Altra Lone Peak 9 Review: 7 vs 8 vs 9 Comparison

The Altra Lone Peak 9 (LP9) has officially hit the market, and as an avid hiker, I was eager to put these hiking shoes to the test. Having logged serious miles in the Lone Peak 7 (LP7) and Lone Peak 8 (LP8), this Altra Lone Peak 9 review shares my honest take after challenging them on rugged trails, including a side-by-side comparison of the Lone Peak 9, Lone Peak 9+, and Lone Peak 9 Waterproof so you can quickly see which Altra Lone Peak is the best for hikers in 2025.

Why the Altra Lone Peak Series is a Hiker’s Favorite

I started my journey with the Altra Lone Peak 7, and from the very first hike, I knew I was a lifer. These shoes felt much lighter than my previous bulky hiking boots, giving me freedom on the trail. I could hike for endless miles without experiencing blisters or foot discomfort, a game-changer for someone who spends hours outdoors.

What makes the Lone Peak series ideal for hiking is its unmatched combination of comfort, durability, and traction. The wide toe box allows my feet to splay naturally, the zero drop platform encourages a more balanced stride, and the grippy outsole confidently handles all kinds of terrain.

After using both the Lone Peak 7 and Lone Peak 8, I’ve realized that I slightly prefer the Lone Peak 7. As I explained in my comparison review Altra Lone Peak 7 vs Lone Peak 8 models, I sometimes experience mild irritation on my outer left big toe with the Lone Peak 8, a quirk I’ve never encountered with the 7. That preference even led me to snag another pair of Lone Peak 7s when they were 40% off!

Now, I’ve just received the Lone Peak 9, and I’m super excited to hit the trails with them. I can’t wait to see how they perform and whether they’ll take the top spot in my Lone Peak lineup!

Altra Lone Peak 9 Review

Unboxing my Altra Lone Peak 9 felt like Christmas morning! There’s always something exciting about exploring the updates in a fresh pair of hiking shoes. The Lone Peak 9 immediately impressed me with its sleek, modern design, a clear visual upgrade from the Lone Peak 7 and 8.

A few standout features caught my eye: a newly added hook at the top for gaiter attachment enhances practicality, the redesigned toe box offers improved protection on the outer edge, the outsole boasts an upgrade for better traction, and the tongue is now seamlessly connected to the inner upper for a more secure fit.

The outsole also received visible changes, including a gap at the heel and what seems to be an improved MaxTrac outsole, engineered for enhanced grip and durability.

Altra’s signature FootShape fit is still a highlight. Its roomy toe box promotes natural movement and comfort, even on long hikes.

The new Stoneguard insert is a bonus, providing flexible underfoot protection from debris and rocky trails.

The Lone Peak 9 perfectly balances comfort and ground connection with its responsive Altra EGO midsole foam.

The Altra Lone Peak 9 features a new design element not found in previous models I owned: the tongue is connected to the inner upper of the shoe, providing a secure and seamless fit.

These updates clearly show that the Lone Peak 9 is built to handle tough terrain while keeping hikers comfortable, protected, and supported. I can’t wait to take these out on the trail!

Altra LP9 Comfort & Specs

• Best For: Trail running, hiking, thru-hiking
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
• Upper: 100% RPET ripstop mesh upper
• Midsole: Altra EGO™
• Outsole: MaxTrac™
• Weight: 9.3 oz / 263.65 g
• Cushion: Mid
• Stack Height: 25mm / 25mm
• Support: Neutral
• FootShape: Original

Altra Lone Peak 9 Hiking Review: Blister Break-In, Comfort & Long-Term Test

Day 1 (January 10, 2025)

I wore my Lone Peak 9s with the same socks I’ve always used for previous models during the 6.5-hour drive from San Diego to Yosemite. Even though I was mostly sitting with minimal walking, after about eight hours, I started to feel irritation and had to take them off to avoid developing a blister. This was really unexpected: my Lone Peak 7s and 8s never gave me any issues, even right out of the box on long hikes. I had originally planned to wear the LP9s for my Half Dome hike, but because of the discomfort, I opted for my tried-and-true LP7s instead and had zero foot problems.

