I ditched Altra for THIS! | TOPO Ultraventure 3 Review

[@ChadLubinski]

What's your experience been like with the Topo Ultraventure 3?

[@lisajones8730]

Just found your video. I too was an altra die hard fan and ditched them for topo's for the same reasons. Less than 100 miles and they literally fell apart. I have zero complaints on the topo's. Loving them.

[@ChadLubinski]

Awesome!!! Super happy they’re working for you too!

[@wrsayraw8472]

Try the MTN Racer 3, it's a true trail shoe featuring Vibram MegaGrip outsole. The UltraVenture 3 and now the MT-5 have become road2trail shoes using a shallower lug pattern and harder rubber compound for better wear on asphalt. Of course, that better wear comes at a cost - less than ideal grip on wet surfaces, especially rock.

[@ChadLubinski]

Yup, good advice. That will definitely be my next shoe!

[@tektonwooddesign3390]

I’ve worn Topo Mountain Racers for my last two A.T. Trips. The racer 1 and Racer 2’s. I still wear them around the house and public. My racer 2’s I’ve worn on two AT trips, hiking in the Canyon Lands and some trails in Arizona. I absolutely love them. I’ve had two surgeries on my big right toe and with most shoes, I can feel every step and bend and my toe would be sore. My feet have felt great after 6 miles, 10 miles, and 15 mile days. I’ve thinking of the Traverse’s or the Ultraventures for my next AT trip coming up. I easily have 300 miles on my Racer 2’a from multiple hikes and wearing them around on Jobsites.

[@ChadLubinski]

Oh sweet! I think those are definitely gonna be my next shoe!

[@jeffreymcfarland6407]

The Ultraventure 3's are designed for more single track fast hard pack a little sandy trail with the shorter spaced out lugs so your test in the rocky extreme terrain was amazing for this shoe. Purchase the Mt racer 3 and you will be one happy guy. On a side note, they are gator adaptable.

[@buddylove2073]

I appreciate that you touched on the drop platform difference between the Altras and the Topos. I've been sold on the zero drop design after shifting years ago to overcome my plantar fasciitis. I'm still in two minds but I like your feedback in this review.

[@ChadLubinski]

Hey thanks for watching and hopefully it works out for you!

[@pyry624]

Topo has few zero drop shoes too. I haven't own any Topos so I can't give recommendations.

[@bassheart365]

Former Altra guy now all in with TOPO. Same roomy toe box but the TOPOs more comfortable on my feet. I prefer the 5mm drop to the zero drop on the Altras. Also more durable. My new favorite shoe brand.

[@ChadLubinski]

Agreed...I've actually been getting less achilles problems with the 5mm drop.

[@graham8854]

I love 'em. Had my ultraventure 3's for about 800 miles and still going strong. A mix of road and light trail, probably a 50/50 split. Sole not quite worn out yet! Got a new pair of ultraventure 3's waiting in a box ready to put on if these one's ever wear out 🙂

[@ChadLubinski]

Wowwww 800?? I love hearing that!

[@zachduncan2829]

Good Lord! 800miles!

[@SonofDarnell]

Excellent review brother💖

[@rwise44]

Recently bought a pair of Topo Adv 3. They fit well, super roomy on toes. Like you, I have a bunion but also gout. These shoes minimize the pain. Super happy so far

[@ChadLubinski]

Very nice!

[@u4tubular]

I live in the PNW and my favorite trail has a mixture of terrain. I found that too much cushioning and drop is what causes my ankle to turn on the rocky portion. Also as you mentioned I need taller lugs for the muddy and gravelly parts. I like the lugs and grip of Inov-8s but the toe box width varies from model to model. My Altra Superior 5s are only good on dry days. You go farther and harder than I do so I’ll keep checking your reviews and comments for new choices.

[@ChadLubinski]

The PNW is awesome! Thanks for the comment and watching!

[@deantreloar]

Topo Pursuit has the zero drop and wide toe box we all love from Altra. Cushion with the Topo is more responsive and the shoe is bullet proof. I also own the Ultraventure 3's, love them.

[@ChadLubinski]

Nice....I gotta try these Pursuits next!!!

[@melvingermino8953]

thanks, been looking for a new trail runner shoe. Have the lone peak 6 which I absolutely love, got about 300+ miles on it and still going strong, but tread is starting to go. But I tried on the lone peak 7s and was not a big fan of them. Will most likely be getting these topos!

[@ChadLubinski]

Right on man, thanks for the comment!

