Topo Athletic ultraventure 4

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

Topo Athletic ultraventure 4

Price

300

Rating

High

Popularity

Moderate

The Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 is a versatile trail running shoe that offers a balanced blend of cushioning, comfort, and performance, sitting as a more cushioned option than the Trailventure series while being less maximalist compared to the Ultraventure Pro in the Topo Athletic lineup.

Topo Athletic
Topo Athletic ultraventure
2 colorways

Colorway: Aqua / Orange

Widths available: normal

Anthony
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Summary

The Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 is a trail running shoe designed to offer a balance of comfort and performance for both seasoned and novice trail runners. It features a lightweight, breathable upper and a cushioned midsole that delivers a soft yet responsive ride. The outsole provides excellent traction on a variety of terrains, making it suitable for long-distance trail running. Within Topo Athletic's lineup, the Ultraventure 4 is positioned as a versatile trail shoe, offering more cushioning and protection compared to the Topo Athletic ST models, while being less aggressive than the MT models, making it ideal for runners who prioritize comfort and stability on trail journeys. Its anatomical toe box also allows for natural foot splay, enhancing overall comfort on longer runs.

Surface

trail

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(32.5mm)

Category

ResponsiveBalancedComfort

Breathability

LowMediumHigh( upper)

Weight

294g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

5mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax(medium density, 3mm lugs) - Vibram XS Trek EVO rubber

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Topo Athletic ultraventure 4 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 27 wear-tester reviews.

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

midsole (8)
softness (3)
protection (1)
comfort (1)
high cushioning (1)
foam (1)
stack height (1)
stackheight (1)
Pros
"The cushioning in the Ultra Venture 4 offers a comfortable ride on various terrains."
zip foam
comfort
terrain adaptability
"The midsole provides excellent cushioning and protection on various terrains."
cushioning
protection
ZIP foam
"The midsole foam offers a good combination of support and comfort with decent rebound."
rebound
support
"The shoe offers excellent cushioning, allowing for a comfortable run on hard surfaces."
cushioning
midsole
comfort
"The updated Zip Foam midsole provides a softer and more bouncy experience."
Zip Foam
softness
bounce
"The midsole, while not highly energetic, offers solid support and comfort."
support
cushion
"Both shoes utilize Topo's zip midsole which has been softened from previous models for a better ride."
midsole
comfort
"The Zip Foam midsole contributes to a comfortable running experience."
zip foam
cushioning
comfort
"The shoe provides a good blend of ground feel and protection."
ground feel
rocky terrain
stony trails
"The shoe effectively protects against sharp objects while running on rocky terrain."
cushioning
rocky terrain
protection
"The shoe has a nice balance of cushioning, providing comfort even during long wear."
cushioning
comfort
long wear
"The shoe has a nice cushioning that provides comfort during runs."
cushioning
comfort
"The shoes have a cushioned feel that is pleasant to wear during running activities."
cushioned
comfy
"The Ultra Venture 4 is designed for high cushioning and versatility on various terrains."
high cushion
trail use
road to trail
"The Ultra Venture 4 offers excellent cushioning with its unique zip foam technology."
cushioning
zip foam
EVA blend
"The Vista has the highest stack height ever for a Topo trail shoe, enhancing comfort on long runs."
high stack
comfort
long runs
"The Ultra Venture 4 provides a higher stack height, ideal for those seeking more cushioning during long runs."
stack height
ultramaran
cushioning
"The shoes have a good cushioning system, allowing for a soft and responsive ride."
responsive
soft cushioning
"The Ultra Venture 4 features a plush and soft cushioning that enhances comfort during runs."
cushioning
comfort
plush
soft
"The shoe provides excellent cushioning and a comfortable ride."
Zip Foam
cushioning
bounce
"It provides a good balance between soft cushioning and responsiveness, making it suitable for long distances."
cushion
responsiveness
"The shoe features a big stack height providing ample cushioning for trails."
cushioning
trail
stack height
"The shoe features dual-layer zip foam for enhanced cushioning and support."
cushioning
support
foam
"The Ultra Venture 4 has more cushioning compared to the MT5, which some runners prefer for long distances."
cushioning
long runs
"The shoe's high stack provides excellent cushioning and comfort."
cushioning
comfort
high stack
"The soft foam in the shoe provides comfort over long distances, making it ideal for prolonged use."
comfort
long distances
"The shoe's midsole provides stability and responsiveness, striking a balance for long-distance runs."
midsole
stability
responsiveness
"The shoe provides a good balance of softness and stability, making it a solid choice for trail running."
balance
trail running
Cons
"The midsole material feels harder due to environmental conditions affecting cushiness."
midsole stiffness
environmental impact
"The Mountain Racer may not provide adequate cushioning for ultra distance races, despite being designed for speed."
ultra distance
cushioning
comfort
"The midsole is noted to be inadequate for significant softness."
midsole
cushioning
"The cushioning only begins to soften up over time, indicating a slow break-in period."
cushioning
break-in
firm
"The cushioning is slightly softer, but not significantly so."
cushioning
Zip Foam
ground feel
"Rocks can be felt underneath the foot during runs, indicating insufficient cushioning."
cushioning
rock
pressure
"The midsole stiffness can lead to discomfort over extended periods of standing."
midsole
stiffness
"The shoe may not provide enough energy return due to the foam material."
foam
energy return
"The MT5 may not provide enough cushioning for longer runs compared to the Ultra Venture 4."
cushioning
long runs
ultramarathon
"The midsole offers good protection but may not suffice for harsh landings at higher paces."
midsole
comfort
ultra distances
"The shoe's midsole lacks energy return, making it less effective for speed-focused runs."
EVA
limited
speed

