Topo Athletic Ultraventure 2 Review
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 18 сен 2024
- In our Trails Collective Topo Athletic Ultraventure 2 Review we'll take you through the specs, materials and design, and updates from the Ultraventure 1. Given that the Topo Athletic Ultraventure v1 was our shop's top-selling trail shoe in 2020, and #3 shoe overall, our hope was that Topo would carry the momentum into nice v2 updates. Find out if they've done just that and learn a bit about the shoe which we think is the most under-rated and known in the trail world.
1:45 - Specs
4:00 - Upper
10:00 - Insole (and why it matters)
10:50 - Midsole
13:10 - Outsole
Referenced review on Best Outsole Traction:
trailscollecti...
Related reviews:
Topo Athletic Ultraventure Pro: trailscollecti...
Topo Mtn Racer -
trailscollecti...
Just wanted to say that I found your review super thorough, to the point of covering things others dont re toe spring angle. The best shoe reviewer I've come across to date. Keep doing what you do, and I'll keep watching. Love how techy you get with it, makes a huge difference to the end consumers decision process. Hope you do release a shoe one day, sounds like you would absolutely nail it! Appreciate you!
Thanks Todd, I really appreciate you taking a moment of feedback and support. My vision was / is for a custom made shoe and possibly even local production model. Unfortunately I don't have the $ or, related, the dedicated time to get it off the ground. It's been really fun to work through at points though.
Great review. Makes me want to try these. Glad you mentioned Ortholite again - amazing how much weight they gain. Crazy.
Definitely an underrated shoe good for most people and the daily grind.
That's on of the best shoes review I've seen. Subscribed. Thanks.
Thanks for taking a moment to day so and for the support!
Awesome review and big thanks 👍 from Italy, pk
Just stumbled upon your channel. Your reviews rock. Thanks
I am really enjoying your reviews and thanks for sharing your thoughts about things like the toe spring or the pros and cons of rocker design (Vectiv review). I really would appreciate a special about this to dig deeper into it. I know there is a good point on rocker geometry in ne of Mark Cucuzzellas Boccks, but i could not find it right now. The weight gain of soaked Ortholite insoles was also new to me.
Maybe I could dig into the weeds there. I think I have Mark's contact from years ago...I'll reach out to him. Thanks Mathias!
So I'm watching this video with a new Ultraventure 1 on my left foot and the Ultraventure 2 on my right. Trying to decide which I prefer. I have to say they seem to fit pretty much the same, but the 2 seems to breathe better due to the increased mesh on the upper. Generally feels a bit more comfortable/softer/plush, too. Think I'm gonna stick with the update! I have a pair of Ultraventure Pros sitting on my floor as well. They are way too stiff for me; feels more like a light hiking shoe. Anyway, I enjoyed your review, which seems to confirm my initial findings as well.
Agreed. If not already, you can check out my Pro review where I concur with your feeling. Regarding breathability...part fabric update, part having less polyurethane concentration on the upper. I think V2 is a good update.
thx for your helpful comment! i hestiated if i should wait for the ultraventure PRO to be back in stock in June but i already thought it might be stiffer which you also said in your comment so i gonna buy the Ultraventure 2 now for my purposes. UV Pro maybe for next winter ;) thx!
Very thorough review - thanks!
I just ordered a pair in black today.
I'll let you know how they work out.
I do have a pair of Ultraventure 1 and those are great.
Very fun video of the run!
thanks!
Excellent, thorough review. I've never hear anyone talk about toe spring angle before. I've had metatarsal problems off/on for years. I've always associated it with narrower toe box or just lacing too tight, but never gave any thought to toe spring angle. Duh. Thanks! (BTW, the Ultraventure 1 has been my fav trail shoe so far - been through 2 pairs:)
Thanks Tracie! Did your metatarsal issue or symptoms present in the UV1?
@@TrailsCollective No. Years ago but on again/off again, usually after 7-8 miles, exclusively on the trails - never on the road. I actually feel pretty good on the UV1, but have always wondered if a rock place would make it better or worse. Just never spent the $$ to find out.
Best shoe reviewer on RUclips. I've seen all the top guys. Like them. But no one is doing what this guy does.
Just a few things. Got a little too detailed (even for my autistic mind) on the front lift-off angles. Could have made a separate video on your theories. Would have liked to have heard a more simple explanation as why this shoe is necessary vs. last version.
I was thinking a bit on whether I'm focusing or leaving out some of the crux points like feel / experience rather than tech. And maybe Topo was right when they said the toe spring info would be beyond three interest pale for most. Hopefully I'll settle into a blend. Thanks again for the support and feedback!
