Altra Lone Peak 9+ Review and LP9 vs LP9+ vs LP9+ GTX

I decided to purchase the Altra Lone Peak 9+ to start the new year with added motivation, and I figured it was the perfect opportunity to write a detailed comparison between the Altra Lone Peak 9+ and the Lone Peak 9. In this post, I’ll go over my Altra Lone Peak 9+ review, explain what the difference is between the Lone Peak 9 and 9+, and who I think each pair is best suited for from a hiking perspective. The GTX versions are a new addition to the Lone Peak lineup. While I haven’t tested them yet, I’ve included a spec-level comparison below and will update this post with real-world testing and photos once I’ve had them on trail.

What’s New With Altra Lone Peak 9+

The Altra Lone Peak 9+ builds directly off the Lone Peak 9, keeping the same overall fit and feel while upgrading traction. The biggest change is the addition of a Vibram Megagrip outsole, which provides noticeably better grip on both wet and dry terrain compared to previous Lone Peak versions.

The upper is designed with durability in mind, using a tough ripstop mesh made from recycled materials along with seamless overlays to reduce irritation and wear over time, especially helpful for high-mileage hiking and backpacking. It still includes the gaiter hook, which I love.

Lastly, the Lone Peak 9+ uses a lighter version of Altra’s EGO™ midsole foam, aiming to balance comfort with trail feel so you stay connected to the ground without sacrificing cushioning.

Altra Lone Peak 9+ Specs

Below are the specs of the Women’s Altra Lone Peak 9+.

• Weight: 9.3 oz / 263.7 g
• Support: Neutral
• Stack Height: 25mm / 25mm
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
• Cushioning: Mid
• Upper: 100% RPET ripstop mesh upper
• Midsole: Altra EGO™
• Outsole: Vibram® Megagrip
• FootShape: Original
• Available widths: Regular or Wide
• Best For: Trail running, hiking, thru hiking

Lone Peak 9+ Sizing & Fit

As listed in the specs above, the Altra Lone Peak 9+ is available in both regular and wide widths. I purchased the LP9+ in a women’s size 10.5, regular width, the same size I’ve worn in the LP9 (and LP8, and LP7s!). Fit-wise, they feel very similar to the LP9. When I first put them on, I didn’t feel like I was wearing a completely different shoe. That said, my toes did feel slightly more snug in the LP9+ compared to the LP9, but only on my left.

Altra Lone Peak 9+ Review

My overall first impression of the Altra Lone Peak 9+ is a mix of cautious optimism and genuine excitement. After dealing with blisters early on with the Lone Peak 9, I went into my first wear of the LP9+ a little guarded, but hopeful. So far, they feel extremely familiar, which isn’t a bad thing.

On foot, the Lone Peak 9+ feels nearly identical to the LP9. If I couldn’t see which pair I had on, I honestly probably wouldn’t be able to tell the difference while walking. The fit feels the same, the heel feels the same, and underfoot, the cushioning feels very similar as well. The ride is neutral with a slightly springy feel, but nothing about it stands out as dramatically different from previous Lone Peak versions.

The toe box still has that classic Lone Peak shape, but I did notice that my toes felt slightly closer to the front of the shoe compared to my other Lone Peaks, despite wearing the same size. It’s subtle, but worth mentioning, especially for longer distances.

I’ve never had grip issues with my Lone Peaks unless the outsole was completely worn down, so whether this upgrade is a must-have will likely come down to terrain, budget, and personal preference. But below is my real-life testing diary.

Altra Lone Peak 9+ Testing Diary

January 10th: My first outing with the Altra Lone Peak 9+ was a 4-mile paved walk. Since the original LP9 gave me blisters during the first few wears, I was a bit hesitant to hit the trails with the LP9+ on its maiden outing. Of course, a paved walk didn’t let me really test the upgraded grip, but after 4 miles, I didn’t get any blisters, which is a definite plus. Towards the end, I felt a little irritation on my left heel, right where the LP9 had rubbed, but it was gone just 24 hours later. I’m planning to take them on a 6-mile, 1,300-ft hike later this week to really test the traction and see if my heel holds up.

January 18th: My first hike with the Altra Lone Peak 9+ was a 6.5-mile double-peak hike with 1,350 feet of elevation gain, completed in 2 hours and 48 minutes. I carried Compeed blister plasters with me just in case, but I didn’t need to use them at all. I had no hot spots, no blisters, and no sore toes, which was a huge win for a first real trail test. Overall, the grip performed really well and it did actually feel grippier for most of the hike. I did have two very minor slips: one on a smooth, polished river boulder that was dry but slick from constant water exposure, and another on a steep downhill section with loose rocks and gravel. Neither slip was significant or concerning, but they were noticeable enough, and it did make me wonder if I would’ve gone down altogether in my Lone Peak 9s. This hike left me feeling confident in the Lone Peak 9+ and excited to continue adding more trail miles to them.

Quick Comparison: Lone Peak 9+ vs LP9 vs LP9 GTX vs LP9+ GTX

Here’s a quick side-by-side look at the different Lone Peak 9 models, including the standard LP9, the updated LP9+, and the waterproof GTX versions. This table makes it easy to compare key features like weight, cushioning, outsole, and intended use so you can see what’s changed across the lineup.

