Why Altra

What began as experimental shoe alterations has transformed into the only shoe company to provide a cushioned Zero Drop™ platform and FootShape™ toe box. This innovative combo promotes low-impact technique and allows your feet to remain in a natural, relaxed position across every terrain.

Setting Altra apart from other performance shoes, the foot-shaped design promotes healthy, happy feet. The distinctive toe box follows the shape of a healthy foot for better comfort, balance, and running efficiency. In Altra's beginning, research showed that most foot problems and many injuries were attributed to the pointy toe boxes of modern footwear. Although it looked different, a toe box shaped like a foot was the only way to prevent and cure common foot problems like bunions, neuromas, metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis, etc. Additionally, Altra helps to maintain comfortable and efficient running for hours on end. 

When compared to other footwear, Altra differs in many ways including:

• Places foot in its proper, natural position
• Allows toes to relax and spread out naturally
• Maximizes shock absorption and powerful toe off
• Allows foot to naturally stabilize excess pronation 

Altra offers runners the world's first fully cushioned, foot-shaped, training shoe without an elevated heel. This unique platform allows runners to enjoy the comfort and support of a traditional shoe without the high impact landing and efficiency caused by a heavy, elevated heel. 

Another aspect that sets Altra apart from its competitors is their gender specific design of their footwear. Altra is the first running shoe company to introduce an entire line of truly female specific shoes. While other companies claim some gender specific design, all aspects of Altra's women's shoes are constructed specifically for women starting with the last (or foot form) that the shoe is built around.