Love your shoe reviews, Ian. Been waiting for this shoe since your Ultraventure Pro review, which convinced me to hold off buying until the Ultraventure 2 was available. I've had good luck with the MTN Racer, especially the durability on technical trails, but noticed one problem, the internal laminated toecap material. It delaminated from the roof of the toe area, possibly from washing the shoes a few times last summer - these shoes can start stinking badly from humid running conditions. I was able to slip my toes under the delaminated material for awhile, but eventually my toes smashed the internal toecap forward, and it's too inaccessible to glue back to the roof of the upper. I did mention this problem to Topo, and they said mine was an isolated case. I'm curious if they got rid of this inner lamination on the Ultraventure 2, and if anyone else has had this problem. Also, I enjoyed your discussion about the toe spring angle. I'm still trying to figure out why I experienced certain foot and tendon pains during my 50 miler last December.
Did Topo replace your Mtn Racers and did you dig to see whether others had the issue? My guess would be that that would be a common line from brands. Hang tight, I'll check for the lamination when I can get back to the shop sometime today.
@@TrailsCollective Topo actually replaced the Mtn Racers because of a previous issue where my lace pulled through the eyelet on the right shoe. Coincidentally, the delamination is also on the right shoe - not the left. I've got 455 miles on the first pair, and aside from the delamination issue there's still a lot of life left in them. My replacement pair has 118 miles and are holding up fine so far. Really good shoe! And no, I haven't read about others with this same issue. Outside laminations you can see and possibly glue back if there's a problem. Inner ones, no dice, and possibly a bad design - not sure why it's necessary.
Labe, sorry for the delay...busy week. Internal lamination of the toe (which I'd not stuck my hand in to feel before...it's cool learning new stuff from people commenting) feels the same between the three. The left shoe of my UV2 has what feels like exposed thread , but I don't feel it on my toes so I wasn't even aware of it. So UV2 I don't think will be void of the possibility of that happening. You're the first one that's mentioned that issue (though I haven't googled to see if others have) so hopefully yours was a one-off?
Hi Ian, I really like your reviews, thanks for another great one. I actually just bought the Ultraventure 2's to replace my Ultraventure 1's (1's are by far the best running shoe I've ever owned). Unfortunately I'm returning the new Ultraventure 2's after just one 6 mile run in them. I got a blister on the inside of my foot where the interior perforated microfiber wrap ends. I rarely get blisters from new running shoes so was surprised. As you know, the old ones did not have this wrap. I also noticed the new ones are just slightly narrower than the old ones, and combined with the ever so slightly less structured top with the removal of the polyurethane overlays my foot tends to feel less 'one with the shoe' which I think contributed to the blister. I am so sad :-(. I feel Topo designed an entirely new shoe with the second version instead of trying to perfect the original. I'm curious if you have had issues with the interior wrap on the Ultraventure 2's? I am also wondering if the Mad River has a similar heel toe drop around 5mm similar feel? I might try the TR2's. I used to run ultra's for around 4-5 years until I tried the Topo's and have found the 5mm drop on the Topo's to be perfect. Not too much, not too little, and my calf muscles are not as tight after a long run. Thanks again for the great reviews. If you have any suggestions I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks!
Bummer. No, I didn't have that experience or rub. MR2 is on a 4mm drop. Toebox similar in breadth, maybe a hair less depth. They're now a discontinued model (Saucony usually only keeps their niche models in their line for two generations) so you may start seeing them on sale. Traction in drier terrain is decent, but outsole rubber compound a bit less sticky than the UV's Vibram XS Trek Evo. MR2 is a pretty comfortable shoe though, a bit smoother underfoot than the UV. You could also check out the Topo Terraventure (3mm, my gripe is feeling it doesn't need a plate) or MTN Racer (5mm, can't remember if they have the same toe cap as the UV and I'm not at the shop at the moment to check, outsole compound of MegaGrip a bit stickier than UB).
@@TrailsCollective Thanks for the quick reply and recommendations! I ordered the TR2's but might look into the MTN Racer 2 if the TR2's don't feel right.
Today is the first time I've seen your reviews. I started with the review of the Ultraventure Pro which I was intending to buy but I'm seeing some reviews complaining of delamination of the outsole on the Pros. I'm wondering if it's related to the rock plate? I recently saw that Topo had come out with a V2 of the Ultraventure and your review of the Pro was so dang good and detailed, I was anxious to watch this one. Outstanding job! A really great review. -Last year was my first experience with Topo on their Terraventure 2 and my feet feel in love with them (despite my long time affinity for Solomon shoes ;-) They aren't nearly as durable as my Solomon X Ultras, but man are my feet happier with the extra room up front. Anyway, as a speed hiker and trail runner use, I love the idea of the rock plate and it worked well for me in the Terraventure, but after watching this review I'm wondering if I should get over that and go with the Ultraventure 2's over the Pros... Do you have any suggestions/advice based on this significant lack of information? ;-) I appreciate any insights you might have. Thx much!
