Altra Lone Peak 6 -vs- Topo Athletic Terraventure 3 - Hiking / Hiker Comparison

TERRAVENTURE 3 PRICES: bit.ly/3bpkpgm - amzn.to/3OqUTWO
LONE PEAK PRICES: bit.ly/3sZiNA9 - amzn.to/3Oooikk
LATEST GEAR LIST: hikingguy.com/best-hiking-gear/
IT'S EASY TO SUPPORT: hikingguy.com/support-hiking-...
I love my Altra Lone Peak 6 shoes while hiking, but they don't offer much protection and sometimes suffer from durablity issues. Hiking friends recommended trying the Topo Athletic Terraventure 3, so I got a pair and put about 120 miles on them. In this video, I'll walk through the similarities and differences. I'll also make recommendations on whether the Lone Peak or Terraventure will be right for you.
PLEASE LIKE if you found the video helpful or enjoyable. If you think it could be better, please leave me a comment with feedback instead of downvoting it.
#hiking #nature #adventure #healthyliving #outdoors #explore #backpacking #naturalbeauty #hike #hikerchat #naturelovers #optoutside #trails #getoutdoors #neverstopexploring #trailtime #hiker #52HikeChallenge

[@edwardstroud8245]

I’ve just completed the Cape Wrath Trail in Scotland using the topo Terraventure, buying them on your recommendation. They were awesome. They took every punishment possible and my feet were wet for probably 90% of the time over the 230miles going for 2 weeks, ploughing through constant bog, not to mention the numerous river crossings, snow storms and rock scrambles. I wore toe socks as a liner and darn toughs over them. Didn’t get one blister. I was also carrying 18kg. These shoes are brilliant.

[@Hikingguy]

Ah man, that's great to hear, thank you for posting that. I've had a similar experience, they've held up remarkably well and just do the job. Nice to hear that they didn't let you down.

[@DP52001]

Just found you recently- your videos are amazing! Keep up the great work!

[@UnannouncedFart]

Nice review! The LP6 is the most comfortable shoe I've ever owned, so I think I'll stick with that for the foreseeable future, but it's good to know what else is out there!

[@markcrowell2727]

great review; I just got some Lone Peak 6, and I really like them. i thought you were going to get overrun by the wildlife around you...more and more started showing up!

[@Hikingguy]

Ha yea the geese in that park basically own the place.

[@CheaperEngineer]

I have many miles on both. The LP6 does not have a rigid heel counter and like all Altras feels like a cleverly cushioned moccasin. The TV3 has a rigid heel counter, which coupled with the more rigid midsole produces more gluteal "pop" in the gait cycle. The TV3 has a snugger midfoot and is better suited for medium to high arches. The TV3's mesh upper breathes better but is permeable to dust, so expect dirty toes after miles on dusty trails.

[@JjrShabadoo]

Great review. This is exactly what i needed as these two models were my final decision for a hybrid hiker and trail runner. BTW..I got nervous as that goose got closer and closer behind you. 😂

[@Hikingguy]

Ha yea these geese are pretty tame but I did get snapped at on the leg years ago mountain biking in PA... they can get aggressive when protecting the young

[@HuskyMike]

Essentially the same experience I had when I compared these two shoes (although I had the Lone Peak 5)

[@Ejak777]

Hi - Great reviews. I was just at REI today looking at the LPs. I typically only hike 3-5 miles on a weekend with the occasional longer dedicated camping/hiking trip and I have Oboz mids that are great but I find a bit 'hard' and tiring on my feet. Looking for something softer. My mileage isn't extreme but I do hike trails that have roots and rocks so I've always been suspicious of trail runners. A lot of people seem to like them and they felt good in the store. I'm not sure what I might experience having never hiked in a zero-drop shoe. Thanks for your reviews. I've been looking at a number of your videos.

[@Hikingguy]

Thank you and I'd say give them a try. People make a bigger deal about zero-drop than it really is. Just make sure that you don't heel-strike and I think you'll be good. Zero-drop is how your feet work barefoot and for me, just feels much better.

[@PineappleQuesadillas]

Great review. I love my terraventure 2s, by far the BEST shoe I've ever owned, and can't wait to get the terraventure 3. I've done tons of scrambling in them and some really long days, they're just so comfortable. The grip is fantastic. But I may also pick up some LP6s just to wear around town. They sound pretty comfy!

[@Hikingguy]

Yea the LPs are a little more "plush" but both very similar. Right now I'm trying out the Topo Pursuit, which is very close to the Terraventure. First thoughts coming soon...

