Recently, I started running in Topo Athletic shoes. I’ve had a few friends that love them. Since this is my first time trying Topo Athletic, I have no previous versions to compare it too. I was lucky enough that Topo Athletic sent me two pairs (the Topo Athletic Magnifly and the Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 3)of shoes to test out.
Quick Stats:
Weight: 8.3 oz
Drop: 0
Fit:
The upper has minimal seams and has plenty of space. Topo is not available in wides; the regular width seems to be enough space for me. If you are looking for a wider forefront shoe, Topo is excellent for that.
I typically wear a women’s size 10-11 wide. The women’s size 10.5 fit well. It fits similar to the Altra Escalante and shares a lot of characteristics, including zero drop. All Topo models are known for their roomy toe box. A Roomy and a wide toe box allows toes to spread. You always want a shoe to feel snug in the mid foot but also allow your toes to be able to spread while running, otherwise you set yourself up for injury. It’s secure in the midfoot and heel.
Ride:
The Topo Magnifly 2 has a lot of cushion for a zero drop shoe. Topo Athletic wants you to have a natural running feel. Before running in it, I thought it would be a minimal shoe, but I was surprised that it did have an ample amount of cushion.
The cushion from Topo has a mix of a softer layer on the top and a much more firm and responsive bottom layer. The Topo Magnifly 2 features two different density injected EVA midsoles. The dual density is softer near the foot for cushioning but firmer on the bottom for a responsive ride. The Topo Athletic “sweeping toe rocker” allows for a smooth transition from heel to toe.
Like any zero drop shoe, if you are not used to running in a zero drop shoe, it’s important to work into the shoe. If you jump into a longer run, you might be more likely to get injured or have tight calves. I’ve done several longer runs in them and felt good. For me, they are a great daily trainer when I want to do a faster run but not quite a workout.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BwW1iX1lhUH/
Conclusion:
The Topo Magnifly 2 was a surprise for me. I expected less cushion but I like the ride and that I can use the shoe for longer and easier runs. It will probably stay in my rotation as an easy run or long run shoe. If you like Altra or Altra Escalante, it’s a great shoe to alternate with. I didn’t try the original magnifly but from what I can gather most people are happy with the update.
Current Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Hoka Bondi 6, Topo Magnifly 2, Hoka Mach 2, Brooks Glycerin 17,
Speed Work: Reebok Float Ride Runfast Pro, Nike Streak Lt,
Long Runs: Hoka Cavu 2
Races: Nike Fly, Reebok Run fast Pro
You can see all current shoe reviews here.
Questions for you:
Have you tried Topo before?
What is your favorite shoe?
I tried a Topo shoe once and it rubbed a blister on my pinky toe the size of Texas!! It hurt for weeks. Strange to me. They fit perfectly fine but the way the top of the shoe bent as I ran I guess was not a good fit for my foot.