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’s MTN Racer line has earned a loyal following as a comfortable training shoe that can handle high mileage on all kinds of terrain, with enough durability and comfort to carry you through ultra race distances. The newest version of this model maintains most of what fans love, with a minor adjustment in the upper fit and the introduction of a new insole that enhances both comfort and performance elements. We put the MTN Racer 4 through the paces over approximately 100 miles, more than half of which were in the rocky and sandy terrain of California’s Joshua Tree National Park.
Updates to this model are primarily focused above the midsole platform, starting with an updated upper fit that is slightly snugger through the midfoot and metatarsal area for better stability on irregular terrain. The overall “Topo fit” that so many runners love is largely the same, with a secure rearfoot and anatomic forefoot. This model also offers a great middle ground to accommodate a wide variety of foot shapes. Another change to the upper is a new gaiter system that has a universal hook and loop attachment, whereas previous Topo models were designed specifically for the company’s proprietary gaiter attachments.
The most noticeable change in the overall feel of these shoes is the use of a new FKT insole made with closed cell foam and TPU beads. The beads add a bit of rebound capacity, and also feel cushy underfoot, like wearing a pair of recovery slippers. Closed cell foam also has a hydrophobic dynamic to it, so the insole doesn’t retain water after immersion, allowing the shoe to dry more easily.
Midsole stack heights and geometry on the MTN Racer 4 carry over from the previous version, although the ZipFoam compound has been updated to be slightly softer with added increased rebound. Underfoot, high performance Vibram Megagrip rubber is a highly durable compound that offers very secure traction on wet and dry terrain. The combination of secure outsole grip, responsive midsole platform, secure upper and relatively light weight give the MTN Racer 4 great agility on technical terrain. This allows an increase in pace on smoother surfaces when desired. Overall, this is a solid update to a shoe that is equally capable of large training blocks or putting in the work on race day.
The Topo Athletic MTN Racer 4 is available in men’s and women’s versions from www.topoathletic.com.
Features and Specs:
- Weight: 10.4oz men’s / 8.5oz women’s
- Stack Height (heel/toe, in mm): 33/28
- Heel-Toe Drop (mm): 5mm
- Upper: Recycled engineered mesh
- FKT foam insole
- Midsole: ZipFoam compound
- Outsole: Vibram Megagrip with 4mm lugs
- Two color options for men, three for women
- MSRP: $150