Did Topo Ruin My Favorite Hiking Shoe? - Pursuit 2 Review

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Have you tried the New Pursuit 2? What NEW TRAIL SHOES have you been loving lately? 🥾 👇Let Us Know Down Below!👇

[@andreameigs1261]

They used weaker mesh on purpose. It's called Planned Obsolescence. They just ruined their reputation along with the shoe, just like Altra. Plus- MOST people grew up with narrow shoes, and the even wider toe and heel is going to be too wide. Send them the negative feedback. You have a DIRECT line to them.

[@KLRBugeater]

I'm a runner. My favorite shoe maker keeps improving my shoe with stuff I really don't want. I buy in bulk now (5x pairs) if I find a shoe I like, so I don't have to constantly adjust to a new fit/design improvement...

[@RobertGaron]

What is it???

[@AkhierDragonheart]

Honestly, I just buy two pairs of any shoe I get at this point, just because even normal shoes get changed so much season to season. I'll find something I like and next time I go to buy a shoes, they're gone.

[@KLRBugeater]

@@RobertGaron The type shoe I want is like the Asics Jolt 2. I don't need more. There are many manufacturers that make that type. Asics, Avia, Brooks, Saucony, New Ballance, even FILA. In H.S. track, I wore the original Nike Waffle Stompers way back in 1978.

[@dallashill23]

It’s mind blowing that an excellent shoe is created, it’s near perfect, and they change what worked into something that doesn’t work. The secret to greatness is to continue being great.

[@DPM-dp9on]

Topo is definitely watching. Let’s see if they are listening.

[@DevinSchiro]

So glad you put this particular video out, and I hope Topo actually sees this (and reads the comments) and hopefully pays attention so that they don't slip into becoming the next Altra as far as poor craftsmanship. I'll admit I'm already pretty irked at them, as it took me 3 years to find the only shoe that doesn't cause me issues, which was the award-winning Trailventure 2 boot. Guess which one they just discontinued this year, probably because it wasn't selling as well (despite winning REI's best boot award or something like that)....yep. I'm probably one of the few people who don't mind the gaiter hooks in the back, but the gaiters themselves are not sewn well enough and I've had multiple pairs tear at the single-stitch they use. The hook also tends to slip out from the front way more than the Dirty Girls. They're heavier too. Some days I go without gaiters just to avoid the weight penalty. If they're going to re-design anything, it's the gaiters that deserve a second pass. The shoes were fine, they shouldn't have touched a thing. Why shoes companies can't just adhere to the "if it ain't broken don't fix it" mentality will forever be lost on me. Anyway solid video, doin the lord's work here Darwin.

[@chemistryflavored]

When I was a runner it was very common for runners to buy a dozen pairs of a shoe they liked for this very reason. Shoe companies just love to mess with us and always change something. Ugh. I feel ya

[@brholder1]

I've just started using the Topo Traverse, I wanted to try out a shoe with a rock plate. They have been good so far. I was using Terraventure 3's, an awesome shoe. I do like Topo's gaiters. They stay with the shoe when you take them off. I more often than not forgot to put on my Dirty Girls before I put on my shoes.

[@joospis]

The best update to these shoes would be going back to the old version. If you want to raise the price, just raise the price. You don’t need to make the shoe worse while you’re at it

[@ryancooperthompson979]

I did pick up a pair of the 2s and agree with pretty much every point you made, except that for me the toe box feels slightly narrower when compared to my 1s. I’ve gone through 2 pairs of the 1s after 900 miles and have a new 3rd pair in my reserve because I also loved them so much. The only wear I have on the uppers is near the top of the ankle. I use dirty girl gaiters and the Velcro they provide held pretty well to my 1s. I also really liked the color of the 1s compared to the 2s, but am just glad that they continue to have color options that aren’t obnoxious as hell

[@randygonzalez5758]

Darwin is the master of reviews. He has such a respectful and no BS approach that is so damn informative

[@Amberidium]

