Altra

About Altra

Altra came to life over a decade ago thanks to a couple of high school cross-country buddies, Brian Beckstead and Golden Harper, who decided it was time for a change in how running shoes were made. Frustrated with the traditional designs that didn’t quite match how people naturally run, they took matters into their own hands—literally. Golden even went so far as to toss a pair of shoes in a toaster oven to soften and reshape the heel, creating a more level platform. That experiment sparked the idea for a whole new approach to running footwear.

Naturally built for your feet

At the core of Altra’s design philosophy is the idea of balance and natural movement. All Altra running shoes are built on a zero-drop platform—meaning the heel and forefoot are at the same height—which encourages a more natural stride and posture. That, paired with their roomy FootShape™ toe box, gives your toes the space to spread out as they’re meant to, improving stability and comfort (especially on longer runs or technical terrain).

Altra has options for every kind of runner. Altra trail runners offer solid grip thanks to Vibram soles and are designed to stay responsive and supportive across rough ground. For road runners, lightweight and cushioned models help keep your stride smooth on pavement or the track. Whatever your pace or preference, there’s an Altra shoe ready to go the distance.

Running towards a smaller footprint

Altra isn’t just about building better shoes—they’re also working on building a better future. They aim to reduce the environmental impact of their products so we can keep running, hiking and exploring outdoors for years to come. That means rigorous chemical screening to keep harmful substances out of their supply chain, using fully recyclable shoe boxes made from post-consumer waste, and participating in the VF Corporation Sustainability program, which helps lead positive change across the industry.

Frequently asked questions

Does Altra make trail running shoes?

Yes. Altra offers a wide selection of trail running shoes built with grippy outsoles, durable uppers and protective midsoles to handle rugged terrain. Models like the Altra Lone Peak are especially popular with trail runners for their traction, comfort and reliable performance on varied surfaces. Whether you’re running singletrack, forest paths or technical mountain trails, Altra trail shoes are designed to keep you confident and secure.

Are Altra shoes good for road running too?

Absolutely. While Altra is well-known for trail running shoes, they also make road-specific models. These shoes share the same natural foot design and cushioning but are optimized with lighter materials and smoother outsoles for pavement and city running. Many runners enjoy having both an Altra trail shoe and road shoe in their rotation.

Do Altra shoes fit true to size?

Most runners find that Altra shoes fit true to size, but the wider FootShape™ toe box can feel roomier compared to traditional running shoes. Some people size down by half a size for a snugger fit, especially if they prefer a tighter feel for racing. It’s always best to try them on if possible to find your ideal fit.

Can I use Altra trail running shoes for hiking?

Yes. Many of Altra’s trail running shoes, like the Lone Peak, are often used by thru-hikers and backpackers because they balance lightweight comfort with reliable grip and durability. Their roomy fit and cushioning make them a popular alternative to traditional hiking boots.

Altra buyer’s guide

Your choice of Altra shoe depends on where and how you plan to use it. For road running, shoes like the Altra Escalante or Altra Torin are lightweight and responsive, making them excellent for daily training or longer distances on pavement or treadmills.

Choosing the right Altra shoe

For trail running, Altra offers models with rugged outsoles and durable uppers to handle dirt paths, rocky terrain and mountain routes. The Altra Lone Peak is the most popular trail shoe, often chosen by ultrarunners and thru-hikers for its comfort and versatility. If you prefer more cushioning the Altra Olympus delivers a plush ride, while the Altra Superior offers a lighter and more agile feel for faster runs on technical trails.

Many people also choose Altra shoes for hiking and backpacking. The wide toe box helps prevent blisters and hot spots during long days on the trail and the cushioning makes them a comfortable alternative to traditional hiking boots. The Lone Peak All-Weather even adds waterproof protection for wet conditions.

For gym workouts, walking or casual daily wear, certain Altra models provide comfort and support that last all day. Their roomy fit and balanced cushioning make them just as practical for everyday use as they are for serious training.

Tips for buying the right trail shoes

If you are new to Altra, it is important to give your body time to adjust. Moving from traditional running shoes with a higher heel drop to Altra’s zero drop platform can take some time. Begin with shorter runs and gradually build up. Think about the terrain where you spend most of your time, whether it is road, trail or a mix, and choose a model that suits those conditions. Since Altra shoes have more space in the toe box, you may find you need to adjust your sizing to get the fit you prefer.