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

Popularity

Less Popular

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.

2 colorways

Colorway: Aqua / Orange

Widths available: normal

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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)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh( upper)

Weight

294g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

5mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax(medium density, 3mm lugs)

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 16 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The Topo Athletic Ultra Venture 4 trail running shoes are highly praised for their comfort, cushioning, and roomy toe box, making them suitable for long-distance runs on various terrains, including road-to-trail transitions. However, some reviewers note that the shoe's traction could be improved for muddy conditions, and it may not perform as well on very technical trails..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Soft

The main points to note are that many users appreciate the cushioning for comfort and support, while some have concerns about the midsole being too hard or inadequate for longer distances.

midsole (7)

protection (2)

comfort (1)

high cushioning (1)

foam (1)

stack height (1)

softness (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 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 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

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

"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

comfort
Breathability: Less breathable

The most common pros highlight that the shoes are comfortable, breathable, and suitable for long-term wear, while the main cons indicate issues with stiffness, discomfort from tight lacing, and limited breathability in warmer conditions.

upper (3)

breathability (3)

heel (2)

comfort level (1)

temperature (1)

plushness (1)

underfoot (1)

footbed (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 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 MT5 may feel more nimble and connected to the ground, making it suitable for shorter runs."

nimble

short runs

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

"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

durability

The main points to note are that the shoe's durable construction is highlighted frequently, while concerns about wear and reduced rubber on the outsole are also significant.

outsole (2)

longevity (1)

toe cap (1)

water_resistance (1)

midsole (1)

performance (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 shoes provide good durability, showing minimal wear after 95 miles of use."

long-lasting

resilient

"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

"The reviewer expresses uncertainty about how the shoe will perform under various conditions."

testing

uncertainty

performance
Distance suited: Long (>20km)
Rocker: Average

The main points to note are that the shoe is versatile for different running conditions, but some users find it heavy and lacking in energy return, which could affect performance.

versatility (3)

weight (2)

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 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

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 Pursuit 2 may not provide the same confidence level as the Ultra Venture 4 on various terrains."

confidence

terrain

performance

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

The most common feedback is that the shoe has a roomy toe box, which is mentioned frequently, while concerns about the fit being too snug or wide in certain areas also appear often.

toe box (6)

lockdown (2)

anatomy (2)

width (2)

heel (2)

anatomical shape (1)

tongue design (1)

zero_drop (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

"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 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 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

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 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

stability
Stability level: More stable

The main points to note are that arch support is mentioned as a pro in one instance and as a con in another, indicating mixed feedback on this feature.

lockdown (1)

heel structure (1)

adaptability (1)

heel clip (1)

arch (1)

support (1)

downhill (1)

transition (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

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

grip

The pros of the shoe's grip, such as good traction on various surfaces, appear frequently, while the cons highlight issues with grip in muddy and technical conditions, indicating that while the shoes perform well in many situations, they may struggle in more challenging terrains.

traction (3)

performance (2)

versatility (2)

lug depth (2)

outsole (1)

lug_pattern (1)

lugs (1)

design (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

"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 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

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 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

other

The most common points mentioned are that the shoe is not designed for muddy conditions and that it has minimal changes compared to previous models, which could limit its appeal to some users.

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 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

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

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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

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Wear-tester reviews (16)

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Topo Athletic ultraventure 4

Topo Athletic ultraventure 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 ultraventure 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

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Newer Models

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