I 100% agree! Why? Almost no runner complains about “too much toe box room” but “too narrow” is something I see in almost every shoe review. We have clown feet- when can we just accept this and make human sized toe boxes? It seems to me like the “wide toe box” idea is a small brand only phenomenon. It stays until the brand sells from the original owner. Then the new owners put the same shoe on a standard mold to cut costs and create a higher profit margin. Original owners have to distinguish themselves and create a following. New owners have a whole portfolio and don’t care about individual customers.
Funny thing is, most of us that want a wide toe box don't have big or wide feet. I'm a man and my feet are narrow like a chicks feet, yet, through studying my feet and shoes, I learned about the benefits of a wide toe box and that really works for me.
You nailed it Monica - the Topo Athletic Terraventure look and feel like clown shoes! First off, the insoles were, well - next to nothing so I immediately replaced them with a pricey pair of Superfeet insoles which made walking more comfortable. But regarding shoe box I mean sure, giving a bit of extra room is cool... but not so much that it makes me start thinking about moving some of my backpack gear into the toe box! Worse, now I either have to aggressively bind the laces very tight (which causes several days of discomfort on the top of my foot), or let my toes slide around and start to get a blister after 10-15 miles of a moderate hike. So I'll wear them around the home or a day hike without a pack but stick to my HOKA Speedgoat 5's that have spoiled me. However I'll give one nod to the Topo's for their $97 shoe, as compared to the Hoka's at a pricey $155. But IMOwhen you're backpacking you can't afford to sellout to pain and discomfort.
I'm with you: keep the wide toe box, Topo!! I'm 10 miles into my Terraventure 3s and noticed the same thing. That's why I switched to Topo in the first place; wide's where it's at.
Yes! Stop it with the toe smashing. It seems like if you find a shoe that works you need to buy ten pairs, cause... some idiot will change it the next year.
This ^^^ Loved the Topo Ultraventures, wore them out, got the Ultraventure 2s and they were so uncomfortable with a super high arch. Can't go back in time now to get my favorite shoe. The terraventure 2s are a decent replacement so far after returning the former. You find a pair that's a match made in heaven, buy as many as you can!
@@randomweirdo2701 I tried topos and they are too narrow for me. Altras fit better but I roll my ankles in the low tops. Now wearing the Lone Peak Hikers (ankle high) and love them. Very comfortable, lightweight and support ankles much better. The only downside is that they don't dry out quite as fast. I also like the lacing system better.
I just switched from Altra Lone Peaks (after using the Hoka Speegoat first) to the Topo 2. I have really very super high arches (like a heel and ball/toes only showing up on my foot scans with no connection of my insole between), so I need some heel height support to avoid heel pain from too much stress on my achilles. My orthopedist (in Utah, so he sees a LOT of hikers) hadn't seen the Topo brand yet, so he looked them over pretty closely, and approved. He recommended I not ever try to use a zero drop, and even add a bit of of firm heel cup to the Topo as well to get it up to ~5mm. I kept thinking about how everyone is different, and we need to figure out our unique anatomy to find the best equipment. Your reviews have been helpful for me to figure out what options to try to solve or avoid issues. I never would have found the Topo brand if not for your videos: between the firm sole with rock plate, heel height, and wide toe box, it's been a great shoe for me versus the other options. Hopefully this review can help others with really high arches!
YES!!! Could not agree with you more! I've been on the hunt for some good zero drop / wide toe box trail runners for my backpacking. I used Altras for a long time, but have been unhappy with them recently. The Topo Runventure 3s are probably the shoe I'm using the most right now! So far I am liking them, but have noticed a few things: 1) toe box isn't as wide as I would like, 2) with only 20mm of stack height, I can definitely feel when I step on a rock or root "wrong". Maybe my feet will get used to it. 3) Boring colors like you mentioned for the Ultraventure. 🤣 So the search will continue... Can we just start a shoe company called "clown shoes for backpackers" and make them right?? 🤣🤣 Love your videos and looking forward to following your continued search for the perfect shoe!
Lately I wear Astrals with bare feet, great around water, but for 6 years now I have always always used Merrills Trail Gloves (not the less-padded Vapor) with wool socks. The Trail Gloves have many colors, and I find they are a good compromise between narrow toe box vs wide toe box as well as a good compromise of padded vs no padding at all. Black Diamond has an ultralight low profile shoe for those that like minimal but some padding, but I havent tried them.
@@saintjackula9615 I have wondered about the Trail Gloves! Maybe I'll give them a shot this year. I feel like I've exhausted other options and am still looking for my perfect shoe. I recently became aware of Astrals as well. Glad to hear that you like them! Thanks so much!
I have had my Xero TeraFlex shoes for a good year and love them. I get what you are saying about dealing with uncomfortable terrain (rocks, roots, etc.), But I have found that I eventually developed some terrain reflexes, where I quickly adapt my foot pressure location (heel, ball, sides) depending on what I am landing on; almost without thinking about it. And I feel much more secure feeling the surface that I am walking in than I do with traditional thicker soles. But that is just my experience. I did want to mention that a friend of mine, who is a long distance trail runner, did wear out his soles, and they replaced his shoes without any hassle.
As a woman, I relate to you on foot size. I have always had to buy men size work boots, hiking boots, runners etc. I usually buy a size 10 men’s in any type of active footwear. I have come to love the wide toe box in trail runners. I do hope manufacturers don’t mess that up. I will say that one good thing about buying men’s sizing in my structured work and hiking boots (that I wear for work ) , is that you automatically get a wider shoe and more room in toe area than most women boots. But , sigh, then you have to watch the amount of movement in the heel. It is never a perfect world. I agree with a previous comment about buying multiples when u find something that works. When I have to try 5 or 6 styles and sizing in those styles to get a new pair of 10 hour day work boot , it is worth it to buy 3 years worth of boots. I did not do this with my last years topos but I did with the latest model after I knew they worked for me. If you NEVER have trouble shopping for shoes in terms of getting A good fit, please” REJOICE” I’m 65 now and I do think it becomes harder with aging feet.
Wish my feet were big enough to get mens shoes. Sometimes I can find boys sizes that work. Did you ever think another woman would envy your bigger feet? Wish shoe manufacturers would stick with a model instead of making "new and improved."
Thank you for saying something about this narrowing footbox pandemic! I don't get why companies are doing this and purposefully losing customers because of it! Wide toe boxes, people!
All I wear is Altra shoes. It's because of one thing.... The wide toe box. I wish they offered more cushioning in more shoes. The Olympus shoes are the creme-de-la-creme of Altra shoes but are a bit pricey. BRING ON THE CLOWN SHOES!!
Great points all the way around. I sure would love to hear from some of the shoe co’s as to why there is a progression from wide to narrow. Altra has done this many times (just go look at their reviews). Thanks for your thoroughness.
I was looking at getting some Altras but it seems the build quality has gone down quite a good bit as well. looks like I may have missed the boat on that one. So hard to decide when it's £150 on the line!
Nice video. Good to know this stuff. Using Lone Peaks at the moment. Love the wide toe box. Probably try the Terraventure 3 next. I'd rather have cushion than zero drop.