Based on that snipped of your history, I think you've historically preferred a bit more protected chassis under your foot. I held off on bringing Topo into our shops for a few years. The Terraventure 2 is the one sold and clinched the deal on me opening the brand. With that said, I never cared for the plate in the TV. I really didn't think it needed or needs it. There's enough midsole stack that my foot, unless stepping on an upright trim nail, wouldn't every really need the protection.
It's possible that the Pro could be a bit more apt towards delam in the bond between the rubber and plate, but I'd think those glues would be pretty worked out by now. I haven't scoured the web to read other reviews on the Pro, but I'd guess it would be more the case of those who have had it happen (and it can happen with any brand), may be more vocal. But, again, I could see it as a possibility and in that the glue wouldn't hold quite as well over the non-porous thermoplastic. In my experience Topo hasn't been the most durable of brands...whether it be upper fabrics fraying (my experience w/ the Terraventure), outsole rubber shaving off pretty quickly (my experience with the UltraFly - which I also really like otherwise), or EVA compressing a bit quicker than other newer foams.
If you're doing any running, and liked the
Terraventure, I'd go with the UV2 over the Pro. I think the Pro is good for someone carrying more weight on their frame, with a higher volume foot, and doing more hiking. It is a running shoe, and there's not doubt a good number out there running in and liking them now, but I think the UV2 is a safer and more versatile bet. For the plate, if someone's heavier, or in the case of hiking, really loaded down with an external pack, and over technical terrain that pitches the foot around, then maybe the Pro..but, otherwise, I do think it's really unnecessary and makes the underfoot feet firmer and chassis more rigid than it needs to be or should be for running.
Thanks for your review! Been having foot pain and decided to go towards shoes with a lower drop. Your review helped me decide on these. Loving them so far. Do you have a recommendation on a similar shoe for road?
Right on, good to hear. Yup, closest match would be the Topo Phantom. A near match, though with 2mm less midsole, which I've liked a bit better to run (I like the Phantom more for just casual use / kicking around), is the UltraFly 3.
@@TrailsCollective I will check those both out. Appreciate it! I liked and subscribed.
Great review, just came across you channel and love it. Really like the TOPO brand and glad to see your channel reviewing their shoes. Have you given the Mountain Racer 2 a go and if so how do you compare it to the Ultraventure 2. Really appreciate your site and reviews. Thanks
Stan, thanks for checking in and appreciate the support. I did have a pair of the MR2's sitting aside to try from our inventory, but a customer wanted them so I sold it to them before I could run them. With the COVID crazy impact on inventory, TOPO's been out and I haven't been able to order another pair. So, unfortunately aside from hashing out a materials comparison, I can't weigh in on the MR2 feel and ride.
I did try it on when it arrived but for whatever reason went with the UltraVenture update to weave into this past season instead. And, that was too long ago to remember that opening feel in the shop.
I've liked the UltraVenture, but, after having a good number of miles in it over variable terrain, the MR2's megagrip would be a functional gain / attribute vs the UV's Vibram XS Trek Evo which is decent, but not great in stickyness over our slick rock.
Great review! Did the toe box get smaller compared to the V1? This is something I read from another runner I love my original UV!
My first reaction was that it did. But as best as I can tell it measures out the same. I think the lowered Toespring angle makes it feel a bit shallower next to the V1 but I think the volume is actually pretty consistent.
Thanks for your superb reviws wich are so detailde. My question is this a good walking shoe also - even if you not go in mountains - i have always liked the vibram under my shoes, have hurt my both feet so i need wide tobox ( never used this brand ) always have to order like 4e in other shoes and also need good firm grip like vibram / thanks for all your good work/ Joakim sweden
Nice video presentation!👍
Subbed!
Great review! Do you think it is a good shoe for hiking or walking? Or is it too cushioned for this?
I personally think it's great for hiking. With that said I've been wearing running shoes for decades vs hiking shoes and including Alpine and technical terrain. If you're baseline is more hiking shoes the UltraVenture Pro is closer to that crossover. I personally don't favor the fit or feel of the Pro as it's closer to hiking in feel.
@@TrailsCollective Is there any other shoe with a little support in the midsole but with a wide toe box you could recommend? Is the MTN-Racer an option? Which midsole is firmer, the ultraventure or the MTN-Racer? In gernerell are both firmer than for example the road running shoe, like the ultrafly?
