Topo Athletic mtn racer 4

Learn more about the Topo Athletic mtn racer 4 female running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Topo Athletic mtn racer 4

Price

300

Rating

High

Popularity

Moderate

The Topo Athletic MTN Racer 4 is a high-performance trail running shoe featuring a lightweight design and aggressive traction, positioned as a more rugged and responsive option compared to other models in the Topo Athletic lineup like the Ultraventure series.

Topo Athletic
Topo Athletic mtn racer
2 colorways

Colorway: Blue/Blue

Widths available: normal

Anthony
Got a question about the Topo Athletic mtn racer 4?
AI-powered

We've got access to 1000s of long-form youtube, google and other Fittir user reviews which means we can answer any question about this shoe. Ask anything, and me and my AI assistant will do our best to answer your question.

Or try one of these questions:

How does the cushioning feel?
Is it suitable for wide feet?
What's the durability like?
How does it compare to the previous version?

Summary

The Topo Athletic MTN Racer 4 is a high-performance trail running shoe designed for runners who seek a balance between agility, speed, and rugged protection on challenging terrains. Known for its lightweight and responsive feel, this model offers a durable Vibram Megagrip outsole for superior traction on wet and dry surfaces. Compared to other models in the Topo Athletic lineup, the MTN Racer 4 emphasizes a more aggressive tread pattern for enhanced grip, making it ideal for technical trails and mountainous paths. It offers a snug midfoot fit with a slightly wider toe box, characteristic of Topo shoes, to promote natural foot splay and comfort over long distances. Positioned between the cushioned Ultraventure series and the versatile TerraVenture model, the MTN Racer 4 is perfect for trail enthusiasts who prioritize speed and performance without sacrificing protection.

Surface

trail

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(30.5mm)

Category

ResponsiveBalancedComfort

Breathability

LowMediumHigh( upper)

Weight

240g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

5mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax(high density, 6mm lugs) - Vibram Megagrip rubber

Suitability

___% Match

Based on your running profile and intended use, this shoe is a ___% match. Click the dropdowns in each section to learn more.

Based on your running style and needs

▼

Want to know if the Topo Athletic mtn racer 4 is right for you?

Our shoe finder is personalised to your needs, and has been used by thousands of runners across the globe.

Get a personalised recommendation

Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Topo Athletic mtn racer 4 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 21 wear-tester reviews.

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

midsole (2)
insole (2)
plushness (2)
firmness (2)
support (1)
rebound (1)
comfort (1)
protection (1)
Pros
"It provides good cushioning that balances softness with support."
cushiony
sturdy
Zip Foam
"The midsole is designed to be softer and provides increased rebound compared to its predecessor."
softness
rebound
midsole
"It provides a noticeable level of cushioning and comfort underfoot due to its multi-density midsole design."
zip foam
midsole
cushioning
comfort
"The Mountain Racer 3 features increased underfoot protection while maintaining a lightweight design."
underfoot protection
lightweight
cushioning
"The Terra Venture 4 features a four-foot rock plate for added protection on technical terrain."
rock plate
technical terrain
protection
"The new Z-foam provides a softer, more lightweight, and responsive experience."
zip foam
lightweight
rebound
"The Phantom shoe offers a higher midsole for increased cushioning and responsiveness during runs."
higher midsole
responsive
cushioned ride
"The updated zip foam midsole is lighter and bouncier, improving the overall cushioning of the shoe."
zip foam
lightweight
responsive
"The shoe maintains excellent cushioning with the zip foam, providing a comfortable ride."
cushion
lightweight
comfort
"The Ultra Venture 4 offers a much softer feel, making it suitable for long-distance runs."
soft feel
distance
"The FKT insole enhances energy return and water resistance, contributing to an overall better experience."
insole
water resistant
rebound
"The midsole is made from Toppo's proprietary zip foam, offering good durability without losing responsiveness."
zip foam
midsole
durability
"The shoe features a firmer and more responsive zip foam cushioning in the midsole compared to the previous model."
zip foam
midsole
responsive
"The MTN Racer 4 features a responsive ZipFoam™ midsole for improved performance."
ZipFoam
midsole
responsive
"The shoe is equipped with an updated insole that improves water drainage and adds a bit of rebound for better overall comfort on long runs."
water drainage
comfort
rebound
"The FKT insole provides excellent cushioning and resilience, significantly enhancing underfoot comfort."
FKT insole
cushioning
resilience
"The shoe features a soft and plush ride thanks to its cushioned design."
Ultra Venture 4
zip foam
cushion
"The Mountain Racer 4 offers a great balance of cushioning and responsiveness for rocky terrain."
cushioning
midsole
performance
"The Ultrafly 5 provides adequate cushioning for shorter distances and light trails."
cushioning
shorter distances
Cons
"The shoe lacks a high level of cushioning compared to competitors."
cushioning
midsole
softness
"The shoe lacks adequate underfoot protection for longer trail runs."
underfoot
protection
Ultra
trail
"The slight increase in stack height might affect the nimbleness of the shoe."
stack height
nimbleness
runability
"The overall cushioning feels firmer than expected."
cushioning
responsiveness
"The shoe's midsole cushioning has been made firmer, which may reduce comfort for some runners."
cushioning
firmness
"The cushioning in the Mountain Racer 3 is not as plush as in the Ultra Venture 4."
cushioning
softness
ride
"While the midsole doesn't collapse or compress, it could lack the desired plushness for some runners."
midsole
cushioning
"The Ultra Venture 4 may feel too soft for those seeking a more responsive ride."
cushioning
performance
ride
"The shoe may lack sufficient bounce in the midsole."
softness
resilience
performance
"The shoe lacks significant springiness despite being responsive, which may not suit everyone's preference."
responsiveness
feel
cushioning
"The Ultrafly 5 has substantially less cushioning, making it less suited for long runs compared to the others."
cushion
road running

