Have you ever heard of a running shoe company that started with a toaster oven? Yep, that's how Altra was born.
In the early 2000s, Golden Harper, a passionate runner and biomechanics nerd, worked in his family's running store in Utah. He noticed something weird-so many runners were dealing with injuries and the common denominator? Traditional running shoes. The high-heeled designs forced people into unnatural strides, causing knee pain, shin splints, and all sorts of foot problems.
So, Harper did what any shoe-obsessed innovator would do-he grabbed a toaster oven and started melting the midsoles off existing running shoes to make them level from heel to toe. The idea? Create a more natural, foot-friendly running experience. Customers at the store started loving his DIY natural running design shoes, and Harper knew he was onto something big.
Fast-forward to 2009. Harper teamed up with Brian Beckstead and Jeremy Howlett, and together, they founded Altra (short for "Alter the Running Experience"). They launched their first official zero-drop, foot-shaped shoe in 2011, and the running world took notice.
Fast-forward to 2009. Harper teamed up with Brian Beckstead and Jeremy Howlett, and together, they founded Altra (short for "Alter the Running Experience"). They launched their first official zero-drop, foot-shaped shoe in 2011, and the running world took notice.
Today, Altra isn't just a brand-it's a movement. Whether you're crushing ultras, thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, or just walking the dog in comfort, Altra keeps your feet happy, strong, and natural.
So yeah, a toaster oven started it all-and now Altra is changing how people run, hike, and move forever.