Day 2 (January 15, 2025)

I wore my Lone Peak 9 during a 3-mile walk to the beach with my regular socks. Initially, everything seemed fine, but after just 1.5 miles, I developed a blister on the crease of my left heel. By the time I got home, the skin had peeled off, and a blister had also developed on my right heel crease. Moving forward, I’ll rely on trusty Compeeds to protect my heels until I can trust these shoes not to cause blisters.

Since that walk, I’ve started wearing the IDEGG Ankle Performance Athletic Socks with my Lone Peak 9s, and they’ve made a noticeable difference in comfort. With cushioned soles, elastic arch support, and a high heel tab that stays put, these socks help keep feet secure and reduce friction on long hikes. The breathable, moisture-wicking material also keeps my feet dry, making them a reliable choice for trail days and backpacking adventures.

Day 3 (January 19, 2025)

Amazon delivered my Compeeds this morning, so I applied them to both heels and headed out for a 5-mile hike in my Lone Peak 9. I’m happy to report that there was no new irritation to my heels, and I stayed comfortable throughout the hike. The Lone Peak 9s feel more cushioned and bouncy than the Lone Peak 7s and 8s.

That said, because the skin on my left heel tore off from a blister four days ago, I still experience slight heel pain when walking in the LP9s. Once that fully heals, I’m confident they’ll be much more comfortable. For now, I’ll continue wearing them with Compeeds to protect my heels and prevent further skin damage.

Unlike my experience with the Lone Peak 7s and Lone Peak 8s, the LP9 seems to require some breaking in, at least for me. This is something to keep in mind if you’re considering the Lone Peak 9s for a PCT thru-hike or any extended hiking adventure. Breaking them in beforehand could save you from unnecessary discomfort.

Days 4-6 (January 24-26, 2025)

I wore my new Altra Lone Peak 9s for three consecutive days in Death Valley National Park, and they performed flawlessly. I hiked multiple times each day and kept them on for over 12 hours daily without any issues. To be cautious, I used Compeeds, and everything was perfectly comfortable throughout.

Hiking the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in my Altra Lone Peak 9 with Altra Trail Gaiters was a total game-changer. The soft sand was relentless, but my shoes handled it easily, and the Trail Gaiters? Zero sand in my shoes. Not a single grain. Climbing the dunes felt effortless with the grippy traction of the LP9, and I never had to stop to shake out the sand. By the time I got back to the car, my feet were still immaculate, proof that gaiters are a must for desert hikes. Highly recommended! Check out this video for the beautiful views from the dunes.

PS: If you’ve ever wondered what the Velcro on the back of Altras is for, that’s exactly it! It’s designed to attach gaiters like these. No extra straps needed.

March 8th, 2025

I’ve been wearing the Lone Peak 9s without blister protection patches since the end of January, and I haven’t had any issues. Today I hiked 16 miles and again, zero problems, I’m super happy with my Altra Lone Peak 9 and I’ll wear them for my 40-mile 3-day backpacking trip next weekend!

March 17th, 2025

This weekend, I backpacked the California Riding & Hiking Trail in Joshua Tree National Park. I wore my Altra Lone Peak 9s for the entire 37 miles and had zero issues again, just my regular socks, no special blister protection. Pumped that I can totally trust these shoes now for all my adventures!

Update on April 29, 2025

I recently wrapped up a 4-day backpacking trip to Havasupai, and my Altra Lone Peak 9s absolutely crushed it. From endless miles on the trail to countless river crossings and hours of in-water hiking, these shoes delivered no blisters, hot spots, or issues. I wore my regular socks, skipped all blister protection, and still ended up with happy feet. I’m seriously in love. The campground was shaded and chilly, so the shoes stayed damp overnight, but they dried impressively fast once I hit the sun each morning. The Lone Peak 9s are officially my go-to for any adventure that demands both comfort and performance.

Altra Lone Peak 9 Pros and Cons

The Altra Lone Peak 9 offers impressive upgrades, including a roomy toe box, improved cushioning, durable design, and excellent traction with the updated MaxTrac outsole. While it’s lightweight and gaiter-ready, the higher heel collar design may irritate the heel crease and lead to blistering if you have sensitive skin.

