Topo Atmos
Pros
- Max-cushioned comfort
- Ultra-spacious toebox
- Stable ride
- Premium Ortholite footbed
- Midfoot-friendly geometry
- Lightweight for its huge size
- Great for easy long runs
- No heel slippage
Cons
- Lacks energy return
- Not for narrow-footed runners
- Could be a bit more flexible
Key Features
- Max Cushioning: With a 40 x 35 mm platform, these neutral road running shoes offer exceptional plush comfort and shock absorption.
- Energetic Ride: The updated ZipFoam midsole provides lightweight cushioning and enhanced rebound, ensuring an efficient stride.
- Lighter Outsole: A newly designed outsole enhances grip and slip resistance while minimizing weight, allowing for a stable ride.
- Breathable Recycled Upper: Made from recycled materials, the engineered mesh upper offers excellent airflow and adaptability, promoting sustainability.
- All-Day Comfort: The OrthoLite Performance Insole delivers cushioned support that resists compression, suitable for extended wear.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Polyester
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Topo Atmos is a wide walking shoe best suited for those seeking significant stability and comfort during extended walks. Our lab tests indicate that it provides exceptional impact protection while maintaining a well-balanced feel.
During testing, we noted the roominess of the shoe, with our caliper measurements revealing a base width of 119.1/96.8 mm. This is considerably wider than the average width of 114.1/90.6 mm, which contributed to a confident stance and solid footing with each step. Additionally, our gel mold replica indicates that the ball of the foot measures 98.5 mm, approximately 3.1% above average.
The Topo Atmos features a stack height of 37.8/32.5 mm and utilizes 20.0 HA cushioning, designed to dampen impact and deliver comfort without sacrificing support. Despite its substantial build, this model weighs only 9.7 oz (275g), ensuring it remains lightweight even after prolonged use.
However, it is important to note that the Topo Atmos exhibits a slightly stiffer construction compared to other options, which may be less suitable for individuals who prefer more flexibility in their footwear.
Adidas Ultraboost 5
Pros
- Enhanced midsole cushioning
- Roomy, comfortable knit upper
- Suitable for daily wear
- Excellent durability
- Optimized for heel strikers
- Superior Continental outsole
- More cushioned than ever before
- Can handle forefoot strikers
- Great for summer
Cons
- Could still be lighter
- Not suitable for fast paces
- Potential for heel slippage
Key Features
- Men's running shoes offering a supportive feel
- BOOST technology: Delivers incredible energy return by fusing together energy capsules
- ADIDAS PRIMEKNIT: Provides a foot-hugging upper that enhances movement
- CONTINENTAL RUBBER OUTSOLE: Ensures extraordinary traction in wet and dry conditions
- PARLEY OCEAN PLASTIC: Made with at least 50% recycled polyester and ocean plastic yarn
Specifications
- Origin: Made in USA and Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Polyester
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The Ultraboost 5 is an ideal choice for runners seeking exceptional comfort in their footwear. Our lab testing confirms that this model stands out among Adidas running shoes due to its gentle foam, breathable construction, and spacious fit, making it suitable for everyday wear.
Equipped with Light Boost foam, the Ultraboost 5 offers notable cushioning, supported by high shock absorption levels of 126 SA in the heel and 112 SA in the forefoot. Its fluid midsole contributes to a comfortable experience, as demonstrated by our bend test showing it’s 34.6% more flexible than the average running shoe.
The soft and stretchy Primeknit upper fits snugly around the top of the foot, enhancing the overall spacious feel. The toebox measures wider than average, notably at 81.8 mm in the big toe area, accommodating those with broader feet, while seamless airflow contributes to its excellent breathability.
Underfoot, the Continental outsole delivers reliable durability and grip. Although it has a softer measurement of 69.1 HC, it demonstrated impressive resistance to wear in our Dremel test, with only an insignificant 0.8 mm dent noted.
A key drawback is the midsole's lack of responsiveness, which makes the Ultraboost 5 better suited for easy-paced runs.
Hoka Gaviota 5
Pros
- Remarkably stable
- Breathable and comfortable upper
- Lightweight for its size
- Good stability option for forefoot strikers
- Ideal for wide feet
- Excellent for long runs
Cons
- Low drop might pose issues for heel strikers
- Performs poorly in colder conditions
- Not for narrow feet
- Midsole feels flat
Key Features
- Stability Support: Engineered to offer maximum support for overpronators.
- Cushioning: Advanced cushioning technology reduces impact during runs.
- Breathable Mesh Upper: Keeps your feet cool and comfortable even during long runs.
- Durable Outsole: Made from synthetic rubber for enhanced traction and durability.
