Our reviews are 100% organic. We do not accept payment for reviews or bundle with advertising budgets. In most cases, the brand is providing the product to our reviewers free of charge. Topo Athletic subjected the Ultraventure shoe to significant updates from the second to third version, and most of the updates were quite well received. The shoe proved to be highly dependable, comfortable for knocking out high mileage on mild to moderate terrain and was very smooth on road to trail transitions. By comparison, updates to the fourth iteration are quite minimal, perhaps reflecting an intent to not mess with a model that has been working extremely well. Spec details for both the third and fourth versions are remarkably similar, including the weight (a tenth of an ounce lighter on version 4) and the price, which notably stays the same.
Rounded toeboxes; lace loop on tongue
Primary updates are seen in the recycled mesh upper, which is more tightly woven and has a modified overlay configuration. These changes are meant to secure the foot on the midsole platform and keep debris out, and it succeeds in both. While Topo specifically describes the Ultraventure as a “mild to moderate” terrain shoe, we have used it on very challenging technical terrain and felt very stable in both the upper and midsole. Additionally, while the Ultraventure comes with built-in gaiter attachments like all Topo trail models, we generally don’t use gaiters, especially in training, and we have minimal issues with grit intrusion when running in these shoes. One clever thing Topo adds here is the use of lace loops built into the tongue, which helps anchor down the overall fit and stability with the lacing system. Otherwise, the classic Topo fit remains in place, with a pleasant anatomic last and rounded toe box that feels comfortable from the moment you put them on.
The midsole of the Ultraventure 4 also gets a slight modification, with the use of an updated Zipfoam compound that is slightly softer and bouncier than the compound used on the previous version. This shoe got 5mm taller between versions 2 and 3, and the platform was widened slightly to provide better overall stability. All of the geometry remains the same from the third to fourth version, and the balance of thickness and stability is well distributed, even on irregular terrain. The Ultraventure 4 has also achieved a nice plushness in overall ride quality while maintaining strong responsiveness to pick up the pace as needed. A moderate heel-to-toe drop of 5mm and a forefoot sweep that accentuates forward rolling both help contribute to the inherent energy return and smoothness of the Zipfoam compound.
Underfoot, the Ultraventure 4 remains unchanged from its previous version, utilizing lightweight and highly durable Vibram XS Trek EVO rubber extensively in the heel and forefoot, with large portions of the midfoot eliminated for increased flexibility. Wide 3mm lugs grip well in wet and dry conditions, shed mud easily, and don’t feel clunky on asphalt. It’s a great layout for all-purpose use, and we haven’t found traction to be lacking either in this model or the previous version.
With subtle improvements and nothing diminished, the Topo Ultraventure 4 keeps a good product rolling, and remains a compelling option for big-mileage training blocks as well as ultra distance races.
The Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 is available in men’s and women’s versions from www.topoathletic.com.
Features and Specs:
- Weight: 10.4oz men’s / 8.2oz women’s
- Stack Height (heel/toe, in mm): 35/30
- Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm): 5mm
- Upper: Recycled engineered mesh
- Ortholite foam insole
- Midsole: Zipfoam compound
- Outsole: Vibram XS Trek EVO with 3mm lugs
- Three color options for men or women
- MSRP: $150