Topo and Altra are two famous running brands with innovative designs, the latest technologies, natural movement, and comfort.
To know more features, differences and comparisons of both brands, read this blog and decide who the winner of this battle is and which brand you should choose for your next running shoes. Let’s start.
Comparison Table Between Topo and Altra
| Topo | Altra |
|---|---|
| Founded in 2013 | Founded in 2009 |
| Made of mesh, EVA foam, Ortholite sock liners, rubber, synthetic overlays and 3D printing | Made of upper mesh, synthetic overlays, foot shape toe box, EVA and propriety foam and rubber outsole |
| Athletic shoes | Athletic shoes |
| Good for trail running, racing, road running, hiking, fitness, training and casual wear | Good for hiking, road running, trail running, backpacking, cross training and casual wear |
| Mid-weight | lightweight |
| Less breathable | More breathable |
| More costly | Less costly |
| Lifetime warranty | 1 year warranty |
Overview of Topo
Topo Athletic is a well-known footwear company founded by Tony Post in 2013 who is an expert in the footwear industry and manufactured many high-performing, biomechanical and minimalist shoes to improve natural movement and foot health of trail runners, athletes and outdoor activists.
The name Topo is the derivative of the word “topography,” which means detailed mapping and terrain study. As the name of this brand is, so it aims to manufacture shoes that are best for all types of terrains and enhance natural movement, balance and efficiency in all landscapes.
The roomy toe box along with the low drop feature make these shoes comfortable and stable and provide enough space for the foot to move in a natural position, promote the running experience and reduce the chances of foot-related issues.
The lightweight and responsiveness of these shoes make them perfect for all runners and athletes who prefer speed and liveliness in activities such as trail running, road running, training and casual wear.
All the Topo shoes are equipped with durable outsoles, protective rock plates and improved traction features that allow users to run on rough and challenging terrains.
Though the Topo shoes are manufactured in many countries but some common countries are:
- China
- Vietnam
- Taiwan
As Topo has introduced many footwear but the best seller product is Topo Athletic Phantom 2 which is cushioned, responsive, breathable and comfortable with dual density midsole, soft Zip foam, EVA foam, mesh overlays, TPU heels and a roomy toe box that provides a soft and natural ride with enough space for feet to move.
All these features of Phantom make it famous among all runners, walkers and athletes.
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.
Major Differences Between The Brands
When it comes to choosing the running shoes of both brands, there are some differences between the two which you must consider such as:
1) Comfort
Topo shoes have a wide toe box that allows your feet to move freely, enhances the comfort level and decreases the risk of foot-related issues.
Also, all the Topo shoes are lightweight with low drop effect and cushioning to maintain the natural foot position that gives a comfortable experience.
On the other hand, Altra shoes have a foot-shaped toe box that keeps your feet comfortable in a wide space with balanced cushioning, protective rock plates and a supportive outsole.
The zero drop effect of these shoes allows natural foot movement to get a more comfortable experience.
2) Popularity
Topo shoes are famous because they are lightweight, highly performing, enhance natural foot movement and offer support along with comfort and speed on rough and challenging terrains.
On the other hand, Altra shoes are also popular because of their unique designs, footshape toe box and zero drop effect that offer a natural running experience along with comfort and health and also prevent your feet from several injuries.
3) Target market
Topo shoes mainly target highly performing runners who want lightweight shoes with natural movement to enhance efficiency and coordination, cross-training enthusiasts who want shoes to use in the gym and in various fitness activities and those people who prefer foot health for extra strength.
On the other hand, Altra shoes mainly target runners and athletes who want natural foot alignment and enough space to move their feet to keep them comfortable, supportive and stable on challenging trails.
The brand also targets athletes who want to reduce the risk of foot-related issues such as bunions.
4) Price
Topo shoes are highly expensive with the price range of $120.00 to $180.00.
On the other hand, Altra shoes are less costly than Topo with a price range of $100-$120.
5) Design
Topo shoes are minimalist designs with roomy toe box and a low drop effect to keep your feet comfortable and enhance the natural foot alignment. These shoes are the perfect match of style and functionality because of their unembellished design.
On the other hand, 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.
Conclusion: Which Is Better?
I have discussed the differences and features of both brands and I come to know that both brands are similar in almost everything but some features are different along with price range to make you decide which brand is for you. But make sure to keep your preferences in mind while choosing a brand.
Topo shoes are lightweight with zero drop effect, durable midsole, an excellent lacing system and durability to keep your feet comfortable and supportive during running and other activities.
While Altra shoes have a foot shape pattern with long-lasting and easy-to-tie shoestrings to enhance natural foot movement and comfort.
Happy searching for the best brand to overcome all your running, training, hiking and fitness needs.