Should I go for Altra or On Cloud? It is the main question that everyone wants to know because both brands have quality footwear with comfort on top to enhance the experience of users.
However, both brands offer new designs with time so it becomes more and more challenging to decide which one should be your choice. So I have designed this guide to help you choose between the two brands with ease. So let’s start with:
Comparison Table Between Altra and On Cloud
| Altra | On cloud |
|---|---|
| Founded in 2009 | Founded in 2010 |
| Made of mesh upper, synthetic overlays, foot shape toe box, EVA and propriety foam and rubber outsole | Made of CloudTec sole, super fabric, ballistic mesh and synthetic material |
| Athletic shoes | Boots, shoes, joggers and sneakers |
| Good for hiking, cross training, road running, trail running, backpacking and casual wear | Good for running, gym, training, weightlifting, climbing and racing |
| Heavy weight | Lightweight |
| More breathable | More breathable |
| Less costly | More costly |
| 1 year warranty | 1 year 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 On Cloud
On Cloud is the famous Swiss footwear brand established by Olivier, David and Caspar Coppetti in 2010 who introduced many shoes with CloudTec technology which offer multi-dimensional padding to help all outdoor adventurers.
The company mainly focuses on three things, comfort, style and performance so all shoes of this brand are designed according to these factors.
The popularity of On Cloud is due to supportive, durable, versatile, functional, responsive and lightweight shoes with vibrant colors and striking designs.
Also, the technology with the combination of foam and cloud pods makes the shoes more comfortable and famous and the wearer feels as if they are running on the cloud.
With the passing years, this brand also has introduced many other footwear products such as casual joggers and runners with sleek and modern designs and tight fit with better grip that make this brand famous among runners, athletes, people with different types of arches and those people who want style and performance in one shoe.
Also, all on-cloud shoes are the perfect fit for long-distance travel due to their adaptability, agility and comfort they offer.
Like other brands, these shoes are not manufactured in the country where the headquarters of the brand is located, Switzerland. While these shoes are manufactured in China and Vietnam.
The brand offers many quality products but the bestselling model is On Cloudmonster because it is a comfortable and maximally cushioned running shoe that can change everyone’s mind.
The use of different high-quality materials, smooth heels, sustainable and durable upper and a monstrous amount of foam in these shoes made them famous for daily training to long-distance running to keep your feet comfortable and protected all day with the perfect grip on wet surfaces.
Major Differences Between The Brands
When you have to choose between Altra and On Cloud, don’t panic and check out some features of both brands and decide which pair of shoes will work best. With that said let’s see how both these brands perform in different segments.
1) Comfort
Altra shoes are comfortable by offering cushioning and a minimalist effect due to the wide toe box that allows your feet to move freely and a zero drop effect that maintains the natural shape of your feet while running and walking.
On the other hand, On Cloud shoes are also comfortable because of their lightweight and cushioning feel and these shoes are incorporated with CloudTec technology with heel-to-toe drops for more comfort.
2) Popularity
Altra shoes are popular among the running community because of their unique design and advanced features such as zero drop and wide toe box which offer more support to feet and keep it in a natural shape that offers a comfortable feel to wearers.
On the other hand, On Cloud shoes are popular among runners and those who prefer comfortable and versatile shoes with CloudTech and responsive cushioning to use for different activities and everyday use.
3) Target Market
Altra mainly targets runners and athletes who want natural foot shape and more space to move their feet freely and those who want to reduce the risk of foot-related issues such as bunions and want comfortable and stable shoes for different activities.
On the other hand, On Cloud mainly targets runners and individuals who prefer cushioning and lightweight shoes equipped with technologies and minimalist designs for responsive rides in different activities and casual wear.
4) Price
Altra shoes are less costly and are available in the price range of $100-$120.
On the other hand, On Cloud shoes are more costly than Altra and are available in the price range of $120 and $180.
5) Design
Altra shoes are designed with minimalist, lightweight and breathable materials to keep your feet comfortable and supportive during all activities.
Also, the shoes are equipped with zero drop effect and a spacious toe box to allow your feet to move efficiently without any injury.
On the other hand, On Cloud shoes are equipped with CloudTec technology, extra cushioning pods and sleek and modern design with lightweight materials that make these shoes comfortable, responsive and versatile to use in different activities.
Conclusion: Which Is Better?
Honestly speaking, both brands are excellent whether you want to choose comfortable, supportive, stable and performing shoes but there are some differences that make them a super choice for one community rather than another.
Altra must be your choice if you want a natural foot shape and enough space to move your feet efficiently at an affordable price.
While On Cloud should be your priority if you want a shoe with extra cushioning and lightweight material and a sleek design.
Happy searching for the right brand according to your needs, preferences, and budget.