I wore the Pursuit 2s for about 72 miles on the Colorado Trail this summer. They did NOT work for me. While the width of the toe box was great, the height of it wasn't accommodating enough for my toes (my nails angle up slightly) and I developed blisters between several nails and the nail beds from the shear force on top of my nails. As I type this, I'm down 3 toenails with 2 more on their way out. Also, one of the fabric loops securing the shoelace ripped, which messed up the lacing on one foot. It's a shame because I did really love how grippy the sole of the shoe was and how comfortable the midsole felt. I replaced them with Altra Timps which solved the toe box height issue, but now I have the same issue Darwin mentioned with the Pursuit 2s where my foot angles in the shoe and my pinky toe rubs up against the side. I never wore the original Pursuits, so I can't comment on whether they're better or worse. Still looking for my unicorn...

[@pikaoutdoors7414]

Still rocking the Pursuit 1.

[@TelosBudo]

I got a pair of these when they released. I'm liking them. I use them for canoe portaging, carrying heavy weight and walking through shallow rivers and shorelines. I like the new quick-dry sole and fabric. They're comfy, and made well.

[@ryanriddell8376]

I couldn’t find the pursuit 1 after your video so I bought their 3mm drop terraventure. I have 230 Sheltowee Trace miles on them and another ~200 miles of other miles. I picked up the Pursuit 2 recently as they were finally available. Having a narrow heal, I wish they still made the pursuit 1 and am considering going back to Altra. But one thing I love on Topo is the better heal support which has prevented twisted ankles on trail.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

The Pursuit 1 was definitely a better shoe... but these aren't too shabby. Hopefully the 3 will be the best of both worlds 🤞

[@louiehaddix1280]

Ryan, considering the Sheltowee Trace hike you did. Is resupply still a nightmare? Been a couple of years since I last researched the hike. Doesn’t seem to be a lot out there, except Jupiter Hikes.

[@bpjbp]

Great review. I enjoy your reviews. I'm usually left with several questions after most reviews. But not usually with yours, including this one. You answer every question that I have. It's as if you're reading my mind. And they have good flow.

[@sheilaoregan8746]

Great review! I love Topo’s and wear the Ultraventure 3’s for walking and hiking. I like the extra cushioning 😊. I also have the Trailventure WP 2’s for winter walking/hiking. They are great for keeping my feet warm & dry while walking in snowy conditions plus are light so I don’t feel like I’m dragging 5 lbs around on my feet that other winter boots feel like.

[@jamisonswift8320]

I'm right there with you. I'm trying some Topo MTN Racer 3's right now because I'm so fed up with Altra changing the Timps. I just want the Timp 2's back again and wish they'd stop messing with it

[@vnderrr]

interesting comment on the toebox width. one reviewer at believeintherun said the ball of the foot got narrower from the 1 to the 2... im loving my couple pairs of pursuit 1s. probably gonna have to try the 2. if you're hanging around and got a few minutes maybe you could pull the insoles from the two shoes and actually measure across the widest part? thanks for the review. happy running and hiking

[@peterschenck4067]

I purchased a pair of these before I went to a two and a half week trip to Italy. It wasn’t a hiking or running trip. I was in full tourist mode. Rome, Venice, some stops in Croatia…. So lots of steps and lots of standing around in line on paver stones. I am 6’ 3” and a robust 280 pounds. I use blue SuperFeet insoles. I wear a men’s US size 13. These shoes never let me down. I spent hours and hours a day exploring these cities on foot. My feet never felt tired at the end of the day, and I never had to put a single piece of leuko tape on for rub spots. As things cool down outside here wt home, I am looking forward to putting many miles on these during day hikes around the area. If I can convince my wife to go for a three or four day section hike, even better!!! Thanks for the review Darwin! These are the best pair of trail shoes (and I am old enough to have started back when everyone wore leather boots when they went hiking and canoe tripping) that I have ever used!

[@Niveous1]

This video could not have come at the most perfect time as I've been looking (and struggling) to find a shoe to take out on the trail. I ordered the pursuit 2's based off your previous video. However, I'm so sad, I love the pursuit 2's overall, even the fit, except for the arch support. It's way too prominent for my liking and for my foot. Topo recommended I go up .5 a size, would changing out the insole help? Thanks and great video as always!