Comparing the Altra Lone Peak 9 to the Lone Peak 8 and Lone Peak 7 Models

Here I’ll be comparing the Altra Lone Peak 9 to my Lone Peak 8 (purchased in March 2024) and to my second pair of Altra Lone Peak 7.

The table below compares the specs of Altra Lone Peak 7 versus Lone Peak 8, versus Lone Peak 9:

	Altra Lone Peak 7	Altra Lone Peak 8	Altra Lone Peak 9
Weight	9.2 oz / 261 g	9.16 oz / 259 g	9.3 oz / 263.65 g
Midsole	Altra EGO™	Altra EGO™	Altra EGO™
Outsole	MaxTrac™	MaxTrac™	MaxTrac™
Cushion	Moderate	Moderate	Mid
Stack Height	25 mm	25 mm	25mm / 25mm
Drop	0 mm	0 mm	0 mm
Upper	Quick-Dry Air Mesh	Ripstop mesh	100% RPET ripstop mesh upper
Velcro attachment for trail gaiters	Yes	Yes	Yes
Hook for trail gaiters	No	No	Yes

Altra Lone Peak 8 vs 9 Comparison

Check out my review of the Altra Lone Peak 8 here!

If you’re curious about the difference between Altra Lone Peak 9 vs Lone Peak 8, here’s a detailed look at how the LP9 builds on the strengths of the LP8. It keeps Altra’s signature FootShape fit and zero drop platform while introducing key refinements in cushioning, durability, and overall performance on the trail.

Key Difference between Altra Lone Peak 8 and 9

✅ Cushioning & Midsole

• The LP9 features an updated Altra EGO midsole, delivering noticeably more cushioning and responsiveness than the LP8.
• If you’re looking for a softer, bouncier hike or run, the LP9 is a solid improvement over the firmer LP8.

✅ Outsole & Grip

• The LP9’s MaxTrac outsole has been tweaked for better traction and durability, offering improved grip on loose, rocky terrain.
• The LP8’s traction was and is still solid, but the LP9 is meant to wear down more slowly than the LP8.

✅ Weight & Upper Design

• The LP9 is slightly lighter than the LP8, thanks to a streamlined upper that reduces unnecessary bulk.
• However, the LP8’s denser mesh upper might offer better durability in rugged environments.

✅ Breathability & Water Drainage

• The LP9’s new mesh upper improves breathability and quick-drying, making it great for hot-weather hikes and wet conditions.
• The LP8’s tighter-knit upper might feel a bit warmer but offers a bit more protection.

✅ Toe Box & Fit

• The LP9 maintains Altra’s FootShape design, but in my experience, it actually feels roomier than the LP8, despite being the same size (10.5).
• In photos where my feet are in the shoes, the LP9 looks slightly bigger on my foot, confirming that it offers more space overall, at least for my foot shape. I don’t have particularly wide feet, so this could explain why it feels more spacious rather than snug.

✅ Heel & Lockdown

• A notable downside of the LP9: heel irritation. The redesigned heel collar can cause blisters or slippage initially, whereas the LP8 has a softer, more forgiving heel cup.
• While the LP9 should break in over time, out of the box, the LP8 felt immediately more comfortable in this area.

✅ Gaiter Hook Addition

• A small but useful upgrade: the LP9 now includes a built-in gaiter hook, making it easier to attach gaiters and keep debris out.

Which One Should You Choose?

• If you prioritize cushioning, durability, and better traction, the Lone Peak 9 is a worthy upgrade.
• If you prefer a roomier fit, a more comfortable heel, or a shoe that feels great right out of the box, the Lone Peak 8 might still be the better option.

Despite some initial heel irritation, I’m much happier with my Lone Peak 9 than I ever was with my Lone Peak 8.

Altra Lone Peak 7 vs 9 Comparison

Check out my review of the Altra Lone Peak 7 here!

If you’re comparing the Altra Lone Peak 9 vs Lone Peak 7, the Lone Peak 9 makes several key improvements over the Lone Peak 7, but both shoes stay true to Altra’s signature wide toe box and zero drop, promoting natural foot movement.

