Topo Athletic ultrafly 4

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

Topo Athletic ultrafly 4

Price

$270

Rating

Average

Popularity

Moderate

The Topo Athletic Ultrafly 4 is a cushioned road running shoe featuring a balanced ride and moderate stability, positioned between the lightweight Zephyr model and the highly cushioned Phantom model in the Topo Athletic lineup.

4 colorways

Colorway: Grey/White

Widths available: normal

Summary

The Topo Athletic Ultrafly 4 is a versatile road-running shoe that strikes a balance between comfort and performance, making it suitable for daily training and longer distances. Positioned as part of Topo Athletic's road shoe lineup, the Ultrafly 4 offers a moderate level of cushioning and support, appealing to runners who need a blend of responsiveness and protection. It features a roomy toe box, characteristic of Topo Athletic's design philosophy, allowing for natural toe splay and enhanced comfort on longer runs. Compared to other models in Topo's collection, such as the more minimal Magnifly series and the highly cushioned Phantom series, the Ultrafly 4 provides a middle-ground option with its stable platform and slight heel-to-toe drop, catering to runners seeking a neutral ride with mild guidance.

Surface

road

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(25.5mm)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(recycled mesh upper)

Weight

272g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

5mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Topo Athletic ultrafly 4 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 29 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The Topo Athletic Ultrafly 4 is a versatile and comfortable running shoe that features a spacious toe box and lightweight ZipFoam midsole, making it suitable for daily training, recovery runs, and casual wear. While it offers mild stability and support for neutral and slightly pronating runners, some reviewers note that it may lack the responsiveness and ride quality desired for faster runs..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Firm

The main points to note are that many users find the cushioning to be firm and lacking plushness, which may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who prefer a softer feel.

firmness (5)

midsole (2)

plushness (2)

responsiveness (2)

weight (1)

stability (1)

groundfeel (1)

heel cushioning (1)

Pros

"The ZipFoam midsole offers a lightweight and firm cushioning experience."

ZipFoam

cushion

lightweight

"The midsole provides sufficient cushioning and stability for daily runs."

cushioned

supportive

"The shoe provides a firm and grounded ride, suitable for daily training."

grounded ride

firm cushioning

"The moulded foam heel collar provides cushioning and protection for the heel and Achilles."

comfort

protection

cushioned

"The updated Zip Foam midsole offers improved energy return compared to the previous EVA midsoles."

support

bounce

cushioned

"The firm ride of the midsole suits those preferring less plush cushioning."

ZIP foam

firm

cushion

"The Ultrafly 4 is built on a platform that provides a good amount of cushioning, making it suitable for daily training."

cushioning

daily training

"The ZipFoam midsole provides lightweight cushioning and responsiveness while absorbing shocks."

cushioning

responsive

shock absorption

"The three-density midsole adds guidance along the gait and enhances cushioning."

guidance

cushion

"The midsoles of the Experience Form are softer, providing a more comfortable ride."

midsoles

comfort

cushion

"The Ortholite footbed is plush and supportive for all-day wear, which is beneficial for walking and standing."

Ortholite

all-day comfort

plush support

"The shoe provides excellent cushioning and comfort during runs."

cushioning

comfortable

daily use

"The cushion provided by the proprietary two-piece zip foam ensures comfort during long distances."

comfort

cushion

"The midsole provides significant shock absorption while maintaining a lightweight feel."

shock absorption

lightweight

midsole

"The ortholite technology and dual density foam in the midsole help provide responsiveness along with cushioning."

ortholite

dual density foam

responsiveness

"The new zip foam midsole offers a comfortable ride with good responsiveness."

zip foam

comfort

responsiveness

"The Ultrafly features superior cushioning that provides a plush feel underfoot."

cushioning

comfort

midsole

"The Ultrafly maintains a good balance of cushioning across the shoe."

cushioning

overall_feel

comfort

"The shoe utilizes zip foam technology for optimal cushioning."

zip foam

energy return

cushion

"The shoe provides excellent cushioning for long distances."

long distances

cushioning

comfort

"The Topo Ultrafly provides a lightweight and responsive experience thanks to its zip foam midsole."

zip foam

responsive

lightweight

"The shoe incorporates zip foam for improved durability and cushioning, enhancing the overall comfort."

zip foam

cushioning

durability

"The shoes have a good amount of cushioning for comfort during runs."

cushioning

comfort

"The shoe features a cushioned midsole that offers impressive rebound compared to traditional foams."

cushioned midsole

resilience

higher rebound

Cons

"The midsole is described as firm, which may not provide enough cushion for some runners."