[@tomatoomelette5111]

I switched from the La Sportiva Bushido 2 to the Topo Traverse with the rock plate and absolutely love them, I have narrow feet and what I loved about the Traverse is that they are a bit narrower in the heel and mid so they feel nice and secure...I use the dirty girl gaiters with them

[@mitb]

I switched on your recommendation and the previous Topos were fine. I did switch back with the Lone Peak 8 and I have been happy again with them I think they pivoted back to what I liked about the 6

[@kentuckygreg4725]

I have 2 pairs of Topo green shoes with Vibram out sole. Was really surprised the out sole was worn down on the pair I wore the most. Not a big hiker (at least not in the summer), but wear them on daily walks with the dog and going out to the grocery and the like. Just expected more out of the Vibrams.

[@pyronymph-868]

Currently wearing Hoka Rincon3's. They are super cushy. Today they got a great Monsoon test, great traction wet.

[@OliverHikes]

I went to Topo in 2020 and never looked back. Used the Ultraventure 3 on the CT last year and they still have miles in them. My only complaint is the sole is soft in places and rocks can puncture. So now I’m loving the MTN Racers.

[@joelfurrer1339]

After struggling with durability and fit issues with Lone Peaks on the PCT last year I settled on the Pursuits. Absolutely love them. I’m excited to see the new version myself.

[@brwcty59]

Headed to a winter hiking situation in December. Most days will be non-technical, but slick and icy with light to moderate snow. Would love to hear your recommendation for a footwear set up that will offer both warmth and dry feet. Thank you!

[@takingawalkadventures]

I have been rocking the Topo terraventure 4 trail runners. this is my first pair and used them on my Appalachian trail section hike of the Virginia triple crown and they did very well they are very comfortable

[@curtelverd4008]

I just purchased my first pair of Topos and in the Pursuit 2 at that. I, too, have been a die hard Altra guy for over a decade because the wide toe box kept my feet from getting blisters and were great for triathlon. But, I kept seeing all these KZbin videos about Topo so I tried a pair of Mtn. Racer 3’s on at a local store and was shocked. They held my heel and midfoot much more secure than Altras, and I could feel the extreme grip of the Vibram sole (even grippier than my Olympus). I’m excited to give these shoes their first backpacking run in the Sawtooth mountains this week!

[@matthewpilcher8308]

Currently run in the Pursuit 1 and absolutely love them. Recently switched to the terraventure and it is amazing.

[@texasermd1]

Interesting review. With hindsight, I wish I would have bought 5 pairs of the Altra Timp 2 since I had great results with them. 👍👍

[@trailtocamp]

I love a vibram sole. Never let me down, but come in Topo, carry on making the version 1 with a tougher material.

[@chemistryflavored]

I have two pairs of the Topo Ultraventure Pro and they outlasted the standard version by a landslide, well they don’t make the Pro’s anymore. I was so incredibly bummed since the standard version just doesn’t hold up for me, the soles actually come unglued from the rest of the shoe and the tread peels off. I need the Pro’s back!!

[@jonsanford2515]

They still make them. They changed the model name from Ultraventure Pro to Traverse.

[@chemistryflavored]

@@jonsanford2515 thanks for letting me know!! I will have to try the Traverse.

[@sarahhodges7066]

The Traverse is unfortunately really different from the Ultraventure Pro. Much stiffer sole, and heavier. It's super sad, the Ultraventure Pro have been my go to since they came out:(

[@Castellanos334]

I have the pursuit 2, I like them so far. Just like you I’m not a fan of proprietary accessories, but I do find the gaiter nicer to use if you don’t want to remover your whole shoe to take them off.

[@florianfrey2002]

The only reason I am not using Topos over Altras is because Topo has this notorious toe spring that is quite stiff and absolutely unnatural. This causes me to have too much tension on my plantar facia and therefore is a no go. I absolutely love all other aspects of the Topos especially the durability over the poor quality that Altra has been taken on lately.