- Wide Fit: Specifically designed to accommodate wider foot shapes for added comfort.
Specifications
- Fabric Type: Synthetic-and-rubber
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
- Sole Material: Synthetic Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh
The Hoka Gaviota 5 is a highly recommended stability wide walking shoe, ideal for individuals seeking reliable support, ample dimensions, and notable comfort during walks. Lab tests indicate that its spacious base, H-Frame, and dual-density midsole significantly enhance surefootedness.
We measured the midsole at 125.1/106.6 mm, surpassing the average of 114.1/90.6 mm. This additional space contributes to secure footing, while the rigid H-Frame helps maintain proper alignment and stability.
The midsole delivers a pleasant experience with a plush feel that maintains structural integrity. Our durometer assessment reveals a dual-density configuration: a soft 12.9 HA primary cushion for comfort and a firmer 22.0 HA layer in key areas, promoting both support and durability.
The upper provides a refreshing fit and measures 99.7 mm at the widest part of the toebox, which is 4.4% larger than average, making it suitable for wider or swollen feet. Breathability is excellent, as demonstrated by a perfect score of 5/5 in our smoke test, allowing for effective temperature regulation.
However, it's important to note that the Gaviota 5 is 36.5% stiffer than average, which may detract from the light and natural feel preferred by some users.
ASICS Noosa Tri 16
Pros
- Lightweight
- Exceptional grip
- Attention-grabbing aesthetic
- Gusseted tongue
- Comfortable upper
- Great for triathlon
- Really versatile
- Fantastic price point
- Breathability
Cons
- Upper longevity
- Minimal tongue padding
- Still not enough energy return
Key Features
- FF BLAST PLUS cushioning: This is ASICS' softest and lightweight cushioning material that provides exceptional impact absorption, helping to reduce fatigue during your runs.
- GUIDESOLE technology: Designed to create smooth toe-offs, this technology aids in conserving energy, allowing you to run longer distances with less effort.
- Mesh upper: Enhances breathability, ensuring that your feet stay cool even during intense workouts.
- ASICSGRIP outsole rubber: This unique outsole provides excellent grip and traction across various terrains, giving you the confidence to tackle different running environments.
- Environmentally-friendly sockliner: Produced using a solution dyeing process, it reduces water usage by approximately 33% and carbon emissions by about 45% compared to conventional methods.
Specifications
- Fabric type: 100% Synthetic
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Polyester
The ASICS Noosa Tri 16 is ideal for runners seeking a tempo shoe that offers exceptional traction and performance. Its versatile outsole, responsive kick, and shock-absorbing cushioning make it suitable for speed training in various weather conditions.
A key feature of the ASICS Noosa Tri 16 is the ASICSGRIP rubber, which demonstrated reliability in wet conditions with a friction score of 0.79. This level of traction is significantly higher, at 68.1% grippier than average, ensuring confidence through sharp turns and slippery streets.
We measured the stack height at 32.8/26.9 mm, contributing to a lightweight design weighing just 7.7 oz (217g). Despite its low weight, the shoe remains comfortable for multi-hour runs, achieving solid shock absorption scores of 129/108 SA in the heel and forefoot, respectively.
Acceleration feels more efficient in this shoe, thanks to effective energy return. The forefoot recorded an energy return score of 60.5%, while heel strikers experienced a lower score of 53.9%. If energy return is critical for your running style, this may be a drawback when considering the ASICS Noosa Tri 16.
Altra Escalante 4
Pros
- Minimalist, flexible ride
- Outstanding outsole
- Spacious extra-wide toebox
- Superb stability
- Lightweight
- Highly durable upper
- Recaptures Escalante 1.5 vibes
Cons
- Poor ventilation
- Non-gusseted tongue
- Not ideal for long distance training
Key Features
- Altra EGO Foam: This original foam offers enhanced energy return, providing you with a responsive yet soft feel that can help you go further with every step.
- Altra EGO MAX Midsole Foam: Experience light and luxurious performance combined with extra bounce and durability, making it ideal for long-distance runs.
- Balanced Cushioning: The shoe promotes a natural running form by allowing your feet to maintain a low-impact posture throughout your run.
- FootShape Toe Box: The design encourages proper toe splay, enhancing overall comfort during your run.
Specifications
- Fabric Type: Synthetic-and-fabric
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh
The Altra Escalante 4 is a minimalist running shoe particularly suited for individuals dealing with bunions. Contrary to typical perceptions, bunions do not necessitate overly stiff or orthopedic footwear; instead, many find comfort and support in a minimalist design. The benefits of such shoes include enhanced foot muscle strength, making the Escalante 4 an excellent choice in this category.
