Topo Athletic

If you love hardcore hikes, you probably already have a bucket list of places you want to go. Chances are, you’ll want to explore every place you read about, but let’s say you want to narrow it down to just a few top hiking destinations in the western half of the U.S. The options are endless and wildly inspiring. The following epic hikes deliver just a taste of the vast scenery you can experience. GTNP: Explore the Tetons The jaw-dropping views of the Tetons from the west side of the range in Wyoming are unforgettable. One of the most iconic backcountry hikes in Grand Teton National Park is the Teton Crest Trail, which you can access in a few different ways, including by taking a tram from Teton Village to the top of the mountain. This is a hard hike covering about 40 miles and roughly 9,000 feet of elevation gain, so plan it as a backpacking trip. Shoe choice:  Lightweight and sturdy wide toe hiking boots or trail runners with durable tread will serve you well.  The Narrows ...

Every hiker has their own hacks for powering through steep ascents and descents. The goal may be to climb hills faster or make it down a trail without feeling like your knees are going to give out. The following tips can help you feel stronger and more stable with every step. From the benefits of wide toe hiking boots or trail shoes to maximizing your performance with poles, here are a few ways to improve your hikes this season. ​ Strengthen Your Quads Simply hiking more isn’t the answer to moving more comfortably and confidently over steep terrain. What is optimal, though, is strength training. You don’t have to be a performance athlete to move like one. Find a training plan online that focuses on building strength in the quadriceps (and other big muscle groups), which will help protect the joints in your knees, hips, and ankles while also reducing fatigue. Hiking Footwear You may prefer a lighter performance trail running shoe for better mobility over an actual hiking bo...

Are you the type of runner who’s tried every shoe out there, or do you just stick with what you know? Either way, when it comes to running shoes, comfort matters most, and you may not realize how comfortable a zero drop shoe can be, especially zero drop wide toe running shoes . Here’s why you should consider the features of modern zero drop styles and why they belong at the top of your spring running shoe wish list. Cushioned Zero Drop Shoes Feel Amazing There’s no height difference between the front and back of a zero drop shoe, which means this even-height platform encourages a natural feeling run and better ground feel. However, that doesn’t mean all zero drop shoes lack cushioning! Performance zero drop shoes offer various levels of cushioning so you can enjoy a comfy run without feeling every pebble beneath your feet. Wide Toe Box Styles Rock Whether you’re a trail runner or pavement pounder, you can find zero drop shoes for your preferred terrain. Newer zero drop...

There may not seem like much difference between a zero drop running shoe and a low drop design, but choosing the right option can help tailor your running experience to your exact preferences. A shoe’s heel to toe drop is the difference in height from the ground in the heel compared to the forefoot, and more runners are gravitating toward natural foot shaped shoes in order to get a more natural-feeling run. Keep reading to learn the benefits of both, even if it seems subtle. What Is Considered a Low Drop Running Shoe? Somewhere in the 3-5mm range is considered low drop. This means the heel is positioned slightly higher than the forefoot (but much less than conventional running shoes). These options can help make the transition to low drop running shoes easier. The foot and ankle will still reap the benefits of the fit, and low drop running shoes also help you experience smooth movement through the gait cycle. In contrast, zero drop shoes keep your heel and forefoot at the...

Will it take some convincing for you to bundle up and brave the cold weather for a run this season? It may become a more enjoyable experience than you first think. The treadmill is a great resource when your schedule is packed or inclement weather makes it impossible to run outdoors. But there are some unique benefits to getting outside for winter runs in the chilly weather. Here’s why running outside during the coldest months of the year is worth it and how it may turn out to be surprisingly fun. 1. It Keeps You Strong Cold air makes it easier for your body to regulate temperature, so you can run longer without overheating, especially with the right layers and gear. Just ask an exercise physiologist what their thoughts are on cold versus hot weather running. Also, it’s natural to want to hibernate in the winter, but it can slow your metabolism down. Winter running conditions may help improve stamina and overall performance because you engage different muscles on snowy t...