ZipFoam

midsole

cushioning

"The firmness of the shoe may not be suitable for all runners."

feel

comfort

"The cushioning is firm, which may not provide enough softness for those preferring a plush feel."

cushioning

softness

feel

"The midsole of the ultrafly 4 is very firm, which may not be enjoyable for runners seeking a softer ride."

midsole

cushioning

firm feel

"The Ultrafly has a firmer overall feel compared to the Experience Form."

firm

less cushioning

"Zipfoam feels outdated and lacks responsiveness compared to modern alternatives."

Zipfoam

outdated

dull

comparison

"The responsiveness of the cushioning is moderate to low, limiting versatility."

zipfoam

versatility

"Midsole density can feel heavy and unresponsive, leading to a plodding experience."

midsole

density

heavy

unresponsive

"The cushioning feels firm and lacks plushness."

firm ride

cushioning

less plush

"The unique cushioning may not appeal to everyone as it is highly soft and plush."

soft

cushioning

"Running for extended periods may be uncomfortable due to the overly firm midsole."

long runs

comfort

ride

"The shoe might lack the cushioning that some runners prefer during their runs."

cushion

personal preference

"The cushioning may feel inadequate for longer runs or heavier runners."

cushioning

support

daily training

"The stiffness of the midsole in the Ultrafly makes it feel less flexible compared to the Experience Form."

stiff

less flexible

"The cushioning may not be sufficient for longer runs."

cushioning

long runs

comfort

"The foam used in the cushioning does not provide a high level of guidance for runners."

cushioning

support

"The cushioning material is conventional and does not stand out compared to competitors."

conventional

cushioning

EVA

"Both shoes have similar stack heights, potentially limiting cushioning options depending on the runner's preferences."

stack height

cushioning

comfort
Breathability: More breathable

The most common points about the shoe's comfort are that it has a highly breathable upper and offers exceptional comfort, which were mentioned frequently, while concerns include the shoe feeling firmer than expected and having a thin insole that may not provide enough comfort for longer distances.

breathability (8)

upper (3)

padding (3)

tongue (2)

heel sensitivity (1)

anatomical (1)

ride_feel (1)

daily use (1)

Pros

"The engineered mesh upper is breathable and enhances comfort during runs in hot weather."

breathable

engineered mesh

sustainability

"The breathable mesh upper contributes to better ventilation during runs."

mesh

ventilation

"The shoe's engineered mesh upper offers both breathability and support where needed."

breathable

comfortable

supportive

"The shoe features a highly breathable upper to enhance airflow during hot summer activities."

breathable

mesh

airflow

"The shoe features a breathable mesh upper, improving comfort during wear."

breathable

comfort

mesh

"The upper mesh is soft and well-ventilated, providing a comfortable fit."

soft

aerated

comfort

"The mesh upper provides increased breathability, particularly beneficial in warmer conditions."

mesh upper

breathable

summer use

"The shoes feature a highly breathable upper that also provides structure."

breathable

structure

"The upper provides a very comfortable fit."

comfortable

breathable

plush

"The engineered mesh upper is soft and comfortable, enhancing the overall feel of the shoe."

mesh

comfort

breathability

"The seamless upper provides excellent breathability and comfort while reducing intrusion."

breathability

seamless

comfort

"The shoe is specifically designed to comfortably support those with heel/calcaneal sensitivities."

calf sensitivity

comfort

"The shoe's anatomical design helps to reduce stress on the feet during runs."

stress reduction

enjoyment

natural

"The shoe features a firmer ride suitable for specific preferences."

firm_ride

comfort

preference

"The shoe provides a significant amount of comfort for daily training."

daily trainer

comfort

"The upper materials of the UltraFly 4 provide a comfortable experience."

