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Carbon-plated running shoes have been all the rage over the past couple of years, with countless brands crafting their takes on the matter. Having been around for over a decade now, Altra is one of the leaders in the running game, but it had yet to dip its toe, so to speak, in the world of plated shoes. But now that day has come with the debut of the Vanish Carbon.
Serving as Altra’s first speed shoe to date, this new release is intended for long-distance runners. Thanks to the humble Utah shoemaker’s proprietary Altra EGO PRO midsole foam, the Vanish Carbons provide optimized cushioning with every stride you take. By partnering with Carbitex, the brand has also implemented a unique carbon half-plate that responds to your foot, flexing as you do, resulting in an additional boost.
The performance label’s innovation doesn’t stop there, however, as we haven’t even begun to mention its FootShape tech. By dissecting structural differences between men and women, the Vanish Carbon will perfectly form to your foot in due time. Weighing a mere 7.3 ounces with a stack height of just above 1 inch, rest assured that the shoes provide incredible support, regardless of the minimal composition.
The new shoes come available in a single colorway, which Altra has dubbed “Coral/Black,” but are rounded out with gold branding, deeming them an Olympic-worthy pair from heel to toe. Altra’s Vanish Carbon speed shoes are available now on the brand’s online store for $240.