[@peterbedford2610]

I put 800 miles on Pursuits I got last summer. Great shoe. The tread is worn down smooth. But the uppers are in perfect condition. Just bought a pair of Trail venture 2s. Not quite as wide as the Pursuits, by feel pretty good after about 10 miles.

[@SteffenThomsen]

It does have at gaiter-system. It is just Topos own gaiter-system.

[@ChadLubinski]

makes sense!

[@Hypno_Holly]

Great video! This was so helpful. I have a bunion on my right foot as well and it’s so hard to find shoes. I tend to wear Men’s shoes a lot for that reason. I wonder if I can get away with women’s again wearing the Topos…. Hmmm

[@ChadLubinski]

might be able to..i've found them surprisingly wide and still haven't had any issues!

[@michaelalbrecht3395]

I just got a pair and I’m taking them out for a short run shortly I’ll let you know my first impressions.

[@ChadLubinski]

howd it go?

[@michaelalbrecht3395]

@@ChadLubinski it went well the grip impressed me on certain terrain with the short lug depth I’m going to pick up a pair of the mt racer 3

[@anthonyaerni]

Hilarious - I made the same exact move. As a mountaineer in the rockies, Altra shoes have let me down time in and time out. My TOPOs had gotten to a point where I could not rip them or break them down. They are the most reliable trail running shoe I have ever had. I am interested what the shoes look like after 500 miles. After washing mine after 1000 mile bikepacking trip my TOPOs looked new. Nike's Zegamas were also a great shoe.

[@ChadLubinski]

Love that feedback! What was the bikepacking trip you did?

[@smellybearc7411]

Which ones did you get?

[@mrbigss3275]

Any take on this shoes with altra Olympus 6?

[@kovenant7]

Excellent review I want a pair and with the logo.

[@ChadLubinski]

thanks!

[@tyronesmith3812]

What are your favorite winter hiking boots that can use micro spikes and crampons if needed?

[@ChadLubinski]

Good question. I like these for mountaineering/hiking boots in snow: bit.ly/3SW8WJ0

[@davestagner]

I just switched to the Topo Mtn Racer 3 from Altra Olympus 5. I developed achilles tendonitis last year on a thru hike and it doesn’t want to get better, so I’m trying to get away from zero drop to see if that helps. Topos are the only solution I’ve found that have a barefoot-type roomy toe box but also a bit of drop. I tried the Ultraventure and Mtn Racer at REI, and the Mtn Racer worked better with my arches - support was too aggressive in the Ultraventure.

[@ChadLubinski]

Great points...I also got Achillies Tendonitis with my Altras. I just ordered the Mtn Racer after these have started to give out in the heel after 425 or so miles.

[@Adumbb]

update? i’m looking into buying these i’m currently using hokas with a 5mm drop so i think i can adjust to this quick how are they holding up?

[@ChadLubinski]

15 miles away from 300 miles and there is not one thing wrong with this shoe. I literally had in my head while I was doing my long run today that I should buy another pair of shoes before Rim to Rim to Rim...then I'm like why??? There's not one thing wrong with these haha.

[@Adumbb]

@@ChadLubinski nice i’m definitely gonna cop one from them then

[@doncarlospipely8852]

Good video Chad. I’m looking for a cushioned option for the Taupo 70km later in the year. Not technical, not much vert (1,300m), mostly single track and I won’t be running particularly fast. Would this be a good option?

[@ChadLubinski]

Thanks for watching! I do think this would be a good one. If it was more technical, I'd advise using one of their shoes with more grip on the bottom...but this sounds like it would fit the bill for you in this specific race!

[@hashimhalstead]

Not in the same vein, but I bought the cyclone road running shoes a few years ago to get back into running and they blew out on the side almost immediately. Kinda killed my desire to keep running. This video has me looking back at them as an option.

[@charliejg]

As I said in a comment on your other Altra dump video, I've been wearing the Olympus 4s and love them. But, the newer versions are crazy expensive. So, I want to check out the Topo Traverse shoes. I hope you are right about the true to size fit. That was the only curious thing for me about the Olympus 4s. I had to buy a size and a half bigger shoe that normal. Thanks for the overview.

[@ChadLubinski]

you bet...just replied to your other comment!

[@trailsandbeers]

I used the Ultraventure 3 last year for TMB. Comfortable but not really great grip on technical Alps trails or mud due to low lug depth and shape, but perfect for road to easy trail all rounder. For tech trails I prefer the MTN-Racer 3 and Pursuit. Get the MTN-Racer 3 they are much better imo! The 2 is also good but narrower in the toe box.