Key Differences between Lone Peak 7 vs 9

✅ Cushioning & Midsole

• The LP9 features an upgraded Altra EGO midsole, making it noticeably more cushioned and responsive than the LP7.
• Walking in the LP9 feels softer and more comfortable, whereas the LP7 has a firmer underfoot feel, which some hikers may prefer for better ground feedback.

✅ Outsole & Grip

• The LP9’s MaxTrac outsole has been redesigned for better durability and grip, making it a great choice for rough terrain.
• While the LP7’s outsole performed well, the LP9 feels more secure on loose or rocky trails.

✅ Protection & Stability

• The LP9 adds a removable StoneGuard insert, which provides better protection against sharp rocks and debris, something not found in the LP7.
• If you like a closer-to-the-ground feel, the LP7’s simpler design might still be preferable.

✅ Fit & Comfort

• The LP9 includes a gaiter hook, making it easier to attach gaiters, whereas the LP7 lacks this feature.

Which One Should You Choose?

• Go for the Lone Peak 9 if…
  • You want more cushioning and a softer, more responsive feel underfoot.
  • You hike on rocky terrain and want better grip and added protection from the StoneGuard insert.
  • You use gaiters and want the convenience of a built-in gaiter hook.
  • You don’t mind a break-in period before getting the full comfort experience.
• Stick with the Lone Peak 7 if…
  • You prefer a firmer, more minimal feel with more ground feedback.
  • You want out-of-the-box comfort with little to no break-in time.
  • You’re happy with a shoe that still performs well on a variety of trails.

I’m now fully used to the Lone Peak 9 for long hikes, and they perform great, just as well as my beloved LP7s, which I still love equally. The LP9s also dry just as quickly as the 7s used to. If you want a shoe that’s comfortable right out of the box, the LP7 remains a solid choice if you can still find them in your size, but the LP9 is definitely a worthy upgrade for its cushioning and durability once broken in.

Final Verdict on the new Altra Lone Peak 9 Review

Which Altra Lone Peak is the best? Should You Upgrade from Lone Peak 7 or 8 to 9?

The Lone Peak 9 introduces some real improvements: the added gaiter hook is a thoughtful touch, the color options are more vibrant, and the increased cushioning and bounce make every step feel lighter and more responsive. The StoneGuard insert boosts underfoot protection, and the updated MaxTrac™ outsole offers noticeably better grip and durability compared to the Lone Peak 7 and 8.

That said, the break-in period has been a bit of a hurdle for me. I experienced heel irritation during my first few wears, something I never encountered with the Lone Peak 7s or 8s. Because of that, I still consider the Lone Peak 7 the most comfortable straight out of the box.

But after a few weeks of regular use (and some blister care), the LP9 has become dependable and comfortable, even on multi-day backpacking trips. I now trust them for everything from sandy hikes in Death Valley to river crossings in Havasupai.

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a lightweight, zero drop hiking shoe with enhanced comfort, durability, and traction, the Altra Lone Peak 9 is a solid step up, as long as you’re willing to give it a brief break-in period. For thru-hikers and weekend warriors alike, the LP9 is a strong contender in the trail runner game.

Altra Lone Peak 9 vs 9+ vs 9 Waterproof: Which One’s Best for You?

If you’ve been wondering what the difference is between the Altra Lone Peak 9 and 9+, or whether the Waterproof version is worth it, you’re definitely not alone. The new Lone Peak 9+ takes everything people love about the classic Lone Peak 9 and dials up the grip and durability, while the Lone Peak 9 Waterproof adds all-weather protection for wet or cold conditions. I’ve logged plenty of miles in the standard Lone Peak 9 and broke down how each version compares, fit, weight, outsole, and real-world feel, so you can decide which one makes the most sense for your trails and climate. The full breakdown’s below.

