Maximalist vs minimalist running shoes is one of the biggest ongoing debates in the running shoe community. And no two running shoe brands exemplify this debate more than Altra and HOKA.
On paper, these running shoe brands couldn’t be more different. Altra was born out of the minimalist running shoe movement, bringing zero drop, low cushion running shoes to the mainstream. Their shoes are meant to offer a more natural, minimal feel for a more grounded experience on runs.
On the other hand, HOKA embraces an opposite approach with their popular running shoes. While HOKA first started out creating lightweight and cushioned trail running shoes, their current running shoe lines include a huge range of maximalist, high-cushion road and trail shoe options.
Despite their opposite approaches to running shoe designs, both HOKA and Altra have become two of the best and most trusted running shoe brands today. And while their origins may have been rooted in contrasting running shoe movements, both brands have evolved over time and created running shoe models that could work for a variety of runners.
So, which brand makes the better option for your next running shoe?
Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer for which shoe brand is best. Both HOKA and Altra offer distinct benefits and drawbacks to consider when you’re choosing your next running shoe. Luckily, at Marathon Sports, we’re here to narrow down your options and help make the decision easier.
Keep reading for a complete breakdown of the best HOKA and Altra shoes, and what sets their running shoe lines apart from one another. We’ll go over some of their top shoes for every type of runner and workout, including:
We’ll highlight everything you need to know about the shoes in each category and compare some of HOKA’s and Altra’s top running shoes head-to-head to help you decide which brand might be right for you.
Daily Trainers: HOKA Clifton 11 vs Altra Torin 9
If you’re looking for a daily trainer to carry you through everyday workouts and runs, the Clifton 11 from HOKA and Torin 9 from Altra are both fantastic options.
Keep reading for everything you need to know about the similarities and differences between these two daily training shoes.
HOKA Clifton 11
The Clifton is one of HOKA’s most popular running shoe lines, offering unparalleled comfort and cushioning.
There are three key features you can expect to find in any HOKA shoe: a cushioned midsole, metaRocker geometry, and Active Foot Frame technology. These features are particularly prevalent in the Clifton 11, making it a great choice for everyday training and long runs.
While the Clifton is considered HOKA’s moderate cushion shoe, sitting behind the ultra-plush Bondi, the high stack height and high profile design make Clifton 11 a noticeably high cushion shoe. With so much foam, a plush ride, and 8 extra mm of cushioning in the heel compared to the forefoot, the shoe is best suited for long runs and recovery days.
Another key feature of the Clifton 11 is the smooth metarocker technology. The curved sole assists with smooth heel-to-toe transitions, propelling you forward with each stride. Finally, the padded mesh upper truly ties this shoe together. The lightweight and breathable design helps keep your foot cool and provides immediate slip-on comfort right out of the box.
Altra Torin 9
Just like the Clifton 11 embodies HOKA’s best features and technology, the Torin 9 from Altra is a perfect representation of the brand and their unique design elements and technology.
Many of Altra’s running shoes are zero drop, meaning the amount of cushioning is balanced between the heel and the forefoot, as opposed to the heel being slightly raised like you can find in most traditional running shoes.
Zero drop shoes can help improve your running mechanics, drive a more natural running gait, and reduce the impact on some joints. However, there can also be some drawbacks to this design, as it places more stress on the achilles and calves as you run.
For many runners, this zero drop design is a huge draw to the Torin 9. The balanced 28 mm stack height offers a grounded and natural experience and can help improve running alignment throughout your daily runs.
The midsole is made of Altra’s P35X cushioning, a plush and lightweight foam that feels bouncy and luxurious underfoot. With the newest Torin iteration, Altra also upgraded the mesh upper, with a new and improved tongue and collar design for added comfort.
Along with being known for their zero drop designs, Altra is also renowned for their anatomical FootShape toe boxes. The Torin 9 features a wide, rounded toe box to allow toes to naturally splay and accommodate all different foot shapes.
HOKA Clifton 11 vs Altra Torin 9: Final Verdict
When it comes to daily trainers, both the HOKA Clifton 11 and Altra Torin 9 offer plenty of distinct benefits. Both have lots of cushioning to absorb shock, lightweight and plush uppers, and a smooth, comfortable ride.