breathability (3)
heel fit (1)
support (1)
initial feel (1)
long wear (1)
footbed (1)
insole (1)
responsiveness (1)
Pros
"There is a nice heel cup that adds to overall comfort during runs."
heel cup
comfortable
cushion
"The new FKT insole provides a softer feel and high rebound characteristics thanks to its TPU bead construction."
insole
TPU beads
high rebound
"The Mountain Racer 3 has an immediate appeal, encouraging you to hit the trails right away."
encouragement
trail running
first impression
"The Ultra Venture 4 offers all-day comfort for extended wear."
comfort
all-day wear
versatility
"The split mesh upper enhances breathability and comfort throughout the shoe."
breathable upper
comfort
"The Mountain Racer 3 is a bit more breathable compared to the Ultra Venture 4."
Mountain Racer 3
breathable
"The breathable design of the Ultra Venture 4 helps keep the feet dry during long hikes."
breathable
comfort
"The FKT footbed in the Vista allows for a soft stepping feel and quick drainage, enhancing comfort in wet conditions."
FKT footbed
soft stepping
quick drainage
"The Mountain Racer incorporates a lightweight FKT insole for enhanced comfort and cushioning."
FKT insole
lightweight
comfortable step
"The new FKT insole is water resistant and enhances comfort during runs, especially in wet conditions."
water resistant
high rebound
comfort
"The running experience is enhanced by a new FKT insole that is responsive and drains water quickly."
FKT insole
TPU beads
quick drying
"It's a comfortable shoe suitable for both road and trail."
Ultra Venture 4
road
trail
"The Ultra Venture 4 is preferred for maximal cushioning on non-technical trails."
Ultra Venture 4
cushion
"The Mountain Racer 4's upper has a comfortably padded gusseted tongue that prevents unwanted movement during runs."
gusseted tongue
comfortable fit
padding
"It offers a wide toe box allowing toes to spread out, enhancing comfort during long runs."
wide toe box
comfort
ultra distance
Cons
"The upper is not the most breathable option, which could cause overheating during long runs."
upper
breathability
heat
"The insole may lack breathability compared to open cell foams."
insole
breathability
water drainage
"The breathability of the shoe is only average, potentially leading to hot feet."
average
heat
"The shoe may not be suitable for road running due to its design and intended use."
terrain
road
usage
"The Mountain Racer 3 causes blisters for the reviewer, which is unusual for their experience."
blisters
discomfort
"The thin tongue design may lead to discomfort during longer runs."
padding
pressure
"The insole material is uncomfortable initially due to its texture."
texture
initial discomfort
"The engineered mesh may cause some issues if the runner kicks rocks or branches."
mesh
rock protection
"There was pain experienced on the outside of the left foot during the run."
pain
left foot
arch
"There might be issues with the shoe's midsole stiffness causing discomfort during the break-in period."
midsole
stiffness
break-in
"Some may find the firmness of the midsole to be a downside for comfort."
firm
responsive

