The Secret Shoe Experiment That Changed Running – with Colby Gould from Altra

Interview with Colby Gould, Sports Marketing Manager from “Maybe Running Will Help Podcast” with Nicky Tamberrino

Inside the World of Altra Running

The running world is filled with brands that promise comfort, performance, and injury prevention. But few have a story quite like Altra. In a recent episode of my podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Colby Gould, the Sports Marketing Manager at Altra. We dove into the history of the brand, its commitment to innovation, and how it’s impacting the running community—especially through its partnership with Charm City Run.

From Hacked-Up Shoes to a Global Brand

Altra’s story is one of grassroots innovation. Founded in 2011 by two running store employees, Golden Harper and Brian Beckstead, the brand was born out of a desire to help injured runners. These two pioneers started experimenting with modifying existing shoes to create a more natural running experience. By shaving down the heels of shoes and sizing runners up to provide more toe room, they developed what would become Altra’s signature features: zero-drop platforms and foot-shaped designs.

Their success wasn’t immediate, but as more runners began showing up at local races in Utah wearing these “hacked-up” shoes, word spread. What started as a niche experiment soon turned into a legitimate brand that has since grown into an industry leader, now housed alongside major outdoor brands like The North Face and Smartwool.

Altra’s Unique Approach to Running Shoes

Unlike most traditional shoe companies, Altra doesn’t believe in forcing a runner’s foot into a pre-determined mold. Instead, they focus on:

• Foot-shaped design – allowing toes to splay naturally for better stability.
• Zero to low drop platform – keeping the heel and forefoot at the same level to promote a more natural stride.
• Customized lasts for women’s shoes – rather than simply shrinking down men’s shoes, Altra tailors its women’s designs to better fit anatomical differences.

Altra’s Commitment to Runners

Colby works closely with elite athletes, ensuring they have the right gear to compete at the highest levels. But Altra isn’t just about the pros. They’re deeply involved in grassroots initiatives, like their partnership with Charm City Run’s B3 Distance Series.

This partnership is all about community. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned marathoner, Altra supports runners through training groups, product demos, and race sponsorships. The B3 Distance Series—comprised of the Shamrock 5K, the Sole of the City 10K, and the challenging Charles Street 12—helps runners progressively build their endurance throughout the year.

What’s Next for Altra?

Innovation never stops. The latest updates include:

• Lone Peak 9 – A rugged trail shoe with enhanced durability, often spotted on long-distance hikers and ultrarunners tackling the Appalachian Trail.
• Torin 7 – A top-selling road shoe that has been refined for better comfort and support, making it a favorite daily trainer for many runners.
• Expanding Sponsorships – Altra continues to support athletes like Jackie Hunt, an adaptive runner taking on the grueling Speed Project, a 340-mile journey from Santa Monica to Las Vegas.

Maybe Running Will Help…

At the end of our chat, I asked Colby to complete the sentence: “Maybe running will help…” His answer? “Maybe running will help you feel better inside by getting outside.”

That sums up the ethos of Altra and why so many runners, from elite athletes to everyday enthusiasts, are drawn to the brand. Whether it’s tackling a new distance, hitting the trails, or simply finding a shoe that actually fits right, Altra is committed to helping runners feel stronger and more comfortable in their sport.

Join the Movement

If you’re looking to upgrade your running experience, check out Altra’s latest shoes and consider joining Charm City Run’s B3 Distance Series. Who knows? Maybe I’ll see you at the finish line of the Charles Street 12—a race I both love and dread in equal measure!

A big thank you to Colby Gould for sharing his insights and passion for the sport. Whether you’re new to running or a seasoned pro, there’s always something exciting happening in the world of Altra!