[@IchDuForeverExplorering]

@@Hikingguy nice, ive been looking forward for the Pursuit, or the other new one with smaller stack hight

[@spartyhikerfromme5492]

Agree 100% as I have used both due to need to have wide toe box. Since I hike mostly in the rough mountain terrain of northern New England, the LP are shredded in less than 200 miles and after a day on the rough rocky terrain, much foot pain. Since many trails have exposed rock slabs at steep angles, I have literally slid off trail with LP, on DRY rock. If wet rock, LP are useless. They are comfortable, but I now restrict them to walking the dog on the smooth, flat recreation trails nearby. TV are more durable and protective, and are able to retain traction even on the wet rock slabs, so are much more suitable to my mountain hikes. Have completed climbs of 75 of the 100 highest peaks in New England. Peace, Love and Kindness.

[@Hikingguy]

Cool cool, thanks for sharing that - jibes with my experience too - give the Topo Pursuit a try - it's like a LP and TV combo - working well for me - review coming soon

[@martharunstheworld]

As a trail runner, I like Timps more than the Lone Peaks, they have a bit more cushion, especially on long races I have yet to try the Topos, maybe I will next. My friend loves them though, they have a little bit of a drop, which you should mention. Many of us runners buy Altras BECAUSE of the zero drop. Hikers may not get it, but they are made with a zero drop specifically. That's why hikers who start using them right away without easing into them on long hikes have big problems like shin splints. Also, many people can't wear zero drop shoes, like my friend who likes Topos. Not everyone can wear zero drop shoes. Great video as always.

[@IchDuForeverExplorering]

he mentioned, it, and now you can try 2 different Topo Trail shoes, with zero drop, check them out

[@sebastianbolt7886]

LP6 are my most beautiful shoe I've ever worn.

[@clarkansas6590]

Good job

[@northtexashiker]

Agree with all the points you made. But I still wear lone peaks, they are just so comfortable. I have a pair of topos and they did last twice as long as my lone peaks though

[@Hikingguy]

Good to know, thank you

[@Franchyze923]

Might be time for me to invest in a pair of trail shoes. I've been switching between my Merrell Moabs or just running shoes when I hike (depending on the terrain), neither feel ideal.

[@Hikingguy]

Yea these will feel like the running shoes but will handle the trail better. It's hard to put a Moab on after wearing a shoe like these.

[@DannyHensley123]

On my fourth pair of Altra Lone Peaks. My first pair was the best. What happened to the earlier versions? Thanks

[@Archie-td6ox]

Great video! Which of these would you prefer on a through hike of the Pyrenees with an all in pack weight of 25-28 lbs? Plenty of screes and rocky areas which will no doubt be wet at times.

[@Hikingguy]

Check out my gear page for the latest but between these two, the Topo

[@bluefirephoenix347]

Thank you for the review! It's funny, i'm yet another commenter who's trying to decide between these two shoes. I wish Altra would get rid of the crappy MaxTrac & start using Megagrip on the otherwise very comfortable LPs and i wish that Topo would get rid of the dumb arch/heel support bump that's in pretty much all of their models. Each of these respective issues are big cons for me. Although not falling on my face from the "super grippy" MaxTrac, as has happened with earlier LP versions, will probably have Topo winning out lol. I freaking love Megagrip.

[@Hikingguy]

Yea I'm testing the Pursuits now and they're a little more LP than the Terraventure, but they still have the arch and def don't feel as plush as the LPs. Generally I tend to use the LPs when I know the trail is pretty groomed and if it's rocky I'll go Pursuit. It's a pain. All Altra has to do is throw a better sole on there and I think it would be perfect.

[@chrisbrunn3480]

I have about 1100 miles since last September on the Terraventure, 95% was between September and January and I have a warning if you will use them very frequently. The orthotic caused pronation (hitting on the outside of the foot) that pronation along with frequent use caused me an overuse injury that had me take 3 months off to get back to somewhat normal. I’ve recently switched to Hoka’s in the hope the cushioning will allow me to get some miles in without coming up lame like is currently happening after about 8 miles. I loved the rock plate and deadening of all the rocks I was going over, durability was fantastic.. but the orthotic was no bueno.

[@Hikingguy]

Sorry to hear that and good to know, thank you

[@djswvh]

What exactly do you mean with 'the orthotic'. Do you mean the insole? I ask this because the insole has no noticable support to me and the only thing I Notice is a slight arch raise, but that can't be it either I guess

[@richardmenzies855]

Thank you for your reviews.! 1. About how long does it take to dry out the Altras once they get wet!? 2. What type socks do recommend with them, thick or thin?