@@dersinndeslebens9780 yes, MTN Racer feels a bit more solid underfoot vs the UV. Not remembering if the durometer of midsole foam measures out much differently. The Vibram Megagrip is a bit firmer than the XS Trek Evo. I like the MTN Racer better than the UV Pro.
What are some insoles your recommend as replacements for these? (that hold less water)
That was great, i am mainly attracted by the anatomically nice wide toe box, my toes get really uncomfortable. Comments on toe spring angle made sense, helped me decide to go for new one rather than original. One question, can you chuck them in the washing machine? Appreciated
Theoretically yes. Go a cold cycle. I always spray mine down with the hose, take insoles out, and sit outside but not in direct sun to dry.
great review, the toe spring data is great, I notice soreness on my ultraventure 1 after running so maybe this change will help. I feel my version 1 is a little low volume and the polyurethane across the medial ball of the foot area puts pressure and blisters me. Do you have any feedback if there is a little more give or if this new version presses less against the ball of the foot on the medial side?
To your point about the toe spring angle - I am currently running (walking since I'm a backpacker) the wild crosses and can say I found that EXACT issue to be so bad that I'm looking for another shoe. While researching I found this shoe and after watching your review I now understand what was happening to me. This passed weekend my foot was hurting just like you said but yet the rest of my foot was fine. Happened to both feet and only after 5 miles....
Do you think this topo will be a fit for backpackers?
PS I'm another NYer, rochester area. Is there a store nearby that has your knowledge level and is a good store?
I'd be comfortable backpacking in it. Another option for a backpacker could be the UV Pro version. I don't like the latter as much for running as it's stiffer than I prefer, but appropriate for backpacking or crossover.
Rochester Running Company carries Topo. I tried a couple years ago to turn Medved onto Topo but they weren't interested in opening the brand. Unsure if FF carries them.
I'd guess you'd find pretty knowledgeable individuals working at each of those stores. Unsure they'd be able to dig in on toe spring as it's not a measure most any (hoka has started to) brand would provide, and while you can visually compare, it's not easy to actually measure.
Lemme know if you have more questions though and if you have time in a day to make a trip down to Ithaca, try on a pair at our shop Finger Lakes Running Co.
@@TrailsCollective thanks for the reply. Do you have the mtn racer 2 yet? Any thoughts on comparing the 2 shoes? Would that be too flexible for a backpacking shoe? Cushion still adequate to fix my forefoot pain?
@@AbundantAdventures Unfortunately no. Had them booked for the shop and myself for April 1st, but, with as with most brands at the moment, inventory is a mess and hasn't arrived yet. Looking forward to getting them on my feet though and thanks for asking!
Would love to get your thoughts on whether the UV2 will take longer for the sole to compress? I found after 200 miles UV1 has lost all its cush
Unfortunately no, I think it'll be pretty similar. That's the downside of them using EVA. Mtn Racer is similar and picks up a few miles but also a bit firmer.
very nice review, just wondering if compare between ultraventure 2, ultraventure pro and speedgoat 4, which is your go to and why? if possible maybe a quick video about it? again, very nice vid!
For me, Ultraventure 1 or 2 hands down. Unsure if you caught my UV Pro review, bit I'm not a big fan. Chassis and underfoot too stiff and creates an upper fit that's tough to dial into my foot. Speedgoat has more stack height than I prefer as I feel it disconnects me from the trail. I don't love the dynamic rocker and forfoot dropoff in the goat. And while the Goat 4 doesn't really compress my forfoot, I like the breadth and volume of Topo and the Ultraventure better. Goat's outsole stickiness and durability is a bit better than the Ultraventure though.
@@TrailsCollective thx so much for the reply! Ys did check out the UV Pro review, guess not for me as well. I'm still choosing between Goat 4 and UV2 as I'm quite heavy and looking for shoes with good cushioning, as the UV2 is using EVA, I kinda afraid the midsole will got stiffen faster than the outsole ran out of traction..
anyway, thx so much for the vid, really great and truly from a user's perspective!
@@laicphk goat midsole is softer, outsole durability much different. Only reason for UV would be more grounded, even vs rocker platform, and more room in toebox.
@@TrailsCollective thx so much for the reply!!! As right now I'm actually checking Altra Olympus 4, any chance you will review it in the future?
@@laicphk that sounds like a good plan based on what you've described. Occasionally I'll have others review shoes that I personally wouldn't be interested in running myself. Olympus would be one of those...too much stack than I like, and for whatever reason my legs traditionally haven't tolerated successive days running in Altra's.
Are you an engineer?
Started as an Occupational Therapist before moving into opening run specialty stores and putting on races about 15 years ago.