There's no scientific data to prove that less cushioning leads to better running form either and after a while many barefoot runners had a host of injuries(See the Vibram lawsuit). However Hoka One One started out catering to people that ran 50 mile and 100 mile+ ultra marathons that needed the extra cushioning over those extreme distances. Now they cater to all runners and even make hiking boots and even a track spike! Altra on the other hand is more akin to the barefoot movement. They offer zero drop running shoes meaning the heel and the forefoot are the same heigh(zero drop) while most shoes have a heel stack height that is greater than the forefoot. They also offer what they call a "foot shape toe box" meaning it is more accommodating so as the foot tends to swell there is more room for toe splay. A lot of barefoot and minimalist runners have taken to this brand as they still offer minimalist footwear and natural form running shoes. However like Hoka, they also offer some maximalist shoes as well.Not exactly adherents to the barefoot running movement or the ideals that more cushioning leads to more problems, are they?