Thank-you! I hope manufacturers listen. I have a pair of Vivos that aren't wearable for even a 5k jog. They are the same size as previous Vivos that I'd loved. I even tried jamming a river rock in them and hitting them with a hair dryer. They are selling-out the very thing that made them notable. I see ad photos for some of the newer brands, where they position the heels apart so the toes appear to be straight, but if you, imagine them with the heels together, there would be a wide V, pushing your big toe over, like a pointy toed shoe. My favorites that I adore are Tadeevo from Poland. Wow! the care and quality in the construction is impressive (glued + tight, perfect stitching) and looking down on that toe box, makes me so happy. They aren't clownish. Somehow they are wide, foot shaped, while being adorable. They "are" very feely and soft. I'd love if they kept everything the same, but offered a trail style with a bit more of a self-cleaning tread. That would supply just a bit more stone protection without losing feel.
That's spooky! I was just watching the video where you were introducing these shoes ( literally seconds before you uploaded this - twilight zone music 😉). Thanks for uploading.
I have the Topo MTN Racer 2's and those have been pretty fantastic over the last 300+mi. I really like the Vibram megagrip and the quick dry mesh design all on a low drop medium/high cushion mid. Not sure if you will love the color options Dixie My favorite trail runner of all time has been the new Salomon Ultra Glide. Wide toe box for Salomon, lots of cushion without feeling tall, quick drying, good grip from the Continental rubber, and just all around the most comfortable shoe for long hikes and trail runs that I've tried to date. Thanks for all that you do Dixie and HWL team!
Hi Dixie, my first section of the AT (amicalola to Fontana) I wore Brooks Cascadia trail runners. I was miserable in them. After that I saw a video of you on the PCT, I think. I told my wife I need to find out what those CLOWN shoes are she is wearing. Somewhere you commented that they were Lone Peaks. I got a pair and loved them. And then Altra began narrowing them. I don't understand stand it. I still wear the Lone Peaks. But, I have had to go up another size to get the width. Thanks for the video review.
I completely agree about the wide toebox! Love zero drop myself, but do need some cushion as roots and rocks are problematic for my princess feet 🤣🤣. Thanks so much for your detailed review!!
I just started wearing the Topo Ultraventure Pro. It looks like it's based on the same last as the Terraventure. I found the heels on my Altras would collapse after a couple hundred miles, they also tended to have problems in material and build quality. To soon to judge the Ultraventure Pros conclusively, but the initial impression is that they are much better made and offer a comparable toe box. Sure, I could go for a bit more space.
I just tried my new terraventure 3’s, as it happens, on a thru hike of the Foothills Trail! I really liked how they handled the roots and wet steps. I’m coming from altar lone peaks so the extra stiffness of the sole was nice. I hope they don’t make the toe box narrower.
I loved my Topo running shoes. So I recently got the Topo trail runner and was disappointed that the toe box was smaller. Still better than other shoes but I wish they would leave the toe box wide.
Good thorough review to which I can only add some anecdotal info if anyone is interested. I'm currently walking around in a pair of Xero Terraflex, which will be my third pair of Xero shoes. I like their Z-trek sandals the best. I've also tried a pair of their Prios, but found them not durable enough. Mine self-destructed in about 300 miles, which given the price, was too soon. I loved the feel and fit of the Prios, but the durability issue kept me from buying a second pair. The Terraflex are comfortable enough, but not as comfy as the Prio. I'm hoping that being a little beefier they'll last longer. The Topos have been on the radar for a while, so I'm glad to have your perspective on them before I plunk down my money. The narrowing of the toebox may be a deciding factor in not getting them.
I had the Topo ST-2 road shoe and I loved it. Recently got the ST-3 and had the same problem with the narrower toe box! Not sure what they were thinking.
Lems Primal Persuit is good option to look into for wide toebox, zero drop, 1.4 cm stack height( I think?), and an aggressive lug pattern. More protection than the Terraflex which will take a total rehab of my poor feet to adjust to. I dont think you can go straight to a Terraflex for backpacking. The "civilized" foot is just too weak for that level of exposure. Foot strengthening exercises are very important, I think. Dr. Emily at EBFA fittness is pretty awesome for functional podiatry and foot wellnes( double thumbs up). Thanks for the Vid!!
I have been happy with Ultraventures so far. I bought a pair of the pros this last time because they have a rock plate. I hear you about the narrowing toe boxes- WHY???? Considering practically every shoe post I see in trail groups is someone looking for a wide toe box, it makes zero sense!!
I got the Topo TA 3 on your recommendation and I love them. Before the TOPOs I was a loyal I Altra Lone Peaks fan but I just kept ripping thru them in what I feel is too soon. Less than 250 miles I estimate. So far the TOPOs are great. I have about a hundred miles on them and they seems to be wearing well. Good traction. Good comfort. No complaints. I probably won’t get the xeros because I have sensitive feet and need the padding.
You are my hero! Bozo toes for me! Still rockin' the Lone Peaks for going on 5 years now! They look totally normal to me!😁 I do swap out to the Olympus 4 for road walk and hard rock, But I do swap back to the Lone Peaks ASAP because of the wider toe-box “ Trail feel” I get from them.
My dog, Cali, is dying, today. We started following you in 2017. I want to thank you for all the great hikes and reviews. I hope to hike the section from I80 to Castle Crags in 2022. So many fires here, in NorCal. Again, thanks, especially for the 700 mile on the PCT. God BLESS.
I LOVE my XeroShoes Terra Flex! Been hiking and backpacking in them for years. I do suggest wearing them first on mellow trails, before carrying a full backpack on seriously rocky routes. After wearing XeroShoes a while, your feet and ankles get stronger and more flexible; your foot will simply wrap around rocks that initially might have felt pokey. XeroShoes allow the feet and ankles do what they evolved to do -- flex and adjust to variations in the ground surface. Other shoes force the knees to absorb those variations. My knee issues faded with XeroShoes. At age 65, I've tried LOTS of footwear, and XeroShoes are tops!
@@janicekennah1824 Yes, the toe box is plenty wide. My feet are narrow in the heel and wide in the ball, definitely wider than average feet but not super wide.
@@laurakey6534 Thank you. I have a narrow foot and used to wear Altra Lone Peaks and Timps, but after two bouts of plantar fasciitis I switched to Altra Olympus 3.5s (for the cushion and wide toe box) and absolutely love them, and now I am so hesitant to try anything else!! But I'd really like to get into a shoe that is snugger in the mid-foot because my foot is narrow, and yet I still want that nice wide toe box and cushion.
@@janicekennah1824 I find that the instep straps on XeroShoes let me adjust the fit or lace pressure nicely, so the shoes are snug across my instep, without any slippage, but still offer ample space in the ball and toes. But I know nothing about how your history of plantar fasciitis might inform shoe choice.
Hi Yes, altra user here. My Olympus 3.0 were fantastic, best ever. Then the 3.5 were tighter could never hike long distance, used them as trainers. Then the 4.0 came out great fit, but the sole is not as grippy slipped hard many times. In between I used the timps great shoes but not as much stack height, but worked well. So, I understand you about the changes. Thanks for your work with the videos and your wealth of knowledge 👍 🙏
Excellent review, Dixie. I wear Keen hikers for our rugged/rocky terrain - when I need a firm sole. New ones now have the narrow toe box as well. Why, Keen, whhhyyyyyy? You were different, you fit my foot. I loved you but now we are breaking up 😢.
That's what you want. That's not for everyone. I wear Xero shoes and sandals for everything except backcountry hunting. I prefer an absolute minimalist sole in the mountains, in the gym and for everyday wear.
