As a Topo Athletic Ambassador I regularly receive emails/messages regarding the Topo Athletic Fit. I’ve been running in Topo Athletic shoes (check out my current running shoe rotation) pretty much exclusively since late-2015, with each of the following 3 key elements being major players for the switch. Coupled with my favorite sock choice – Injinji Performance Toesocks – I can truthfully claim that I’ve been blister-free in excess of 6,000 training miles and many hundreds of racing miles; including 24-hour events, 100 milers, and numerous other Ultras/road races. Here’s why Topo is a great fit for me, and potentially a game-changing switch for you too.
The Topo Athletic Fit
The Topo Athletic fit is a natural and gimmick-free design that encourages instinctive and natural movement. Topo’s unique fit and feel is delivered with just 3 key elements that encourage natural foot biomechanics while still offering cushioning and protection.
Lightweight
Ultralight materials and seam-reducing construction techniques keep weight down and blisters at bay. At 6.9 oz (Men’s Size 9), the Topo Athletic ST-2 is one of the lightest running shoes available, yet still offers optimal foot flexibility and ground feel. Even the amply-cushioned MT-2 trail shoe weighs in at just over 9 oz for my size 9.5 – an excellent balance of lightweight comfort, performance, and versatility.
Roomy Toe Box
Plenty of room for the toes to spread and splay. A secure fit through the heel and midfoot allows the shoe to move with your body. I switched to Topo Athletic mainly due to the roomy toe box. I honestly can’t imagine tackling an Ultra-distance event in any other shoe brand. Having plenty of wiggle room up front allows me to focus 100% on running and racing, without having to think about my feet and any potential issues that may develop.
Low Drop
Topo cushioned midsoles are engineered with a 0 to 5mm heel-to-toe drop, encouraging natural loading and foot motion during the gait cycle. Historically, anything in the 3mm to 4mm drop range has always worked well for me, so to be able to choose from the 0mm-drop ST-2 up to the 5mm-drop Ultrafly is pretty much perfect.
Read more about Topo Athletic’s Story and Mission at their recently redesigned website.