Topo Ultraventure Review

Use: Hiking on the PCT

Mileage: Used for about 650 miles

Terrain: Everything a trail can throw at you

I typically run and hike in Altra or inov-8 shoes so am used to zero drop. I decided to give the Topo shoes a try during the PCT hike. If you’re interested in details, please continue. Let me know any questions you may have. Happy trails!

Pros: - Wide toe box! - Good traction on rocks, roots and logs. Other than during a few steep descents on loose gravel, I had no issues with slipping. - Outsole/tread seems to last longer than other brands. It’s Vibram branded and has more profile left than Altra shoes after the same mileage (my main reason to replace the previous Altra pair). - The durability of the mesh is comparable to Altra. My Olympus developed the first mesh tears after roughly the same mileage. - No issues with the laces; tied them once and slipped in and out every day. - The cushioning seemed to hold up well. We have been hiking lots of sharp rocks and while they are less forgiving than the Olympus, they are probably on par with Lone Peak and Timps.

Cons - Not zero drop. I’m used to Altra and other zero drop shoes and found myself catching the tip of the Topo shoes for the first 2 weeks of use. I never face planted but it takes some getting used to. - I didn’t get blisters but a few red/sore spots on my heel and toes that I taped with Leukotape for a few days. Then it was fine. That could be just my particular foot shape. - Not compatible with standard gaiters such as Dirty Girl. I don’t see the point of every shoe company making their own gaiters. Just make them work with what’s already out there and potential customers already use. - For that reason I can’t compare the amount of debris inside the shoe. I experienced a lot more than in Altra shoes but I always wear the Dirty Girl gaiters and on the Topo, I can only attach the front hook so not the same situation at all. - They seemed to loose stability and support over time. They feel very floppy and soft now but I also acknowledge that they are past their recommended mileage. - Insoles are of very low quality. On one foot the insole is almost through completely, something I’ve never managed in Altra shoes. - The mesh tore at the big toe of my left foot. Stitched it up with dental floss and it held for the 3 days I needed to new shoes. As I said before, that’s comparable to Altra shoe durability.

Overall a good durable shoe and especially suitable if you don’t like zero drop.