I used the Topo Ultraventure 2 and the Terraventure 2 last summer. I prefer the Ultraventure 2 which has a 5mm drop. Very comfortable and lasted a long time before needing replacement. I plan on wearing them on the PCT next summer. Thanks for the review. Always nice to hear about other shoes.
I recently gave topo a shot and got a pair of their Phantoms, I really like the feel of their midsole! Between Altra, Brooks, saucony and adidas theirs feels the best to me! Unfortunately I still have like 3 pairs of perfectly good trail shoes...and should retire at least one if them before considering new trail shoes, lol
Hi Dixie, I've had good results using a sharpie paint-pen (oil-based) to change the colour of my shoes. I was easily able to colour the rubbery overlays. Admittedly I was going darker (pink to black) and you'd probably want to go lighter but it could be worth a try to get the shoes you want to wear..
Thank you Dixie! I want a wide toe box on all my shoes. If I could find one brand that consistently offers a wide toe box, I would stick with that brand.
I love xero shoes as my daily shoe, trail running without a pack, and for cycling. The comfort is amazing. When I hit the trail, I need more cushion. Here in New England the trails are just too rocky to wear a minimalist shoe with weight on your back.
@@zonto22 Right now I'm using some topo runventure for trail running and warm weather hiking and lems outlanders for wet weather. I haven't tried the lems in snow yet, so I can't say how good they will be long term.
it's still good training and strengthening for your feet to wear the minimal shoes outside of backpacking scenarios. I'm pretty much the same way. I use Xero shoes around town or on shorter day hikes a lot but if I'm going on extended trips I use Altra Lone Peaks or Inov-8 Trailfly G270's. I actually like the Inov-8 G270's a lot because they are kind of a happy spot between Lone Peaks and Xero as far as stack heigh is concerned.
Yes, wide shoes! Once I figured out my toes don't have to be squished I started to enjoy walking. Once I gave up high heels my whole attitude changed. Men got it right when they quit wearing heels. Birkenstock used to make a Mary Jane shoe called Maryland that had a wide toe box. They were great for me, as I was on my feet all day. They quit making them. Wish they would bring them back.
I still have extra Lone Peaks I bought last year and one unopened box left over from 2019 and I have one pair of Terraventure 2 that have quite a few miles left in them. You brought up the most important issue which is that all the shoe companies keep making changes that make our reviews obsolete before we use up our old stock.
I need a mens 13 -2e width. I buy the shelf when i can find it. I 100% agree that companies get narrower as they go in models. I just want my lonepeak 4.0s again
Have hiked a couple of weeks in the Xero TerraFlex. Very comfortable. They have a wide toe box without having the clumsiness of a wide thick sole shoe so you are more nimble than with other shoes. Yes, when it comes to rocks you want more cushioning. However I solved that with Doctor Sholles inserts. Shoes still nimble and I thought I had a great hiking shoe until they started falling apart after a couple of weeks on the trail. The sole separated from uppers on one shoe and the reinforcing ed areas of the uppers is too thin or the material too weak to offer much protection for the upper mesh. The soles do ware very well but that comes from them being very dense which adds unwanted weight. So as Dixie said the long ware warranty for the sole is of little use if the rest of the shoe falls apart.
I can't speak to the Xero's but I found Topo to be too wide in the heel (wouldn't hold it down) - my wife is very happy with hers, though. Keep the reviews comin', Dixie, you're a breath of fresh air!
I took the advice of slowly breaking in the terraflex walking around my neighborhood and absolutely loved them until I hit a trail with a bunch of rocks and roots. Walked about 10 miles over that terrain and could barely walk the next two days.
Our feet are designed to run/walk barefoot on dirt trails. They have arches which mean they work best without support & need to expand about 15% when used. I run in zero-drop, barefoot shoes & plan to start hiking in some. Be sure to transition slowly, but you'll feel a lot of little muscles developing in your calves that you never knew were there.
Merry Christmas to you and your family Dixie. We’re looking forward to another two week trip to your fabulous state, in January! Thanks for the great content!
Preach. Someone needs to tell Merrell 🙄. I only just moved on to the Xero Mesa Trails with no issue. Lovely. True zero drop, no b.s midsole support and yes, wide toe box, thank heaven.
Different strokes. For me, with narrow feet, the toe box in the Altra Lone Peaks was too wide. I like the comfort of the shoe and used it on the High Sierra trail and hiking on the rocky trails behind my house but found that I tripped a lot on downhills. That wide box stuck out just far enough beyond the norm for my apparently low foot lift to catch here and there. I thought it was just me but then found a few reviews by people who are way more hardcore than I am and had the same problem. Even with Altra's slightly narrowed box, isn't it still wider than on most shoes? For a lot of people, La Sportiva Bushidos are too narrow; for me, they're perfect (though I need to size up 1.5 sizes, as they run incredible short). Shoes are so individual, just like feet.
I just bought these hiking shoes and I love them! A complaint about these thin-soled shoes is feeling everything underneath, but that's part of the point of wearing them. Also it makes us pay more attention to what our feet are doing and where we are placing them. I discovered Xero shoes about a year ago and I've bought a few pair now and got rid of ALOT of my shoe collection- it's hard to go back to wearing those.
I'll never understand shoe companies ... a 2 min google would tell them what hikers etc. are looking for in a shoe (wide fit, large toebox, quick drying ...). You would think companies have an interrest in selling their product but apparently not.
Love both pairs and hiked PCT with Xero's the last day as my camp shoe and returned Salaloms that nearly took my toe nails! Pretty sure the Topos's will be my go to hiking boot next season they are resting over winter and waiting for next season trail work.
I just ordered a pair of Topo Terraventure 3’s. I loved the older versions of the Altra Lone Peaks, but the last pair that I got left my knees hurting…a lot. I had lost a bunch of weight (130+ pounds), and started running (different shoes for running and hiking) so hiking should not have been an issue. I just don’t think that there was enough cushion in the Altra’s. I’m hoping that the Topo’s are better.
Dear Dixie please create your own shoe line with a custom page. People can order normal in stock items or customize ... pick a different color... a little wider.... etc similar to EE or UGQ quilts.
I don’t have any trail runner experience but I am switching from the Altra Torin to the Topo Ultrafly 3. I too threw my Achilles to the wolves but have paid the price. Hopefully the 5mm of drop in the Topo’s will help my Achilles. I’m quite interested to see which I like better so that I can have some guidance on which brand to buy for trail runners. As a side note I tried the Inov-8 G-270 and they were terrible. I gave them away after a week or two. The tongue and toe box were a disaster.
I also have clown feet (or maybe duck get is more descriptive) and would love for manufacturers to leave the wide toe boxes alone. It would also be nice for those of us who can't wear women's sizes for men's sizes to be more colorful. I know a lot of men who would like more options in color as well
I’ve got about 100 miles on my Terraventure 3 (I had the 2’s first). I really like them. They’re really comfortable, and I dig the deep lugs. Great for traction.
Style often eventually overcomes function it seems, when it comes to outdoor products, and shoes are an example. Thus, all of the outdoor product companies that are now stylish clothing purveyors. I’m old enough to remember buying high quality useful gear from Eddie Bauer ( : Not enough Bozos around to keep the bean counters happy.