upper (3)
breathability (3)
padding (2)
ventilation (2)
heel (2)
comfort level (1)
temperature (1)
plushness (1)
Pros
"The upper material is comfortable with no irritation or blisters."
no blisters
no irritation
comfortable
"The upper is more tightly woven, enhancing foot security and keeping debris out."
tightly woven
foot security
debris prevention
"The upper material provides a nice tactile feel, improving overall comfort."
tactile
comfort
material
"The shoe maintains good comfort even after extensive wear on rugged terrains."
long distance
cushioning
"The shoe provides excellent temperature regulation, keeping feet comfortable in cold conditions."
temperature control
cold weather
comfort
"The Ultra Venture 4 features plush and well-ventilated laces and tongue for added comfort."
plush
ventilation
overall comfort
"The Mountain Racer 4 has a softer underfoot feel compared to its predecessor, providing better comfort during runs."
softness
rebound
"The new FKT footbed allows for a soft stepping feel and better rebound."
TPU beads
soft feel
rebound
"The shoes are very comfortable for both road and trail running due to their cushioning."
comfortable
cushioned ride
"The shoe features a cushioned heel collar and tongue, enhancing overall comfort."
cushioned tongue
cushioned collar
"The plush tongue adds extra comfort and helps with lockdown, preventing excessive movement during runs."
plush
comfort
lockdown
"The Mountain Racer 3 makes you eager to run right out of the box."
initial feel
running motivation
"The Ultra Venture 4 offers an all-day comfort suitable for long-term wear."
all-day comfort
versatility
"The Pursuit 2 mimics the feel and characteristics of the Ultras that the reviewer previously loved, providing a comfortable transition."
comfortable
transition
similar feel
"The shoe has a squishy tongue and well-designed laces for comfort."
comfort
lacing system
squishy
"The shoe remains comfortable even after extensive use throughout the day."
comfort
long_days
"The upper material of the shoes is breathable, contributing to overall comfort."
breathable
comfort
"Both shoe types feature breathable uppers which enhance comfort during runs."
breathable
comfort
"The engineered mesh upper provides breathability in both shoes."
mesh
breathability
upper
"The shoe features a breathable upper that enhances overall comfort and reduces water retention."
breathable
improved
"The upper mesh is breathable, allowing for comfort in various temperatures."
temperature
breathable
comfort
"The MT5 may feel more nimble and connected to the ground, making it suitable for shorter runs."
nimble
short runs
"The shoe is comfortable and provides strong arch support, making it suitable for various activities."
comfort
arch support
form fitting
"The shoe is comfortable right out of the box, making it ideal for immediate use."
comfort
out of the box
"The shoe's ventilation is effective yet does not compromise warmth in colder conditions."
breathability
cold weather
"Comfort was maintained over extended distances, with no hot spots or blistering reported after long runs."
comfort
long runs
"The design effectively minimizes heel rubbing during runs."
heel tab
rubbing
comfort
"The cushioning does not disconnect the runner from the ground, allowing for an engaged feel."
ground connection
engagement
cushioning
"The Ultraventure 4 offers a comfortable fit and versatility, making it suitable for non-technical trails."
comfort
non-technical
versatile
"The gusseted tongue prevents lace bite while maintaining comfort during runs."
lace bite
comfort
design
"The shoe offers enough comfort for all-day wear, making it ideal for long runs."
long runs
comfort
"The Ultraventure 4 is more flexible and comfortable than its predecessor, providing a better experience on the trails."
flexible
comfortable
upgrade
Cons
"Lacing the shoes tightly can lead to discomfort and stiffness in the feet."
tight laces
discomfort
"The heel is somewhat stiff, which might be uncomfortable for long distances."
stiffness
uncomfortable
"The heel design of the Pursuit 2 may create pressure on the achilles."
heel height
achilles
fit
"The shoe lacks breathability in warmer conditions."
breathability
temperature regulation
"The upper material change could lead to issues with breathability during longer runs."
breathable
material
"The upper material, while breathable, may not provide enough insulation in cold weather."
breathability
cold
"The shoe flexibility is relatively limited compared to preferences."
ride
comfort
"The Mountain Racer 3 can cause blisters on longer runs."
blisters
long runs
comfort
"The Pursuit 2's insoles have caused discomfort."
discomfort
socks
fit
"There is notable stiffness in the heel which affects comfort during running."
stiffness
fit
discomfort
"There is a lack of ventilation in the shoe which may not be ideal for warmer conditions."
warmth
sock compatibility
"The upper may not provide sufficient ventilation in hot conditions despite being designed to prevent overheating."
upper
mesh
heat
abrasion resistance
"Tightness around the arch can be uncomfortable when standing still for long periods."
tightness
standing
"The MT5 features a firmer material which may not be as comfortable for all users."
material feel
comfort
upper
"Some discomfort was experienced, leading to the use of custom inserts."
inserts
custom
pain
"The shoe may be too ventilated for very cold conditions, potentially affecting warmth."
ventilation
cold weather
"Some reviewers reported discomfort with the heel cup, though the reviewer did not experience this issue."
heel support
discomfort
"The cushioning of the Mountain Racer 3 may not be as plush as the Ultra Venture 4, affecting comfort preference."
Mountain Racer 3
cushioning
comfort