However, there are some key differences to consider when deciding between the two shoes:
- The Torin 9 has an anatomical foot-shaped design as opposed to the Clifton’s more traditional, tapered toe box. However, both shoes do come in a wide width to accommodate for even more foot sizes and shapes.
- The Torin 9 is completely flat between the forefoot and heel, while the Clifton 11 has a high 8 mm drop. Runners who have typically run in a high-drop shoe may struggle with a transition to a completely zero drop shoe, and may want to consider a moderate-to-high drop shoe such as the Clifton 11.
You can’t go wrong with either of these popular daily trainers, but you may want to take into account foot shape, injury history, and general running shoe preferences when deciding between the Torin and Clifton.
Max Cushioned Shoes: HOKA Bondi 9 vs Altra FWD VIA 2
While minimalist shoes may have been all the rage back in the 2010s, maximalist running shoes have burst into the running shoe game and become a fast favorite among countless runners and walkers.
Both HOKA and Altra have fantastic running shoes that fit in this max cushioned shoe category. Here’s everything you need to know about HOKA’s Bondi 9 and Altra’s FWD VIA.
HOKA Bondi 9
HOKA is celebrated for their max cushioned running shoe designs, and Bondi 9 running shoe shows that this is an area where the brand truly shines.
If you’re looking for lots and lots of plush cushioning underfoot for your runs or walks, the Bondi 9 is a great choice. The men’s version of this ultra-cushioned shoe features a 43 mm/38 mm stack height, while the women’s has slightly less foam at 42 mm in the heel and 37 mm in the forefoot.
This high stack of supercritical EVA foam delivers a soft and resilient ride, providing enhanced padding and protection with every step. Upon stepping into the Bondi 9, the generous amount of foam is immediately noticeable. The shoe’s design features extend beyond cushioning to ensure overall comfort and stability.
The Bondi 9 incorporates a retooled 3D molded collar and a structured knit upper with zonal breathability, enhancing comfort and fit. Additionally, the shoe includes a rearfoot-focused Active Foot Frame™ for more supportive landings, a pronounced Meta-Rocker for smooth transitions, and a Durabrasion rubber outsole to combat high wear zones, all working together to keep you moving forward comfortably mile after mile.
Altra FWD VIA 2
While Altra first started as a minimalist, zero-drop running shoe company, they’ve continued to evolve and grow with the current running shoe trends. One recent addition to this running shoe lineup is the FWD VIA 2, a max-cushion shoe with a 4 mm heel-to-toe drop.
With 37 mm of foam under the heel and 33 mm under the forefoot, the FWD VIA is Altra’s highest cushion shoe yet. The lightweight Altra EGO P35 foam is plush yet responsive, making these shoes perfect for long runs or everyday training runs. Altra also uses a curved rocker geometry in the midsole to propel you forward on runs.
The FWD VIA 2 has a low 4 mm drop for more natural alignment and a grounded feel despite the high stack height. Plus, the FWD VIA goes one step further in encouraging natural foot movement. Altra’s signature FootShape toe box is incredibly accommodating for any foot size and shape and encourages natural toe splay and movement.
Altra wanted to keep the shoe looking and feeling sleek, so they designed the upper with a streamlined and breathable engineered mesh. While the upper features less all-around cushioning than the Bondi, it also keeps the shoe feeling light and breathable throughout daily runs.
HOKA Bondi 9 vs Altra FWD VIA 2: Final Verdict
When it comes down to the details, the Bondi 9 and FWD VIA 2 have a huge range of similarities. Both have a similar low drop, offer a plush yet responsive ride, and are designed to carry you through long runs or leisurely walks in comfort.
Despite their similarities, there are a few key differences that separate these max cushioned shoes from one another:
- Both shoes are neutral, high-cushion daily trainers. But the Bondi 9’s flared platform and wide base does offer a touch more inherent stability and support compared to the FWD VIA 2. Runners who mildly overpronate or just prefer a more stable shoe will likely want to go with the Bondi 9.
- The FWD VIA has a wider toe box to accommodate different foot shapes, but is only available in a regular width. If you need more overall width around the shoe, the Bondi 9 is available in a wide width and extra-wide width.