Feature	LP9	LP9+	LP9 GTX	LP9+ GTX
Weight	9.3 oz / 263.65 g	9.3 oz / 263.7 g	10 oz / 283.5 g	10 oz / 283.5 g
Support	Neutral	Neutral	Neutral	Neutral
Stack Height	25mm / 25mm	25mm / 25mm	25mm / 25mm	25mm / 25mm
Heel-to-Toe Drop	0mm	0mm	0mm	0mm
Cushioning	Mid	Mid	Mid	Mid
Upper	100% RPET ripstop mesh	100% RPET ripstop mesh	GORE-TEX Invisible Fit, 85% RPET	GORE-TEX Invisible Fit, 85% RPET
Midsole	Altra EGO™	Altra EGO™	Altra EGO™	Altra EGO™
Outsole	MaxTrac™	Vibram MegaGrip	MaxTrac™	Vibram MegaGrip
FootShape	Original	Original	Original	Original
Available widths	Regular or Wide	Regular or Wide	Regular	Regular
Best For	Trail running, hiking, thru hiking	Trail running, hiking, thru hiking	Trail Running, Hiking, Waterproof	Trail Running, Hiking, Waterproof

Altra Lone Peak 9+ Vs Altra Lone Peak 9 Photos

As you can see in the side-by-side photos below, the main visual difference is the yellow Vibram branding on the LP9+. The outsole is the big change, with the Vibram Megagrip outsole on the LP9+. Give them a try, you might love the LP9+ too!

Which Altra Lone Peak 9 Model Should You Choose?

Who Should Choose the Lone Peak 9+?

If you frequently run, hike, or backpack on slippery terrain, whether it’s muddy trails, rocky paths, or loose gravel, the Lone Peak 9+ is a great fit. The updated Vibram Megagrip outsole provides extra traction, making it especially appealing for wet or challenging conditions.

Some users have mentioned that the toe box on the LP9+ feels slightly smaller compared to the LP9. I think I notice that too, but I’ll need to log more miles and update this after longer hikes to be sure.

Who Should Stick Choose the Lone Peak 9?

I’ve been using my Lone Peak 9 for hiking and backpacking for over a year, and they’re still a solid choice. They’re grippy, dry quickly, usually within an hour, and comfortable for most trails. If you’re budget-conscious, the LP9 is perfectly suitable for the majority of hiking and backpacking situations.

Additionally, the LP9 may feel slightly roomier in the toe box compared to the LP9+, which could make a difference for those who prefer extra space up front.

If you want more details on the LP9, my full Altra Lone Peak 9 review is here!!

Who Should Choose the Lone Peak 9 GTX & LP9+ GTX

Hikers, trail runners, and backpackers who want the same Lone Peak fit and comfort but need waterproof protection will want the GTX versions. The LP9 GTX and LP9+ GTX keep the classic zero-drop platform, wide toe box, and durable midsoles, with the LP9+ GTX adding the Vibram Megagrip outsole for extra traction in wet or slippery conditions. Ideal for rainy trails, muddy terrain, or multi-day trips where keeping feet dry is a priority.

Altra Lone Peak 9+ FAQ

Is the Lone Peak 9+ waterproof?
The Lone Peak 9+ are not waterproof, but they are fast-drying.

Is there a GTX version?
Yes, the Altra Lone Peak 9+ GTX are now available with a waterproof GORE-TEX upper.

Is the Lone Peak 9+ heavier than the 9?
Not really. The official weight listed on Altra’s website shows the Lone Peak 9 at 9.3 oz (263.65 g) and the Lone Peak 9+ at 9.3 oz (263.7 g), which is a negligible difference.

Is the Lone Peak 9+ worth the extra cost?
It really depends on your needs. The grip is improved, but if you didn’t have traction issues with the LP9, LP8, or LP7, upgrading to the LP9+ may not be worth it for you.

Does the Lone Peak 9+ use Vibram?
Yes, the Altra Lone Peak 9+ uses a Vibram Megagrip outsole for improved traction on both wet and dry surfaces.

Is the Lone Peak 9+ available in wide?
Yes, the Lone Peak 9+ are available in both regular and wide widths.

Are Altra Lone Peak 9+ shoes HSA/FSA eligible?
Yes! Altra running shoes, including the Lone Peak 9 series, are HSA/FSA eligible. This means you can use your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds toward a purchase, potentially saving around 30%.

Final Thoughts on the Altra Lone Peak 9+ Review & Comparison

The Altra Lone Peak 9+ is a strong update to an already reliable trail shoe. It keeps the classic Lone Peak fit and feel while adding a few refinements, most notably the Vibram® Megagrip outsole for extra traction. For hikers and trail runners who want a familiar platform with improved grip and durability, the LP9+ is worth considering.

If you’re happy with your LP9 and don’t need extra traction, the original model still performs exceptionally well, especially for most trails and day hikes. Those looking for a waterproof option can consider the GTX versions, which add protection without dramatically changing the Lone Peak experience.

And as a practical bonus, Altra running shoes, including the Lone Peak 9 series, are HSA/FSA eligible, which could help you save around 30% when purchasing.