Finding the right running shoes is necessary to avoid injuries and to get a comfortable and better running experience. So here comes Altra and Brooks, the two famous brands for running shoes because of the comfort, versatility, durability and support these shoes provide to runners.
Regardless of the similarities in the shoes of both brands, there are some differences to help you decide the right brand according to your preferences and likings. So go through this blog to know everything about these brands.
Comparison Table Between Altra and Brooks
| Altra | Brooks |
| Founded in 2009 | Founded in 1914 |
| Made of mesh upper, synthetic overlays, foot shape Toe Box, EVA and propriety foam and rubber outsole | Made of genuine leather, synthetic mesh, BioMoGo DNA, blown rubber and HPR plus |
| Athletic shoes | Shoes, sneakers and slippers |
| Good for hiking, cross training, backpacking, road running, trail running and casual wear | Good for hiking, training, running, jogging, walking and other outdoor activities |
| lightweight | Mid-weight |
| More breathable | Less breathable |
| Less costly | More costly |
| 1-year warranty | 2 years warranty |
Overview of Altra
Altra Running or Altra is a famous American footwear and apparel company founded by Golden Harper and Brian Beckstead or VF Corporation in 2009 which aimed to manufacture shoes to promote a natural running experience.
The engaging designs, marketing and sales of athletic shoes for trail and road running to get comfortable and memorable experiences make Altra more famous among all outdoor activists and runners.
Besides running shoes, this brand also has developed jackets, shorts, shirts, socks and other apparel. Altra is among the top 10 “Run specialty” brands and number 4 in trail running shoes.
Harper altered shoes of different brands and made a new shoe called Zero Drop because of less space between shoe heel and toe area and this feature promotes natural foot position and reduces stress on lower limbs.
The foot-shaped toe box of Altra shoes provides enough space to foot, promotes stability, comfort, smoothness, cushioning and decreases the risk of foot-related issues. Plus, the minimalist and functional design of Altra shoes makes them more performing rather than just style.
Altra shoes are manufactured in the following countries:
- Chine
- Vietnam
- Indonesia
- Taiwan
- Cambodia
As Altra has introduced a wide line of footwear products but the best seller product is Torin 7 because it is a lightweight, flexible, protective, breathable and cushioned shoe that offers a smooth and reliable ride that makes it suitable for all runners and walkers.
The neutral spring midsole absorbs shock while the plushy heel and wide base offer a comfortable and stable feel.
Overview of Brooks
Brooks Running or Brooks Sports is a famous American Company in Philadelphia founded by John Brooks Goldenberg in 1914.
The headquarter of this company is in Washington and its product line is wide including women’s and men’s shoes, sneakers and boots, clothing and other accessories.
Brooks company is famous because of innovative technologies and sustainable programs, which is why the shoes of this company are named “Best men and women running shoes.”
In 1975, Brooks worked with many elite runners and introduced the first high-performance running shoe, Villanova, which was manufactured by EVA foam to offer cushioning, flexibility and durability to wearers that is why Villanova was ranked number 1 in the Runners guide.
All the Brooks shoes are comfortable, supportive, cushioning and reliable because of the use of the latest technologies and materials such as DNA loft, DNA AMP and BioMoGo DNA so these shoes are the right fit to overcome all running activities and styles.
Also, Brooks focuses on gait-related issues by manufacturing various biomechanical running shoes.
The unique thing about this brand is that it has categorized shoes. The Adrenaline GTS category offers support and stability while the Ghost category offers cushioning effect to the foot.
Brooks engages with the running community through many events and partnerships to support running races and promote sports.
Though the small factory of Brooks is located in Philadelphia which manufactures ballet slippers and bathing shoes. But Brooks shoes and runners are manufactured in many other countries such as:
- China
- Mexico
- Taiwan
- Cambodia
- Vietnam
- Indonesia
- Philippines
As Brooks has introduced many footwear but the best seller product is Brooks’ Ghost 15 because of its comfort, support and fit.
The soft and cushioning effect of this shoe energizes the feet for a responsive ride and the plush feel reduces discomfort and prevents knee injuries. The stability it provides makes it the best product than other Brooks shoes.
Ghost 15 has a wide toe box that provides much space for feet and a mesh upper to give your feet a breathable feel.
Also, the internal heel offer better heel lockdown and the padding feature absorb sweat and keep your feet dry and comfortable.
The shoe is available in four different widths for all foot types and offers protection from abrasion because of the thick rubber outsole.
Major Differences Between The Brands
Till now you got an idea about comparison and overview of both brands. Now is the time to discuss some differences that make both brands unique:
1) Comfort
Comfort is the first thing that everyone considers when buying a pair of a shoe either for regular wear or outdoor activities.
Obviously, a comfortable shoe keeps your feet cushioned and can make the running experience more memorable.
Altra shoes are comfortable because of the wide toe box and quantic midsole that provide enough space to your feet and toe to move. In simple, these shoes offer a natural foot position which gives a cushioning and comfortable feel.
On the other hand, Brooks shoes are also comfortable, secure and soft with a bouncy midsole so these are perfect for long distances without letting you feel uncomfortable.
2) Popularity
Altra shoes are popular among the running community because of their unique design, foot-shaped toe box, and zero-drop feature to offer comfort, efficiency, and balance while running on tough terrains.
On the other hand, Brooks shoes are popular because these are of premium quality and cater needs of all runners from beginners to elites. So athletes and other outdoor activists who want comfortable, stable, cushioned and speedy shoes, they must consider Brooks.
3) Target market
Altra targets runners and athletes who want to get a natural running experience with balanced, stable and durable outsoles and protective rock plate shoes. Also, the brand target those who have some foot-related issues such as bunions and toe crowding.
On the other hand, Brooks mainly targets runners of different levels whether beginner, intermediate or experienced.
The comfort, support and performance of these shoes make them perfect for runners with different foot types, running styles and gait patterns.
All the running Brooks shoes are better for trail running, track events and road running.
4) Price
Altra shoes are good value for money as they commonly range between $100-$120.
On the other hand, Brook shoes are expensive ranging between $70-$200.
5) Design
Altra shoes are designed with a toe box to offer more space and comfort zone to your feet, a zero drop feature that enhances foot natural posture and improves balance and a minimalist design that makes these shoes more functional rather than style.
On the other hand, Brooks shoes are stylish with lightweight and supportive features that make them perfect for all types and levels of runners. Also, the variety of styles and colors gives these shoes an aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion: Which Is Better?
We have gone through the comparison and differences of both brands. As Altra and Brooks are both famous in terms of comfort, durability and performance but some factors make them different and help you to decide which brand is better.
Altra shoes have a wide toe box with utmost cushion and zero drop that offers natural foot position. While Brooks shoes are lightweight and perfect for all levels of runners.
Good luck with your decision and hopefully, you will make the right decision about the right brand based on your preferences.