Altra Experience Wild 2 Review: Tweaks to a Trail Favourite
Experience Wild 2: Quick Facts
Weight:
- M: 294g
- W: 249g
Best For:
- Mixed terrain.
- Trail runners wanting a versatile shoe.
Price:
- $270 AUD
Stack Height, Drop & Lugs:
- 32mm heel / 28mm forefoot
- 4mm drop
- 4mm lugs
Favourite Features:
- New upper, with added depth to the fit around the heel.
- Same reliable underfoot experience.
Release Date:
- June, 2025
What’s the Experience Wild 2 all about?
Altra has built its name on zero-drop, foot-shaped shoes and they’ve got a loyal following because of it. But not every runner is ready to commit to that low drop world, which is why the Experience series was such a game-changer for the brand. Introduced just last year, the Experience line brought a 4mm heel-to-toe drop and a slightly more traditional geometry to Altra’s offering, perfect for runners who are curious about the brand but not quite ready to go full zero-drop.
On the trail side, the original Experience Wild stood out for its comfort, versatility and approachable design. It featured a moderate stack height, Altra’s signature roomy toe box, and a geometry that encouraged smooth transitions on both road and trail. It became some of the team's favourite trail shoes last year.
Now with the Experience Wild 2, Altra hasn’t reinvented the model. Instead, they’ve made a few thoughtful refinements to improve durability, protection and fit, while keeping everything fans loved about the original intact.
There are 2 key updates in the Experience Wild 2
1) Trail-ready upgrades
The first Experience Wild had a road-to-trail feel, great for smoother surfaces but not quite as rugged as some of Altra’s other trail shoes. With version 2, Altra adds just enough trail specific features to make it feel more confident off-road.
There are increased TPU overlays across the toe and sides improve protection and upper durability. Whether you're tackling rocky singletrack or scrambling over loose terrain, your feet feel better shielded. An integrated GaiterTrap also joins the mix in version 2. It’s a small addition, but it means you can easily attach gaiters to keep dirt, dust, and small debris out when the trail gets messy.
These updates don’t weigh the shoe down, they just make it a bit more ready for whatever the trail throws your way.
2) Improved upper, deeper fit
Altra has made some subtle but meaningful updates to the upper to improve comfort and fit. There’s a new mesh upper: More breathable and flexible, helping reduce hotspots and keep airflow moving on warm or long days out. An additional lacing eyelet gives you more control over lockdown through the midfoot, so you can customise the fit more precisely, especially helpful for descending or cornering at speed.
One of the biggest updates to the fit is the deeper heel counter. It’s a welcome change, one of the drawbacks of version one.. The heel now feels more secure without adding pressure or stiffness, great for runners who found the previous version just a touch shallow.
Midsole carries over (and that’s a good thing)
Altra hasn’t touched the midsole and that’s great news for fans of the original. You still get the same smooth-riding, moderately stacked platform that defined the Experience Wild 1. The ride is soft enough for long days, stable enough for uneven ground and with that familiar 4mm drop geometry, it encourages a natural, efficient stride without diving all the way into zero-drop territory.
It’s the same balanced, easy-to-love feel underfoot, so if the original worked for you, this one will too.
Our first thoughts
Altra didn’t need to overhaul the Experience Wild and they didn’t. Instead, the Experience Wild 2 gets a thoughtful round of updates that improve durability, fit and trail-readiness while keeping the midsole and ride experience exactly the same.
That’s what makes this update feel like such a win, it takes a well-loved model and simply makes it better. More breathable, better protected, more secure and ready for a wider range of trails, all while keeping the same ride that made the original so popular.
If you liked version 1, you’ll feel right at home in version 2. And if you're new to Altra or trail running in general, this is a great entry point for anyone interested in a new trail shoe.
About the author
Seb Lopez - Trail Runner & Photographer
I’m passionate about trail running, hiking, adventure racing, and the outdoors in general. My favourite runs are long days spent with mates, exploring new places.
I also appreciate how different shoes allow me to connect with the terrain in unique ways and how that affects the running experience. When I’m not out on the trails, you’ll probably find me behind the camera as a sports photographer. It’s great to be on the other side and see the sport from a different angle.