[@philliphickey2687]

I love the OG Pursuit I have about 650km on the but now using the Topo mountain racer 3 for my longer trail runs. Great review I will try Pursuit 2 when they land in Australia

[@robynroamsoutdoors]

I'm wearing the Merrell Peak Agility 5s and love them. I mainly use them for trail running but do some hiking in them. Otherwise I wear the Merrell MQM 3s which have been good for me.

[@saxgoddess25]

Love Topo - though my model of choice was the Terraventure. I wore them on the West Highland Way in June and they were phenomenal.

[@nathan8418]

I've been wearing Terraventure 4's since June for technical mountain running. Very good shoe for that purpose alone.

[@jimeadie4415]

I have 650 miles on the Pursuits. The outer tread is almost gone and the back of the heals are now worn out. Going to back to Alta Lone peaks and will keep notes on how long those actually last in miles. I average 2000+ miles a year so I go through shoes. Normally get some in advance at REI sales days.

[@Seriallette]

I bought the Pursuit 2 after watching few reviews online. I definitely relate to all the issues mentioned in the video. While I liked them, no less no more than other high end shoes, the durability is not what I expected. I put 200+miles on them and they have already massive fabrics cut and stuff. I had blisters using them for 10 days consecutive. I’ll be back to HOKA for my next pair.

[@lennyr4486]

I was looking forward to this shoe however ,was disappointed by the upper for the reasons you stated plus I noticed the amount dirt that came through it. Looked invain for the first Persuit but none to be had. They should bring it back.

[@ozeran]

I've used the Pursuit 2 for about 300 miles on the PCT this year and had exactly the same problems. The shoes were tearing apart on exactly the same spots to the extent that I had a hole the size of my thumb on each shoe. I did find them very comfortable and easy on my feet, but I cannot afford buying a trail runner that only lasts 300 miles.

[@Aidan-Lynch]

currently rocking bushido 2’s. been trying on a ton of shoes in store lately, favorites i’ve felt that i’m considering are the salewa pedroc air, or the norda 002.

[@trekkingforeurope]

Nooo, don't say you don't like the wider toe-box! That's the _one thing_ about the original Pursuit that I really don't like. I have a really wide forefoot, and I with the Pursuit 1 I get pressure sores on the outer edge of my feet after about 20km. Thanks for this review. I guess once my pair wears out I'll look for something more robust and wider. Cheers.

[@billheckman5937]

I too was once a fan of Altras. The company was sold and their production direction shifted. We have seen this happen throughout the outdoor industry for decades. There is nothing wrong with a company who chooses a large annual profit over producinga quality product. There will always be a company ready with a a product that smart consumers will purchase. We shouldn't complain that Topo costs more......because they are WORTH it.

[@l0lb0atzz]

Does the updated version still have the super intrusive arch support? I tried a pair per your recommendation but that arch support hurts like a truck for me.

[@pyrholorange]

i wish a shoe company would make a trailrunner with no padding- less overheating and quick drying. i had some karrimor running shoes that were just a single tough layer of synthetic canvas. worked brilliantly.

[@valdius85]

I own two pairs of Topos. So far so good. I wished they offered more basic, even lower heigh, shoes for both running and trials. I worry about the direction of Topos begging more owerdevdesigned. I am planning to buy another two pairs for specific use case. Generally speaking, good job Topo Ath. Make sure you don’t change what works and add more different use cases to your offer.

[@kassonsalvador3650]

Gave up on zero drop shoes when Altra got crappy. Wearing Topo Terraventure for day hiking and Traverse for backpacking these days.

[@4.eva.21]

got the 'topo traverse'. so far i like them very much. 👍🏻

[@allmetaliswelcome]

I bought some a pair of Terraventure 4s because you intruced me to Topo! Have never been this happy with a hiking shoe begore. Couldn't get my hands on the Pursuit at the time but the Terra's still have the same sole, wide toebix and narrow fit at the heel so no problem as far as i'm concerned. I assume you wouldn't be interested in them due to the 3mm drop but i'd recommend them!

[@neilquinn]

Curious if you bought your Topos in the same size as Altra? I just tried a Terraventure 4 but it fit longer/heel slipped compared to my Altra Superior's.