comfortable uppers

happy with fit

"This shoe maintains a flexible yet natural ride underfoot, enhancing the overall running experience."

flexibility

natural feel

"The design includes features to prevent the tongue from sliding, reducing the risk of hotspots and blisters."

hotspot prevention

blister prevention

"Thicker padding in the ankle area offers additional support during activities."

ankle support

comfort

padding

"The well-padded insole enhances comfort for long runs."

padded insole

comfort

long runs

"The padding around the collar and tongue adds to the overall comfort and security of the shoes."

collar padding

tongue padding

comfort

"The foam footbed enhances overall comfort during wear."

foam

comfort

"The Topo design offers a good combination of lock down and comfort, enhancing the overall running experience."

comfortable running

overall satisfaction

"The Ultra Experience Form has an anatomical toebox that allows for toe spread, enhancing comfort."

comfort

toebox

anatomical

"The softer and more pliable tongue contributes to the overall comfort of the shoe."

comfort

pliable

tongue

"The cushioning around the collar and heel counter provides excellent comfort during use."

heel cushioning

collar comfort

overall comfort

"The shoe features a wide toe box, enhancing overall comfort."

wide toe box

comfort

breathability

"The shoe maintains comfort even after significant mileage, suitable for long-term use."

long-lasting

comfortable

after usage

"The shoes offer exceptional comfort and a sock-like fit that enhances the overall feel during runs."

sock-like

comfort

secure fit

"The shoes are described as being comfortable and cushy during runs."

cushion

responsive

stable

"The shoe's design supports a comfortable and easygoing run experience."

comfort

ride

"The lace reinforcement is made from a soft pliable fabric, enhancing comfort."

soft reinforcement

flexibility

pleasant feel

"The materials used provide a pleasant tactile feel, which enhances overall comfort during runs."

material

tactile

comfort

"The shoe has a very comfortable fit for both the foot's plant and the overall foot."

fit

softness

long-distance

"The shoe features an exceptionally soft and breathable mesh that enhances comfort."

breathability

softness

"The padded heel collar allows for a comfortable lockdown around the ankle."

padding

lockdown

comfort

"They offer fantastic arch support, making them comfortable to wear."

arch support

comfort

Cons

"The shoe may not suit runners looking for a more dynamic or 'plush' experience."

dynamic

plush

experience

comparison

"The shoe feels firmer than expected, which may not suit all runners."

firmness

ride feel

"The external heel counter can be imposing, which may not be comfortable for every runner."

heel lock

external support

"Transitioning to a minimalist shoe caused calf tightness and injuries."

calf tightness

transition

injuries

"The less flexible heel counter could create discomfort for some when running."

heel counter

rigidity

comfort

"Potential issues with the tongue sliding leading to discomfort."

tongue slide

hot spot

discomfort

"The softer tongue might not provide the ideal foot support for everyone."

tongue

softness

support

"The heel design feels awkward at first and may require adjustment."

awkward

first impression

"The shoe has a very thin insole which may not provide sufficient comfort for longer distances."

thin insole

comfort

long distances

"The shoe's heel support may feel rigid for some runners."

heel

support

"The Topo Ultrafly has less ground contact feel compared to the Ultra Torin 4."

ground contact

comfort level

"The outsole of the shoes is stiff, requiring a break-in period."

stiff

break-in

comfort

"They felt awkward initially due to their stiffness."

stiffness

awkward

comfort

durability

The main points to note are that durability is frequently praised for its impressive quality and minimal wear, while concerns about visible degradation and wear in high-use areas are also mentioned.

longevity (4)

weight (3)

material quality (2)

outsole (1)

overall (1)

construction (1)

upper material (1)

overall build (1)

Pros

"The shoe maintains its durability well, showing little wear even after 40 miles of use."

durability

40 miles

"The durability of the shoe is highlighted by its construction, promising longevity even after extensive use."

durability

longevity

high mileage

"Durability is commendable with minimal visible wear after extensive use."

durability

wear

performance over time

"The durability of the shoes is notable, as they hold up well even after long runs."

durable

long-lasting

"The shoe is light for a durable everyday training shoe, ideal for various activities."

lightweight

durable

everyday

"The shoe is lightweight, making it ideal for a variety of running conditions."

