When Topo announced the Topo Phantom 4 WP, I was intrigued. The regular Phantom 4 is already one of my favorite daily trainers for its roomy toe box and cushioning. But now there’s a version built for real weather. The Topo Athletic Phantom 4 WP keeps everything runners love about the Phantom…soft ZipFoam cushioning, 5 mm drop, and natural fit…and adds full waterproof protection thanks to eVent stormST technology.
Often when a brand makes a waterproof version, it is not breathable and your feet get toasty. My feet have sweat up a storm and blistered from some of the “waterproof versions” of other brands.
If you’ve ever slogged through rain, puddles, or winter slush, you know how much a waterproof shoe can change your run. This one does it without feeling clunky, hot, or heavy. It’s the same Phantom comfort, just weather-proofed. I am thankful to not deal a lot with snow and ice these days but waterproof versions of running shoes were essential in blustery upstate New York weather.
Also I dont know where to put this but Topo continues to make progress in sustainability, and this model reflects that. The Phantom 4 WP uses 30% recycled materials in the upper and remains fully vegan. Despite the eco-friendly design, it feels premium and durable, with tight stitching and well-placed overlays that resist fraying or breakdown. I’ve had issues with sustainable shoes not breathing well but that’s not the case here.
Before trying the Topo Phantom 4 WP, I had a few questions.
Is the Topo Phantom 4 WP waterproof?
Yes. The Topo Phantom 4 WP uses an eVent stormST waterproof bootie that keeps your feet completely dry. It’s designed to block out rain, puddles, and slush while staying breathable, so your feet don’t overheat or get clammy during longer runs but keep in mind, if you go swimming in the shoe your feet will get wet.
How does the Topo Phantom 4 WP fit?
The Phantom 4 WP fits true to size and follows Topo’s signature anatomical shape…wide in the toe box and secure through the heel and midfoot. The extra waterproof layer doesn’t make it tighter or stiffer, and most runners will find it runs consistent with other Topo Athletic shoes.
What’s the difference between the Topo Phantom 4 and the Topo Phantom 4 WP?
Both shoes share the same ZipFoam midsole, geometry, and 5 mm drop, but the Phantom 4 WP adds a waterproof eVent upper for wet conditions. The ride feels nearly identical, but the WP version is slightly warmer and more weather-resistant, making it better for rainy or cold-weather running.
Can you run in the Topo Phantom 4 WP during summer?
You can, but it’s designed primarily for cool or wet climates. The waterproof layer retains a bit more warmth than the standard Phantom 4, so it’s ideal for fall, winter, or spring conditions rather than hot summer runs.
Is the Topo Phantom 4 WP good for long runs?
Yes. With a 35 mm heel and 30 mm forefoot, the Phantom 4 WP provides plenty of cushioning for long distances. The ZipFoam midsole delivers a smooth and stable ride that helps reduce fatigue over extended efforts, even in cold or rainy conditions.
How heavy is the Topo Phantom 4 WP?
The shoe weighs about 8.7 ounces for a women’s size 11. That’s impressively light for a waterproof trainer, especially one with this much cushioning and protection.
Does the Topo Phantom 4 WP have good traction?
Yes. The rubber outsole grips well on wet pavement and damp paths. It’s not built as a trail shoe, but the traction is excellent for road running in the rain or through light mud and puddles.
Is the Topo Phantom 4 WP good for walking or all-day wear?
Definitely. The OrthoLite insole and soft ZipFoam cushioning make it a great choice for walking, errands, or commuting in wet weather. It’s cushioned enough for long hours on your feet while keeping them dry and comfortable.
How long does the Topo Phantom 4 WP last?
Most runners can expect around 350–400 miles from the Phantom 4 WP. The waterproof materials, ZipFoam midsole, and durable outsole all hold up well under consistent training or everyday use.
Is the Topo Phantom 4 WP worth it?
Yes…especially if you live somewhere rainy or train outdoors year-round. At around $145, it offers premium waterproofing, comfort, and durability for less than many Gore-Tex models, making it one of the best waterproof running shoes in its class.
Now, let’s get into an honest Topo Phantom 4 WP review.
Quick Facts
Price: $145
Weight: 8.7 oz
Stack Height: 35 mm heel / 30 mm forefoot
Drop: 5 mm
Category: Neutral Cushioned / Waterproof Daily Trainer
Topo Phantom 4 WP Fit and Upper: Waterproof but Still Breathable
First, I just appreciate the black/grey version. Since this shoe is made to get dirty in inclement weather, I do appreciate a shoe that will at least hide the dirt a bit better. Should we care about looks of a running shoe? No, but do we…sometimes. The Topo Phantom 4 WP delivers the same anatomical, foot-shaped fit that makes the brand stand out. If you’ve never tried Topo Athletic, be prepared for plenty of room for your feet to splay. There’s generous space in the toe box so your toes can splay naturally, but the heel and midfoot remain locked down for stability.