[@allmetaliswelcome]

It was my first venture into trailrunners actually, BUT, i also ordered some Lone Peak 7s so i could try both. Could only get the Terras in 44.5 and the Lone Peaks in 45 so not the same size exactly. Tried them both in my Living room, i felt like i had too much room in the Lone Peaks in the middle and heel area too, where the Topos seemed to hug my foot perfectly

[@LunarEclipse011]

I did the CDT in the Topo Ultraventure and overall really liked them. I really wanted to use the pursuit for the zero drop and better tread, but they don’t make it in wide :( I wish more companies would offer wide widths in more shoes. Especially in wide toe box shoes, some of us have wide midfoots and the wide toe box isn’t enough.

[@romererunamerika9437]

Met at PCT days again this year. Good talk. Hummingbird guru (Coleman lantern man) same shoes same perception. I loved the 1.0 version and had the same experience when I tried to buy more and eventually was able to buy the 2.0. I believe the 2.0 has a more narrow toe box which I do not especially enjoy. I like the roominess of the 1.0 and the longevity of the sole has been exceptional. I wonder if they made the new version more narrow in the toe box? On a side note: I am in the process of getting the 202 lantern you love out of my storage. I will send you pictures to see. Just got home from PCT days after exploring the Wonderland trail in Rainier national park. / Wore your hoodie I purchased this year and loved it.

[@dancoursey5447]

I just got a pair of the P2's two weeks ago. But bad news, the 4th time I put the shoes on and tightened-down the laces, one of the lace-loops in the middle pulled out of body of the shoe! Not well attached at all! If this had happened out in the middle my next backpacking trip I would have been in a Bad Situation. So not very reliable I think. There is apparently not very much lace-loop material sewn into the body of the shoe so came out very easily. No more Topos for me.

[@wolfeadventures]

They also disontinued the Trailventure. A fantastic mid hiker.

[@Perkinsprivy2.2]

Great review! Thanks for the information. ❤

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

You are so welcome!

[@JoshuaRoevear]

Still love my Lone Peaks.

[@44NorthWyo]

Same. I’ve worn a pair of Pursuits out and the Lone Peaks are still my favorite.

[@Andy-LucyGSD]

The lone peak 4 was my favourite.

[@MTrekker2001]

Over the years I went from Topo's to New Balance Leadvilles until cancelled to Altras. It is unfortunate that shoe companies either discontinue or change to an inferior product. They need to ask their customers as what is good and retain a good product.

[@hikerJohn]

The only thing that matters to me is do they allow me to hike MORE MILES per day. NOBODY buys Altras because they last a long time but because they are a good minimalist hiking/trail running shoe. I just destroyed a pair of Lone Peaks in 400 miles in the Sierras and just grabbed another pair and put them on. I also have been doing training hikes and trail runs in a brand new pair of Topo Terraventure 3 that I actually bought 1.5 years ago. Lone Peaks last me about 600 miles doing training hikes without a pack but only 400 backpacking due to excessively rocky trails. That's about as good as ANY trail runner or road running shoe. If they feel good then just buy them and buy them more often, they are not hiking boots. Dixie thinks Lone Peaks have gotten narrower but Altra (and my own observations) say they are the same shape they were way back when. I still have the insoles from my first pair and they are identical to the new ones and they feel the same. When you STOP hiking your feet swell (or at least mine do) like if I have to sit out a few months from an injury . . . I wear my old LP-5 as my daily walkers because I love those yellow versions. I wish I could find more of them. Every time I go into a shoe store I try on other shoes but always walk out with Lone Peaks. That Topo upper looks a lot like the Timp 1.5 Is it possible Altra has a patent on that gator trap on the heal?

[@Andy-Mesa]

Had problems with the Traverse being tighter and firmer where I didn’t with the Ultraventure, MTN Racer, and Terraventures I’ve used previously. Haven’t tried the Pursuit since I haven’t responded well to zero drop. I’m using MTN Racers right now on the GR11.