lightweight

durability

performance

"The shoe is lightweight, making it a suitable option for daily training."

lightweight

daily trainer

build quality

"The Ultrfly 4 offers excellent slip resistance and durability due to its outsole design."

slip resistance

durability

flexibility

"The outsole is designed with durability in mind, positioned in high wear areas yet remaining lightweight."

rubber outsole

high wear

durable

"The Experience Form provides a better overall durability compared to the Ultrafly."

durability

experience

comparison

"The durability and build quality of the Ultrafly 5 are highlighted as being impressive for a daily trainer."

well made

daily trainer

attention to detail

"The upper material has shown impressive quality without tears or degradation."

upper quality

no tears

lifespan

"The overall build quality of the shoe is superior and remains intact after many miles."

build quality

structure

stability

"The lacing system has remained intact, showing reliable design choices."

original laces

durable

reliable design

"The shoes feature a textured vibram outsole that ensures durability and traction on various surfaces."

vibram

multi-surface

durable

"The construction materials of the shoe are high-quality and well-constructed."

construction

quality materials

"The shoe is durable, holding up well after 60 miles of various terrain."

long-lasting

resistant

durable

"This shoe is made with durable overlays that enhance its longevity."

durability

longevity

materials

"The outsole performed well on various terrains, offering versatility for different running surfaces."

terrain

performance

durability

Cons

"Durability issues have been noted in previous models of the Experience Form."

durability issues

previous experience

"Although generally durable, there is visible degradation in high wear areas after extensive use."

high wear

degradation

"The shoe is no longer ideal for running after significant mileage due to wear."

mileage

wear

"The outsole shows moderate wear after only 50 miles, indicating potential durability issues."

wear

outsole

performance
Distance suited: Long (>20km)
Rocker: Less rocker

The main points to note are that the shoe is frequently praised for its lightweight design and versatility, while it is often criticized for its lack of smooth transitions and performance during fast-paced runs.

versatility (4)

weight (2)

transition (2)

toe-off (2)

speed (2)

lightweight (1)

midfoot strike (1)

stability (1)

Pros

"The Ultrafly 4 is versatile for a variety of runs beyond just recovery days."

versatile

recovery

performance

"The shoe feels fast yet forgiving on different surfaces."

fast

forgiving

adaptability

"The shoe is highly versatile, making it suitable for daily runs, long-distance, and even marathons or ultra-marathons."

daily running

long runs

marathons

ultra marathons

"The shoe is versatile, suitable for recovery days and moderate pace runs."

daily training

recovery

moderate pace

"The shoe is lightweight and feels almost non-existent while running."

responsive

lightweight

comfort

"Its weight is considered ideal for daily miles, striking a balance between light and heavy."

ideal weight

daily miles

"The shoe is lightweight, enhancing performance during runs."

lightweight

performance

speed

"The weight of the shoes (9.6 oz) provides a balanced running experience."

similar weight

balance

"The lightweight nature of the shoe contributes to its performance as a daily trainer."

lightweight

daily trainer

"The light feel of the shoe enhances the running experience."

lightweight

performance

"The solid transition through the midfoot contributes to a smooth running experience."

smooth transition

midfoot

"The dual-density midsole provides a responsive yet soft transition during running."

reactivity

softness

"The design allows for a natural midfoot strike, which is beneficial for foot health."

natural gait

foot health

transition

"The firm midsole can be advantageous for runners looking for a stable ride."

firm ride

stable

"The Experience Form offers a smooth heel transition, enhancing the running experience."

smooth

heel

bevel

transition

"It provides a very flexible ride which can enhance performance at moderate paces."

flexibility

performance

moderate pace

"The shoe is suitable for longer distances, providing the needed comfort for extended runs."

endurance

comfort

performance

"Despite being slightly heavy, the shoe's weight does not significantly impact the running experience."

weight

running experience

"The shoe has a higher drop, offering a different ride experience that may benefit some runners."

drop

performance

experience

"The Topo Ultrafly allows for better ground contact feeling compared to the Ultra Torin 4."

ground contact

performance

comparison

"The shoe features a new, lighter, and more responsive midsole that enhances performance during runs."

