Golden Harper and Brian Beckstead, two high school running pals, formed Altra, a pretty modern newcomer in the running shoe industry, to create shoes designed for how people naturally run.
However, Altra quickly gains a reputation as the ideal running shoe, offering good support without being heavy or big. It is intended to replicate how a toe would move in a fitting sock, preventing the confinement or crushing of toes by an elastic-less shoe.
However, are there any shoes like Altra you can run with?
You have several alternative shoes like Altra. However, we have the five best Altra alternatives based on thorough research and customer reviews. These shoes offer high quality, excellent fitting, and incredible comfort that can be your running friend flawlessly. Besides, they are pretty affordable.
To know more about the Altra alternatives, stay with us. This article thoroughly reviews the best running shoes you can choose instead of Altra.
Quick Comparison Of The Running Shoes
Let’s have a quick look at the five top shoes like Altra and their traits.
| Shoe Model | Comfort | Quality | Size | Fitting |
| Brooks Women’s Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe | High | Low | True to size | Fits okay |
| New Balance Men’s 481 V3 Trail Running Shoe | High | Low | Runs small in both length and width | Toebox too tight |
| Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe | High | High | True to size | Toe box too narrow, too much fabric material |
| ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 7 Running Shoes | Moderate | High | Run small | Not wide enough, too tight on the toes |
| Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe | High | Low | True to size | A bit too narrow |
1. Brooks Women’s Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe
The new Brooks ghost 14 allows you soft cushioning, neutral support, and a smooth transition. It is best for a soft landing, everyday runs, and road running—runners seeking a comfortable experience that won’t ruin their joy of the jog.
A simpler midsole design on the Ghost 14 allows for more fluid transitions. This Brooks Ghost 14 has received the APMA Certificate of Acceptance and is a PDAC A5500 Diabetes shoe.
Key Features:
- Product Dimensions: 10 x 15 x 6 inches;
- Weight: 2 Pounds
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Synthetic
- Closure Type: Lace-Up.
These shoes are best for long-distance, cross-training, treadmills, and road. It has a Medium Cushion, making it a good choice for runners searching for a cushioned, comfortable run. The midsole drop is 12mm, and the weight is 9oz / 255.1g which is lightweight for running shoes.
The Ghost 14 provides high energetic cushioning and neutral protection. These were formerly known as Ghost 91.
BioMoGo DNA and DNA Lofts padding give just-right forefoot comfort without sacrificing speed and durability, and it feels more lightweight than before. The midsole is now entirely made of DNA LOFT.
Their Structured Crash Pad, an integral system of pressure absorbers, will soften every step and stride for seamless heel-to-toe movements regardless of how your foot strikes.
A more deliberate deployment of the 3D Fit Print upper innovation creates a structure that shifts with the foot.
Pros
- Comfortable shoes for wide feet due to larger toe box
- Great support
- True to size
- Lightweight & durable
- Lessens Back Pain.
Cons
- Showing wear and tear after 5 months
- Super squeaky
- Cost
- Quality is Poor
- The newer version is not the same.
2. New Balance Men’s 481 V3 Trail Running Shoe
These dynamic New Balance 481 shoes for men combine sturdy design, athletic form and support, and casual convenience in one iconic model. It provides the ideal balance of stability and coziness in a running shoe, thanks to its ultra-soft padding made possible by the ground-breaking CUSH+ foam facility.
New Balance is committed to assisting athletes in reaching their objectives. Since more than a century ago, that has been their goal. They refrain from investing in celebrity endorsements because of this. They use it for technology and growth.
They don’t create things to fit a particular image because of this. They are designed to fit. For the same reason sportspeople put on their shoes, New Balance is determined to provide the best footwear.
Key Features:
- Product Dimensions: 12.9 x 7.93 x 4.6 inches;
- Weight: 1.78 Ounces
- Fabric Type: 50% Leather, 50% Mesh
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Closure Type: Lace-Up.
Mesh and leather are both 50% of the total. The ultra-soft, all-day comfort of the Cush+ midsole padding is provided without compromising support.
The upper is made of leather and mesh. The comfortable Strap cushions the ankle for a better fit and prevents discomfort. The NB Ultra Soft Comfort rubber outsole is best for all landscapes.