[@stewartlogie]

Like you I got fed up with Altra's declining quality. Like you I found Topo Athletic had zero drop with a wide forefoot and Vibram sole. I got the Runventure and loved the fit and performance, until the sole started delaminating from the upper. That got fixed with glue, but when I looked for a second pair I found that it had been discontinued. I'm not playing this game any more. I'm going with Vivobarefoot shoes that have worked for me over the years, although they don't have the cushiony mid sole. My pace is lower and my milage less than before, so I can live without the thick midsole.

[@BucksMom218]

I just bought these…they are better than altras. I can say I love them- I hike in NE PA where its rocks and roots. 🥾🥾😎

[@AirSalazar]

I have been an Altra fan for years, I do Ultra running and Altra still my go to, however I just got the PERSUIT 2 and so far I'm loving them just about 50 miles will see hiking is not as rough on shoes like running but if* they last me longer than Lone peak I'm happy.

[@AirSalazar]

@DarwinOnthetrail1_TeIegram let’s do it 👍

[@EverythingIsPhysics]

Lone Peak -> Pursuit 1 -> Pursuit 2 Returned (Bad Fit) -> Lone Peak 8 (Good Fit, Feels Fragile Though)

[@josephmayes8302]

Great review, appreciate your insight brother!

[@hikethat401]

Topo ultra venture pros They are a phenomenal shoe as the same out sole with more padding and a rock plate. I find my feet need a bit more protection.

[@alexanderwagner8584]

Topo P2 in Europe: EUR 165 -> USD 185 - Altras in Sale ~EUR 110 -> USD 123

[@LeonidasontheTrail]

That looks like the standard Inov-8 insole. I just checked an old pair I couldn’t return to verify.

[@caledarling4216]

Tried the Topos but they all have a weird level of arch support that disrupts the placement of my aftermarket insoles. Highly recommend the new Altra Lonepeak 8's. Still not as durable as I'd like

[@miketaylor3408]

Whenever I find a shoe I like, I always buy a second pair and put in on the shelf for later. Too many annual changes screw it up.

[@neilquinn]

Ugh I'm coming from Altra Superior and deciding the same. Just tried out the Terraventure 4 but it fits a little too long on me. Do you wear the same size in Altra and Topo are do you go down 0.5 to Topo?

[@WhisperingWisp357]

I love the topo pursuit in all ways but one. I thought it would be the solution for me, but even after trying them, they still don't quite fit until I get ones that fit me like clown shoes. I still haven't found a hiking shoe to deal with my stupidly tall instep...

[@gregwhitcher4312]

What fleece are you wearing in this?

[@CrowMagnumMan2024]

I too tried Topo and love them.....I found the Terradventure 3 to be amazing....I love the rock plate...notice that you are using a shoe that does not have the rock plate.....I cant imagine not having it.......can you give me your advice on this feature....?

[@CookingMike]

I wanted to like the topo pursuit , but it just wasn't wide enough in the mid foot. I have super depressed arches and my foot kept hanging off causing my to walk at a weird angle. Ended up back at the lone peak 8s just because the fit my feet so well.

[@bernielamont825]

Have the Trailventure 2, LOVE, LOVE, LOVE them, bought the next gen 3's, MEH, guess I'm going back to collecting shoes till I find a pair that are as comfortable as the 2's. Topo you paying attention?

[@doogles610]

Well, in my country of residence, the Pursuit 1's are on sale at about 50% discount.. I was about to purchase the Pursuit 2, but now I'm thinking I'll just pick up the older model as a discount.

[@drytool]

Some times a proprietary thing comes about because it's better than what everyone else is putting out.

[@plastikmaiden]

I wish they made a wide version. I've blown out the sides of every Topo I've had and was able to wear for a few hundred kilometers.

[@JoelKitchen-ou9te]

The first version of the trail venture was my favorite and of course they changed it.

[@mrmarzo]

I own both versions and put in several hundred miles. I do agree the mesh is a little bit less durable but I personally feel the Pursuit 2 is still an amazing trail shoe. It's far superior than any of the Altras within the past 2 or 3 years. I hope people realize these are still overall great compared to the competition.