Problem is that there are too many cooks in the kitchen when it comes to design meetings. They start with concepts (which come from data research and what's trending etc..) then it gets watered down thru the channel into something they "think" consumers want. It's even more complicated than that but this is true in a lot of footwear design companies. Then there are really considerate design companies that keep a couple skus going throughout many years because they don't want to lose their proven yearly customers.
I'm not a runner though used to love running but Altra Rivera 2's have enabled me to walk again after a lot of ligament problems caused mainly by shoes pushing my big toe in. Why all footwear isn't made with a natural foot shaped toe box I don't understand at all. Buying as many pairs as I can before they disappear & I wish they'd make everyday shoes & boots too. They're even vegan which is a huge bonus for me.
I thruhiked the SHT in my Xeros. I think that they are a super nice hiking shoe but they aren’t the best backpacking shoes. Dixie said true about feeling the rocks/roots more and with the added weight of my bag, it wasn’t always very comfortable. Another note, I normally wear Xero shoes daily so my feet are used to the zero drop.
I agree with the wide toe box problem--why do the manufacturers narrow them???? Anybody remember Earth Shoes from the 1970s? They were popular, even though they made your feet look like duck feet!
I love barefoot, zero drop shoes. I really like feeling the trail. That being said, I just got some Topo Terraventure 3 and found them just very cushiony and comfortable.
We want a wide toe , zero drop shoe. Altra started that way and i loved them. Bummer that looks win out. I told inquiries that i bought my shoes at clowns are us.
Absolutely! Like you, I have a large foot and have to wear the men's shoes. If there isn't enough room in the toe box my toes rub together and make either blisters or corns - I don't want either!
More toe box ? Hear, hear! For pete's sake, someone give me some solid boots with clown-shoe toes! I have freakin' clown feet. They're extra wide with some Morton's toe thrown in for good measure. It's so hard to find any footwear that fits reasonably well; the only brands I've found that work are Merrell and Lowa, and, even then, it's a compromise. (For me, taping up with leukotape is a pre-hike requirement, not something carried just-in-case) I once tried on some Altras that felt absolutely heavenly; they looked like clown shoes, but I didn't care. But they were a no-go because the sole wasn't nearly stiff enough; even my Merrell Moab shoes kill my feet when walking on talus (which happens a lot where I live) so the Altras were a non-starter. Toss in a weak ankle due to a nasty fracture 13 years ago, and trail runners are pretty much eliminated from consideration.
Dixie have you tried Altra shoes in winter? I've had the lone peak 5's since this autumn and I can walk in deep snow at -15c with no issues but the ice is really the limit for them, its just way too slippery and I'm forced back into my boots with vibram soles.
I tried Topos for the long trail but they went up to the ankle so a different model. (I apologize I forget which one) one thing I didn’t like about them was how much crud got in my shoes so I had to wear gators. Also they started to fall apart after week one. Not sure if it is because I got a bad model or if it was because we went through so much mud. Other then that I loved them. The xero shoes didn’t work for me due to the same complaint you had about it being uncomfortable under foot as NH is very rocky and rooty so I prefer a buffer there too. Thanks for sharing! Have you ever tried Hokas? My podiatrist recommended them and would love to see a review on them.
I haven't experienced feeling narrower toe box between the Terraventure 2 to the Terraventure 3. Like, for my size, mens 11.5 - they are exactly the same between models. Maybe this is a size specific thing. Or maybe it's Dixie's feet experiencing the nocebo effect, lol. I will agree the 2's did feel a tad bit cushier than the 3. I thought I was imagining it until I saw some reviews confirming it. Still haven't found a better shoe (for me), than the Terraventure 3's at this point in time.
I had the same negative experience w/ Top and Altra for shoe box width and height. I only buy Xero's now for the toebox. The Terraflex isn' t likely the best choice for backpacking. I think Xerjo's Daylite hiker would have been a better match for your application. It has a stiffer sole and is my go to hiker for that specific reason (especially if you have a bit of weight on your back).
I saw your earlier episode on Xero and actually bought some for Knick around shoes. Very comfortable but my model is minimal and below $100. I have worn Vivos for many years but like these better. I would not wear this Prio model on rocky soil. I live in a rocky area in the Texas Hill country but for street barfoot shoes yes. Thanks for pointing out that brand as barefoot style and zero drop have been very slow to catch on and hard to find until now
Ultraventures pros! What’s your thoughts on those? I rotate between my LPs and Ultraventure Pros every other hike and I’d have to say Topos for the win, I do like my LPs but the uppers are sloppy and my feet just feel better after wearing my Topos, what’s your thoughts on UltraVenture Pros?
I recently purchased a pair of the Topo Terraventure 3s... and although I only have a few miles in them, I do really wish the toe box was bigger 😓 I feel the 3mm stack height, even in my Men's Size 13s, when I first start walking in them; however, I don't notice so much after a few minutes.
If you find a shoe you like, ALWAYS buy an extra pair! ALWAYS. That way you have a 2nd pair when the first one runs out and you can delay the time you have before finding another disappointing shoe you 'settle for'. I did that with my Ultras which I got because of you. Sadly now my 2nd pair is in need of replacement and Ultra doesn't make them as good as this shoe. So I am hunting but very disappointed.
Hi Dixie! I was wondering what your thoughts were on how the Terraventure 3 performed in deep mud/wet rocky conditions? I love your videos and keep doing you lady!
Still searching myself. I’ve got light, mid ankle boots figured out. Still working on the trail runner. I own a pair of speedcross, some north face model, lone peak 4.5s (which destroy my ankles lol), and literally just ordered some Olympus 4s. Gonna have to try Lone Peak 5s as well. Test fit a pair and the back piece that bothered my Achilles in the 4.5 seems much improved. New sole material was pleasant as well.
I 100% agree! Why? Almost no runner complains about “too much toe box room” but “too narrow” is something I see in almost every shoe review. We have clown feet- when can we just accept this and make human sized toe boxes?
It seems to me like the “wide toe box” idea is a small brand only phenomenon. It stays until the brand sells from the original owner. Then the new owners put the same shoe on a standard mold to cut costs and create a higher profit margin. Original owners have to distinguish themselves and create a following. New owners have a whole portfolio and don’t care about individual customers.
Funny thing is, most of us that want a wide toe box don't have big or wide feet. I'm a man and my feet are narrow like a chicks feet, yet, through studying my feet and shoes, I learned about the benefits of a wide toe box and that really works for me.
Keen hiking boots and shoes all have a wide toe box, despite being D size. It is one of their advertised features. Keen is not a small manufacturer
You nailed it Monica - the Topo Athletic Terraventure look and feel like clown shoes! First off, the insoles were, well - next to nothing so I immediately replaced them with a pricey pair of Superfeet insoles which made walking more comfortable. But regarding shoe box I mean sure, giving a bit of extra room is cool... but not so much that it makes me start thinking about moving some of my backpack gear into the toe box! Worse, now I either have to aggressively bind the laces very tight (which causes several days of discomfort on the top of my foot), or let my toes slide around and start to get a blister after 10-15 miles of a moderate hike. So I'll wear them around the home or a day hike without a pack but stick to my HOKA Speedgoat 5's that have spoiled me. However I'll give one nod to the Topo's for their $97 shoe, as compared to the Hoka's at a pricey $155. But IMOwhen you're backpacking you can't afford to sellout to pain and discomfort.