outsole (2)
longevity (2)
midsole (2)
toe cap (1)
water_resistance (1)
performance (1)
lace stays (1)
toebox (1)
Pros
"The shoe's construction includes a long-lasting outsole that promises durability."
durability
outsole
"Both shoes are made with durable outsole materials ensuring longevity during training and races."
durable
outsole
longevity
"The Vibram outsole is noted for its durability and performance under various conditions."
Vibram
durability
trail
"The shoes provide good durability, showing minimal wear after 95 miles of use."
long-lasting
resilient
"This shoe demonstrates impressive durability after extensive use in harsh conditions."
longevity
toughness
years of use
"The shoe has a sturdy protective toe cap that adds durability for trail running."
protection
durability
trail
"The rubber outsole performs well in various conditions without penetration of moisture."
durable
waterproof
Cons
"The shoe has less rubber on the outsole, which may affect durability and grip."
outsole rubber
low durability
"There is some wear observed on the outsole after limited mileage."
wear
heel strike
"The shoe shows creasing in the midsole after just 45 miles."
midsole
creasing
durability
"Midsole creasing may be a concern, even though it doesn't seem to affect performance."
creasing
performance
midsole wear
"The reviewer expresses uncertainty about how the shoe will perform under various conditions."
testing
uncertainty
"There is a potential issue with the durability of the designed lace stays over time."
lace stays
durability
design
"The toebox durability is subpar, which could lead to early wear."
durable
abrasion
thin_material

