Altra Running — founded in 2009 by runners Golden Harper, Brian Beckstead, Jeremy Howlett, and Quirl Jacob Hansen, Altra was built in the back room of a small running store in Utah. Their mission: “unleashing human potential by inspiring the world to move naturally.”

What Makes Altra Different

• Balanced Cushioning (“Zero Drop”): Altra’s signature design puts the heel and forefoot at the same height to encourage more natural alignment and reduce impact.

• FootShape™ Toe Box: Their shoes have a wide, anatomically shaped toe box so your toes can splay naturally—boosting stability and comfort.

• Gender-Specific Fits: Altra builds its men’s and women’s shoes on different lasts (shaping), which helps optimize fit. 

• Natural Running Philosophy: The founders believed conventional running shoes were limiting, so they innovated with a toaster oven to redesign the heel and create their flat platform.

Brand & Culture

Altra is passionate about long-term, injury-resilient running. Their roots are deeply specialty-running-store based, and their growth has been driven by a close-knit running community. Now part of VF Corporation, Altra continues to expand globally while staying true to that “natural running” ethos. 

Product Range

Altra offers a diverse lineup of shoes for different terrains and purposes:

• Road running (for everyday training and long-distance)

• Trail running (rugged, high-traction designs)

• Casual & gym shoes

Some standout models:

• Altra Torin 8 — a cushioned road shoe, great for long runs

• Altra Lone Peak 9 — trail-focused, rugged, built for off-road

• Altra FWD Via — low-drop, lighter, for more natural feel

• Altra Olympus 6 - Trail-focused, wide toe box, built for rugged off roads. Our Favourite model.