Yes! It’s terrible how Altra narrowed their shoes. We the people who supported them when they were a nobody brand feel forgotten.
I'm with you: keep the wide toe box, Topo!! I'm 10 miles into my Terraventure 3s and noticed the same thing. That's why I switched to Topo in the first place; wide's where it's at.
Yes! Stop it with the toe smashing. It seems like if you find a shoe that works you need to buy ten pairs, cause... some idiot will change it the next year.
This ^^^ Loved the Topo Ultraventures, wore them out, got the Ultraventure 2s and they were so uncomfortable with a super high arch. Can't go back in time now to get my favorite shoe. The terraventure 2s are a decent replacement so far after returning the former. You find a pair that's a match made in heaven, buy as many as you can!
As someone with ankle issues I can say the rolling your ankle less in low stack height shoes is a real thing. Very beneficial for me.
Agreed. It makes a huge difference.
@@randomweirdo2701 I tried topos and they are too narrow for me. Altras fit better but I roll my ankles in the low tops. Now wearing the Lone Peak Hikers (ankle high) and love them. Very comfortable, lightweight and support ankles much better. The only downside is that they don't dry out quite as fast. I also like the lacing system better.
So true! Also, I roll my ankles less with wide toe boxes.
I just switched from Altra Lone Peaks (after using the Hoka Speegoat first) to the Topo 2. I have really very super high arches (like a heel and ball/toes only showing up on my foot scans with no connection of my insole between), so I need some heel height support to avoid heel pain from too much stress on my achilles. My orthopedist (in Utah, so he sees a LOT of hikers) hadn't seen the Topo brand yet, so he looked them over pretty closely, and approved. He recommended I not ever try to use a zero drop, and even add a bit of of firm heel cup to the Topo as well to get it up to ~5mm. I kept thinking about how everyone is different, and we need to figure out our unique anatomy to find the best equipment. Your reviews have been helpful for me to figure out what options to try to solve or avoid issues. I never would have found the Topo brand if not for your videos: between the firm sole with rock plate, heel height, and wide toe box, it's been a great shoe for me versus the other options. Hopefully this review can help others with really high arches!
So shoe companies making shoes with wide toe boxes keep throwing away one of their unique selling points? How silly!
YES!!! Could not agree with you more! I've been on the hunt for some good zero drop / wide toe box trail runners for my backpacking. I used Altras for a long time, but have been unhappy with them recently.
The Topo Runventure 3s are probably the shoe I'm using the most right now! So far I am liking them, but have noticed a few things: 1) toe box isn't as wide as I would like, 2) with only 20mm of stack height, I can definitely feel when I step on a rock or root "wrong". Maybe my feet will get used to it. 3) Boring colors like you mentioned for the Ultraventure. 🤣 So the search will continue...
Can we just start a shoe company called "clown shoes for backpackers" and make them right?? 🤣🤣
Love your videos and looking forward to following your continued search for the perfect shoe!
Lately I wear Astrals with bare feet, great around water, but for 6 years now I have always always used Merrills Trail Gloves (not the less-padded Vapor) with wool socks. The Trail Gloves have many colors, and I find they are a good compromise between narrow toe box vs wide toe box as well as a good compromise of padded vs no padding at all.
Black Diamond has an ultralight low profile shoe for those that like minimal but some padding, but I havent tried them.
@@saintjackula9615 I have wondered about the Trail Gloves! Maybe I'll give them a shot this year. I feel like I've exhausted other options and am still looking for my perfect shoe. I recently became aware of Astrals as well. Glad to hear that you like them! Thanks so much!
I have had my Xero TeraFlex shoes for a good year and love them.
I get what you are saying about dealing with uncomfortable terrain (rocks, roots, etc.), But I have found that I eventually developed some terrain reflexes, where I quickly adapt my foot pressure location (heel, ball, sides) depending on what I am landing on; almost without thinking about it. And I feel much more secure feeling the surface that I am walking in than I do with traditional thicker soles. But that is just my experience.
I did want to mention that a friend of mine, who is a long distance trail runner, did wear out his soles, and they replaced his shoes without any hassle.
As a woman, I relate to you on foot size. I have always had to buy men size work boots, hiking boots, runners etc. I usually buy a size 10 men’s in any type of active footwear. I have come to love the wide toe box in trail runners. I do hope manufacturers don’t mess that up. I will say that one good thing about buying men’s sizing in my structured work and hiking boots (that I wear for work ) , is that you automatically get a wider shoe and more room in toe area than most women boots. But , sigh, then you have to watch the amount of movement in the heel.
It is never a perfect world.
I agree with a previous comment about buying multiples when u find something that works.
When I have to try 5 or 6 styles and sizing in those styles to get a new pair of 10 hour day work boot , it is worth it to buy 3 years worth of boots.
I did not do this with my last years topos but I did with the latest model after I knew they worked for me.
If you NEVER have trouble shopping for shoes in terms of getting A good fit, please” REJOICE”
I’m 65 now and I do think it becomes harder with aging feet.
Wish my feet were big enough to get mens shoes. Sometimes I can find boys sizes that work. Did you ever think another woman would envy your bigger feet? Wish shoe manufacturers would stick with a model instead of making "new and improved."
@@lindatisue733 a woman has NEVER told me they wished they had feet as big as mine! You just gave me a Christmas smile.
Thank you for saying something about this narrowing footbox pandemic! I don't get why companies are doing this and purposefully losing customers because of it! Wide toe boxes, people!
All I wear is Altra shoes. It's because of one thing.... The wide toe box. I wish they offered more cushioning in more shoes. The Olympus shoes are the creme-de-la-creme of Altra shoes but are a bit pricey. BRING ON THE CLOWN SHOES!!
Couldn't agree more about the toebox. Still loving my Altra lonepeaks. Merry Christmas🎄🥾
Great points all the way around. I sure would love to hear from some of the shoe co’s as to why there is a progression from wide to narrow. Altra has done this many times (just go look at their reviews). Thanks for your thoroughness.
I was looking at getting some Altras but it seems the build quality has gone down quite a good bit as well. looks like I may have missed the boat on that one. So hard to decide when it's £150 on the line!
Nice video. Good to know this stuff. Using Lone Peaks at the moment. Love the wide toe box. Probably try the Terraventure 3 next. I'd rather have cushion than zero drop.
Thank-you! I hope manufacturers listen. I have a pair of Vivos that aren't wearable for even a 5k jog. They are the same size as previous Vivos that I'd loved. I even tried jamming a river rock in them and hitting them with a hair dryer. They are selling-out the very thing that made them notable. I see ad photos for some of the newer brands, where they position the heels apart so the toes appear to be straight, but if you, imagine them with the heels together, there would be a wide V, pushing your big toe over, like a pointy toed shoe. My favorites that I adore are Tadeevo from Poland. Wow! the care and quality in the construction is impressive (glued + tight, perfect stitching) and looking down on that toe box, makes me so happy. They aren't clownish. Somehow they are wide, foot shaped, while being adorable. They "are" very feely and soft. I'd love if they kept everything the same, but offered a trail style with a bit more of a self-cleaning tread. That would supply just a bit more stone protection without losing feel.
Shoe companies are BIZARRE! They create a popular shoe and then can't wait to change it!🤨
That's spooky! I was just watching the video where you were introducing these shoes ( literally seconds before you uploaded this - twilight zone music 😉). Thanks for uploading.
