Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
    FeedTheHabit.com
    • Home
    • Gear Reviews
      • Road & Gravel
      • Mountain Biking
      • Bike Commuting
      • Trail Running
      • Skiing
      • Outdoors
      • Water Sports
      • Vehicles
    • News
    • Trip Reports
    • Videos
    FeedTheHabit.com
    Topo Ultraventure 2 Review
    Gear Reviews

    Topo Athletic Ultraventure 2 Review

    Jason MitchellBy Jason MitchellJune 7, 2021No Comments5 Mins Read

    Topo Athletic remains a top choice among runners who prefer a wider toebox. Every time I look at a traditional shoe (with its pointed toebox), I cringe a little inside. With the updated Topo Ultraventure 2, Topo continues with a well-cushioned trainer that can tick off the miles in comfort.

    Topo Athletic Ultraventure 2 Features:

    • Internal microfiber belt wraps the midfoot
    • External TPU heel counter
    • Gaiter-compatible
    • 30mm heel and 25mm toe height
    • 5mm drop
    • Vibram® XS Trek EVO outsole
    • 3-piece injected EVA midsole
    • Engineered mesh upper with reduced overlays
    • Weight: 11.2 oz each (men’s 11, actual)
    • MSRP: $135
    Topo Ultraventure 2 Trail Running Shoes Review
    From box to trail without any worries.

    Training from deserts to mountains

    As Topo’s most popular trail runner, the Ultraventure 2 hits the trails with high expectations. Browsing some of the reviews, some stalwarts are both praising and casting shade on the new model. With any introduction, there’s bound to be some polarization. I set out with an open mind to both compare the Ultraventure 2 with other Topo models tested and against some of the best trail runners on the market.

    As it turned out, my first real test of the Ultraventure 2 was in the desert. Just outside of St George, UT, I hit some of my favorite trails and cobbled together a nice 6-mile loop on the Zen Trail. The terrain was dry, rocky and, at times, technical. Dodging between sandstone and red sand, the Ultraventure 2’s delivered a comfortable ride with sure-footed traction. I could dance between obstacles and drops with confidence as the outsoles kept me in control.

    Topo Ultraventure 2 Testing in St George Utah
    Desert testing on Zen Trail in St. George, Utah.

    One of the primary features of the new Ultraventure is the microfiber belt that runs across the midfoot. At the outset, that belt feels a little bit constricting and required the use of lightweight socks (Swiftwick Pursuit Ultralight Socks). It’s not that big of a deal as I prefer lightweight socks for trail running anyway. But with these in my usual size 11, I had no choice. The benefits of that belt are very apparent when descending. Your feet stay locked in place and don’t creep forward at all. In addition, it provides solid arch support for those with low arches, like myself.

    The lace-up process is straightforward and the laces pull evenly throughout the eyelets. Topo chose to use standard eyelets at the top and loop pulls towards the forefoot. With a cushioned tongue, the laces are easy to cinch and pressure points were never a concern.

    Another key feature of the Ultraventure 2 is the heel cup. this design features an external heel counter that also has gaiter attachment points. The uppermost part of the heel is made from a neoprene-like material for added stiffness and structure. All the new features are well-executed and allowed me to, yet again, go from box-to-trail in confidence. I’ve never had even a hot spot testing Topos and I’m happy to report that the string continues.

    Topo Ultraventure 2 Review
    Cool mornings in the Wasatch.

    With a 30mm stack height, comfort is excellent for this long-distance specialist. And, at 5mm drop, these are a good option for those who still prefer a more traditional heel-toe drop. Unlike other shoes, these don’t feature a rockered sole, but do have a nice stride from mid foot strike to toe-off. Each step is comfortable and only under the most loose and dry conditions would I lose a little traction. I haven’t had an opportunity to test these in mud, but the outsoles should shed mud just like the Topo MTN Racer.

    Topo Ultraventure 2 Review - Patagonia Capilene Merino
    You can push the Ultraventure 2’s hard if you want to.

    Stability has been excellent on all terrain. I have low arches and the support has also been great. The heel cup and structure really locks your feet in place. Dancing through loose rocks has been no problem and the trail feel is outstanding. These are neither numb to sharp rocks, nor are they super-sensitive. Honestly, the fact that I haven’t even thought about sharp rocks means that they hit the sweet spot between protection and sensitivity.

