I have been running in Cliftons for a number of years now, but after transitioning to some trails (80% road, 20% trails) the last two pairs have separated as seen in the pictures. I moved to the Challenger but have the same issue with those.

Questions:
1) Anyone else experienced a similar issue with Cliftons/Challengers?
2) Suggestions for an alternate shoe?

I am thinking about trying some Altras as I am assuming the cause of the issue is the width of my foot is putting excess pressure on the front. I have a 100k race coming up in a few weeks so I will likely stick with the pair I am running in now but then try something different afterwards.