Quick Answer
Use a heel-lock lacing technique and adjust the ghillie lacing system on the Women's Superior 7 to prevent heel slip and blisters on technical trails.
Why Lacing Matters for Trail Running
Trail running demands a secure fit that keeps your foot from sliding inside the shoe on uneven ground. The Altra Women's Superior 7 uses a new tongue construction and ghillie lacing system designed for a more comfortable fit at step-in, but you still need to dial in the lacing to match your foot shape and running style.
A common mistake is lacing too tightly across the midfoot, which can restrict blood flow and cause numbness. The goal is a snug heel pocket and a relaxed forefoot that lets your toes splay naturally inside the FootShape™ toe box.
Understanding the Superior 7's Lacing System
The Superior 7 features a ghillie lacing system that uses webbing loops instead of traditional eyelets. This design distributes lace tension more evenly and reduces pressure points. The loops also allow you to skip certain eyelets to customize the fit for high or low insteps.
Because the shoe is lightweight and nimble, you may notice more movement than in a heavier trail shoe. That's normal — the lacing adjustments below will help you lock in without adding bulk.
How to Lace Your Altra Superior 7 for Trail Running
- 1. Start with Even Tension: Thread the laces through the bottom two ghillie loops so both sides are equal length. Pull just enough to remove slack — the forefoot should feel snug but not tight. A common mistake is pulling too hard here, which can compress the toe box and defeat the purpose of the FootShape™ design. The forefoot should feel like a handshake, not a vise.
- 2. Create a Heel-Lock Loop: After lacing through the top set of ghillie loops, cross the laces and thread each end through the opposite top loop to form a small loop on each side. Then cross the laces again and lace them through the loops you just created. This creates a heel-lock that pulls the heel counter against your Achilles. If you feel heel slip after this step, the loops may be too loose — tighten evenly on both sides.
- 3. Tie a Secure Bow: Pull the laces straight back (not up) to engage the heel lock, then tie a standard bow. Double-knot for technical terrain. A common mistake is tying the bow too close to the tongue, which can loosen during descents. Keep the knot centered over the tongue for even pressure. Test the fit by walking downhill — if your heel lifts, re-tighten the heel-lock loops.
Product Used in This Guide
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Women's Superior 7: The Women's Superior 7 features a new tongue construction and ghillie lacing system designed for a more comfortable fit at step-in. This updated lacing system reduces pressure points and makes it easier to achieve a customized fit without extra padding or inserts.
Women's Superior 7
