The Topo Cyclone 2 Review & Lab Test of 2026

Topo Cyclone 2 is a lightweight performance shoe designed for runners seeking speed and responsiveness. With a **12 mm drop**, it is ideal for heel strikers looking to optimize their running mechanics.

The full-length Pebax midsole contributes to a nimble feel, enhancing the shoe's suitability for fast workouts and tempo runs. In our lab tests, we found that the breathable upper effectively maintains foot temperature, while the grip exceeded expectations in various conditions.

Although the shoe lacks heel stability and presents a firmer sensation than some users may prefer, its versatility and overall value make it a noteworthy option for a wide range of runners.

Pros

  • Exceptionally roomy, foot-shaped toebox
  • Outstanding value for the price
  • Full-length Pebax midsole
  • Impressively flexible for a natural ride
  • Snappy, lightweight and fun
  • Great as a plateless racing shoe
  • Sticky rubber delivers great grip
  • Excels in track workouts and intervals
  • Superb breathability

Cons

  • Not ideal for narrow-footed runners
  • Limited cushioning
  • Not very stable
  • Durability concerns

Key Features

  • Best Used For: The Cyclone 2 is a lightweight speed trainer ideal for daily training and racing.
  • Comfortable and Secure Fit: A breathable upper ensures a snug fit while allowing airflow during your runs.
  • 5MM Drop: This model features a 35 x 30 mm platform that enhances cushioning, providing protection underfoot and ensuring a fast transition.
  • Fast and Responsive Ride: Equipped with a Pebax Powered midsole for lightweight performance and superior energy return.
  • Reliable Road Running Shoe: An aggressive rocker design facilitates quick transitions through your gait cycle, propelling you forward efficiently.

Specifications

  • Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Outer Material: Mesh
  • Closure Type: Lace-Up

Topo Cyclone 2 Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Topo Cyclone 2 Brooks Hyperion Tempo Altra Escalante Racer 2 Altra Escalante 4
Price $150 $150 $140 $130
Pace Daily running Tempo Competition Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 6.7 oz / 190g 7 oz / 198g 7.9 oz / 224g 8.4 oz / 237g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 4.2 mm 9.0 mm 1.1 mm 1.4 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Heel Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Balanced Balanced Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Small Normal Normal
Toebox durability Bad Good Good Good
Heel padding durability Good Decent Decent Good
Outsole durability Good Good Good Good
Breathability Breathable Moderate Breathable Moderate
Width / fit Wide Medium Wide Wide
Toebox width Wide Medium Wide Wide
Stiffness Flexible Flexible Moderate Flexible
Torsional rigidity Flexible Flexible Flexible Flexible
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Moderate Flexible Flexible
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 26.2 mm 28.7 mm 22.5 mm 23.8 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 22.0 mm 19.7 mm 21.4 mm 22.4 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season Summer All seasons Summer All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 26% Top 27% Top 41% Bottom 30%
Popularity Bottom 27% Top 48% Bottom 32% Top 26%