Pros
- Fit perfectly
- Rugged
- Inexpensive and looks great
- Lightweight
- Breathable and comfortable.
Cons
- It runs small in both length and width
- Low quality
- Toebox too tight
- Not water resistant
- Not for serious hiking.
3. Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe
These shoes are no.1 Best Seller in Men’s Road Running Shoes.
You can go faster with the support of these running shoes. Charged Padding absorbs pressure, leather inlays provide sturdy stability, and a mesh upper keeps your feet cool for hours.
These shoes are breathable with a light mesh top with a 3-color digital print. In addition, strong leather overlays that lock in your midfoot provide stability.
The EVA sock liner provides soft, step-in comfort. Compression-formed foam is used in the Charged Padding midsole for maximum flexibility and durability.
High impact zones are covered by a thick rubber outsole for enhanced durability while being lighter. Moreover, they have a 10mm offset for runners who require a combination of flexibility & cushion.
Key Features:
- Origin: Made in USA or Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Leather
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Country of Origin: Vietnam.
Under Armour Charged running shoe has soft shock absorption, which is charged padding that helps to absorb the impact to protect your stride. It also has durable support that helps build to last with synthetic leather that overlays, locks down, and stabilizes your experience.
The airy feel is the lightweight mesh upper that gives you tons of ventilation.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Great shoe for all-around use
- Very roomy fit
- Exceptional quality for the price
- Stylish
- Compact and lite
- Good walking or running shoe.
Cons
- Toe box too narrow, too much fabric material
- Poor quality control
- Not slip-on
- No durability.
4. ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 7 Running Shoes
With the ASICS women’s GEL-VENTURE 7 performance trail running shoe, you can confidently conquer the most difficult terrain. This pair is no.1 Best Seller in Women’s Trail Running Shoes.
This shoe is designed for athletes who enjoy running outside and has GEL technology and an EVA midsole.
The ORTHOLITE sock liner adds an extra layer of padding underfoot, while the GEL technology in the forefoot part of the shoe absorbs pressure where you most require it.
Even better than your previous run, it conforms to your feet contour.
The durable faux leather top provides additional support, and the inbuilt heel counter softly encourages your foot to maintain its natural line of action, resulting in a more effective pace.
Key Features
- Product Dimensions: 10 x 15 x 6 inches;
- Weight: 2 Pounds
- Fabric Type: Synthetic-and-mesh
- Origin: Imported
- Closure Type: Lace-Up.
These sneakers are incredibly comfy and fit well. They claim to have “neutral” support and are transportable. They were placed in the walking-shoe category and are marketed as trail runners, but they also perform well for strolling. The outsole is gray rather than white and better at hiding dirt.
Pros
- Comfortable, light-weight, fit well
- Vibrant colors
- perfect for running
- Very supportive
- Durable and long-lasting
- Good for under-pronating feet and arch support.
Cons
- Run small
- Not wide enough, too tight on the toes
- The sole is too thin/flexible
- Stitching not great.
5. Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe
These Adidas running-inspired sneakers have a knit top that contours to the foot and a feminine fit. As you go out for coffee or explore a bustling side street, the comfort of soft midsole cushioning is added.
You’re at the perfect place if you’re looking for elegant, fashionable sports shoes that look good with most casual attire. The newest model from Adidas, designed just for ladies, is the Adidas Cloudfoam Pure.
Yes, there is a version for males, but most form and style variants are likely to be in shades for ladies. So please read on if you want some stylish shoes that you can wear with anything.
Key Features:
- Product Dimensions: 11 x 4 x 7 inches;
- Weight: 2.45 Pounds
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Shaft Height: 0-6 inches
- Outer Material: Canvas
- Inner Material: Canvas.
There are around 28 unique versions available on Amazon. Pink, beige, and blue denim are neutral colors that mix nicely with items you wear every day. And a lot of other hues as well. On foot, Adidas Cloudfoam Pure appears slender and sleek rather than thick. And I think it’s fantastic since I don’t know many sports or fashionable shoes that look just as well with a skirt as with long pants.
Until now, every pair of athletic or running shoes I’ve tried had a tongue.
