My Experience with the Legacy

Sean Sakinofsky

My experience upon receiving my first pair of Altama Legacy boots was, to be frank, not a good one. In hindsight, it was a negative experience that turned into an enlightening one. Here’s why:

When the box arrived, my eyes were greeted by a very sharp-looking package highlighting the name “Legacy,” along with wax paper that included a short but profound history of Altama. The final bold statement read: FORGED BY HISTORY. BUILT TO TRAIN THE FUTURE. 

I had already experienced Altama’s forward-thinking designs, especially with the Apex and Helios tactical duty boots featuring Michelin outsoles. Those boots deserve their own review, but let’s focus on the Legacy.

I was expecting big things from the Legacy, but as mentioned, my initial experience was negative. This was a really good-looking shoe. I had opted for the low-cut version in the black colorway, which looked powerful. Its styling was very similar to the design concept of a well-known shoe I’m a fan of. The grip pattern on the sole was aggressive and looked formidable.

I couldn’t wait to try them on—that’s where my problems arose. Upon first fitting, the shoes felt okay, but after walking in them, issues emerged. Simply put, the shoes were the wrong size—not just in length, but in width.

For many years, I had gotten away with whole sizes and standard widths. However, one would think I would have known better, as nearly all my cycling shoes over the past decade have been wide-fit models. In fact, the brand I use—Lake Cycling—is renowned for its wide toe boxes. This is essential for both comfort and optimal power transfer.

This is where the Legacy absolutely shines. I discovered this after Altama kindly and efficiently sent me the correct size.

The fact that my metatarsal bones could effectively expand allowed me to spread my toes. This enabled me to spring or propel myself powerfully when sprinting. Another standout characteristic of the low boot is its midsole, which they call “IGNITE.” Yes, it lives up to its name. The midsole offers very dynamic cushioning that seems to aid forward propulsion.

The shoe also has a very effective lacing system that provides positive retention. However, after two weeks of continuous wear, I found that optimal performance comes not from a snug fit, but from minimal retention—the Legacy performs best with a less constricted feel.

"Another standout characteristic of the low boot is its midsole, which they call “IGNITE.” Yes, it lives up to its name. The midsole offers very dynamic cushioning that seems to aid forward propulsion."

So, what I learned from my first experience with the Altama Legacy is this: If your local store doesn’t offer wide sizes, buy direct online. The only time your feet should be crammed into shoes is if you’re rock climbing or a ballet dancer. Your toes and metatarsal bones need room to spread for both comfort and performance.

Don’t buy a shoe just because it looks good—make sure it fits properly. 

On a final note about looks, the Legacy is seriously good-looking, especially in Coyote brown. I think this model will rival their Maritime line. In fact, I could see the Legacy being adopted in the Gorpcore circles—it has the right looks and colors. I believe this model should also come out in grey and olive drab. I can envision other epic colorways in the future. 

(Update from Product Development: As of 09.02.2026, there are no new colorways in development for the Legacy series. There has, however, been a rolling production change to an improved, solid core lace over the original hollow core to increase durability.)