[@Hikingguy]

Hard to say how long it takes to dry, lots of factors. Generally 30-60 mins, longer if cool. I use thin running socks but sometimes go thick when its cooler. Both work fine.

[@Metabolicholic]

The new Topo Pursuit is definitely worth checking out. Zero drop, taller stack height, plush ride. And a bit wider than all current-generation Topo trail runners. Nothing has worked for me from Topo or Altra thus far, but my feet seem to like the Pursuit.

[@Hikingguy]

That's awesome, thanks for pointing those out. I just ordered a pair. Looks like the best of both worlds, excited to try them out.

[@spartyhikerfromme5492]

Sounded good, but there is only 3mm more cushion (in the heel) and no rock plate, so not sure they would be better for the rough rocky terrain I hike in. Might consider them for road running shoe. Peace, Love and Kindness.

[@JimGerHikes]

Check out the UltraVenture Pro, I have them and LPs and although I like them both, I lean Topo

[@Hikingguy]

Nice thank you, will check them out 👍

[@mountainrunner1955]

do both share the same size? so if I know I have the Altra US9, is the fit in the Topo US9 too?

[@ratnakordosshu6291]

Is there any altra hiking boot which is waterproof for heavy Snow ❄️????

[@edwardstroud8245]

Hi. I bought the topos after watching your review and love them. I have a question. Am looking to get some micro spikes and was wondering if you can recommend which might be the best for the topo Terraventure 3s? Many thanks

[@Hikingguy]

I use the Kahtoolas they work fine for me - hikingguy.com/best-hiking-gear/

[@kriswibbenhorstermeister9885]

Have you tried the lone peak 7’s yet? I’ll have to search through your videos

[@DaniOrtaOcana]

Hi, thanks very much for your video. Can I ask, what about the heel support, is the Terraventure more supported than the LP6 ?

[@Hikingguy]

They felt about the same to me. The Terraventure might be a small bit tighter around the heel.

[@moosa9850]

Does the Topo's come in half sizes sideways eg 9,5? Seems Topo toebox looks narrower

[@jimkwan1807]

I couldn't agree more the LP is more comfortable, but the TV has better grip.

[@IchDuForeverExplorering]

i have both too, and i feel much more secure in the Topos for tecnical terrain, i still walk in the Altra One V3, i love them, but the Lone Peak is just something i use for casual hiking, most of the time i use the Topo Terraventure 3, i also had the terraventure 2, and now i am looking forward for one of the new Topo zero drop trail shoes as my next shoe

[@Hikingguy]

Yea trying the Pursuit out now and they're pretty great. Not as plush as the LP but def rugged and probably lasts longer.

[@belleyupable]

I wear Altra. Anyone have advice on outer heel pain?

[@jennydoss9778]

I read on your 2023 gear recommendations that you cannot recommend the LP 7s. What changes in the new model made you no longer want to recommend them? I am trying to decide between a Topo Runventure 4 and LP 7 for hiking and backpacking. I need to wear a completely zero drop shoe so I cannot wear the Terraventures. Thank you for your input.

[@Hikingguy]

The LP7 is def narrower and has a different feel. Video coming in a day or so. The 3mm drop on the Terraventure is pretty imperceptible, you might want to hit an REI and try them on.

[@themaestro5338]

I just traded my Lone Peaks back to REI for Topos to get the 3mm. They feel nice so far.

[@lukefromtexas]

I did the same lol. Returned LP6 three days ago.

[@ColemanOutdoors]

I finally got around to trying the LP6. I've got a Morton's Neuroma in my right foot. I absolutely love these shoes! I think the wide toe box and zero drop has made a huge difference. Unfortunately, I'm a larger man and I'm beginning to think these aren't going to last long. After roughly 130 trail miles, the midsoles have completely collapsed in the heal. Still comfortable, but well under their 300 - 500 mile warranty. Thoughts on whether the Terraventure might more ideal for a larger man?😋 Same goes for the Altras Olympus shoes? Thanks for the great information.

[@Hikingguy]

The Terraventure might feel a bit more harsh, there's not as much cushion. The Olympus is good but I think might have the same durability issues (but prob worth a try). You could also look at some of the Hokas too.

[@ColemanOutdoors]

@@Hikingguy Thanks, Cris. I guess I'll just have to track these down and give them a try and find out. Appreciate the suggestions. Surprisingly, I tried the One One and they made neuroma worse. I had high hopes too. Thanks again!