As mentioned, the upper uses an engineered mesh (30% recycled) material layered with an eVent stormST waterproof bootie, which completely seals out water while maintaining airflow. You lose a bit of the airy ventilation from the standard Phantom 4, but in return, your feet stay dry and warm even when the weather turns bad.
I’ve tested it through some rain (yes we’ve had a rainy fall so far for the desert…), and my socks were still dry at the end. That’s not something I can say about many waterproof shoes. Plus I actually just filled up my bathtub and decided to see how long they would stay waterproof and it was longer than I anticipated. The OrthoLite® Performance insole adds a soft step-in feel and doesn’t absorb moisture, so the interior stays comfortable no matter the distance.
Like most Topo models, the heel collar is plush without being bulky. The fit feels dialed in right out of the box…no break-in period, no hot spots. I wear between a women’s 10–11 wide, and the 11 fits well.
Topo Phantom 4 WP Midsole and Ride:
The Phantom 4 WP keeps the same ZipFoam™ midsole as the non-waterproof version. It’s an EVA/TPU blend that strikes a sweet spot between cushion and response. You won’t get the trampoline-like bounce of supercritical foams, but you also won’t sink into something mushy. It’s the kind of cushioning that feels smooth. It’s what I like in a daily trainer.
At 35 mm in the heel and 30 mm in the forefoot, the Phantom 4 WP sits in the “max-cushioned but still stable” zone. It has enough protection for long runs while keeping ground feel intact. The 5 mm drop keeps your stride natural and is ideal for runners who want to feel connected without pounding their legs.
On the road, the shoe delivers a soft yet lively ride. It feels best at easy to moderate paces, where the cushioning can really shine. During rainy long runs, I noticed the foam kept its structure and never felt water-logged. The waterproof upper doesn’t alter the midsole feel, which is a big win compared to many waterproof trainers that feel stiff. Plus, this is a bonus you didn’t know you needed but the shoe doesn’t become super heavy in the rain. Sometimes running shoes feel like cinderblocks when they get wet…not the case here.
If you already like the Phantom 4, you’ll find the WP version runs nearly identical…just drier. I really don’t notice a difference, which is great because I actually just needed a new pair of the Topo Phantom.
Where does the Topo Phantom 4 WP fit into my rotation? It’s a great “weather” shoe. If you have rain, snow, or ice this is one to use because it can handle the elements. It’s also just a good easy and daily run shoe. Often if a shoe is labeled “waterproof” or “made for weather”, it’s not as breathable and the brand sacrifices on cushion. That is not the case and the Topo Phantom 4 WP is made to run in weather but makes no sacrifices in the ride of the shoe. Hooray!
Outsole and Traction:
Topo didn’t reinvent the wheel here. The outsole mirrors the Phantom 4’s with a more linear rubber pattern and decoupled heel. Topo is usually great for traction and the Phantom 4 WP is no different. The layout creates a smooth transition and slightly snappier toe-off.
On wet pavement, the traction is excellent. I’ve taken it through puddles, slick asphalt, and damp sand with zero slippage. It’s not a trail shoe, but it handles light trails, slush, and drizzle surprisingly well. I’m not afraid to take this in inclement weather or on some light desert trails.
Durability looks solid, too. I’m around 100 miles in and there’s minimal wear on the rubber. Most runners should expect 400 miles before the cushioning or outsole start to fade. The waterproof upper is also easy to wipe clean…just rinse and go and like I said…it doesn’t show dirt which I can appreciate.
Topo Phantom 4 WP Conclusion:
The Topo Athletic Phantom 4 WP is one of the few waterproof running shoes that doesn’t feel like a compromise. It’s soft, stable, and natural underfoot…everything the original Phantom 4 does right, with the bonus of true waterproof protection.
If you love Topo’s wide toe boxes and balanced cushioning but want something that can handle rain, puddles, and winter conditions, this is it. It’s not flashy or trendy—it’s just a well-made, dependable daily trainer that works.
Who Should Buy the Topo Phantom 4 WP
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Runners who want a waterproof daily trainer that still feels lightweight and natural
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Fans of the Topo Phantom 4 seeking all-weather versatility
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Runners training through rain, snow, or any weather.
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Walkers and commuters looking for durable, cushioned comfort
Who Should Not Buy the Topo Phantom 4 WP
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Runners in hot, dry climates who don’t need waterproofing
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Athletes seeking a tempo or race-day shoe…the Specter 2 is awesome!
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Those who prefer an ultra-soft, supercritical midsole feel
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Salomon Aero Glide 3, Mizuno Neo Zen, Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, adidas Adizero Evo SL, Newton Gravity 12, ASICS Superblast 2
Long Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Degrees Eleos Shoe Review
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Speedland SL: PDX, Hoka Tecton X 3
Races/Speedwork: Adidas adizero adios pro 4, 361 Degrees Furious Future 2.0, ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris, Puma Fast-R Elite 3, Nike Streakfly 2, Nike Vaporfly 4
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Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
What is your favorite running shoe?
Do you run in inclement weather?