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.
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.
Adidas Supernova Rise 2
Pros
- Lighter than version 1
- Comfortable yet breathable upper
- Cold-proof PEBA midsole
- Stable ride with Support Rods
- Reflective accents for night visibility
- Maintains competitive price tag
- Responsive Dreamstrike+ foam
- Flexible, natural running experience
- Great for walking
Cons
- Outsole lacks Continental
- Not cushioned for forefoot strikers
- Still lacks a gusseted tongue
Key Features
- Supportive Design: The shoes incorporate a well-cushioned midsole that provides excellent support during runs.
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials, they promise longevity even under rigorous use.
- Lace-Up Closure: The traditional lace-up design ensures a secure fit throughout your run.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for running, walking, and casual outings, making them a great addition to any wardrobe.
- Breathable Material: The polyester outer material allows for airflow, helping to keep your feet cool and dry.
- Reliable Traction: Equipped with a rubber sole that offers good grip on various surfaces, enhancing stability and safety.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Polyester
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The Adidas Supernova Rise 2 is a highly spacious and supportive running shoe, making it particularly well-suited for individuals with wide feet. During our testing, both on the road and in the lab, this shoe demonstrated a forgiving ride that allows for extended mileage, especially among heel-strike runners.
This model provides ample space for broader or swollen feet, with our gel mold measuring the ball of the foot area at 98.7 mm, surpassing the average of 95.5 mm. Throughout our testing, there was no discomfort or unwanted pressure experienced on the feet.
Stability is enhanced by small side wraps in the heel and the Support Rods, which assist in aligning foot placement without sacrificing comfort. Our durometer measurements revealed a solid balance, with a reading of 21.0 HA, consistent with the average performance metrics.
The light and flexible construction contributes to an effortless sensation during runs. With a weight of only 9.1 oz (257g), it is below the average of 9.4 oz (267g). Additionally, the shoe exhibited 37.4% greater flexibility than average during our flex test.
However, we noted potential concerns regarding the outsole's durability, suggesting that those prioritizing longevity in their footwear may want to explore other options.
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 Torin 8
Pros
- True zero-drop midsole
- Foot-shaped, wide toebox
- Excellent durability
- Improved heel lockdown
- Plush step-in comfort
- Keeps the same price
- Can be used for walking
- Amazing for forefoot strikers
- Improved outsole
- Stable
Cons
- Weight gain compared to v7
- Not for rearfoot strikers
- Needs a better foam ASAP
- Non-gusseted tongue
Key Features
- Closure type: Lace-Up for a secure fit.
- FootShape™ technology: Designed to allow your feet to relax and naturally expand on longer runs.
- Cushioning: Features Altra's signature cushioning aimed at providing comfort without compromising performance.
- Zero Drop platform: Promotes a more natural running form by placing the heel and forefoot at the same distance from the ground.
Specifications
- Closure type: Lace-Up
- Available Sizes: Various sizes including 10 US
- Color: Dark Blue
- Weight: Lightweight construction
The Altra Torin 8 is a notable zero-drop running shoe, best suited for runners seeking a barefoot experience. It provides significant ground feel, an actual zero drop, and a fluid midsole, all validated by lab tests. Additionally, its foot-shaped toebox enhances comfort during off-road activities.
Two key factors contribute to the Torin 8's barely-there feel: its flat profile and adaptive midsole. With a heel drop measuring just -0.1 mm, it offers a genuine zero-drop experience. The platform's fluid motion complements movements seamlessly, confirmed by our bend test, which shows it is 6.7% more flexible than average.
Another reason for its agility is the exceptional ground feel, provided by a minimal 27.6/27.7 mm stack height. The high level of surface feedback allows adaptation to various terrains, demonstrated by its below-average shock absorption score of 110 SA in the heel.
Our measurements of the gel mold replica indicate ample room in the toebox, with a caliper confirming a width of 83.6 mm. This measurement indicates it is 13.7% wider than average, making it spacious enough for those with broad feet.
A drawback of the Altra Torin 8 is its limited ventilation, which may be a concern for warmer conditions. Runners who prioritize breathability should consider alternative options.