[@Hikingguy]

@@ColemanOutdoors ugh bummer on the Hokas - well maybe try the Terraventures - they're most like the LPs and might be fine. If it's not comfy enough you could add a flat insole too

[@ColemanOutdoors]

@@Hikingguy good suggestion! At 240 on a good day, maybe the dense midsole will give more under my weight. I'll see if I can find a place to at least try them on. Otherwise I'll just start selling my blood for the quarterly shoe replacement fund.😉

[@Hikingguy]

@@ColemanOutdoors haha yea, well I just bought a Powerball ticket, so, if I win, shoes for life on me...

[@functionaldoc5054]

On the Topo Athletic Terraventure 3 does the insole able to removed so you could place say a orthotic in the shoe? Great review and comparison as always very practical.

[@Hikingguy]

The insole doesn't easily come out, it's attached, but you can put an insole on top of the built in one.

[@functionaldoc5054]

@@Hikingguy Thanks

[@dersinndeslebens9780]

@@Hikingguy Really? Mine is going out very easy.... Do you know the "MT-4", it's similar to the terraventure...

[@Hikingguy]

@@dersinndeslebens9780 Yup, you're right, mine was just stuck on there. What's the MT-4?

[@dersinndeslebens9780]

@@Hikingguy It's a topo-athletic model, near to the terraventure, but without rockplate...

[@scanjet1000]

how much space do u have on the lone peaks between your toe and end of the shoe? I'm pretty sure I keep buying too big

[@Hikingguy]

about 1/2 inch

[@ahmedhumayun8512]

Have you ever tried Hoka speed goats? What's your opinion?

[@Hikingguy]

I tried the 4s (kzbin.info/www/bejne/anuygKWsiLJshtk) but haven't tried the 5s yet. I should do that after I try out the Topo Pursuits, which I'm doing now.

[@mikestevenson1883]

Which pair would you wear on Grand Canyon R2R?

[@Hikingguy]

Lone Peak 6

[@Jasper16Did]

I know you lean Lone Peak 6 for the Grand Canyon rim to rim, but do you think the terraventure 3 is a good choice for R2R?

[@Hikingguy]

Yea, they'll both do great on R2R. The surface is overall smooth and you don't have to worry about sharp rocks.

[@IchDuForeverExplorering]

i did Rim to Rim the Grand Canyon, in Adio Skate shoes, 15 years ago

[@cfrtravel7734]

Great review. Would be nice to know a little more about the type of feet you have, just as a point of reference as it pertains to the "fit" of a shoe. I purchased the Long Peaks 6 after checking out your previous video about them, and have been extremely happy with them, but I had to go with their "wide" version (which as far as I know only comes in black, which implies you use a regular width Lone Peak). I have wide feet and have serious issues finding shoes that fit comfortably. The single complaint I have about the Lone Peaks 6 - I which they offered more cushioning. Otherwise, they have been fantastic! I have been curious about the Topos, but I don't believe they come in a "wide" version. Sounds like the you found the Topos comfortable for your "narrower" feet?!?

[@Hikingguy]

I probably have average width feet. Narrow shoes hold my feet tight, and I feel snug but not tight in regular LPs.

[@bolopunq]

Would you recommend sizing up the LPs? I normally wear 42-43. Should I go for say 44?

[@sebastianbolt7886]

I went for 1/2 size smaller, for natural stretch. 😁But LP6 is my all time favorite shoe

[@bolopunq]

@@sebastianbolt7886 In the meantime, I got mine 1 size larger so 44 and they're perfect :D

[@IchDuForeverExplorering]

i would go with the 43, fits perfectly for me, and i used to go with 42,5 shoes, most of my life when grown up

[@piningbuck]

Ive never had a pair of altra make it to 500 miles. Maybe 275

[@ohdonyboy]

The timing of this video is uncanny, having just spent all afternoon today deciding between the LP6 and Terraventure 3. I decided on the Topo for the reasons you mentioned: the outsole lugs and more durable upper. The lateral side of my midfoot seems to have an issue with the LP6, even in wide sizes. I do wish Topo would make a wide size though. The midsole is plush enough for actual trail running (I ran in the new shoes right after purchase). Look forward to testing them out for hiking and backpacking.

[@Hikingguy]

Nice, yea it sounds like the T3 will work well for you. I'd say just give it a few miles to get used to, and maybe size up a half if the ones you got feel tight.

[@RoissyAngel]

I thought that Topo shoes were for wide feet - especially in the toe box area - just like Altra? Are they not?

[@Hikingguy]

@@RoissyAngel The Altras have a regular (which is wide already) and then a "wide" option which is even wider (that I have not tried because the regular fits well on me). I don't think the Topos have the "wide" option although the normal ones have a wide toe box.