responsive

lightweight

performance

Cons

"The shoe lacks a smooth toe-off during runs, which could affect performance."

toe-off

performance

"The flexibility of the shoe may hinder a snappy toe-off."

flexibility

performance

"The ride lacks fluidity during roll-through and toe-off movement."

ride

fluidity

roll-through

toe-off

"The overall ride experience is underwhelming by current standards, lacking bounce or softness."

ride

softness

bounce

standards

"The shoe has a clunky heel transition due to insufficient bevel."

heel transition

clunkiness

"Not all runners may appreciate the transition firmness."

firmness

transition

"The shoe is not ideal for fast-paced runs, limiting its use for more advanced runners."

daily trainer

speed

versatility

"The shoe is described as not being fast, particularly when compared to lightweight racing shoes."

speed

performance

lightweight comparison

"Struggling to run downhill may affect performance."

downhill running

performance

uncertainty

"Limited performance during longer runs is unclear without testing."

performance

uncertainty

testing

"The transitions in the Ultrafly feel clunkier compared to the Experience Form."

clunky transitions

smooth transitions

"The heel transition of the Ultrafly is less smooth than the Experience Form."

clunky heel

smooth heel

"The softness of the insole affects the responsiveness during runs."

responsiveness

performance

cushioning

"Despite its comfort, the shoe becomes less effective for performance with heavy use."

effectiveness

performance

"The outsole is not aggressive enough for trail running, limiting its performance in off-road conditions."

non-aggressive

limited traction

"The shoe does not meet performance expectations as a trail runner due to its design flaws."

not suited for trail

misclassification

"The shoes are heavy, making them less suitable for fast-paced runs."

heavy

tempo

track

"The shoes have a limited appeal for high-tempo workouts due to their weight."

tempo

weight

effort

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

The most common feedback highlights that the shoe has a wide toe box, which is praised for comfort, but some users find the fit snug or restrictive, especially in the midfoot and heel areas.

toe box (9)

toe_box (3)

width (3)

space (2)

size (2)

lockdown (2)

snugness (2)

toe space (2)

Pros

"The Ultrafly 4 has a roomy and spacious toe box for comfort and fit."

toe box

fit

comfort

"The toe box is wider, allowing for natural toe movement and comfort while running."

toe box

comfort

fit

"The shoe has a very accommodating foot shape suitable for wider feet."

foot shape

wide feet

"The wide toe box allows for comfort and helps accommodate runners with bunions or forefoot issues."

wide toe box

bunion accommodation

"The shoe features a broad and rounded toe box that allows the foot to spread out on impact."

roomy

foot shaped

impact

"The UltraFly 4 has a wide toe box that allows for natural toe splay."

wide toe box

natural toe splay

"The shoe has a roomy toe box that allows for comfort and better balance during runs."

roomy

balance

agility

"The shoes allow for a comfortable fit while maintaining the ability for the toes to splay."

toe splay

comfortable fit

"The Ultrafly 5 features a wide toe box that allows for natural foot splay, enhancing comfort."

wide toe box

natural splay

comfort

"The toe box is wide, allowing for natural toe splay, while keeping a snug fit around the ankle and heel."

wide toe box

snug fit

"The design allows for a naturally wide toe splay, providing comfort without sacrificing protection."

wide toe box

natural splay

comfort

"The shoe features a true-to-size fit with an anatomic toe box, enhancing overall comfort."

true to size

anatomic fit

"The updated engineered mesh upper integrates well with the laces for a secure fit without heel slippage."

secure fit

lacing

mesh

"The updated upper design contributes positively to the shoe’s fit by preventing toes from hitting the end."

updated upper

toe room

"The snug fit through the midfoot provides effective support without feeling restrictive."

supportive

snug

comfortable

"The shoe has a wider toe box for comfort during runs."

wide

fit

comfort

"The toe box offers ample volume and space, accommodating even those with wider feet."

volume

width

comfort

"The ample toe box allows for freedom of movement for the toes during runs."

space

freedom

"The absence of a heel bevel allows for better compatibility with gym equipment."

gym

equipment

"Both shoes fit true to size with a great lockdown."

true to size

great lockdown

"The Topo Ultrafly Fours provide superior foot lockdown due to their stretchy laces."

