Topo Athletic mtn racer 4

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

Topo Athletic mtn racer 4

Price

$300

Rating

Popularity

Low

The Topo Athletic MTN Racer 4 is a premium trail running shoe known for its durability and grip, sitting above the Ultraventure models but below the Terraventure 3 in terms of technical ruggedness within the Topo Athletic lineup.

3 colorways

Colorway: Mango/Black

Widths available: normal

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Summary

The Topo Athletic MTN Racer 4 is designed for trail runners seeking a high-performance shoe that balances speed, comfort, and durability on rugged terrain. Known for its lightweight design and responsiveness, the MTN Racer 4 is a versatile option that excels in varied trail conditions. It features a secure and natural fit with its roomy toe box and reduced heel-to-toe drop, aligning with Topo's commitment to promoting natural running mechanics. Compared to other models in Topo Athletic's lineup, the MTN Racer 4 is positioned as a more minimalistic and agile choice, focusing on efficient movement, while models like the Trailventure 2 emphasize stability and protection for long-distance trail endeavors. The MTN Racer 4 offers a unique blend of performance features for trail athletes who prioritize a quick, nimble shoe without sacrificing all-day comfort and protection.

Surface

trail

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(30.5mm)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh( upper)

Weight

294g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

5mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax(high density, 6mm lugs)

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

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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 7 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The Topo Athletic Mountain Racer 4 is praised for its versatility, comfort, and improved fit, making it a strong choice for trail running across various terrains. Reviewers highlight its durable construction, excellent traction, and enhancements over previous models, although some concerns about performance in muddy and snowy conditions are noted..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Firm

The main points to note are that "good cushioning" appears frequently among the pros, while "lack of cushioning" and "firmness of cushioning" are common concerns in the cons.

support (1)

rebound (1)

comfort (1)

protection (1)

foam (1)

midsole (1)

softness (1)

energy return (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 shoe maintains excellent cushioning with the zip foam, providing a comfortable ride."

cushion

lightweight

comfort

"The FKT insole enhances energy return and water resistance, contributing to an overall better experience."

insole

water resistant

rebound

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

comfort
Breathability: Less breathable

The main points to note are that comfort features like the heel cup and FKT insole are frequently mentioned as positives, while issues with breathability and discomfort from the upper and tongue design are common concerns.

breathability (2)

heel fit (1)

support (1)

initial feel (1)

long wear (1)

footbed (1)

insole (1)

versatility (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 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

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 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

durability

The main points to note are that the shoe's durable upper material and overall quality construction are frequently mentioned as strong positives, while concerns about limited long-term testing and potential weight issues are also highlighted.

weight (2)

upper protection (1)

platform (1)

breathability (1)

construction (1)

unknown (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

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

performance
Distance suited: Short (<10km)
Rocker: Average

The main points to note are that the shoe is lightweight, which enhances performance, and it may be considered heavy, potentially affecting performance.

lightweight (1)

race suitability (1)

flexibility (1)

nimbleness (1)

outsole (1)

speed (1)

excitement (1)

ground feel (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

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

"Some updates to the outsole may not provide enough flexibility for all types of runners."

outsole

flexibility

fit
True to size: True to size
Toebox width: Wider
Heel width: Average
Orthotic friendly: No

The shoe's accommodating fit and roomy toe box are frequently mentioned as positives, while concerns about the snug midfoot fit and the shoe being too roomy for some runners are also common drawbacks.

security (2)

accommodation (1)

true to size (1)

toe box (1)

comfort (1)

roomy toe box (1)

secure (1)

heel support (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 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 new heel construction improves fit and support, especially for aggressive terrains."

heel

support

stability

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

stability
Stability level: Average

The pros and cons indicate that the shoe's snug midfoot fit and stability on technical climbs are significant advantages, while concerns about its drop and lack of stability features may affect some users.

midfoot support (1)

climbing (1)

heel (1)

pronation (1)

drop (1)

downhill (1)

protection (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

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

"Lack of pronounced stability features may not suit all pronation needs."

stability

pronation

grip

The main points to note are that excellent traction is frequently highlighted as a pro, while insufficient grip on slippery and loose surfaces is a common con.

traction (1)

micro grip (1)

depth (1)

release (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 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

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 struggles to release mud and snow effectively in certain conditions."

outsole

mud

snow

performance

other

The main points to note are that the shoe is praised for its versatility, which is mentioned multiple times, while the cons highlight concerns about its design and price, which are also recurring themes.

versatility (2)

water resistance (1)

customer service (1)

aesthetics (1)

price (1)

looks (1)

innovation (1)

testing (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 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

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

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Model Updates

The Topo Athletic MTN Racer 4 features a new Vibram® Megagrip outsole, providing enhanced traction and durability for varied terrain compared to its predecessor. Additionally, it includes an updated mesh upper for improved breathability and comfort, maintaining a secure and snug fit while enhancing the overall trail running experience.

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

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Reviews on Fittir (-)

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Wear-tester reviews (7)

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Topo Athletic mtn racer 4

Topo Athletic mtn racer 4

Surface

Cushioning

Category

Breathability

Weight

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Support

Width options

Grip

Suitability

Based on your running style and needs

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

Pros & Cons

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion

Pros

Cons

comfort

Pros

Cons

durability

Pros

Cons

performance

Pros

Cons

fit

Pros

Cons

stability

Pros

Cons

grip

Pros

Cons

other

Pros

Cons

Need help picking the right size?

Older Models

Newer Models

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