outsole (2)
weight (2)
upper protection (1)
platform (1)
breathability (1)
construction (1)
abrasion resistance (1)
toe protection (1)
Pros
"The durable upper material protects against trail debris while maintaining breathability."
mesh
overlays
breathability
"The Mountain Racer 4 maintains its proven outsole and midsole platform, ensuring reliability."
outsole
midsole
reliability
"The shoe has a well-constructed upper that enhances breathability and durability."
mesh
upper
durability
breathability
"Overall quality construction leads to a good long-term durability of the shoe, showing no early signs of wear."
durability
wear
quality
mileage
"The Vibram outsole provides excellent grip and durability, even after extensive use."
Vibram
grip
wear and tear
"The shoe includes features to improve durability, like protectors around the front to reduce abrasion."
overlay
protection
longevity
"The shoe's robust toe guard offers protection against rocky terrain and enhances durability."
toe guard
rocky terrain
durability
"The updated uppers are made from a tightly woven mesh that is abrasion resistant, improving durability over previous models."
durability
abrasion resistant
"The overall build quality of the Mountain Racer 4 is impressive and durable."
durable
impressive build
quality
"The shoe features a breathable upper that effectively sheds water."
breathable
water-shedding
upper material
"This shoe has a lightweight design at 10.4 ounces, which enhances its performance."
weight
performance
"The durability of the Mountain Racer 4 is impressive, as it holds up well over long distances."
durability
longevity
Cons
"Limited testing so far means the reviewer hasn't fully assessed long-term durability and performance."
testing
mileage
assurance
"The shoe may potentially be too heavy for some users."
weight
heaviness
"The weight difference compared to the previous model is insignificant and may not justify an upgrade for some users."
weight
upgrade
"The lugs on the outsole are too long for road running, potentially leading to quicker wear when used on asphalt."
road use
wear
lugs
"The shoe's rubber can wear down faster on tarmac surfaces."
wear
tarmac
soft rubber
"The shoe's midsole may not hold up well for long distances."
breakdown
long distance
performance

weight (5)
lightweight (1)
race suitability (1)
flexibility (1)
nimbleness (1)
outsole (1)
traction (1)
responsiveness (1)
Pros
"The shoe is lightweight at 10.4 oz, enhancing performance during runs."
fast
performance
weight
"The Mountain Racer 3 is preferred for faster trail races under 50K."
trail races
performance
50K
"The shoe offers good flexibility in the midsole, adapting well to varied terrains while maintaining stability."
flex
midsole
performance
technical
"The Terra Venture 4 offers a nimble feel for running and hiking, suitable for short trails."
run to hike
versatile
short trails
"The outsole design of the Phantom shoe has been updated for improved flexibility and stability during toe-off."
updated outsole
flexibility
stability
"The shoe's weight is average for both everyday training and racing."
performance
average weight
training
"The Mountain Racer 4's slight weight increase is offset by its overall performance improvements from previous versions."
weight
performance
comparison
"The Vibram Mega Grip outsole provides superior traction on technical trails, improving performance."
Vibram Mega Grip
superior traction
technical trails
"Equipped with Topo's zip foam midsole, the shoe offers a firmer and more responsive ride compared to earlier versions."
responsive
performance
"It is lightweight and responsive, making it suitable for racing."
Mountain Racer 3
lightweight
responsive
"The shoe is reportedly effective for ultra-distance races, with a comfortable fit that lasts during long runs."
ultra-distance
comfortable
race-worthy
"The Ultrafly 5 is well-suited for road running and everyday walking due to its smooth tread."
road running
everyday use
"The MTN Racer 4 is suitable for long-distance runs on technical trails, making it a versatile choice."
long distance
technical trails
muddy terrain
Cons
"There may be faster or more aggressive shoes available for those who prioritize speed or performance."
performance
aggressiveness
competition
"The Ultra Venture 4 lacks excitement and is perceived as a dull shoe."
dull
uninspired
"The shoe may not provide enough ground feel for those who prefer a more responsive run."
ground feel
responsiveness
trail
"The shoe is quite heavy, which might affect performance."
heavy
performance
"The shoe is heavier than some competitors, which may affect performance."
heavy
average
"The shoe is not the lightest option for race day, which could be a drawback for competitive runners."
weight
race day
competitiveness
"The weight of the Mountain Racer 4 detracts from its performance."
heaviness
nimbleness
performance
"The shoe is considered heavy compared to other trail shoes."
heavy
295g
"Some updates to the outsole may not provide enough flexibility for all types of runners."
outsole
flexibility
"Despite improvements, the reviewer still prefers the previous version slightly."
version comparison
preference