[@RoissyAngel]

@@Hikingguy Thank you.

[@RoissyAngel]

@@Hikingguy Thank you.

[@spikeh5016]

What do you think about the Lone Peak 7?

[@Hikingguy]

Ordered them / will test them out and post once I have a few miles on them

[@mikesimms3380]

What about the Olympus? Comfy, light, and they motor over rocks like a monster truck!

[@Hikingguy]

I haven't reviewed them in a while, will try out a pair - for the big cush I've been using the Hoka Stinson

[@edwardstroud8245]

With the topos is it worth going for your exact size or up half a size? Thanks

[@Hikingguy]

For me they fit as expected I didn't need to go up

[@edwardstroud8245]

@@Hikingguy thanks. 🤞

[@edwardstroud8245]

Hi again. I’ve just bought the topos. Very happy. Wanna get some new socks for them and noticed you recommend darn tough. I contacted them saying I had a trail runner shoe, and they seemed a bit unsure if I should go for the hiker micro crew MIDWEIGHT, or the LIGHT hiker micro crew. Could I ask your advice? Many thanks.

[@Hikingguy]

@@edwardstroud8245 I usually use the light socks but if I want a bit more warmth or comfort I'll go mid

[@edwardstroud8245]

@@Hikingguy ok, thanks. Reckon I’ll start with the midweight then and see how they go

[@peterbedford2610]

LP6 is holding up well? My last couple pair of LPs didnt last 500 miles

[@Hikingguy]

Yea they're doing great so far. Midsoles a bit flat but otherwise sound.

[@peterbedford2610]

@@Hikingguy I have a really wide plantar and the LP fits me great. I will try the LP6 based on your experience. Ive asked other people and sometimes the LPs just fall apart around 400 miles. Problem is that I do around 1200 miles a year. At $150 a pair, $450 per year. Oh well. Gotta live

[@Hikingguy]

@@peterbedford2610 yea that's kind of where I landed - do I want to get a few pairs each year and have the best comfort, or save a few $$ and not be as cofortable - as much as I'd like to pay less, I've just decided being the most comfortable is worth it

[@peterbedford2610]

2/11/2024 update: Bought Topo Pursuits 8 months ago. Way better shoe than Altra LPs. Im now a Topo convert!

[@nigellack2576]

Hi there - I live in Scotland , and have just mail ordered a size 13 UK (US) 14, wide, as in a Hoka Speedgoat their UK 12.5 (US) 13 is a tad neat on me. I just wondered if you had a view on whetherLone Peaks run true to size, or if they come up a tad smaller or bigger than other makes? Many thanks for you superb and useful review!

[@Hikingguy]

Ah I'm probably not a good person to ask about sizing. For me the LPs probably feel a little big bigger than expected but it might just be because they're designed that way. I'd size as expected.

[@nigellack2576]

Cheers appreciated. I'll get there.....eventually!

[@rachelemem]

@@nigellack2576 Speak to Charlie at Northern Runner. He was a great help with sizing when I ordered my first pair of LPs (they really are as comfortable as slippers) during the first UK lockdown.

[@billsullivan4859]

I ok on

[@olddad67]

I started out with Long peaks that’s what everybody recommended ended up trying topo they are amazing shoes absolutely comfortable as you have ever had. I will never go back long peaks or trash very overrated.

[@BigO161107]

I’ve had my lone peaks for less than a year and I have big holes at the back of the heel. Terrible quality.

[@tdg223]

My foot doctor said never use a zero drop with no stability nor arch support! I almost jumped on this hype but after I spoke to him, he’ll no. If zero drop is better than why aren’t most sneakers zero drop, they are not zero drop for a reason. Don’t believe this marketing scam

[@Hikingguy]

I struggled with foot issues for years and they disappeared when I starting using shoes like the Lone Peaks. I talked to doctors, wore different inserts, etc., and struggled for about a year before finding minimal / zero-drop. For me it's not a marketing scam, it produces real-world results. I'd also invite you to consider that our feet have evolved to be biomechanically effective "as-is" for 200k years of human existence and concepts like arch-support, cushioning, etc., didn't pop up until Nike starting selling shoes in the 1970s.

[@Metabolicholic]

I think the marketing "scam" occurs the other way around. Look at the work of Dr. Irene Davis for a different perspective.

[@tdg223]

@@Hikingguy Hummm interesting! When you switched to altras, Did you have any calf or achilles strains?

[@Hikingguy]

@@tdg223 nope

[@tdg223]

@@Hikingguy Hummm well I think I will try them!! Thanks