foot lockdown

stretchy laces

midfoot support

"The UltraFly 4 offers a slightly more accommodating fit compared to its competitor."

more accommodating fit

heel to toe

"Great lock down system integrated with the laces for stability in the tongue."

lock down system

integrated laces

"The Ultrafly 4 provides a secure fit with a snug feel through the waist and heel area."

secure fit

heel lock

agility

"Compared to other models, the Topo Ultrafly Fours prevent excessive movement of the foot inside the shoe."

foot movement

stability

"The Experience Form fits better for those with narrow to normal feet, offering a snug fit."

fit

narrow

normal

"The lace-up closure enhances the shoe's fit by allowing for customization."

lace-up

custom fit

secure

"The shoes feature a unique corporate philosophy that enhances natural toe movement."

wide toe box

natural toe play

ultra running

design philosophy

"The shoe features a generous and wide toe box for enhanced comfort."

toe box

fit

comfort

"The shoe features a wide toe box for enhanced comfort."

wide fit

comfort

roomy

"The shoe features a wide toe box that allows for natural foot splay while running."

wide toe box

natural splay

comfort

"The innovative double lace guide system keeps the tongue in place effectively."

lace guides

tongue stability

innovative

"The engineered mesh upper reduces the weight of the shoe while enhancing breathability."

lightweight

breathable

"The snug heel design prevents the heel from slipping out during runs, improving fit and security."

secure fit

heel lockdown

"The updated lacing system effectively keeps the front part of the foot secure within the shoe."

enhanced lacing

foot stability

"The shoe maintains a good fit with a natural foot shape that accommodates toe space."

foot-shaped

toe space

natural fit

Cons

"Laces do not hold securely, requiring frequent reties during runs."

laces

security

retie

"The lower drop design could potentially exacerbate Achilles issues for some runners."

lower drop

Achilles tendon

"The upper lacks overlays which may not provide enough structure for some runners."

upper

structure

support

"While designed for comfort, the snug fit might feel restrictive for some runners."

fit

tightness

comfort

"The fit of the Experience Form is slightly snugger than the Ultrafly."

snug fit

narrow

"The shoe's width in the midfoot may not provide a secure fit for all users."

midfoot

fit issues

"The fit may not be suitable for runners with narrow feet."

roomy

toe box

fit

"The fit may not suit runners with narrow feet, potentially causing discomfort."

fit

narrow

"The snugness of the shoe in certain areas might not appeal to everyone."

snug fit

fit issues

"The forefoot and midfoot could be snugger for a more secure fit."

fit

snug

"The heel counter construction is more rigid, which may not suit all runners’ preferences."

heel counter

stability

fit

"The shoe is quite rigid which may not suit all runners."

rigid

stiff

natural running

"The adjustment around the ankle could affect fit for some users."

fit

ankle

design change

"The shoe runs larger than expected, especially for those who do not need a wide toe box."

fit

sizing

comfort

"The shoe runs small, causing a fit issue for users who usually wear a specific size."

size issue

fit

recommendation

"The laces of the shoe are subpar and potentially problematic."

laces

sticky

"The laces are basic and not elastic, which may not provide a secure fit for all runners."

basic laces

non-elastic

fit

"The heel slippage may be a concern based on existing reviews about the brand."

heel slippage

fit issue

"The shoe is designed more for forefoot or midfoot strikers, which might not be suitable for heel strikers."

midfoot

forefoot

heel striker

"The shoe may not be suitable for runners who prefer a more minimalist design."

minimalist

design

"The tongue of the shoe is too short, which can be an issue for certain lacing styles."

tongue height

lacing

fit adjustment

"Wearing the shoe for the first time may cause foot soreness due to the wider toe box."

soreness

toe box

adaptation

stability
Stability level: Average

The main concerns about the shoe's stability are that it may not provide enough support for those with severe pronation or high-intensity running needs, which was mentioned frequently.

support (5)

heel counter (3)

drop (2)

guidance (1)

heel support (1)

medial support (1)

unique features (1)

firmness (1)

Pros

"The shoe provides light stability, which adds slight guidance without being overbearing."