width (3)
secure (2)
security (2)
accommodation (1)
true to size (1)
toe box (1)
comfort (1)
roomy toe box (1)
Pros
"The shoe has an accommodating fit with a unique natural foot shape."
natural shape
toe box
heel fit
"Both shoes are true to size, ensuring a good fit for most runners."
true fit
size recommendation
everyday use
"The fit is true to size with a roomy toe box, enhancing comfort during runs."
fit
toe box
comfort
"The shoe features a wide toe box, allowing for natural toe splay and comfort during runs."
wide toe box
comfort
"The shoe maintains a comfortable fit with a roomy toe box and a secure midfoot and heel."
roomy toe box
secure fit
comfortable
"Topo Athletic shoes are known for their exceptional fit across various foot shapes, providing a roomy toe box and secure midfoot and heel."
excellent fit
roomy toe box
secure midfoot
"The updated fit in the Mountain Racer 4 enhances overall performance on technical terrain."
fit
security
midfoot
"The lacing system and tongue design prevent discomfort and keep the foot secure."
lacing system
comfort
"The new heel construction improves fit and support, especially for aggressive terrains."
heel
support
stability
"The Toppo Mountain Racer 4s feature a perfect fit in length with a wider toe box."
fit
width
toe box
"The shoe includes features that enhance stability, such as a secure tongue with loops."
tongue design
stability
secure fit
"The shoe offers a snug fit at the heel and midfoot while allowing space for toe splay in the forefoot, providing comfort."
snug fit
forefoot space
comfortable
"The Mountain Racer 4 comes in a wide version, providing a better fit for those with wider feet."
wide version
improved fit
foot comfort
"The shoe provides excellent mid-foot lockdown, allowing for a secure fit during runs."
midfoot lockdown
secure fit
technical terrain
"The midfoot area of the shoe provides a snug fit for enhanced security on uneven terrain."
snug fit
security
"The Ultra Venture 4 has a wide fitting option, which is comfortable for runners with wider feet."
Ultra Venture 4
fit
wide
"The ergonomic design of the Mountain Racer 4 allows for a natural fit that conforms to the foot."
fit
wide toe box
heel lock
"This shoe maintains its anatomical fit, providing comfort and reducing pressure on the forefoot."
anatomical fit
comfort
forefoot space
Cons
"The snug midfoot fit may cause discomfort for some runners who prefer a wider shoe design."
midfoot
fit
narrow
"The Ultra Venture 4 feels heavier than the Mountain Racer 3, which may be a downside for some."
heavy
weight
"The necessity to tighten the laces for adequate lock-down could compromise comfort."
lace
lockdown
"The shoe's fit may still be too roomy for some runners."
fit
roomy
comfort
"This model may not accommodate all foot shapes as described, potentially leading to discomfort."
fit
accommodation
"Some users may find the toe box too roomy, compromising the overall fit."
fit
toe_box
"The upper's fit was less secure in prior versions, leading to instability on technical terrain."
fit
instability
technical terrain
"There were concerns about the secure fit in previous versions, which could impact overall performance."
fit
performance
previous versions
"The heel cup is too shallow, causing a lack of secure fit."
shallow
blisters
pressure
"The lacing system does not provide a secure fit without adjustment."
adjustment
insecure
movement
"The width of the shoe doesn't feel significantly different from the standard version."
wide version
fit
comparison
perception
"The snug fit of the midfoot may feel tight for runners with wider feet."
snug fit
sizing
wide feet
"The Mountain Racer 3 has a tighter fit in the midfoot area, which may not accommodate wider feet."
fit
midfoot
wide feet
"The midfoot lockdown is less tight compared to the standard version."
lockdown
comparison
fit
"Tying the shoe too tightly could lead to issues, but it may have been a user error."
tightness
user error
fit

