2 changes that I wish could be made for this shoe: 1. I wish the tongue could be incorporated into the upper so I don't have to unroll the sides when I slip the shoe on (I use it for triathlons) 2. The heel is way too wide! I feel like my heel slips out even if I try to lace it with the "marathon knot." I also use the Paradigm 6 for training runs which does not have this issue. The wide toe box is what keeps me in this shoe, but I wish they could improve the tongue and heel.
I'm an Altra fan, and I've worn and own quite a few pairs. Bought these immediately. I was surprised it's a slim fit, because once wrestling it on, it felt nearly baggy. I had a lot of lateral movement. Felt not unlike a Torin Plush (to me). Not only did the interior black tongue dye transfer onto everything - my socks, my skin, my hands (while taking it off), but the fin (I'll call it that) on the back of the shoe (by the Achilles) sliced into my left heel, leaving me bleeding onto my sock. It was such a strange experience. The shape of the left heel is actually different than the right (and I couldn't manage to make it flatten out). I took pics of everything, and emailed Customer Service. I am going to just guess there's some quality control issue. Also of note: ... MoreI'm an Altra fan, and I've worn and own quite a few pairs. Bought these immediately. I was surprised it's a slim fit, because once wrestling it on, it felt nearly baggy. I had a lot of lateral movement. Felt not unlike a Torin Plush (to me). Not only did the interior black tongue dye transfer onto everything - my socks, my skin, my hands (while taking it off), but the fin (I'll call it that) on the back of the shoe (by the Achilles) sliced into my left heel, leaving me bleeding onto my sock. It was such a strange experience. The shape of the left heel is actually different than the right (and I couldn't manage to make it flatten out). I took pics of everything, and emailed Customer Service. I am going to just guess there's some quality control issue. Also of note: one run in, and wow, the level of wear on this. I remember putting 600 miles on a pair of Kayenta. Those things seemed to live forever!
I was super excited to finally buy a pair of zero drop carbon plated shoes!!! Love my Altras, and these did not disappoint. I did not have any of the issues the other reviewers complained about except the color bleeding on my socks. No big deal for me. However, I will say that I don't expect these to last more than maybe 150-200 miles??? After two 10k races and a few trainings in them, the sole is already showing much more wear then I would expect. Especially at that price point!!! So that was a bummer. But otherwise, I am overall happy with the purchase.
When I first tried these on, I thought they were too cushiony, but after a day of walking in them, I got used to the feel and love them. I'm hoping that the cushiony feel lasts, and not like the old Rivera where the cushiony feel was gone after three months. Also, for some reason, these shoes do not look too wide, which is a plus.I would buy more of them in other colors, but I'm kind of tired of the neon colors and definitely tired of orange. My daughter says most altra shoes look like children shoes, and that is the only reason I have not purchased more of them. I think I look every week on this website to see if they have more adult colors.
I got this shoe not long ago at a marathon expo and just went straight in with them. I was suffering at the time with some soft tissue damage to my plantar fascia insertion point from stepping on a screw and needed something stiff. After trying on my traditional 7.5 (womens) size, I knew right away I needed half a size up due to the positioning of the arch. Keep in mind with the carbon plate, these are very stiff shoe! This comes with great responsiveness as a cushion. I got the 8, wore out of the box, and set a course PR for myself during the marathon. No issue at all! I'm sure a bit more of a learning and break in period would have been more ideal, but so far I have no complaints. I have tried on other carbon shoes, and these definitely have the Altra touch/feel ... MoreI got this shoe not long ago at a marathon expo and just went straight in with them. I was suffering at the time with some soft tissue damage to my plantar fascia insertion point from stepping on a screw and needed something stiff. After trying on my traditional 7.5 (womens) size, I knew right away I needed half a size up due to the positioning of the arch. Keep in mind with the carbon plate, these are very stiff shoe! This comes with great responsiveness as a cushion. I got the 8, wore out of the box, and set a course PR for myself during the marathon. No issue at all! I'm sure a bit more of a learning and break in period would have been more ideal, but so far I have no complaints. I have tried on other carbon shoes, and these definitely have the Altra touch/feel compared to the others and a little less aggressive. Can't wait to put these to more speed work.
I was really excited to get these shoes as a Spring splurge (that's a leap for price). While the carbon sole does increase my running turnover (maybe 10sec over a mile..and the gracious two stars I provided), there is zero structure to the rest of the shoe..which doesn't make any sense in relationship to the cushion and design of the shoe. I would say that this is stand fit and not slim...the heel cup has the similar slip issues as the Monte Blanc, and the tongue is pretty terrible (folds/slips). I would not use this shoe for anything that requires a transition; it is a pain to put on. I have similar carbon shoes from other shoe companies that were at a $50-70 price point difference that out perform these shoes and are far more comfortable to run in. I really wanted ... MoreI was really excited to get these shoes as a Spring splurge (that's a leap for price). While the carbon sole does increase my running turnover (maybe 10sec over a mile..and the gracious two stars I provided), there is zero structure to the rest of the shoe..which doesn't make any sense in relationship to the cushion and design of the shoe. I would say that this is stand fit and not slim...the heel cup has the similar slip issues as the Monte Blanc, and the tongue is pretty terrible (folds/slips). I would not use this shoe for anything that requires a transition; it is a pain to put on. I have similar carbon shoes from other shoe companies that were at a $50-70 price point difference that out perform these shoes and are far more comfortable to run in. I really wanted to like these and had purchased them specifically for an upcoming race. they are overpriced and have zero structure. They also have zero durability. The soles were coming off after 5 miles. This is a miss for team Altra, and I'm tired of seeing positive reviews from people that are compensated. This shoe could be a win if it had more structure and was priced below $200.
| ARCH SUPPORT | Support |
| TERRAIN | Road |
| PURPOSE | Running |
| WEIGHT PAIR | 7.3 oz / 206 g |
