Topo Ultraventure 4 Review

For runners seeking a foot-shaped upper without going zero-drop, the Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 is a noteworthy option. Little has changed over the previous version except for some subtle updates to the upper, which increased breathability and reduced water retention.

Comfort and Fit

The Ultraventure 4 nails it when it comes to comfort, making it an awesome pick for long miles or thru-hikes. The midsole hits a sweet spot between soft cushioning and responsiveness with only subtle bounce. The roomy upper gives your feet plenty of space without feeling sloppy. The upper uses tried-and-true materials, and the laces are soft and easy to dial in for a good fit. Updated with this iteration is a thin mesh in the upper, improving the breathability and increasing drying times. A nice toe rocker helps keep your steps feeling smooth and efficient. Plus, there's basically no break-in time — they feel comfy and ready to go right out of the box.

Traction

Our in-house lab team measured the depth of the lugs at 3.2 mm, which is barely changed from the previous version (3.3 mm). Big rectangular Vibram lugs give you plenty of surface area, making it feel super stable on smoother trails. The tread pattern is a little more spaced out compared to some other shoes, but that should help with long-term durability and mud shedding. There's not a ton of aggressive grip through the midfoot, but the toe has enough bite to help with the shoe's natural rocker and smooth toe-off. The exposed foam could wear down faster than a full rubber outsole, but it also helps keep the shoe nice and light. If you're planning on tackling a lot of rocky ridges or technical mountain stuff, you might want something beefier underfoot.

Stability

While the foot-shaped design helps distribute weight nicely, the higher stack makes it feel a bit tippy compared to some other models. If stability is your top priority, we'd suggest going for something lower to the ground or with a firmer midsole for better support through the ankles, knees, and hips. The exaggerated toe rocker also makes quick takeoffs on technical terrain feel a little less stable. That said, all of these features add up to serious comfort, which makes the Ultraventure 4 a great pick for moderate trails and long distances. And of course, more experienced runners might have no problem pushing it beyond that.

Foot Protection

The higher stack of the Ultraventure 4 gives a cushioned ride that soaks up impact — even if it doesn't feel quite as protective as some other models. It handled a wide range of trail types easily, and while the noticeable toe rocker gives it a unique feel, the overall design stays true to Topo's simple, much-loved style. The only place it felt a little out of its depth was on technical, off-camber terrain, where the extra cushioning and rocker weren't as helpful. Still, the comfort and fatigue-fighting feel make it a strong option for long ultras or big mileage days.

Weight

At 10.98 oz for a US men's 10.5, the Ultraventure 4 delivers an impressive mix of comfort and performance without feeling heavy. The upper strikes a nice balance between durability and softness, and the light swing weight keeps the shoe feeling quick and agile. The toe rocker helps create a smooth, easy stride, especially on moderate trails. If you're heading into rough, rocky terrain, though, you might want something with a full rubber outsole for traction and durability, since the exposed foam here could take some hits.

Sensitivity

The Ultraventure 4 offers a super comfortable ride with loads of cushion, thanks to a 37 mm heel, 29 mm forefoot, and an 8 mm drop. You won't feel every rock and root, though the softer foam still lets a little trail feel come through. In testing, it felt plush and forgiving — perfect for hiking, walking, and long days when fatigue sets in. It's not the snappiest option for hard efforts or technical terrain, but the trade-off is serious comfort over the long haul, making it a great pick for anything beyond marathon distance.

Should You Buy the Topo Ultraventure 4?

For those seeking a foot-shaped design without fully embracing zero drop, this shoe emerges as a great option. We particularly like it for its comfort over extended distances like thru-hikes and ultramarathons. Its comfortable and breathable upper, coupled with a classic, well-crafted feel, adds to its appeal. However, individuals sensitive to intense toe rockers might find it too much, and while it contributes to a bouncy stride, it occasionally feels cumbersome on more technical terrain. Runners desiring a more natural toe-off might explore other models in our lineup featuring a lower stack and reduced rocker.

What Other Men's Trail Running Shoes Should You Consider?

If you're prioritizing a foot-shaped feel, the Altra Lone Peak 9 stands out for exceptional all-day comfort, though it's important to note its zero-drop platform, which isn't for everyone's running style. If you prefer a minimal drop while maintaining similar comfort to the Ultraventure 4, the Hoka Torrent 4 or Hoka Mafate Speed 4 are both great choices for varied terrain. The Nnormal Tomir 2.0 excels on more challenging terrain.