- With the sleeker design and less plush cushioning around the upper, the FWD VIA 2 doesn’t have quite the same immediate step-in comfort as the Bondi 9. Those who prefer a more streamlined design will likely enjoy this upper, while anyone who prioritizes all-around comfort and a padded collar and upper may prefer the Bondi 9.
Overall, runners who prefer a low drop and lots of foam will likely find plenty to love about both of these shoes.
Stability Shoes: HOKA Arahi 8 vs Altra Torin ST
Runners who overpronate – who have arches and ankles that excessively fall inward when they run or walk – will likely want to consider what’s known as a stability shoe. Stability shoes correct for this overpronation by providing targeted cushioning and arch support that reduce this arch and foot movement.
Every shoe and brand has their own distinct way of preventing overpronation. Two of these methods of support can be seen in the HOKA Arahi 8 and Altra Torin ST.
HOKA Arahi 8
HOKA combines support and comfort in their moderate cushion stability shoe, the Arahi 8.
Just like any HOKA shoe, the Arahi 8 features plenty of comfortable foam underfoot to absorb impact and provide unmatched comfort on runs. The 8th iteration of this shoe features a 39 mm/21 mm stack height for men and 37/29mm stack height for women, with a midsole made from HOKA’s balanced and responsive EVA foam.
Incorporated inside this midsole is HOKA’s unique and supportive H-frame technology. This technology relies on a stiff and supportive H-shaped midsole section along the medial and lateral side of the shoe to support the arch and prevent excessive rolling in.
The midsole foam combined with this stiff support gives the Arahi a more rigid feel than other HOKA shoes. This stiffer design is ideal for runners who could benefit from some extra support and prefer a more rigid and responsive ride.
The Arahi 8’s lightweight and breathable upper is another huge plus. The mesh design effectively wraps your foot and provides a fantastic lock-down to prevent excess movement on runs. The padded tongue and heel collar also provides some extra comfort and structure while keeping everything locked in place.
Altra Torin ST
Altra is a huge advocate of allowing natural foot movement without shoes feeling too intrusive. Even in its stability shoes, which are designed to limit excess movement, their stability features take a more discreet approach, offering adaptive support for those who need it.
The Torin ST relies on Altra’s GuideRail technology for gentle, adaptive guidance that offers a touch of support for runners who tend to overpronate. These guide rails along the sides of the midsole act like highway guard rails or bumpers on a bowling alley – they’re there when needed, but non-intrusive for those who don’t need it.
Without too much added stiffness and support, Altra’s plush EGO MAX midsole foam can really shine. The balanced 28 mm of plush midsole foam is bouncy and flexible, allowing for plenty of underfoot comfort and protection throughout any run.
Along with the flexible and supportive midsole, the Torin ST features several other features designed to help with alignment and encourage a natural running gait. The flexible mesh upper wraps the foot while maximizing freedom and breathability, while the standard FootShape toe box and zero-drop design allow for natural alignment and freedom within the shoe.
HOKA Arahi 8 vs Torin ST: Final Verdict
The HOKA Arahi and Altra Torin ST are both designed to combine support and stability with cushioning and comfort. So what do overpronators need to know about the differences between these two stability shoes?
- The Arahi 8 takes a more direct approach to stability with HOKA’s stiff medial H-frame technology. This more rigid design may benefit runners who significantly overpronate, while the adaptive GuideRail technology on the Torin ST is better for those who need or prefer mild, more discreet support.
- With this less obtrusive support, the Torin ST maintains a plush, softer cushioning. The stiffer, supportive design of the Arahi 8 may feel too stiff for runners who prefer a softer underfoot feeling.
- The Arahi 8 features a moderate 8 mm drop, while the Torin ST offers a zero-drop running shoe experience.
- Both shoes are available in a wide width, but the Torin ST’s wider forefoot is slightly more accommodating for those that prefer a roomier toe box.
From their drop to their method of support, the Torin ST and Arahi 8 differ in a variety of ways. But for runners who tend to need some extra stability in their shoes, these are two of the best options you can find. And if you want the benefits of an Altra stability shoe with a slight drop, you may want to check out the Altra Experience Flow ST.