[@bena3341]

Yea I have dealt with this a few times unfortunate. I used to absolutely love the Merrell All Out Blaze. But they ruined them with the All Out Blaze 2. A completely different shoe that went from minimalist zero drop to basically just a Moab with different styling. Have been wearing Salomon lately but it seems like they are going the same direction in terms of changing models to fit worse and the quality is worse as well. Unfortunately my country has a pretty limited range unleas you want to deal with ordering online and hoping for a good fit.

[@mattmatthewmatchuu]

if altra was to do a reebok classic thing which one would you want Timp 2.5?

[@Charlemagne1367]

Still haven't solved the toe-bumper coming loose is see. An issue i have had with Topo's, one i've never had with Altra or Brooks and a reason i stopped buying Topo's.

[@carrdoug99]

That's my disappointment with the Terraventure 4s. I've got a terrible problem with heel lift (one of the things I hated about Altra's). My Terraventure 3s were probably my favorite trail runners of all time (I owned 3 pairs). Lesson learned. Never assume when buying shoes from Topo, Altra, etcetera.

[@kylemckinney_22]

The ultraventure 3 is also very good, as well as the mtn racer

[@jimmyd1299]

I hope Topo is listening!!

[@hoser7706]

“I’m looking at you Altra”. Nkt just Altra. ALL shoe companies change shoe models w updates and almost always ruin them. Lol. Almost. Salomon Speedcross 6 is an improvement over 5s imho. But the rest often kill their models momentum.

[@lonnierobin7347]

The soles of my Hoka's delaminated after under 200 miles. My wife's hoka's have less than 100 miles and showing signs of delaminating. I will definitely give Topo's a look, just not sure about the zero drop. I hear pro and cons on that,

[@kwdriver58]

I bought a pair of Runventure 4s after your initial vid, directly from Topo. mailed to my PO Box, and a neighbor ended up with them Post office's mistake I believe). I'd called CS because they showed delivered, not in my box... I got amazingly superior service. the neighbor was out of town a week, I said I could wait and pick them up at the post office, no issue. they said it was too long to wait, sent a new set out. those got light town/yard/city walking and one vibram grip panel started to delam from the footbed. called CS again, sent them a pic of the tongue printing to show wear. they offered a full refund or discount on three pair of new shoes. both shoes needed a complete re-glue of the vibram not too long after that call. I do live in a hot environment, but I've never seen a delam like that within such a short period of time and wear. the company themselves... exceptional customer service. I have no reason to complain about any of them. manufacturing? I have a one of one sample size.

[@hikerJohn]

Had the same type of experience with Altra before Covid. Did not have to send them anything but a picture and they sent me any model shoe I wanted . . .

[@kwdriver58]

@@hikerJohn they offered my option because they were out of production in my color/model. so I should have included that.

[@Xhadp]

For me, the issue with Topos in general is that this is their only zero-drop shoe. Meanwhile Altra just brought back the King MT shoe. It feels like Topo isn't that interested in the zero-drop market as shown by also making this shoe unavailable to purchase for a while.

[@markallen4127]

Ya know, ya can't find a size 14 anymore of either brand, so honestly I'd just take either if I could just find em

[@RickMunday]

Same issue with the Lone Peak for me. They completely destroyed the shoe with this latest version.

[@EarlyRiser71]

"Dainty heels." I take offense to that. 🤣🤣🤣

[@mr.ultrafino6891]

I was excited when Topo finally got proper distribution in Czechia last year. When I tried the Pursuit on I felt the shoe is quite narrow in the middle (around the arch of the foot). Anyone else has this problem? I would love to have an alternative to Altra LonePeaks but I felt my foot gets pinched in the middle in Pursuits.

[@swoz_]

My topos lost their tread at

[@i_would_but_i_wont]

I trail run in the Rockies and blow right through these shoes. I love them, but the outsoles do not last very long for me.

[@FLO5ndjdjd]

The toe box is too small, I needed to change back to Lone peaks on the PCT

[@davidcooper8390]

I use the Merrell Moab Speeds and have been pretty happy with them.

[@marksgoogle4360]

They def are durable

[@23Sheldog]

I am Curious why you went with the Pursuit over the Traverse? Which is supposed to be a hiking shoe.

[@curtiswarnett]

It’s closer to the timp than the lp when you look at the specs.