Something you are free to edit or modify as necessary. Adidas Cloudfoam Pure, however, lacks a tongue. The one-piece upper of the shoe covers the arches and is finished with shoelaces. But those cannot be altered and are only for decoration.
That is unfortunate since you need the shoes to fit you perfectly.
Although they are simple to slip on, there isn’t much room for adjustment if you order or purchase these shoes in the wrong size. On the other hand, I ordered a size 9 for testing, which fit perfectly. So ultimately, it’s not a problem.
Adidas Cloudfoam Pure is an extremely lightweight model because there isn’t much cushioning.
Asics’ lack of a gel midsole slows you down. Especially with the abundance of lightweight midsoles available, it is not a really significant bonus.
The Adidas Cloudfoam Pure slip-on sneakers are incredibly attractive, adorable, and cozy for casual use. But it is undoubtedly a horrible idea if you intend to run a marathon in these.
They are devoid of cushioning, solid support for the arch over extended distances, and even feature a somewhat thin outsole.
Therefore, if you continued to use them over extended distances, they would quickly wear out. The Adidas Cloudfoam Pure is excellent for light exercise, yoga, or leisurely strolls.
Pros
- Great comfortable shoes
- Perfect fit
- This is a slip-on
- Awesome style
- Amazing exchange turnaround
- light-weight.
Cons
- Poorly made, no support, don’t breathe
- Doesn’t lace up
- A bit too narrow
- Sole wears out super fast.
What To Consider While Buying Running Shoes
Let us have a look at what to consider while purchasing your pair of trail running shoes.
- Fitting
The fit is important while looking for a pair of decent running shoes, despite sounding simple. A running shoe that is too large will enable the foot to shear (slide) in the trainer, increasing the risk of developing foot blisters.
The last fitting or top fit has to be fairly snug. The danger of bone damage is further increased by a trainer that is too tiny because it adds pressure to the foot.
- Heel Size
As a general rule, the tighter the bone the more significant a running trainer with a larger heel drop will be. The heel level, also known as the “pitch” or “drop,” can range between 0-14mm on any trainer.
- Padding
Although there is no simple solution, in this case, common wisdom holds that a decent pair of running shoes should have enough cushioning to absorb pressure.
There are supporters of minimalistic running shoes with absolutely little padding, though, as well. The best shoe cannot be determined by data; however, if you pick a padded shoe, check for total foot pressure relief.
- Outsole
The type of terrain you run on and the outsole’s suitability should be considered.
You may be unaware of it, but the type of outsole utilized for race trainers and other terrain-appropriate varieties differs significantly. If you’ve ever run on the ground with the incorrect outsole, you may have experienced slipping, which can increase the risk of soft tissue damage over time.
- Motion regulation
Although footwear is sometimes highly built, some design elements help to lessen the mechanical pressures on the foot and lower leg, which improves your running performance.
The idea of excessive pronation emphasizes how foot posture might play a role in the range of mechanical stresses that can eventually result in symptoms in the lower limbs. Without a doubt, the foot stance of runners in clinical settings contributes to the risk of injury.
FAQ’s:
- What makes Altra sneakers so unique?
Altra shoes feature minimal to no drop, which means your foot sits flat rather than dipping downhill from the heel to the toe, unlike those from the majority of other manufacturers. This may assist a super low landing and support your natural pace.
- Are Zero Drop running shoes preferable?
Since of their minimalistic design, zero-drop running shoes are superior to traditional running shoes because they look lighter and more genuine. Less tiredness is guaranteed by the shoe’s small weight, which enhances stability, speed, and effectiveness.
- Do Zero Drop shoes hurt your calf muscles?
As such, zero-drop sneakers are not harmful to the Achilles tendon; it all depends on how you wear them. Because the tendon needs to function in a range that it has never before, switching too soon from shoes with a slightly higher heel to these shoes might result in Achilles discomfort.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for good running shoes like Altra, you have several alternatives. However, among the many, here are the 5 best shoes that can give you comfort, support, and fittings like Altra shoes.
But before deciding on your Altra alternative, you need to look for the fitting, heel size, padding, midsole, and motion regulation. If you follow these things, you will be on the right track to getting the best running shoes of 2022.