Trail Shoes: HOKA Speedgoat 7 vs Altra Lone Peak 9+
If you’re a runner who prefers to ditch the pavement and take their running offroad, you’re in luck. Both HOKA and Altra have some fantastic trail running shoe options, including the HOKA Speedgoat 7 and Altra Lone Peak 9+, that will have you ready to take on any terrain.
HOKA Speedgoat 7
HOKA first got their start making top-of-the-line trail shoes, so you may not be too surprised to learn that their trail shoes continue to be some of the best around.
One of their most popular and reliable trail running shoes is the Speedgoat. First released in 2017, this time-tested and fan-favorite shoe offers everything you need in a trail shoe, from unmatched tread and grip to plenty of cushioning and protection from terrain.
At 9.96 oz for men’s shoes and 8.3 oz for women’s shoes, the Speedgoat 7 is exceptionally lightweight for a trail shoe, especially considering how much cushion is in the midsole. The men’s Speedgoat consists of 37 mm of compression-molded EVA foam in the heel and 33 mm in the forefoot, while the women’s has 36 mm and 32 mm. And despite this high stack height, the rigid underfoot feel and low drop keeps you feeling connected to the ground.
The Vibram megagrip outsole is another standout feature. Paired with aggressive traction lugs, this outsole provides plenty of grip and traction for even the toughest, most technical terrain.
For runners or hikers worried about debris and rocks in their shoes, the Speedgoat 7 might be a great trail shoe choice. The secure, breathable woven textile upper snugly wraps your foot to keep debris out, while the gaiter integration system allows you to customize your protection out on the trails.
Altra Lone Peak 9+
Feeling connected to the ground is especially important when it comes to tackling rough and rocky trails. With the zero-drop, low-profile Lone Peak 9+, runners can feel grounded without sacrificing comfort and protection as they take to the trails.
The Lone Peak is another renowned fan-favorite when it comes to trail running shoes. With a balanced 25 mm stack height throughout the shoe, the Lone Peak 9+ may not be as plush and cushioned as the Speedgoat. But this responsive Altra EGO foam is perfect for trail runners who prefer a responsive experience and like to feel the ground under their feet.
In the newest iteration of the Lone Peak, the FootShape toe box is even roomier than previous versions of the shoe. This extra space in the forefoot and wider overall fit can easily accommodate any foot shape and ensures extra comfort and freedom to move your toes. The ripstop mesh upper is also more durable and comfortable than ever so you can enjoy endless trail miles.
The Vibram outsole contributes to even more longevity while adding exceptional traction and grip on a range of different terrains. And with a Stoneguard insert in the midsole, you can feel even more confident that your feet will stay comfortable and protected throughout any run or hike.
HOKA Speedgoat 7 and Altra Lone Peak 9+: Final Verdict
HOKA and Altra are responsible for some of the best trail running shoes you can find today, and the renowned Speedgoat 7 and Lone Peak 9+ are two of the biggest standouts in this category.
While both work great on technical terrain, the two shoe models differ in some key ways:
- The Speedgoat 7 is focused on cushion and luxurious comfort, with a high stack height of responsive foam underfoot. The Lone Peak 9+ prioritizes stability and feeling the ground in rough terrain with a low-profile design and low stack height.
- While the Speedgoat 7’s low 4 mm drop contributes to a relatively grounded feel, Altra’s zero drop design really excels in trails and keeps your foot in a level, natural position as you tackle rocks, roots, and more.
- The Lone Peak 9+ is slightly heavier than the Speedgoat, weighing in at 11.55 oz for men’s shoes and 9.3 oz for women’s shoes.
Whichever shoe you choose truly comes down to your own preferences and priorities as you head out for a trail run. Want lots of plush cushioning underfoot and aggressive traction? Go with the Speedgoat 7. Prefer feeling closer to the ground in a low-profile and natural shoe? The Lone Peak 9+ may be the way to go.
Race Day Shoes: HOKA Cielo X1 3.0 vs Altra Vanish Carbon 2
While super shoes were first introduced back in 2016, these high-cushion, carbon plated shoes have become more and more mainstream over the years. Today, nearly every brand has their own version of a super shoe meant to help runners move faster and more efficiently.
Both HOKA and Altra have joined in on the super shoe craze with the HOKA Cielo X1 3.0 and Altra Vanish Carbon 2. But which shoe should you consider for your next big race?