versatility (5)
weight (3)
terrain (2)
distance (1)
specialization (1)
initial (1)
uphill (1)
endurance (1)
Pros
"The shoes are suitable for both short and long-distance runs."
long-distance
short runs
versatility
"The shoe is versatile, transitioning well between road and trail running."
trail
road
performance
"The shoe is designed for versatility on mild to moderate terrain, making it suitable for various running conditions."
mild terrain
moderate terrain
trail running
"Despite being less exciting, the Ultra Venture 4 performs well in race settings."
outdoor use
race performance
"The shoe is versatile for different terrains such as gravel roads, single tracks, and pavement."
adaptable
multi-terrain
"The shoe is capable of handling different paces, making it versatile across various activities."
varied paces
multifunctional
comfort
"The weight of the Ultra Venture 4 is maintained for performance consistency."
weight maintenance
performance consistency
"The Ultra Venture and Mountain Racer cater to different trail needs, offering specificity for mild and technical terrain."
terrain specific
mild to technical
trail rotation
"The shoe performed adequately for a five-mile run right out of the box."
first run
performance
"Users appreciate the shoe’s ability to handle uphill grades without slipping."
performance
slip_resistance
"The MT5 is reported to work well for longer endurance events, with adequate cushioning for performance."
endurance
performance
"The shoe has a good overall performance rating, indicating reliability for users."
reliability
performance rating
Cons
"After an extended break from running, the reviewer experienced tightness and sluggishness in the legs during the run."
tightness
sluggishness
performance
"The shoe may not perform well on steep technical descents, limiting its usability in certain conditions."
technical terrain
limited performance
"The shoe may not perform well in extremely rugged terrain due to its mild cushioning."
rugged
cushioning
"The shoe does not provide significant energy return, which may not be ideal for competitive runners."
not fast
energy return
"The weight of the shoe might be an issue for some runners looking for ultralight options."
heavy
lightweight
"The Ultra Venture 4 feels heavier compared to the Mountain Racer 3."
weight
performance
"The shoe could benefit from being lighter in weight, particularly when compared to road shoes."
weight
comparison
speed
"The Pursuit 2 may not provide the same confidence level as the Ultra Venture 4 on various terrains."
confidence
terrain
performance
"The shoe may not feel as responsive on hard-packed surfaces due to the softer cushioning."
performance
cushioning
hard-packed surfaces