I have the Topo MTN Racer 2's and those have been pretty fantastic over the last 300+mi. I really like the Vibram megagrip and the quick dry mesh design all on a low drop medium/high cushion mid. Not sure if you will love the color options Dixie
My favorite trail runner of all time has been the new Salomon Ultra Glide. Wide toe box for Salomon, lots of cushion without feeling tall, quick drying, good grip from the Continental rubber, and just all around the most comfortable shoe for long hikes and trail runs that I've tried to date.
Thanks for all that you do Dixie and HWL team!
Hi Dixie, my first section of the AT (amicalola to Fontana) I wore Brooks Cascadia trail runners. I was miserable in them. After that I saw a video of you on the PCT, I think. I told my wife I need to find out what those CLOWN shoes are she is wearing. Somewhere you commented that they were Lone Peaks. I got a pair and loved them. And then Altra began narrowing them. I don't understand stand it. I still wear the Lone Peaks. But, I have had to go up another size to get the width. Thanks for the video review.
I completely agree about the wide toebox! Love zero drop myself, but do need some cushion as roots and rocks are problematic for my princess feet 🤣🤣. Thanks so much for your detailed review!!
Yes altra timp was the best fitting shoe ever now its more narrow, so I completely understand your frustration
I just started wearing the Topo Ultraventure Pro. It looks like it's based on the same last as the Terraventure. I found the heels on my Altras would collapse after a couple hundred miles, they also tended to have problems in material and build quality. To soon to judge the Ultraventure Pros conclusively, but the initial impression is that they are much better made and offer a comparable toe box. Sure, I could go for a bit more space.
I just tried my new terraventure 3’s, as it happens, on a thru hike of the Foothills Trail! I really liked how they handled the roots and wet steps. I’m coming from altar lone peaks so the extra stiffness of the sole was nice. I hope they don’t make the toe box narrower.
I loved my Topo running shoes. So I recently got the Topo trail runner and was disappointed that the toe box was smaller. Still better than other shoes but I wish they would leave the toe box wide.
Good thorough review to which I can only add some anecdotal info if anyone is interested. I'm currently walking around in a pair of Xero Terraflex, which will be my third pair of Xero shoes. I like their Z-trek sandals the best. I've also tried a pair of their Prios, but found them not durable enough. Mine self-destructed in about 300 miles, which given the price, was too soon. I loved the feel and fit of the Prios, but the durability issue kept me from buying a second pair. The Terraflex are comfortable enough, but not as comfy as the Prio. I'm hoping that being a little beefier they'll last longer.
The Topos have been on the radar for a while, so I'm glad to have your perspective on them before I plunk down my money. The narrowing of the toebox may be a deciding factor in not getting them.
I found a brand new pair of Topo terraventure 2 shoes for free at a donation center. That’s so cool that you used them on your PCT hike!
I had the Topo ST-2 road shoe and I loved it. Recently got the ST-3 and had the same problem with the narrower toe box! Not sure what they were thinking.
I love my Topo Mountain Racer 2 trail runner shoes for hiking/backpacking. Great shoe!
Lems Primal Persuit is good option to look into for wide toebox, zero drop, 1.4 cm stack height( I think?), and an aggressive lug pattern. More protection than the Terraflex which will take a total rehab of my poor feet to adjust to. I dont think you can go straight to a Terraflex for backpacking. The "civilized" foot is just too weak for that level of exposure. Foot strengthening exercises are very important, I think.
Dr. Emily at EBFA fittness is pretty awesome for functional podiatry and foot wellnes( double thumbs up).
Thanks for the Vid!!
I have been happy with Ultraventures so far. I bought a pair of the pros this last time because they have a rock plate. I hear you about the narrowing toe boxes- WHY???? Considering practically every shoe post I see in trail groups is someone looking for a wide toe box, it makes zero sense!!
I got the Topo TA 3 on your recommendation and I love them. Before the TOPOs I was a loyal I Altra Lone Peaks fan but I just kept ripping thru them in what I feel is too soon. Less than 250 miles I estimate. So far the TOPOs are great. I have about a hundred miles on them and they seems to be wearing well. Good traction. Good comfort. No complaints. I probably won’t get the xeros because I have sensitive feet and need the padding.
You are my hero! Bozo toes for me! Still rockin' the Lone Peaks for going on 5 years now! They look totally normal to me!😁
I do swap out to the Olympus 4 for road walk and hard rock, But I do swap back to the Lone Peaks ASAP because of the wider toe-box “ Trail feel” I get from them.
I just got a pair of the Traverses today, they feel really good out of the box, can’t wait to get them out on the trail.
Go you for nudging shoe companies about the toe box! Keep up the good work!
My dog, Cali, is dying, today. We started following you in 2017. I want to thank you for all the great hikes and reviews. I hope to hike the section from I80 to Castle Crags in 2022. So many fires here, in NorCal. Again, thanks, especially for the 700 mile on the PCT. God BLESS.
I'm so sorry for your loss.
I LOVE my XeroShoes Terra Flex! Been hiking and backpacking in them for years. I do suggest wearing them first on mellow trails, before carrying a full backpack on seriously rocky routes. After wearing XeroShoes a while, your feet and ankles get stronger and more flexible; your foot will simply wrap around rocks that initially might have felt pokey. XeroShoes allow the feet and ankles do what they evolved to do -- flex and adjust to variations in the ground surface. Other shoes force the knees to absorb those variations. My knee issues faded with XeroShoes. At age 65, I've tried LOTS of footwear, and XeroShoes are tops!
Did it have a wide enough toe box for you?
@@janicekennah1824 Yes, the toe box is plenty wide. My feet are narrow in the heel and wide in the ball, definitely wider than average feet but not super wide.
@@laurakey6534 Thank you. I have a narrow foot and used to wear Altra Lone Peaks and Timps, but after two bouts of plantar fasciitis I switched to Altra Olympus 3.5s (for the cushion and wide toe box) and absolutely love them, and now I am so hesitant to try anything else!! But I'd really like to get into a shoe that is snugger in the mid-foot because my foot is narrow, and yet I still want that nice wide toe box and cushion.
@@janicekennah1824 I find that the instep straps on XeroShoes let me adjust the fit or lace pressure nicely, so the shoes are snug across my instep, without any slippage, but still offer ample space in the ball and toes. But I know nothing about how your history of plantar fasciitis might inform shoe choice.
Merrell started the wide toe box and still does it. They're also still super cheap.
Ugh, I love that wide toe box. Just got the Altra timp 3 and I love them.
Hi
Yes, altra user here. My Olympus 3.0 were fantastic, best ever. Then the 3.5 were tighter could never hike long distance, used them as trainers. Then the 4.0 came out great fit, but the sole is not as grippy slipped hard many times. In between I used the timps great shoes but not as much stack height, but worked well. So, I understand you about the changes.
Thanks for your work with the videos and your wealth of knowledge 👍 🙏
I agree fully with you Bozo.
Wide toe box is more important than style in trail runner shoes.
Excellent review, Dixie. I wear Keen hikers for our rugged/rocky terrain - when I need a firm sole. New ones now have the narrow toe box as well. Why, Keen, whhhyyyyyy? You were different, you fit my foot. I loved you but now we are breaking up 😢.
Why is it so hard for manufacturers to understand we want cushion, color, and wide toe box in a hiking shoe?