HOKA Cielo X1 3.0
HOKA’s Cielo X1 3.0 is the ultimate speed and high-performance shoe designed to help runners achieve their personal bests on race day. This unisex racing shoe emphasizes speed and efficiency, utilizing advanced geometry, cushioning, and a responsive carbon fiber plate to propel you forward and get you to the finish line.
The unisex Cielo X1 3.0 features a substantial stack height of 38 mm in the heel and 31 mm in the forefoot. This generous midsole is comprised of of PEBA-based foam, engineered to be lightweight, firm, and responsive. Embedded within the midsole is a winged carbon fiber plate that enhances bounce and propulsion.
While all HOKA shoes incorporate a rocker design, the Cielo X1 3.0 features an even more pronounced rocker shape, promoting better efficiency throughout your runs. Strategically placed cutouts in the midsole reduce weight, allowing for faster movement and a lighter feel on your feet.
Every aspect of this shoe is crafted with speed and efficiency in mind, including the upper. The streamlined dynamic vamp upper is lightweight and breathable, minimizing excess weight and discomfort. The asymmetrical lacing and redesigned heel geometry ensure your feet stay securely in place, allowing you to focus on your race without distractions.
Altra Vanish Carbon 2
With the release of the Vanish Carbon 2, Altra showed that they can join in the super shoe game and create a fast and efficient zero-drop shoe perfect for race day.
In this racing shoe, Altra maintains the flexibility and zero-drop design that people love about their shoes while adding a range of features designed for speed, efficiency, and performance.
The 36 mm midsole is made up of Altra EGO PRO foam, an airy and responsive foam that doesn’t sacrifice any comfort and impact absorption. Even with a high stack-height, the zero drop design, responsive and bouncy foam, and lightweight and breathable mesh upper keeps the shoe feeling lightweight and natural on your feet.
The slim FootShape design still provides ample room in the toe box while keeping the rest of the foot firmly locked in place. The full-length carbon plate and rocker technology round out the best features of this race day shoe, offering more propulsion and efficiency with each step.
HOKA Cielo X1 3.0 vs Altra Vanish Carbon 2: Final Verdict
With any super shoe, there are a few key details you can always expect: plenty of cushioning, responsive foam, a rocker design, and some sort of plate in the midsole.
Despite these similarities, the HOKA Cielo X1 3.0 and Altra Vanish Carbon 2 offer some different approaches, technologies, and design choices in their race day shoes:
- Altra maintains their zero drop design and wider toe box in their carbon-plated race day shoe, while HOKA offers a slightly higher drop of 7 mm and traditional slim toe box shape. This zero drop shoe may be a good option for midfoot strikers and runners who did most of their training in zero or low drop shoes. HOKA’s middle-of-the-road drop is ideal for runners who trained in higher drop shoes or heel strikers who prefer some extra protection in the heel.
- The Unisex Cielo X1 3.0 weighs 7.52 oz, making it lighter than the men’s Altra Vanish Carbon 2 at 8.1 oz. However, the women’s Vanish Carbon 2 is significantly lighter at just 5.8 oz.
- Both shoes offer a high-cushioned running experience. However, HOKA has slightly more cushioning in its race day shoes.
These two race day shoes are both designed around performance and efficiency, and are both great options for runners looking to pick up the pace on race day. The biggest difference stems from the varying drops in the two shoes. When deciding on a race day shoe, you may want to consider what shoes you used for training, any previous aches or injuries, and your running gait.
Compare HOKA and Altra Running Shoes at Marathon Sports
With so many different running shoe trends and debates on which type of shoe is best, it can be challenging to know which running shoe is right for you. At Marathon Sports, finding the right shoe doesn’t have to be a guessing game.
Marathon Sports has so many different running shoe options from HOKA, Altra, and some of the other best running shoe brands today. This guide will help you know what to expect, but the best way to decide which shoes you like best is to stop by your local Marathon Sports and compare Altra and HOKA running shoes for yourself.
Whether you’re looking for a daily trainer, a carbon-plated race day shoe, a comfortable walking shoe, or anything in-between, Marathon Sports can help you find your next favorite running shoe and keep your feet healthy and happy.
