The Topo Traverse Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Topo Traverse is a versatile trail shoe designed for both hiking and running. With notable features such as a Vibram outsole, it provides reliable grip on varying terrains, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

The upper of the shoe ensures excellent airflow, contributing to comfort during extended wear. The foot-shaped toebox promotes a natural fit, accommodating different foot shapes.

However, lab testing indicates that the upper may experience wear sooner than anticipated, which could impact durability. Additionally, while the shoe offers stability, its weight may slightly hinder agility, as it is not classified among the most cushioned options in its category.


Pros

  • Spacious toebox
  • Protective TPU rock plate
  • Ultra-durable and grippy Vibram outsole
  • Breathable upper
  • Fully-gusseted tongue
  • Secure lockdown
  • Versatile design works for hiking too
  • Versatile lug design
  • Water-repellent footbed

Cons

  • Heavier than it looks
  • Midsole feels a bit firm
  • Upper lacks durability
  • Limited stability

Key Features

  • BUILT TO LAST - Designed to withstand the challenges of rugged trails and long hikes, ensuring longevity in performance.
  • VENTILATED COMFORT - Features a durable mesh upper that enhances airflow, keeping your feet cool during strenuous activities.
  • UNMATCHED TRACTION - Equipped with a Vibram Megagrip outsole, providing superior grip for navigating steep inclines and declines.
  • ENHANCED PROTECTION - Includes a forefoot rock plate that shields your feet from rocky surfaces, adding an extra layer of safety.
  • THRU-HIKER'S DREAM - Features a specialized FKT Insole with closed-cell construction, designed to keep water out while allowing for quick drainage.

Specifications

  • Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
  • Sole material: Vibram
  • Outer material: Mesh
  • Inner material: Mesh, Insole

Topo Traverse Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Topo Traverse Topo MTN Racer 3 Salomon Genesis Nike Terra Kiger 9
Price $150 $150 $150 $150
Trail terrain Light Light Moderate Moderate
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.9 oz / 308g 10.1 oz / 286g 9.9 oz / 282g 10.2 oz / 288g
Drop lab Drop brand 4.8 mm 6.9 mm 9.0 mm 4.4 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Heel Mid/forefoot
Size Slightly small Slightly small True to size True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Balanced Balanced Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Small Small Normal
Plate Rock plate
Toebox durability Bad Bad Good Very good
Heel padding durability Good Decent Good Decent
Outsole durability Good Good Decent -
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Wide Wide Medium Medium
Toebox width Wide Wide Medium Medium
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Moderate Stiff
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Moderate Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Moderate Stiff Moderate
Lug depth 4.1 mm 4.2 mm 4.0 mm 4.4 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 30.8 mm 33.5 mm 33.5 mm 30.1 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 26.0 mm 26.6 mm 24.5 mm 25.7 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Waterproofing Water repellent - Water repellent -
Ranking Top 12% Top 45% Top 4% Top 11%
Popularity Bottom 23% Bottom 28% Bottom 39% Bottom 20%