toe box (7)
lockdown (2)
anatomy (2)
midfoot (2)
toe_box (2)
heel (2)
width (1)
anatomical shape (1)
Pros
"The fit of the shoe is true to size with a roomy toe box."
true to size
roomy
anatomical design
"The Topo Ultra Venture 4 offers a unique fit with its wide toe box."
wide fit
anatomical
comfort
"The roomy toe box offers ample space for toe movement without pressure points."
roomy
toe space
comfort
"The shoe has a roomy toe box allowing ample space for toe movement."
roomy toe box
toe movement
"The shoes feature a well-designed wide toe box that provides ample space for the toes."
wide toe box
comfort
fit
"The shoe has a big wide toe box providing comfort and room for the toes."
wide toe box
comfort
fit
"It has a broad, rounded toe box which allows for natural foot function."
broad fit
toe box
natural function
"The shoe's design features a secure lockdown for the midfoot and heel."
secure fit
midfoot lockdown
heel hold
"There's a solid lockdown in the shoe, providing a secure fit during runs."
secure fit
stability
"The shoe offers a comfortable and secure fit, ideal for long runs."
secure fit
toe box
lock down
"The shoe has an anatomical design that caters to natural foot shape."
anatomical design
wide fit
natural shape
"The shoes provide a good fit, particularly for runners with wider feet."
fit
width
volumous
"Both shoes offer a wide toe box which enhances comfort during runs."
toe box
comfort
fit
"The Ultra Venture 4 provides more midfoot room, making it better for runners with wider feet."
midfoot
wide feet
"The shoe's anatomical shape provides adequate volume for foot expansion."
anatomical fit
volume
shape
"The fully gusseted tongue ensures that it stays centered for a better fit."
gusseted tongue
fit
tongue stays
"The Topo Pursuit 2 provides a zero drop option which is preferred for natural foot movement."
zero drop
natural movement
"A secure midfoot with good fit enhances performance while running."
secure fit
performance
midfoot
"There is a notable roominess in the toe box, which enhances comfort."
roomy
comfort
"The shoe features a foot-shaped toe box, enhancing comfort and natural foot positioning."
foot-shaped
comfort
natural positioning
"The laces provide a secure fit and do not untie easily."
secure
fit
design
"Both models fit well through the heel and midfoot for most runners."
fit
comfort
"The fit is exceptional, providing a secure midfoot and heel along with a wide toe box."
fit
toe box
midfoot support
"The shoe offers a great wide toe box allowing for natural foot movement during runs."
fit
toe box
"The shoe accommodates various foot types, which is important for different runners."
fit
foot type
subjective
"The Ultra Venture 4 is highly recommended for its versatility between road and trail running."
recommendation
versatility
trail
road
"Both shoes are lightweight, making them comfortable for long runs."
weight
comfort
"The shoe maintains a secure fit for better performance."
secure fit
heel cup
snugness
"The tighter fit of the upper provides a nice security feature without sacrificing comfort."
fit improvement
upper adjustment
"The Topo Ultraventure 4 offers a comfortable and foot-shaped fit with ample toe room."
comfort
natural fit
"The Ultraventure 4 has a roomy design that allows for a comfortable fit on long runs."
comfortable
long runs
"The transition from Ultraventure 3 to Ultraventure 4 maintains the core appeal of the shoe while revising only the upper for improvement."
upper improvement
core appeal
"The anatomical shape of the shoe accommodates diverse foot shapes and sizes well."
anatomical
comfort
accommodating
"The shoe fits true to size, providing a consistent sizing experience for users."
true-to-size
consistent fit
"The Ultraventure 4 features an extra-roomy toebox, allowing for greater comfort and toe splay during long runs."
roomy
toebox
comfort
Cons
"The shoe could have a better lockdown system for narrower foot shapes."
narrow foot
lace system
"The lockdown of the shoe is inadequate despite attempts to improve it."
lockdown
fit
inadequate
"The shoe fits a bit short, which may cause discomfort during runs."
short fit
inadequate sizing
"The heel fit may be too wide for some runners, affecting stability."
wide heel
stability issues
"Heel slippage may occur but can potentially be resolved by adjusting the laces."
heel slippage
laces adjustment
"The midfoot fit might feel snug for some users, potentially leading to discomfort."
snug fit
discomfort
"The Mountain Racer 3 may feel tighter and less accommodating for runners with wide midfoot."
Mountain Racer 3
fit
wide feet
"The shoe may not be suitable for runners with narrow or low-volume feet."
narrow fit
foot size
"The shoe may feel tight after extended wear even though it fits true to size."
tight fit
prolonged wear
sizing
"Although it is snug, the fit may become less secure as feet swell during long runs."
secure
swelling
"The arch support might not suit all runners' preferences."
arch support
preference
"The sizing may feel snug in the Mountain Racer 3, potentially impacting comfort."
fit
sizing
snug
"While the shoe feels secure in the midfoot and heel, the claim about slipping should be critically examined during actual use."
midfoot
heel
"While the shoe offers a lot of support, it can also feel overly secure and restrictive at times."
support
restriction
"Both shoes lack gusseted tongues which may affect keeping the tongue in place during runs."
tongue
gusset
fit
"The shoe might feel restrictive due to a more fitted upper."
upper fit
midfoot
toe box
fitted
"The shoe is not suitable for runners with narrow feet due to its wide fit."
wide
narrow
spacious

lockdown (1)
heel structure (1)
adaptability (1)
heel clip (1)
arch (1)
grip (1)
heel_cup (1)
toe rocker (1)
Pros
"The shoe locks down securely across the midfoot, providing a stable fit."
fit
midfoot
stability
"The heel design offers a secure fit while allowing some flexibility."
heel counter
flexibility
secure fit
"The segmented outsole design of the Vista allows for better adaptation to varied terrains."
segmented outsole
flexibility
"A secured heel clip promotes stability when running on uneven surfaces."
stability
heel
clip
"The shoes provide excellent arch support."
support
arch
heel
"The shoe maintains stability and does not slip during chores, adding to its versatility."
stability
no slippage
"The shoe's heel cup provides excellent support and does not cause any discomfort."
support
stability
"The shoe includes a nice toe rocker that helps maintain smooth strides during running."
smooth stride
efficiency
"The shoe is ideally suited for midfoot strikers, enhancing stability and performance for this running style."
midfoot
stability
performance
"The Ultraventure 4 demonstrates excellent stability in the forefoot area, supporting runners effectively during long-distance runs."
forefoot
stability
support
Cons
"The shoes might lack adequate arch support for some runners."
arch support
foot placement
"The Mountain Racer 3 is not suitable for technical downhill running."
downhill
stability
"Transitioning between road and trail with the Pursuit 2 can be challenging due to its design."
road
trail
design
"The pronounced toe rocker might feel cumbersome for some runners on technical terrain."
toe rocker
stability
technical terrain
"The shoe's stability is compromised due to the higher stack height."
stability
stack height
"The toe rocker can lead to unstable quick takeoffs on technical terrain."
stability
toe rocker
"The heel stability is compromised, potentially affecting heel strikers."
ill_fit
unstable
heel