protection (2)
midfoot support (1)
climbing (1)
heel (1)
pronation (1)
drop (1)
foot cradling (1)
overall_stability (1)
Pros
"The shoe's midfoot fit is snug, providing stability during dynamic movements."
snug
stability
comfort
"The shoe excels in stability on technical climbs and hikes."
stability
hiking
technical trails
"The design includes a deeper heel seat for improved stability when running downhill."
stability
heel design
"The New Aura features a Y-frame system that provides excellent light pronation support."
Y-frame
pronation support
light support
"The 5mm drop is an optimal choice for those seeking a low drop shoe without going completely zero drop."
5mm drop
low drop
heel cushioning
"The shoe has a stable design with sidewalls that cradle the foot, enhancing control during lateral movements."
sidewalls
stability
lateral support
"The Mountain Racer 4 provides a good blend of stability and comfort, allowing for distraction-free runs."
stable platform
comfortable
distraction-free
"The heel lock feature prevents heel lift, enhancing stability during runs."
stability
performance
"Stability features include medial and lateral sidewalls that help cradle the foot for balance."
medial sidewalls
lateral sidewalls
balance
Cons
"The drop may not be suitable for all runners, particularly those who prefer a lower drop for stability."
drop
midsole
stability
"The Mountain Racer 3 is not suitable for technical downhill running which is surprising given its name."
technical
downhill
stability
"The absence of a rock plate may make the shoe vulnerable to sharp strikes in rocky areas."
rock plate
strikes
"There is no rock plate in the midsole, which diminishes protection."
rock plate
sharp rocks
protection
"Lack of pronounced stability features may not suit all pronation needs."
stability
pronation
"The Ultra Venture 4 may feel less stable on technical terrain due to its softer, less aggressive tread."
tread
stability
mountain running

traction (3)
micro grip (1)
technical (1)
outsole (1)
depth (1)
release (1)
lug depth (1)
trail-specific (1)
Pros
"The outsole is designed with excellent traction, especially on technical terrain."
Vibram
traction
technical terrain
"The shoe features an aggressive Vibram Mega grip outsole, designed specifically for technical terrain."
Vibram
deep lugs
technical terrain
"The Mountain Racer 3 features a more aggressive lug pattern for better traction."
lug pattern
aggressive grip
trail traction
"The Mountain Racer 2 features a very sticky Vibram Mega Grip outsole that provides excellent traction."
Vibram
outsole
traction
confidence
"The Mountain Racer 3 offers excellent traction with its VIBRAM Mega grip outsole, designed for technical terrain."
VIBRAM Mega grip
technical traction
varied conditions
"The Vista is equipped with an aggressive outsole using 4 mm lugs for excellent traction on technical trails."
aggressive lugs
excellent traction
slip resistance
"The Vebra Mega Grip outsole with 5mm lugs offers reliable grip on varied surfaces."
outsole
grip
5mm lugs
"The shoe provides excellent grip on various terrains thanks to its Vibram Mega Grip outsole."
Vibram Mega Grip
5 mil lugs
terrain handling
"The shoe's outsole provides reliable traction across various surfaces, enhancing performance on diverse terrains."
traction
versatile
multiple surfaces
"The Ultra Venture 4 has excellent traction for mild to moderate trails."
Ultra Venture 4
trail
mild
moderate
"The outsole features Vibram® MegaGrip, delivering excellent traction on various terrains."
Vibram
MegaGrip
traction
"The Mountain Racer continues to use an aggressive micro grip outsole, providing a proven and reliable performance for technical trails."
aggressive outsole
proven performance
technical trail
"The Mountain Racer 3 offers great grip on technical and muddy trails due to its outsole."
Mountain Racer 3
Vibbram Mega Grip
technical
muddy
"The shoe has excellent grip due to its Vibram Mega Grip outsole, which performs well on technical trails."
Vibram Mega Grip
excellent traction
technical trails
Cons
"The shoe's lug depth might not provide enough grip on slippery surfaces for some runners."
outsole
lug depth
traction
"The Ultra Venture 4 does not provide good grip on sandy or loose surfaces."
grip
loose
sand
"The outsole retains mud due to the thickness of the mega grips, which might affect running performance."
mud retention
weight distribution
traction
"The grip on the Ultra Venture 4 is insufficient for very rocky or muddy trails."
outsole
traction
lug depth
"The outsole struggles to release mud and snow effectively in certain conditions."
outsole
mud
snow
performance
"The outsole lugs of the Ultra Venture 4 are not deep enough for more formidable trails."
outsole
lugs
trails
"The shoe may not be suitable for road-to-trail running."
usage
terrain
"There’s a noticeable difference in aggressiveness of tread between models, which may not be suitable for all terrains."
tread
terrain
grip
"The smooth tread of the Ultrafly 5 limits its versatility across different terrains, especially for trail running."
tread
terrain
road use