That's what you want. That's not for everyone.
I wear Xero shoes and sandals for everything except backcountry hunting.
I prefer an absolute minimalist sole in the mountains, in the gym and for everyday wear.
@@TheHybridHunter307 Amen
I used the Topo Ultraventure 2 and the Terraventure 2 last summer. I prefer the Ultraventure 2 which has a 5mm drop. Very comfortable and lasted a long time before needing replacement. I plan on wearing them on the PCT next summer. Thanks for the review. Always nice to hear about other shoes.
I recently gave topo a shot and got a pair of their Phantoms, I really like the feel of their midsole! Between Altra, Brooks, saucony and adidas theirs feels the best to me! Unfortunately I still have like 3 pairs of perfectly good trail shoes...and should retire at least one if them before considering new trail shoes, lol
Hi Dixie, I've had good results using a sharpie paint-pen (oil-based) to change the colour of my shoes. I was easily able to colour the rubbery overlays. Admittedly I was going darker (pink to black) and you'd probably want to go lighter but it could be worth a try to get the shoes you want to wear..
Thank you Dixie! I want a wide toe box on all my shoes. If I could find one brand that consistently offers a wide toe box, I would stick with that brand.
I love xero shoes as my daily shoe, trail running without a pack, and for cycling. The comfort is amazing. When I hit the trail, I need more cushion. Here in New England the trails are just too rocky to wear a minimalist shoe with weight on your back.
Fellow New Englander here. What do you wear on the trail?
@@zonto22 Right now I'm using some topo runventure for trail running and warm weather hiking and lems outlanders for wet weather. I haven't tried the lems in snow yet, so I can't say how good they will be long term.
it's still good training and strengthening for your feet to wear the minimal shoes outside of backpacking scenarios. I'm pretty much the same way. I use Xero shoes around town or on shorter day hikes a lot but if I'm going on extended trips I use Altra Lone Peaks or Inov-8 Trailfly G270's. I actually like the Inov-8 G270's a lot because they are kind of a happy spot between Lone Peaks and Xero as far as stack heigh is concerned.
Love a wide toe box. Lonepeak 5.0 has a wide version now. 👍👣
Yes, wide shoes! Once I figured out my toes don't have to be squished I started to enjoy walking. Once I gave up high heels my whole attitude changed. Men got it right when they quit wearing heels.
Birkenstock used to make a Mary Jane shoe called Maryland that had a wide toe box. They were great for me, as I was on my feet all day. They quit making them. Wish they would bring them back.
I still have extra Lone Peaks I bought last year and one unopened box left over from 2019 and I have one pair of Terraventure 2 that have quite a few miles left in them. You brought up the most important issue which is that all the shoe companies keep making changes that make our reviews obsolete before we use up our old stock.
I need a mens 13 -2e width. I buy the shelf when i can find it. I 100% agree that companies get narrower as they go in models. I just want my lonepeak 4.0s again
Have hiked a couple of weeks in the Xero TerraFlex. Very comfortable. They have a wide toe box without having the clumsiness of a wide thick sole shoe so you are more nimble than with other shoes. Yes, when it comes to rocks you want more cushioning. However I solved that with Doctor Sholles inserts. Shoes still nimble and I thought I had a great hiking shoe until they started falling apart after a couple of weeks on the trail. The sole separated from uppers on one shoe and the reinforcing ed areas of the uppers is too thin or the material too weak to offer much protection for the upper mesh. The soles do ware very well but that comes from them being very dense which adds unwanted weight. So as Dixie said the long ware warranty for the sole is of little use if the rest of the shoe falls apart.
Great review. If you can wear your xeros on that root covered trail, I feel more confident to wear mine everywhere 👍
I can't speak to the Xero's but I found Topo to be too wide in the heel (wouldn't hold it down) - my wife is very happy with hers, though. Keep the reviews comin', Dixie, you're a breath of fresh air!
Merry Christmas!
I took the advice of slowly breaking in the terraflex walking around my neighborhood and absolutely loved them until I hit a trail with a bunch of rocks and roots. Walked about 10 miles over that terrain and could barely walk the next two days.
Our feet are designed to run/walk barefoot on dirt trails. They have arches which mean they work best without support & need to expand about 15% when used. I run in zero-drop, barefoot shoes & plan to start hiking in some. Be sure to transition slowly, but you'll feel a lot of little muscles developing in your calves that you never knew were there.
Merry Christmas to you and your family Dixie. We’re looking forward to another two week trip to your fabulous state, in January! Thanks for the great content!
Nice to see you’re wearing Darn Tough socks!
Preach. Someone needs to tell Merrell 🙄. I only just moved on to the Xero Mesa Trails with no issue. Lovely. True zero drop, no b.s midsole support and yes, wide toe box, thank heaven.
Different strokes. For me, with narrow feet, the toe box in the Altra Lone Peaks was too wide. I like the comfort of the shoe and used it on the High Sierra trail and hiking on the rocky trails behind my house but found that I tripped a lot on downhills. That wide box stuck out just far enough beyond the norm for my apparently low foot lift to catch here and there. I thought it was just me but then found a few reviews by people who are way more hardcore than I am and had the same problem. Even with Altra's slightly narrowed box, isn't it still wider than on most shoes? For a lot of people, La Sportiva Bushidos are too narrow; for me, they're perfect (though I need to size up 1.5 sizes, as they run incredible short). Shoes are so individual, just like feet.
Imba TOPO guy also-Trailventure mids>>>>just wish they went just a bit higher on the ankle-more support!!!
My terraventure 3s are being delivered today actually! I wear altras typically.
I just bought these hiking shoes and I love them! A complaint about these thin-soled shoes is feeling everything underneath, but that's part of the point of wearing them. Also it makes us pay more attention to what our feet are doing and where we are placing them.
I discovered Xero shoes about a year ago and I've bought a few pair now and got rid of ALOT of my shoe collection- it's hard to go back to wearing those.
I'll never understand shoe companies ... a 2 min google would tell them what hikers etc. are looking for in a shoe (wide fit, large toebox, quick drying ...). You would think companies have an interrest in selling their product but apparently not.
Love both pairs and hiked PCT with Xero's the last day as my camp shoe and returned Salaloms that nearly took my toe nails! Pretty sure the Topos's will be my go to hiking boot next season they are resting over winter and waiting for next season trail work.
So agree with your toe box commentary! Keep 'em wide!
Good review. Agree 100%, give me a wide toe box! Regardless of shoe brand, I struggle with this.
I just ordered a pair of Topo Terraventure 3’s. I loved the older versions of the Altra Lone Peaks, but the last pair that I got left my knees hurting…a lot. I had lost a bunch of weight (130+ pounds), and started running (different shoes for running and hiking) so hiking should not have been an issue. I just don’t think that there was enough cushion in the Altra’s. I’m hoping that the Topo’s are better.
I have the ultra venture topos. I love them.
Dear Dixie please create your own shoe line with a custom page. People can order normal in stock items or customize ... pick a different color... a little wider.... etc similar to EE or UGQ quilts.
I don’t have any trail runner experience but I am switching from the Altra Torin to the Topo Ultrafly 3. I too threw my Achilles to the wolves but have paid the price. Hopefully the 5mm of drop in the Topo’s will help my Achilles. I’m quite interested to see which I like better so that I can have some guidance on which brand to buy for trail runners. As a side note I tried the Inov-8 G-270 and they were terrible. I gave them away after a week or two. The tongue and toe box were a disaster.