Comparison Table: Altra Lone Peak 9 vs 9+ vs 9 Waterproof

Feature	Lone Peak 9	Lone Peak 9+	Lone Peak 9 Waterproof
Best For	Trail running, light hiking	Rugged, technical terrain	Wet or cold weather hikes
Outsole	MaxTrac™ rubber (solid grip)	Vibram® Megagrip (superior wet/dry traction)	MaxTrac™ (same as 9)
Upper	Ripstop mesh	100% recycled rPET ripstop mesh (more durable)	Recycled polyester mesh with waterproof bootie
Midsole	Altra EGO™ foam	Updated Altra EGO™ (slightly softer/smoother)	Altra EGO™ foam
Waterproof	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Yes, waterproof bootie construction
Weight (Pair)	1 lb 3 oz	1 lb 2.6 oz	1 lb 7.6 oz
Fit	Roomy toe box	Same roomy fit	Slightly snugger due to waterproof liner
Durability	Great for everyday trail use	Higher mileage durability	Most protective upper
Breathability	Excellent	Excellent	Limited (less airflow)

My Verdict: Lone Peak 9 vs 9+ vs Waterproof

If you stick mostly to dry trails and value breathability, the Lone Peak 9 still nails that balance of comfort and trail feel.
If you’re running or hiking on rocky or wet terrain, the Lone Peak 9+ is the clear winner thanks to its Vibram® Megagrip outsole and tougher upper.
And if you need a waterproof trail shoe for rain, snow, or slushy winter hikes, the Lone Peak 9 Waterproof is the one to grab, even if it runs a little warmer.

FAQ About Altra Lone Peak 9

Are Altra Lone Peak 9 shoes true to size?
Yes, but I always size up a full size for hiking shoes to allow my feet to expand during long hikes. For example, my regular shoe size is 9.5, but I wear a 10.5 in the Lone Peak 9, which provides a comfortable fit and ample room in the toe box. If you’re considering the Lone Peak 9, I recommend sizing up one full size from your usual shoe size.

How do Altra Lone Peak 9 perform on rugged trails?
They perform excellently on rugged trails. The MaxTrac outsole gives solid grip on rocks and roots, and the cushioning keeps your feet comfortable over long distances. I’ve used them on rough terrain and found they handle well without sacrificing comfort.

Are Altra Lone Peak 9 good for wide feet?
Yes! The Lone Peak line is famous for its roomy toe box, which gives plenty of space for wide feet to splay naturally. If you have wide feet, these should feel much more comfortable than narrower trail shoes.

How durable are the Lone Peak 9 compared to previous models?
The Lone Peak 9 hold up much better than my Lone Peak 8. The updated materials and reinforced overlays make a noticeable difference in durability, especially after heavy use on tough trails.

Can I use the Lone Peak 9 for running as well as hiking?
Absolutely. They are lightweight and responsive enough for trail running but still sturdy and cushioned for hiking. They work well for anyone who wants one shoe for multiple outdoor activities.

Do they offer good support for people with plantar fasciitis?
The Lone Peak 9 offers decent arch support and cushioning, but plantar fasciitis needs vary from person to person. I recommend trying them on and seeing how they feel for your specific needs, and maybe combining with custom insoles if needed.

How water-resistant are the Altra Lone Peak 9?
The regular Lone Peak 9 is not waterproof, but dries quickly. From my experience, they dry pretty fast, usually within about an hour once you start moving again. However, drying time depends a lot on conditions. If it’s late in the day or there’s no sun (like inside a tent or vestibule), they might not fully dry overnight. But after a morning hike or some activity, they tend to dry quickly on the trail. I also recommend bringing a spare pair of socks just in case.

Are they lightweight?
Yes, the Lone Peak 9 is lightweight for a hiking shoe, making them comfortable for long hikes without feeling bulky.

What is the velcro on the back of Altras for?
The Altra shoes velcro on the back is to fasten the matching Altra trail gaiters, to prevent debris and dirt from entering your shoes as you run or hike.

Which Altra Lone Peak is the best?
The Lone Peak 9 is my favorite for long hikes and backpacking, but the Lone Peak 7 is the most comfortable straight out of the box. LP8 is in between.

Let’s Hit the Trail Together

Have you hiked in the Altra Lone Peak 9, 8, or even an older model? I’d love to hear your experience!

Drop a comment below and let me know:

• What trails have you tackled in your Lone Peaks?
• How did they hold up for your hiking or backpacking adventures?
• Which version has been your favorite so far?

If you have any questions about the Lone Peak series or want me to review other trail-tested gear, I’m all ears. Your thoughts help build a stronger, more informed hiking community, and I’m so grateful you’re here.

Happy trails and blister-free hikes!

Post originally published on January 15, 2025, and last updated on October 7, 2025.