TPU heel counter

EVA medial posting

stability

"The collar and heel counter provide sufficient support without rigidity."

supportive

comfortable

"The external heel counter offers excellent stability during heel strikes, allowing for better guidance."

external heel counter

guidance

"The synthetic heel counter provides a secure lockdown fit, enhancing stability."

heel counter

lockdown fit

stability

"The heel box offers substantial support and a locked-in feel."

heel fit

locked-in

support

"The heel has a rigid cup providing excellent support and stability."

stability

heel cup

"The shoe’s medial post provides moderate stability, which is beneficial for those needing additional support."

medial post

stability

"This shoe combines various stability methods, making it unique compared to others in the market."

stability methods

unique shoe

"The firm midsole provides a stable yet responsive ride, enhancing overall stability."

durability

support

stable ride

"The shoe can accommodate mild pronators without compromising foot function."

supportive

neutral

function

"The shoe offers a combination of stability features."

stability

moderate

integration

"The medial post effectively provides arch support."

medial_post

arch_support

pressure

"The integrated stability methods make this shoe relatively unique."

unique

stability_methods

post

"The Y-shaped toe box design allows for natural toe splay and improved stability."

toe box

stability

"The design facilitates the spread of toes, helping reduce injuries."

injury

stability

"A low stack height provides a more ground-connected feel, enhancing stability."

stack height

firmness

"The shoe has light stability features to aid runners with slight pronation."

pronation

stability

"The additional medial posting in the UltraFly 4 enhances medial support."

medial posting

medial support

"The shoe provides good support, making it suitable for longer runs and tempo sessions."

supportive

tempo runs

"The shoe’s design incorporates a triple density midsole for better support and guidance while running."

midsole

support

guidance

"The lightweight support makes the shoe suitable for various running styles, accommodating both pronators and neutral runners."

light support

pronation

neutral

"The UltraFly 4 features a stable midsole due to its firm structure."

firm midsole

stable experience

"A heel counter that combines stability with a plastic clip for additional support."

heel counter

stability

"The TPU heel counter helps to stabilize the shoe for a secure fit."

stability

fit

support

"The Topo Ultrafly is designed with stability in mind, featuring an external TPU heel counter."

stability

TPU heel counter

medium post

"The shoe maintains a stable platform which enhances stability while running."

stability

wide platform

toe box

"These shoes have a relatively low stack height and 5 mm drop, promoting a more natural running style."

low drop

natural running

midfoot

"The shoe offers a low heel drop that supports a natural stride."

low heel drop

natural running

stride support

"The heel area is designed to be soft yet offers support for the Achilles tendon, enhancing stability."

comfort

protection

"The overall design remains stable during runs, making it suitable for long-distance training."

long-distance

reliability

"The shoe offers good stability due to a moderate medial post without excessive intrusion."

support

stability

moderate

"The ultrafly 3 has excellent heel and midfoot lockdown, promoting stability during runs."

heel lockdown

midfoot stability

secure fit

Cons

"The medial post may put pressure on the arch that could be uncomfortable for some."

medial post

arch

comfort

"Those who require greater stability may find the mild pronation support inadequate."

support

mild

pronation

"The shoe's overall stability features may feel moderate rather than mild, potentially affecting performance for some."

stability

performance

"There is a perception of instability with higher stack heights."

stack height

instability

ankle support

"The shoe may not provide enough stability for high-intensity running."

stability

support

high-intensity

"The shoes have only a light stability feature, which may not be sufficient for more severe pronation."

stability

support

pronation

"The shoe may not provide enough stability for those needing extra support."

stability

support

"The shoe may not provide enough support for those needing high stability, especially for more severe pronators."

stability

pronation

support level

"The shoe may not provide enough stability for those with overpronation issues."

overpronation

stability

biomechanics

"Limited guidance for overpronators despite the medial posting."

overpronation

guidance

medial posting

"The heel counter is softer than previous models, potentially affecting stability."

heel counter

softness

stability

"The drop is at the high end for the brand which might not work for everyone."

high drop

stability

"The lower drop may lead to increased soreness for some runners, especially if they are not accustomed to it."

lower drop

soreness

adjustment

"The Ultra Torin 4 may provide a less stable feel due to its zero drop."

zero drop

stability issues

"The external TPU heel counter may not provide enough support for all runners."