versatility (3)
water resistance (1)
customer service (1)
weight (1)
accessories (1)
value (1)
drainage (1)
aesthetics (1)
Pros
"The shoe offers great versatility, suitable for both training and racing."
multi-use
training
racing
budget
"The updated gator feature adds versatility, catering to ultra racing needs."
gator
ultra racing
adaptability
"The Mountain Racer 4 is adaptable, now able to work with any gaiters, enhancing its versatility for trail runners."
gaiters
adaptability
"The closed cell foam in the insole allows quicker drainage and drying of the shoe during wet conditions."
closed cell foam
quick drainage
wet conditions
"Topo's customer service and satisfaction guarantee inspire confidence in purchases."
satisfaction guarantee
customer support
trust
"Both shoes have similar weights, making them lightweight options for trail running."
weight
lightweight
"The transition to a new gator system will enhance the shoe's compatibility with future models."
gator system
compatibility
"The shoe is well-priced at its MSRP considering its build quality and performance features."
price
value for money
build quality
"The shoe offers enhanced drainage technology, keeping feet drier during wet conditions."
FKT insole
drainage
water-shedding
Cons
"The Ultra Venture 4's design is compared unfavorably to that of typical older shoes, which can be a turn off."
design
looks
"The retail price is considered steep compared to competing models offering similar features."
value
comparison
"The shoe's overall aesthetic may be seen as bland or outdated."
style
design
"Incremental updates in design lack significant improvements, making it feel less innovative."
design
updates
improvement
"Despite the updates in fit, there may still be issues in certain conditions that need further testing."
conditions
performance
further testing
"The shoe tends to be on the heavier side, which might not suit all runners."
heavy
long-distance
"The new shoe color may not appeal to everyone initially, which could be a negative for some users."
color
aesthetic
personal preference

Need help picking the right size?

Take a short quiz to help us find the right size for you compared to your current shoe. It takes 2 minutes.

Powered byFittir Logo
Get started

Model Updates

The Topo Athletic MTN Racer 4 features an updated mesh upper that improves breathability and durability, designed specifically to withstand trail elements while providing a comfortable fit. Additionally, it introduces a new ZipFoam™ midsole, which offers better energy return and increased resilience compared to the previous model's midsole material.

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

Read reviews about the Topo Athletic mtn racer 4 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

...

Wear-tester reviews (21)

4.3/5

Prices

Find the best price for the Topo Athletic mtn racer 4 from across the internet with our partnered shoe retailers*.

We couldn't find any stock with our partners. Try searching google instead.

*When you click through to the retailer, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Its a great way to support us and keep this site free.

Similar Shoes

Most similar
Cheaper
More cushioned
More grip
Lighter
More responsive
Softer Cushion
Same brand
Different brand
Less cushioned
More expensive