What are everyone's fav semis (mainly boulder but standout lead ones too) to rewatch from previous years? Could be good setting, dramatic scoring changes, unexpected underdogs, overall vibes - whatever the reason. Looking for something to take me through the gaps between comps now that the season is on again :)
I have been searching for my unicorn trail runners for a while now, after hearing rave reviews about hiking in trail runners instead of hiking boots. I finally bought the Topo Mtn Racer 4 women's shoes - and thought I'd share my impressions since it's hard to find too much info about these online.
Fit: I have a wide mid and forefoot and either an average or narrow heel (unsure tbh) - and these fit perfectly for that. Love the roomy toebox, it is rare for me to get no blisters or hotspot on the forefoot, but these suckers do it. The midfoot may potentially be a tad tighter than ideal, but I like the locked in feeling it gives me and prefer it to having my feet slide around like they did in any Altra I tried. The arch support does feel a tad... aggressive? on my flattish feet - but after a few runs and hikes they do not give me trouble.
Breathability/temperature control: So far I have only worn these in fall and winter - my feet never got cold, but also I do not know how breathable they would be in hot weather. They do, however, dry quick, so I have hope.
Cushion: They do not feel as plush as, say the Hoka Speedgoats felt. I did, however, choose them for the balance between still providing some cushion while not feeling like a platform, as I want to use them for scrambling, and prefer the feeling of being closer to the ground. While my first time wearing them I was worried the cushion was too little, after multiple wears they do now feel pretty comfy.
General performance: I have not yet abused these extensively - however I have taken them on several trail runs (3-8 mi, rocky, muddy, lots of tree roots) and day hikes (mud, rocks, some scrambling). The vibram sole is wonderful - I have not slipped once including on one steep scrambly granite area where everyone around my was having to use all fours - I simply walked my way across. Curious to see how well the sole holds up. They feel decently supportive and locked in, are comfy, and I feel confident to take them anywhere. Obviously, no ankle protection, but I am yet to roll one (and I am prone).
Overall, I'm happy with the shoes and enjoy them! I think for narrow/avg heeled, wide mid/forefooted folks who are looking for a comfy, grippy trail runner with moderate cushion, this is a great show both for hiking and trail running.