TPU heel counter

support

"These shoes might not be suitable for those who prefer more road feel."

road feel

stiffness

flexibility

grip

The main points to note are that the shoe's grip performs well on various surfaces, but it may not be strong enough for very rugged or uneven terrains.

versatile surfaces (1)

outsole (1)

traction (1)

terrain (1)

durability (1)

Pros

"The outsole performs well on various surfaces including road and gravel paths."

road

gravel

performance

"The outsole is made of durable synthetic rubber, offering excellent grip and flexibility."

durable

synthetic rubber

grip

flexibility

"The outsole provides plenty of tread for traction, making it suitable for various activities beyond running."

outsole

full-length grip

versatility

"The shoes provide good traction across various running surfaces."

dirt trails

gravel roads

paved surfaces

Cons

"The grip performance is not as strong as its competitor, the Ultra Provision 7."

outsole

grip

traction

"The shoe lacks sufficient grip for very rugged terrain."

grip

trail

performance

"Some runners may feel that the shoe lacks sufficient grip on uneven surfaces."

grip

traction

other

The most common pros highlight the shoe's appealing design and versatility, while the main cons focus on its weight and flexibility issues.

weight (4)

versatility (3)

style (1)

aesthetics (1)

value (1)

drop (1)

design (1)

breathability (1)

Pros

"The shoes have an appealing and stylish design."

stylish

color

"The shoes are versatile enough to be used as walking shoes as well."

walking

multifunctional

"The Ultrafly 4 is versatile, making it suitable for various types of runners from fast runners to walkers."

versatile

all user types

"The Topo Ultrafly 3 is versatile and suitable for various running needs."

versatile

daily trainer

multi-use

"The shoe's appealing color options make them attractive to wear."

color

design

"The shoe's design is visually appealing and has an attractive color scheme."

visual appeal

color scheme

design

"The price point for the shoe, especially during clearance, offers great value."

clearance

price

"Topo offers runners an option of a 5mm heel-to-toe drop, adding versatility."

5mm drop

versatility

"The shoe retains the successful design of its predecessor, making it adaptable for various uses."

versatile

design

winning formula

"The simple, unassuming design of the shoe is appealing."

simplicity

aesthetics

minimalism

"The shoes feature a breathable upper that adds to both style and ventilation."

breathable

mesh upper

style

"Overall, it has been described as a great fitting shoe that is highly recommended for runners of all types."

great fit

highly recommended

"The overall design and update from the previous version greatly improves the running experience."

improvement

update

running experience

Cons

"Comparison to other brands indicates it may be less flexible than some runners prefer."

comparison

flexibility

"Some users may find the 5mm drop insufficient for a proper transition from higher drop shoes."

transition

drop height

achilles

"The shoe’s weight may be a downside for those looking for ultra-lightweight options."

weight

lightweight

training

"The shoe is relatively heavy, which can be bothersome for long runs."

heavy

unresponsive

"The shoe feels less nimble due to its weight and distribution."

clunky

lack of agility

"The shoe feels relatively heavy compared to other options available."

heavy

weight

"The color scheme of the shoe is not appealing to the reviewer."

color scheme

design

personal preference

"Minimal differences from the ultrafly 3 could indicate a lack of innovation."

similarity

stagnation

model comparison

"The absence of a pull tab may pose a challenge for putting on the shoes comfortably."

design

ease of use

pull tab

"The look of the shoes received criticism for resembling a clown shoe."

appearance

clown shoe

"The shoe has a dual identity crisis, looking like a trail shoe but performing poorly as one due to its outsole."

misleading design

not versatile

"The flat laces lack any special features or enhancements."

flat laces

basic

Model Updates

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Reviews

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Wear-tester reviews (29)

3.6/5

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Topo Athletic ultrafly 4

Topo Athletic ultrafly 4

Surface

Cushioning

Category

Breathability

Weight

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Support

Width options

Grip

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Pros & Cons

Most Mentioned Pros

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cushion

Pros

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comfort

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durability

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performance

Pros

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fit

Pros

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stability

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grip

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3.6/5

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