The Terraventure 3 shoes were great! Only issue I had was that the back fell in on itself and started rubbing my ankle. Would buy them again!
Yikes! That would seem intolerable on trail
I also have clown feet (or maybe duck get is more descriptive) and would love for manufacturers to leave the wide toe boxes alone. It would also be nice for those of us who can't wear women's sizes for men's sizes to be more colorful.
I know a lot of men who would like more options in color as well
Yes we need wider toe box for our duck feet. Also stop putting a toe spring in the shoes. No one’s toes curl upward naturally.
I’ve got about 100 miles on my Terraventure 3 (I had the 2’s first). I really like them. They’re really comfortable, and I dig the deep lugs. Great for traction.
Style often eventually overcomes function it seems, when it comes to outdoor products, and shoes are an example. Thus, all of the outdoor product companies that are now stylish clothing purveyors. I’m old enough to remember buying high quality useful gear from Eddie Bauer ( : Not enough Bozos around to keep the bean counters happy.
Problem is that there are too many cooks in the kitchen when it comes to design meetings. They start with concepts (which come from data research and what's trending etc..) then it gets watered down thru the channel into something they "think" consumers want. It's even more complicated than that but this is true in a lot of footwear design companies. Then there are really considerate design companies that keep a couple skus going throughout many years because they don't want to lose their proven yearly customers.
Sorry, change of subject. Do you have videos on thru hike with dogs or any videos recommendations on this subject?
Love quality of your post👍
I'm not a runner though used to love running but Altra Rivera 2's have enabled me to walk again after a lot of ligament problems caused mainly by shoes pushing my big toe in. Why all footwear isn't made with a natural foot shaped toe box I don't understand at all. Buying as many pairs as I can before they disappear & I wish they'd make everyday shoes & boots too. They're even vegan which is a huge bonus for me.
I thruhiked the SHT in my Xeros. I think that they are a super nice hiking shoe but they aren’t the best backpacking shoes. Dixie said true about feeling the rocks/roots more and with the added weight of my bag, it wasn’t always very comfortable. Another note, I normally wear Xero shoes daily so my feet are used to the zero drop.
I agree with the wide toe box problem--why do the manufacturers narrow them???? Anybody remember Earth Shoes from the 1970s? They were popular, even though they made your feet look like duck feet!
I loved my earth shoes and would love to have them once again
I love barefoot, zero drop shoes. I really like feeling the trail. That being said, I just got some Topo Terraventure 3 and found them just very cushiony and comfortable.
We want a wide toe , zero drop shoe. Altra started that way and i loved them. Bummer that looks win out.
I told inquiries that i bought my shoes at clowns are us.
Love the xero sandals but I could not get used to the prio shoes. Went back to my altra. Sounds like you feel the same.
Absolutely! Like you, I have a large foot and have to wear the men's shoes. If there isn't enough room in the toe box my toes rub together and make either blisters or corns - I don't want either!
More toe box ? Hear, hear! For pete's sake, someone give me some solid boots with clown-shoe toes!
I have freakin' clown feet. They're extra wide with some Morton's toe thrown in for good measure. It's so hard to find any footwear that fits reasonably well; the only brands I've found that work are Merrell and Lowa, and, even then, it's a compromise. (For me, taping up with leukotape is a pre-hike requirement, not something carried just-in-case)
I once tried on some Altras that felt absolutely heavenly; they looked like clown shoes, but I didn't care. But they were a no-go because the sole wasn't nearly stiff enough; even my Merrell Moab shoes kill my feet when walking on talus (which happens a lot where I live) so the Altras were a non-starter. Toss in a weak ankle due to a nasty fracture 13 years ago, and trail runners are pretty much eliminated from consideration.
Dixie have you tried Altra shoes in winter? I've had the lone peak 5's since this autumn and I can walk in deep snow at -15c with no issues but the ice is really the limit for them, its just way too slippery and I'm forced back into my boots with vibram soles.
I have to go with near zero-drop and bozo. TOTALLY agree!!
I tried Topos for the long trail but they went up to the ankle so a different model. (I apologize I forget which one) one thing I didn’t like about them was how much crud got in my shoes so I had to wear gators. Also they started to fall apart after week one. Not sure if it is because I got a bad model or if it was because we went through so much mud. Other then that I loved them. The xero shoes didn’t work for me due to the same complaint you had about it being uncomfortable under foot as NH is very rocky and rooty so I prefer a buffer there too. Thanks for sharing!
Have you ever tried Hokas? My podiatrist recommended them and would love to see a review on them.
I haven't experienced feeling narrower toe box between the Terraventure 2 to the Terraventure 3. Like, for my size, mens 11.5 - they are exactly the same between models. Maybe this is a size specific thing. Or maybe it's Dixie's feet experiencing the nocebo effect, lol. I will agree the 2's did feel a tad bit cushier than the 3. I thought I was imagining it until I saw some reviews confirming it. Still haven't found a better shoe (for me), than the Terraventure 3's at this point in time.
I had the same negative experience w/ Top and Altra for shoe box width and height. I only buy Xero's now for the toebox. The Terraflex isn' t likely the best choice for backpacking. I think Xerjo's Daylite hiker would have been a better match for your application. It has a stiffer sole and is my go to hiker for that specific reason (especially if you have a bit of weight on your back).
I saw your earlier episode on Xero and actually bought some for Knick around shoes. Very comfortable but my model is minimal and below $100. I have worn Vivos for many years but like these better. I would not wear this Prio model on rocky soil. I live in a rocky area in the Texas Hill country but for street barfoot shoes yes. Thanks for pointing out that brand as barefoot style and zero drop have been very slow to catch on and hard to find until now
Ultraventures pros! What’s your thoughts on those? I rotate between my LPs and Ultraventure Pros every other hike and I’d have to say Topos for the win, I do like my LPs but the uppers are sloppy and my feet just feel better after wearing my Topos, what’s your thoughts on UltraVenture Pros?
I recently purchased a pair of the Topo Terraventure 3s... and although I only have a few miles in them, I do really wish the toe box was bigger 😓
I feel the 3mm stack height, even in my Men's Size 13s, when I first start walking in them; however, I don't notice so much after a few minutes.
If you find a shoe you like, ALWAYS buy an extra pair! ALWAYS.
That way you have a 2nd pair when the first one runs out and you can delay the time you have before finding another disappointing shoe you 'settle for'. I did that with my Ultras which I got because of you. Sadly now my 2nd pair is in need of replacement and Ultra doesn't make them as good as this shoe. So I am hunting but very disappointed.
Hi Dixie! I was wondering what your thoughts were on how the Terraventure 3 performed in deep mud/wet rocky conditions? I love your videos and keep doing you lady!
Still searching myself. I’ve got light, mid ankle boots figured out. Still working on the trail runner.
I own a pair of speedcross, some north face model, lone peak 4.5s (which destroy my ankles lol), and literally just ordered some Olympus 4s.
Gonna have to try Lone Peak 5s as well. Test fit a pair and the back piece that bothered my Achilles in the 4.5 seems much improved. New sole material was pleasant as well.
The terraflex reminds me of my old pair of Vivos. I’m in the Lone Peaks now…no looking back!!!