traction (7)
performance (2)
outsole (2)
versatility (2)
lug depth (2)
lug_pattern (1)
lugs (1)
outsole_protection (1)
Pros
"The tread of the outsole provides good grip on rocky and wet surfaces."
good grip
rocky surfaces
wet conditions
"The outsole provides good grip on multiple surfaces, including wet conditions."
Vibram
wet conditions
grip
"The outsole provides adequate traction for gravel and road-to-trail conditions."
gravel
road-to-trail
"The multi-directional lugs offer grip in slick and icy conditions."
ice
snow
multi-directional lugs
"The updated Mountain Racer 4 features improved traction and slip resistance with an aggressive lug design."
aggressive lugs
traction
slip resistance
"The outsole offers good grip and traction on moderate trails and mixed terrains."
trail grip
mixed terrain
confidence
"The traction on various surfaces is impressive, even in slippery conditions."
wet
slippery
performance
"The Vibbram XS Trek EVO outsole offers decent traction for mild to moderate trails, making it suitable for various terrains."
outsole
traction
mild trails
"It offers great grip on both wet surfaces and hard-packed trails."
Vibram XS
wet grip
trails
"The durable Vibram rubber outsole provides reliable traction for different terrain types."
vibram
durable
traction
"They perform well across various surfaces including trails and roads."
grip
trails
roads
"The grip of the Ultra Venture 4 is solid, even during high-intensity runs, helping the runner feel propelled."
good grip
training runs
propulsion
"The shoe features a VM Excess Trako outsole optimized for mild to moderate terrain."
VM Excess Trako
wide lugs
terrain
"The Vibram outsole provides reliable grip, enhancing performance on various surfaces."
grip
performance
"The aggressive lug pattern of the Mountain Racer 3 enhances traction for technical trails."
traction
technical trails
"The Ultra Venture 4 is versatile, functioning well on both road and trail surfaces due to its less aggressive lug pattern."
road
trail
versatile
"The traction of both shoes is suitable for road-to-trail transitions, providing a good feel on various terrains."
traction
road
trail
"The shoe's outsole features minimal yet aggressive lugs for good grip."
grip
outsole
traction
"The segmented Vibram rubber outsole provides adequate protection and is effective on both roads and trails."
Vibram
protection
road_trail
"The shoe's lugs and tread pattern work well for shedding mud, making it suitable for various conditions."
tread pattern
mud shedding
Cons
"The shoe struggles to provide sufficient traction in muddy conditions due to its limited lug depth."
mud
traction
lug depth
"The shoe lacks an aggressive grip for very muddy conditions."
muddy
traction
performance
"The outsoles of both shoes are not aggressive enough for very rocky or technical terrain."
technical terrain
outsole
rocky trails
"The Ultra Venture 4 is not suitable for rocky or muddy trails due to insufficient traction."
Ultra Venture 4
traction
rocky trails
"The outsole provides limited grip on softer terrain."
outsole
traction
3mm lugs
soft terrain
"The lugs of the outsole are not aggressive enough for technical terrain."
outsole
lugs
traction
"The shoe lacks serious traction on surfaces that require it due to the design of the lugs."
outsole
traction
lugs
"The lugs design could be improved for better digging and grip on soft surfaces."
lug design
aggressiveness
traction
"The outsole material is not the top-tier Mega grip which may affect performance in certain conditions."
Mega grip
outsole
performance
"The shoe may not be ideal for extremely wet and muddy running terrains."
wet
muddy
performance
"There are concerns about how the shoe will perform under extreme conditions given the depth of the lugs."
muddy
traction
performance
"The outsole lugs are shallow, which might reduce grip on technical or muddy terrain."
shallow lugs
poor traction
"The shoe lacks sufficient lug depth for grip on varied terrain."
lugs
grip
terrain
"The grip may not be as effective in some trail conditions compared to other models."
grip comparison
trail conditions
"The Ultra Venture 4 may lack sufficient grip for more technical trails due to its shallow lugs."
shallow lugs
trail grip
technical terrain
"The grip of the Ultra Venture 4 is inadequate on loose or sandy terrain."
grip
sand
terrain
"The Pursuit 2's aggressive lug pattern may not be suitable for certain trails."
aggressiveness
trail
grip
"The slip on the sidewalk indicates that the previous road shoes did not offer adequate grip."
sidewalk
road shoes
"The grip has diminished and feels a little slippery in some conditions as it wears."
grip
slippery
worn
"The grip in the midfoot is insufficient for aggressive terrain."
grip
technical terrain