    I have also used these for road approaches and morning walks around the neighborhood and they are decent for that purpose. They don’t feel overly clunky on pavement and actually do quite well (but don’t think they will run like a road shoe). As temperatures have risen, it has become apparent that these are not going to be my favorite shoes for hot, mid-day runs. Things do get a little toasty above 80-degrees.

    The Good

    • Excellent cushioning for long training
    • Really good combo of support and stability
    • Confidently go from box-to-trail
    • Vibram outsole offers excellent traction
    • Signature toebox allows you toes to wiggle and splay
    • Perfect trail feel
    • Midfoot belt keeps feet in place on descents

    The Bad

    • Can get hot as temperatures rise
    • Fit is a little more snug than I expected (you may need to size up)

    The Bottom Line: Topo Athletic Ultraventure 2

    As Topo’s most popular trail runner, the Ultraventure 2 has some high expectations to live up to. As you look at consumer reviews, you’ll see some passionate runners both love and hate the new design (but most are very positive). I’ve had good luck with the Ultraventure 2 on many fronts — traction, stability, trail feel, and comfort are all solid. They feel natural with every step and feature Topo’s wide toebox to allow your toes to wiggle and splay.

    Buy Now: Available from REI

    ShareTweet
    Topo Athletic
    Previous ArticleNemo Riff 30 Sleeping Bag Review
    Next Article Specialized SL Bib Shorts Review
    Jason Mitchell
    • Website
    • X (Twitter)

    A native of the Pacific Northwest, Jason quickly developed a love for the outdoors and a thing for mountains. That infatuation continues as he founded this site in 1999 -- sharing his love of road biking, mountain biking, trail running and skiing. That passion is channeled into every article or gear review he writes. Utah's Wasatch Mountains are his playground.

    You Might Also Like

    Gore Wear TrailKPR Gloves Review

    September 20, 2023

    Velocio Ombre Ultralight Mesh Jersey Review

    September 18, 2023

    Review: Osmo Power Fuel Mix

    September 13, 2023

    Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

    Most Popular
    9.0

    Elitewheels Drive G45 Gravel Wheelset Review

    September 11, 2023

    Suunto 9 Peak Pro Watch Review

    August 21, 2023
    9.6

    Trek Domane SLR 9 AXS Gen 4 Review

    May 10, 2023
    8.9

    Zipp 303 S Carbon Wheelset Review

    November 4, 2021
    9.2

    SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS Groupset Review

    August 12, 2022

    SRAM Rival/GX AXS Mullet Gravel Kit Review

    September 17, 2021
    9.1

    Bontrager Aeolus Pro 51 TLR Wheelset Review

    September 9, 2021
    9.1

    Bontrager Aeolus Pro 37 TLR Wheelset Review

    June 18, 2020

    Moosejaw Ice Fort 25 Quart Hard Cooler Review

    May 17, 2023

    Montec Fawk Ski Jacket and Bib Review

    February 28, 2022
    Follow Us
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Instagram
    Advertisement
    Our Latest Posts
    • Italian Endurance: Pinarello Launches Dogma X
    • Gore Wear TrailKPR Gloves Review
    • Velocio Ombre Ultralight Mesh Jersey Review
    • Review: Osmo Power Fuel Mix
    • Fresh Wheels: Fulcrum Wind 42 and Wind 57 Wheelsets
    • Elitewheels Drive G45 Gravel Wheelset Review
    • The North Face Wander Sun Hoodie Review
    • Sportful Ultra Bib Shorts Review
    • Craft Nordlite Ultra Trail/Road Shoes Review
    • Ibex Shak Jacket Review
    About Us
    About Us

    Since 1999, we have delivered in-depth gear reviews, articles and content. We feature a small staff of savvy, experienced writers who love to review outdoor gear.

    External links to Amazon, REI, Backcountry and other retailers include affiliate codes that give us a small commission on each sale.

    To contact us or learn more, go to our About Us page.

    © FeedTheHabit.com 1999 - 2023. All rights reserved.

    Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.