[@Ni10FenyxRizng]

Hey, I was wondering if you got the regular shoe or the wide variant? On amazon it gives the option and I'm wondering if I want the wide toeox version do I have the order it in wide. Great video btw.

[@ChadLubinski]

I just got the regular! Thanks for watching!!

[@H4K4LA]

Been loving my runventures. I believe they have a (proprietary) gaiter system. They’re 0 drop and don’t have a rock plate - both things I like. Thanks for the review!

[@ChadLubinski]

hey thanks for the comment!

[@davidjones7752]

UVs Great for hard packed trails but terrible traction on soft ground. Definitely not as accommodating a toe box as Altra Olympus for example. Feet feel constricted on longer runs. Olympus 5 were sizing smaller than all previous editions was my only complaint. I put 1000 trail miles on Olympus 3.5s and they are still wearable to walk around in. Lone Peak wide version with insoles removed worked best for me in terms of comfort and durability but like Topo they aren’t great on soft / muddy ground even straight out of the box. Still looking for a shoe that does it all.

[@ChadLubinski]

interesting!

[@paulcarlson4230]

I like the shoe also, I just want a little softer cushion, and I'm older and like to not be as sore, and altras never were right for me, but I will go back to hoka or brooks caldera until the topos are softer underfoot

[@drytool]

Topo has a proprietary gaiter system. The New Pursuit 2 (zero drop) has the true trail outsole and space to glue velcro on the heel for Dirty Girl gaiters.

[@ChadLubinski]

oh nice!

[@pgreenx]

0:05 ultraVenture 1:26 “A”ltras Seriously though altra also makes high stack height shoes and Topo also makes zero drop shoes in low stack heights so this is not really a fair comparison. I’d compare the Altras to a topo pursiut or the like. The topo traverse for example has a vibram mega grip which is beyond sticky and has a rock plate like the LP’s

[@2MelMo]

I do a lot of water crossings, how well do they drain and dry?

[@ChadLubinski]

Honestly I can’t remember too many times I’ve gotten them soaked so I don’t have a very accurate answer for you!

[@ZZ_90]

Great review man! Looking for a good trail running shoe to hike the JMT in August. Is this is a shoe you would recommend? In addition, I know you said true to size, but with swelling, would you size up for such a long hike? Thanks for the review my friend! Cheers!

[@ChadLubinski]

Thanks for watching! The JMT is amazing..you'll have such a fun time. Yes this would be great for a trail like that. You might also consider the Mtn Racer 3 for more grip, though it's not necessary for the JMT. I'll link it below. Yup, size up atleast half a size from your normal size! bit.ly/3wAGcMK

[@ZZ_90]

@@ChadLubinski we can’t wait man. We are really looking forward to it. We will be out there in August and have a lot of work up until then. I will give the Racers a look! I love the Topo Pursuit, but want to have a few options to decide between before hitting the trail! Appreciate the advice and the response my friend!

[@ChadLubinski]

@@ZZ_90 🫡💯

[@Close2silent]

How are Topos for standing all day? I’ve been wearing vivid for like 2 years and I’m starting to have knee pain from long hours of standing and walking

[@ChadLubinski]

eh I'm not too sure. I just walk or run in them and they're good

[@OliverHikes]

I ditched the Lone Peaks after the 5s and found Topo Ultraventure. Just did the whole Colorado Trail on one pair and they still have some miles in them. They were great and I agree about the tread. I also don’t care for the 2 lace loops on the tongue. Just got the MTN Racers 3 and they are really comfortable with better lugs. If you really want the zero drop, try the Pusuit model, less cushion, but still more than the Lone Peaks.

[@ChadLubinski]

ahhhh cool! Great feedback,..thanks for the comment!

[@JudoTim]

I also just switched from altra mtn peak 6 to the topo ultradventure 3. So far so good…

[@swikfors]

Just switched to Topo Pursuit from Altra Lone Peak 7’s. I love the fit with exception of the arches.

[@ChadLubinski]

Oh sweet! I’ll have to check those out!

[@josephunden6108]

I have very narrow feet. Will my heel be sliding around

[@ChadLubinski]

Nah I think you’ll be good

[@e2dub]

Topo’s rock! MTN Racers for trail running. Their new Traverse is a killer backpacking trail runner built for hiking and long distance backpacking (more supportive multi-density midsole and an integral rock plate). Also work for trail running.

[@ChadLubinski]

Nice! I just picked up the Mtn Racers but I didn’t know about the Traverse… gotta check em out now. Thanks!

