Introducing the Altra Mont Blanc Carbon, the latest super shoe from Altra to feature a carbon plate. For those paying attention at home, this is the third iteration of the Mont Blanc shoe from Altra. Check out my review of their BOA option below.
The new Mont Blanc Carbon looks a lot like its laced predecessor, but with a few noticeable changes. The first is the stack height, which is lower in the Carbon version. Another is the weight, with Carbon coming in at an ounce more per shoe. Lastly is the heel collar, which is a welcome sight!
Just like its parents, the Carbon has lots of the same features, including being zero-drop, having that sweet EGO Max/Pro foam, and the same Vibram Litebase tread. The colorways are also very similar. I’m testing the White/Lime option in a men’s 9.5.
On the feet, the Carbon is more snug than traditional Altra shoes, mainly through the mid foot. Past versions of the Mont Blanc were a little sloppy in the heel which leads me to believe that Altra responded by tightening things up, including in the heel.
Out on the trail, the Carbon is designed with a Carbitex Monoflex plate that runs full length of the shoe. The goal is to provide greater support on uneven surfaces (think rocks, roots, etc), while providing a bit of propulsion as you push off from each step. I noticed this on the flat single track immediately, both when I struck roots, as well as when I pushed off from each stride.
The Carbon wears just like previous versions, including the cushioning, but separates itself in the corners. The upgraded heel collar makes a bigger difference than one might imagine, and the Carbon does not disappoint. The only initial complaint I had was the tongue lodging itself, which did not stay put and I found it tends to travel to the outside of the foot. There appears to be no solution to this, only to adjust it from time to time.
Uphills and downs are solid, both with tread control (ups) and toe-jamming (downs). I threw everything but the kitchen sink at the Carbons and continue to be impressed, even well after 100 miles of wear.