design (3)
accessories (2)
breathability (1)
protection (1)
value (1)
popularity (1)
hiking (1)
customer_service (1)
Pros
"Airflow is improved due to the new upper design with perforations."
airflow
perforation
breathable upper
"The additional toe bumper enhances protection in front of the shoe."
toe bumper
trail running
durability
"The shoe offers excellent protection with a durable toe cap."
toe protection
durability
"The shoe is competitively priced for the quality it provides, making it appealing for many runners."
affordable
quality
"The Ultra Venture 4 is the most popular trail shoe currently in the Topo Athletic line."
popular
new product
"The Gator attachment system is versatile and accommodates multiple types of gators for various conditions."
Gator system
universal
compatibility
"Both models have features to facilitate gaiters, enhancing their trail running capabilities."
gaiter
trail running
"The Mountain Racer 3 is my top choice for mountain hiking and technical trails."
hiking performance
technical use
"Customer service and satisfaction guarantee enhance the purchase experience with Topo shoes."
satisfaction guarantee
customer support
"The Topo Pursuit 2 offers an adaptable insole design that allows for personalization based on the runner's preferences."
insoles
personalization
adaptable design
"The shoe is suitable for various activities including running and daily wear."
daily wear
running
multiple activities
"Despite not being waterproof, it performs adequately in wet conditions."
water resistance
wet conditions
"With a weight of 10.98 oz, the shoe delivers comfort without feeling heavy, which is beneficial for longer runs."
lightweight
performance
Cons
"The shoe is not designed for muddy conditions, possibly limiting options."
design
muddy conditions
"The shoes are similar to previous models with minimal changes."
similarity
model update
"The Ultra Venture 4 lacks excitement and appeal in design."
design
aesthetics
"The lack of alternative color choices might not appeal to all runners."
color
variety
"The Ultra Venture 4's design may not support rigorous use in more challenging trail conditions."
terrain
design
limited use
"The new Gator attachment system is only gradually being adopted across the entire Topo product line, potentially limiting compatibility."
Gator system
update
product line
"Overall, the shoe was not the right choice for the reviewer after experiencing these issues."
not suitable
personal preference
"The shoes may require regular cleaning to maintain appearance after use on dirty trails."
cleaning
appearance
"The shoe is not waterproof despite some outdoor conditions."
waterproof
snow
moisture
"The shoe lets in dirt, leading to dirty toes during use."
dirt
messy
toes
"Lack of direct experience with water crossings may limit insights on water drainage capabilities."
water crossings
drainage
"Limited insight into performance on technical trails due to the shoe being more of a hybrid model."
technical running
better alternatives
"Both shoes come with a high price point, which may not justify the differences for all runners."
pricing
value
cost-benefit
"The shoe is considered heavy, which could affect performance."
weight
performance
"The foot protection is not as good as some other models for aggressive terrains."
foot protection
terrain
"The upper has changed but not improved objectively compared to the previous model."
upper
design
improvement
"There is a lack of reflective elements for safety during low-light conditions."
visibility
safety
no_reflective
"The shoe's breathability is only average, leaving room for improvement."
average
improvement
ventilation

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Model Updates

The Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 features an updated Vibram XS Trek EVO outsole that provides exceptional durability and traction in a variety of conditions compared to the previous version. Additionally, the shoe offers increased comfort and support with a redesigned upper that uses lighter, more durable materials and a new 3-piece injected EVA midsole for improved cushioning and responsiveness.

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

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

Reviews on Fittir (-)

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Wear-tester reviews (27)

4.1/5

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