[@e2dub]

Love the MTN Racer but I’ve got to say the Traverse might be my favorite trail shoe now. The Traverse is a fine trail runner, and ironically, could be a better mountain runner than the MTN Racer, and more versatile. I prefer the slightly firmer feel of the Traverse which seems to give it a bit more stability and control, while still offering plenty of cushion. It also has a supple rock plate which the MTN Racer lacks. I’ve been rocking the Traverse for 6 weeks in AZ including runs, hikes, and a 3 day backpacking trip in the Gand Canyon.

[@bradscrazylife4269]

Just bought a pair. They need more than two darn colors . Best shoe I’ve ever wore

[@ChadLubinski]

yup haha

[@jsk8drummer]

Terraventure seems to be the best all arounder. 3mm drop which puts it between these and the Altras with less of a noticeable difference for people who like zero drop. And slightly less stack and cushioning than the ultraventure but a bit more than the lone peaks. And still with the same superior durability over Altra.

[@ChadLubinski]

this is awesome feedback..i need to check them out!

[@Zelenskyyyyyyyyy]

I switched to NNormal,got 600km on the Tomir and 850km on the Kjerag so far,the shoes look like new,which pisses me off cause I wanna buy the new ones.

[@AnnaMeredith-e1m]

Looks pointy vs LP which has true foot-shape for splay. Logo reminds me of In-Yo/Okinawa Shopping for my first Topos to switch from Altra

[@ChadLubinski]

I'm telling you, it's surprisingly roomy!

[@daviddemaegd7715]

You are right about that logo, everything else is primo!

[@flutingaround]

Topo Pursuit 2 has been released. Worth a comparison

[@ChadLubinski]

Definitely!

[@justinonyt]

The Topo Pursuits are alot like the lone peak in terms of cushion. 0mm drop too (;

[@ChadLubinski]

I gotta try them!!

[@Jinxlikestohike]

I recently went in to get new shoes. I gotta say if you’re gonna buy altras go with the timbs only good shoe they have right now in my opinion

[@ChadLubinski]

oof, that hasn't been my experience unfortunately

[@NoNopeAndNo]

Topo doesn't do a zero drop that I've seen, that's a deal breaker for me. Altra's lack of quality is horrendous, looking for alternatives

[@ChadLubinski]

@@NoNopeAndNo really? amzn.to/3BxnwzL

[@NoNopeAndNo]

@@ChadLubinski interesting, I scanned the Australian website and only 3mm and 5mm drop available for trail runners 🤔

[@NoNopeAndNo]

@@ChadLubinski just scanned American website and there's only one (1) basic Topo trail shoe available with zero drop and it has a terrible rating even on their website 😯

[@simonvance8054]

Only thing that pisses me off about Topo is the built in arch support! Not everyone wants it or needs it yet it's easy to change in a flat shoe with aftermarket innersoles. Apart from that they seem otherwise superior in many ways.. thanks

[@kogeisan]

Thanks for this review! Ok I think that I will “topoized” too 😅 But why, why…the design is sooo 90’s?… come on Topo!

[@ChadLubinski]

Oh i know! They'd be crushing if they changed that design

[@phillvallace]

True to size you say? I got the Pursuits & my black toe nails can say they are smaller than advertised ;)

[@ChadLubinski]

Haha! they were for me atleast

[@trailsandbeers]

great shoe for easy trails very comfortable but grip is not good for tech trails like the Alps.

[@ChadLubinski]

Yeah I agree. I got the Mtn Racer 3 and like the grip a lot better

[@ricksquires6218]

Pass. My second pair of Topos had a defect and the company wouldn't help with a replacement, so I've moved on to another brand.

[@dalevanmail]

Also hate the Topo logo. Such an eye sore that doesn't integrate nicely with any shoe design.

[@ChadLubinski]

Right lol

[@antonroux6737]

but it's not zero drop

[@ChadLubinski]

They make a zero drop shoe

[@MrLlama999]

Gaiters! Topo has their own that use the loops on the back of the heel counter.

[@ChadLubinski]

whaaat! i need to get these!

[@Element_lifestyle]

Pass( I hope my message is not deleted 🤭)

[@ChadLubinski]

i might pin it

[@joshhall3755]

I hate the logo too

[@ChadLubinski]

lolllll l

[@justapedn1]

Pass. Blisters.

[@daniel-qs5sz]

Sorry, altra is the better shoes 👟

[@antonroux6737]

I agree I don't like the logo either - looks Islamic actually - not that there is anything wrong with freedom of religion

[@ItsGBZ]

...why bring that up then

[@ejtm_]

Agree their logo is awful

[@ChadLubinski]

like wtf!