Topo Athletic Trailventure WP 2 Performance Review

What You Need To Know

• Weighs 14.1 oz. (400 g.) for a US M9 / 13.1 oz. (371 g.) for a US W7
• The women win the colorway battle this time around
• Vibram Megagrip outsole chews through the most demanding trails
• Coming in February 2022 for $150

ALEX: I am relatively new to the Topo party despite being reassured on numerous occasions that my love of foot-shaped toe boxes and low drops would make me appreciate the brand. I’m glad to finally be here and feel a little FOMO about what I’ve been missing out on. The Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 WP has been a great way to get acquainted with the brand.

The mids are my go-to options for winter ultramarathons and multi-day adventures on technical terrain, both of which involve A LOT of hiking. On day three of what turned out to be a 6-day FKT on the Superior Hiking Trail, swapping out my trail runners on and off for the Salomon Ultra provided just the right amount of ankle support and stability that I needed to keep grinding. The mids will always have a place in my trail shoe lineup.

The Good

ALEX: I present the Topo Athletic Trailventure WP 2, aka the Goldilocks of the weatherproof mids.

Note: At this point, Alex asked us to find a cooler term to use than “mids.” However, there isn’t one, so we shall carry on.

Over the past three years, I have logged hundreds of miles in the Altra Lone Peak Mid RSM and the Salomon Ultra X GTX. The Topo Athletic Trailventure WP 2 combines everything good about these two options and adds some of its own high-performing, functional style. It has the durability and all-around protection of the Salomon Ultra and the comfortable fit and roominess of the Altra Lone Peak Mid. It also has a slight 5mm drop — 30mm heel/25mm forefoot supporting a more natural foot position.

The springy, 3-piece ZipFoam midsole provides a bouncy, cushioned feel. Paired with the full-length ESS rock plate and Vibram Megagrip outsole, this shoe offers a smooth, comfortable ride and excellent traction on highly technical terrain.

The abrasion-resistant rip-stop mesh is lightweight and durable without rigid flex points or cumbersome overlays. The eVent one-piece upper provides breathable, waterproof protection in an inner bootie liner that adds to the comfortable fit. Overall, I found that the Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 performed admirably in my snowy adventures. In my experience, GTX is a little more waterproof but less breathable; I am eager to test these in warmer weather.

The Bad

ALEX: The Trailventure WP 2 requires some breaking in, mostly just getting used to the over-ankle molded foam collar. It took me a few tries to get a comfortable fit after initially lacing it way too tight, but then it felt great.

The price is $175, which is objectively a little high, although once you factor in the durability and functionality, this one is worth it.

Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 Conclusion

ALEX: The APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) Seal of Acceptance and Seal of Approval are granted to products found to promote good foot health. Need I say more?

Seriously though, I believe there is a place for the Topo Athletic Trailventure WP 2 in every trail runner’s shoe lineup. Topo does a fantastic job delivering a shoe that offers durable protection and all-day comfort. Fast packers and thru-hikers looking for some ankle coverage and support, check this one out!

You can pick up the Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 in February 2022 at Running Warehouse (featuring free 2-day shipping and 90-day returns) by using the shop link below.

Want to learn more about how our review process works? Check out this guide.