Xero Shoes HFS II
Pros
- Anatomical toebox for natural toe splay
- Real minimalist design
- Reasonably priced
- Versatile for roads and light trails
- Amazing at gym workouts
- Ultra-flexible and easy to pack
- Full-length outsole coverage
- Superior ground feel
- Promotes feet strength
Cons
- Midsole lacks energy return
- Heavier than most minimalist shoes
- Durability still needs improvements
Key Features
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Natural Movement Design: Emphasizes barefoot and minimalist principles with a wide toe box for natural splay.
Lightweight Performance: Weighing only 8.3 oz (Men's size 9), this shoe is designed for performance on the road.
Supportive Fit: Features a breathable mesh upper with moisture-wicking lining that keeps your feet dry.
Added Protection: Utilizes welded overlays for durability and an internal tensioning strap system to ensure a secure fit.
Durable Traction: Equipped with dual chevron lugs to provide excellent grip on various surfaces.
Specifications
-
Origin: Imported
Sole Material: Rubber
Outer Material: Textile & synthetic
Inner Material: Mesh
The Xero Shoes HFS II is among the best options for those seeking a wide-toebox walking shoe that provides a minimalist barefoot experience. It is particularly suited for individuals who prefer a light and unobtrusive footwear option while navigating urban environments.
Lab tests reveal that the HFS II is designed with minimalism in mind, featuring a weight of 8.6 oz (244g), which is 7.9% lighter than average. This lightweight feel is further enhanced by its highly flexible midsole, requiring 62.6% less force than average to achieve a specific angle, showcasing its free-flowing nature.
With a minimal stack height of only 13.1/12.1 mm between the foot and ground, the shoe significantly magnifies ground feel, in contrast to the average of 34.2/25.6 mm. Additionally, the 1.0 mm low heel drop contributes to a more natural ride.
The shoe's spacious toebox further adds to its comfort, allowing for a relaxed fit as it barely tapers towards the big toe area, measuring 86.7 mm, which is considerably more generous than the 78.4 mm average.
However, due to the thin cushioning, users may find that there is minimal bounce during use. Those looking for additional spring in their steps may want to explore alternative options.
Altra FWD VIA
Pros
- Exceptionally spacious toebox
- Lightweight considering its size
- Reliable traction
- Most heel-striker-friendly Altra so far
- Plush step-in feel
- Semi-gusseted tongue
- Stable landings
Cons
- Underwhelming energy return
- Midsole feels firmer than expected
- Durability could be better
- Actual drop differs from stated spec
Key Features
- Altra EGO Foam: The original Altra EGO foam is engineered to provide added energy return, delivering a responsive yet soft feel during your runs.
- APMA Seal of Acceptance: This shoe has earned the prestigious American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, indicating it promotes good foot health.
- Engineered Mesh Uppers: The lightweight and breathable mesh uppers are designed for optimal airflow, making them suitable for long-distance running on various terrains.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Altra FWD VIA is designed for runners seeking comfort and a spacious fit. It features an ultra-roomy interior, a flexible midsole, and a cushioned forefoot, making it our top lightweight running shoe with a wide toebox.
Weighing only 9.0 oz (255g), the FWD VIA delivers an airy sensation. The flexible midsole required just 14.5N to bend at 30 degrees in our lab test, ensuring ease of use for daily activities.
The shoe incorporates the FootShape design, providing ample wiggle room during runs. Our gel mold measurements revealed a toebox width of 84.5 mm, which is 11.0 mm wider than average, and a vertical clearance of 29.1 mm, allowing all five toes to fit comfortably.
With a thick forefoot stack measuring 29.4 mm, the midsole promotes enduring comfort, particularly for midfoot and forefoot strikers. Notably, it demonstrated 7.6% greater shock absorption than the average, contributing to a well-cushioned experience.
It’s important to note that the FWD VIA has a drop of 6.5 mm. While this accommodates heel-strikers effectively, it may not meet the expectations of Altra enthusiasts looking for a low or zero-drop option.