Several features contribute to the effectiveness of the Escalante 4 as a minimalist option. Its stack height measures 23.8 mm at the heel, which is over 10 mm lower than that of average running shoes, providing a low-to-the-ground feel. Although marketed as having a zero-drop, we noted an offset of 1.4 mm, making it approximately 7 mm less steep than standard models, enhancing its appeal.
This low heel drop encourages greater engagement of foot muscles compared to the upper legs, potentially aiding in injury prevention through improved lower leg strength. However, it is crucial for users to gradually adjust to the characteristics of minimalist footwear.
The flexibility of the Escalante 4 is noteworthy, being 83% more flexible than the average running shoe. This level of adaptability allows the shoe to move naturally with the foot, creating a comfortable running experience.
One of the primary reasons the Escalante 4 stands out for bunion sufferers is its spacious toebox. Overall, the shoe is more than 5 mm wider than average, and the toebox provides an additional 9 mm of space compared to typical running shoes. This design ensures ample room at the big toe joint, helping to prevent discomfort by not pushing the big toe toward the pinky toe.
However, if your big toe points upward, you may need to consider other options. The average toebox height is 27.2 mm, whereas the Escalante 4 features a height of only 25.4 mm. While this difference may seem minor, even 1-2 mm can significantly impact comfort and the risk of developing black toenails.
On Cloudmonster 2
Pros
- Premium materials
- Enhanced cushioning from v1
- Roomy toebox
- Works fantastic for midfoot strikers
- Unique ride feel
- Excels in long runs
- Solid stability
Cons
- Breathability needs improvement
- Tongue lacks enough cushion
- Needs to lose a bit of weight
- Not enough energy return
Key Features
- Nylon-blend Speedboard for improved momentum and powerful take-offs.
- Biggest-ever CloudTec that provides extra cushioning for a softer landing.
- Max cushioning ensures maximum energy return with every step you take.
- Reworked dual-density Helion superfoam adds significant bounce and responsiveness.
- Foam insert in the forefoot helps absorb impact, minimizing strain on your feet.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Polyester
- Inner material: Polyester
The On Cloudmonster 2 is among the top walking shoes for those with wide feet, offering notable shock absorption and comfort for extended wear. Lab testing confirms it features a protective stacked midsole designed to enhance user comfort over long periods.
This model effectively mitigates impact thanks to its firm cushion, which feels significantly softer due to the integration of CloudTec technology. It achieved a high 137 SA rating in shock absorption tests, validating the cushioned experience during use.
Measurements indicated a stack height of 37.9/31.3 mm, providing ample material between the ground and feet for added protection. Our gel mold replicated the interior space, revealing a width of 98.5 mm, which is 3.2% wider than average, making it suitable for individuals with broader foot shapes.
However, the shoe's breathability is limited, earning a low 2/5 ventilation score in lab assessments. This may not be ideal for users sensitive to overheating or uncomfortable with sweaty feet.
Altra Experience Wild
Pros
- Exceptionally roomy toebox
- Good transition shoe towards zero drop
- Ultra-plush tongue for top comfort
- Well cushioned for long adventures
- Versatile for hiking and running
- Good stability for heel strikers
- All-around durability
- Compatible with external gaiters
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Midsole lacks energy return
- Low heel collar allows debris in
- Non-gusseted tongue
- Not for narrow feet
Key Features
- Balanced Cushioning: The platform places the heel and forefoot at the same distance from the ground, promoting low-impact landings.
- Highly Cushioned Midsole: Specifically designed to support you during high-intensity trail days.
- FootShape Toe Box: Signature design allows your toes to spread naturally, enhancing your overall comfort and encouraging proper form.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh
- Inner Material: Polyester
The Experience Wild is a comfortable Altra trail running shoe ideal for runners seeking stability and cushioning during their runs. This model features a low-drop design, providing a high level of comfort, a stable ride, and a roomy fit.
We measured significant cushioning with precise measurements of 34.5/30.2 mm, ensuring comfort over long distances. The durometer reading showed a softness of 17.5 HA, contributing to an enjoyable running experience. With a low drop of 4.3 mm, it facilitates a smoother transition to zero-drop shoes, reducing strain on lower leg muscles.
To enhance stability, the Experience Wild widens its base, resulting in a generous landing area of 114.6/94.5 mm. The toebox also accommodates natural toe splay, tapering only slightly to 79.3 mm at the front. These design elements promote comfort and support during runs.
However, it’s important to note that the shoe may lack a sense of energy for some runners. Those looking for enhanced responsiveness may prefer a higher-performance model. Overall, the Experience Wild excels in comfort and stability but may not meet the expectations of those seeking a more dynamic ride.