Topo Athletic

Ask any woman who runs regularly, and she likely has a story about a shoe that looked great out of the box but became a problem after a few miles. Squeezed toes, hot spots, and blisters get written off as normal running side effects, but many runners are learning that the real culprit is often fit, not their effort or toughness. Wise women are making the shift to a fit that works for them: wider toe boxes, a secure midfoot and heel, and a low heel to toe drop. Don’t Let Your Running Shoes Fight Your Feet Traditional running shoes are often designed to get narrower through the toe box. That tapered shape is not ideal for the natural shape of your feet because it can crowd the toes together, restrict movement, and create pressure points that show up as blisters or numbness as you run. It’s not a sign that you are doing something wrong. It usually means the shoe wasn’t built with a natural foot shape in mind. What a Roomy Toe Box Can Do for Your Stride A wider, foot shaped toe ...

Fall hiking and trail running season is simply beautiful with crisp air, quieter trails, and some of the best views of the year. Whether you're planning a weekend exploring different trails or a multi-day trek, a bit of prep turns a good trip into one you’ll reminisce about for years to come. Plan Your Adventure   Every trip starts by deciding where you're headed. Trails can change dramatically along your journey, from rocky switchbacks and packed dirt to loose gravel and river crossings. Each surface asks something different of your shoes. Research your hikes, check the elevation gain, and think about the terrain you'll cover each day. If your plans lean toward technical, uneven ground, a pair of wide toe hiking boots or trail running shoes can offer the traction and support your feet need to move with confidence throughout the entire trip. Test Out Your Shoes Once you know your route, take a good look at your gear. Your shoes should already feel broken in, no...

Runners know the stress of jetting off on vacation and wondering how they’ll still get their miles in. Here’s the truth: you don’t have to sacrifice movement for luggage space if you pack the right shoes. Runners know the stress of jetting off on vacation and wondering how they’ll still get their miles in. Here’s the truth: you don’t have to sacrifice movement for luggage space if you pack the right shoes. Between the sunscreen, phone charger, and ‘just-in-case’ clothing extras, a lightweight sneaker with a wide toe box fit is the perfect way to see more of your destination at your own pace. What to Look for in a Travel-Ready Running Shoe A hotel treadmill, a cobblestone street, and a stretch of beach boardwalk all ask something different of your shoes on the same trip. Add a long flight, and your feet might even swell by the time you land. Wide toe box running shoes let your toes spread out naturally during travel days, so you're not nursing hot spots by day three of your tri...

You've got your road routes memorized, and there's a comfort in that consistency. But every so often, your routine could use a shake-up, and trail running is one of the best ways to do it. Swap your usual sidewalk loop for a dirt path that ducks into the trees, and the same routine feels different by the first turn. Trail running slows your pace naturally, trades pavement for shifting scenery, and turns an ordinary run into something that feels more like exploring than exercising. Here are four tips to get you started. Get a Dedicated Pair of Trail Running Shoes Road shoes are built for a predictable, flat surface, and that becomes obvious the first time your foot lands wrong on a hidden root or a loose rock on the trail. Women’s and men’s athletic shoes with wide toe box designed specifically for trail running are built to add more protection underfoot, along with a grippier outsole, so you can tackle everything from muddy banks to fallen branches without missing a beat.  F...

Three miles into a rocky climb, a piece of trail gravel slips past your sock and settles right under your arch. You stop, shake out your shoe, and lose your rhythm for the next quarter mile. That's the exact annoyance a gaiter is designed to help prevent. If this valuable piece of gear hasn't made it into your collection yet, it's worth adding before your next long run or hike. What Are Trail and Hiking Gaiters? A gaiter is a low, stretchy sleeve that wraps around your ankle and the top of your shoe. Most attach at the front with a small hook or clip and cinch at the top with a drawstring, strap, or velcro fastening system, sealing the gap where debris usually sneaks into your shoe. Pair one with wide toe box shoes for hiking or trail running, and you can push through a stretch of loose debris without stopping to dump gravel out of your shoe. What Shoes Are Compatible with Gaiters? Not every shoe pairs well with a gaiter, but trail shoes with a snug fit through...

Late summer seems to bring a sense of urgency to get as much accomplished athletically as possible before the weather turns. Trail running is no exception. Luckily for you, there’s still plenty of time to build momentum on the trail. Consistent weather, plenty of daylight, and a solid routine make it easier to add distance, improve endurance, or finally tackle the routes you’ve been eyeing all season.  Finish the season feeling stronger than you started with the right strategy, the right gear, and the following tips. Keep Moving Forward with a Main Purpose Instead of trying to improve everything at once, choose one clear goal before fall arrives. Maybe it’s completing a longer weekend run, climbing more elevation, or running your favorite trail faster than you have all season. A focused objective makes training feel more rewarding and gives every run a purpose. Lace up your extra wide toe box shoes and get one run closer to your goals.  Prioritize Comfort From the Gr...

Summer running has a rhythm all its own: early alarms, bright morning light, and routes that stay dry until autumn’s fog rolls in. Before the season shifts, here’s how to make every remaining run of the summer count, from the first step out the door to the cool-down back inside. Out the Door Whether you’re driving to a trailhead or starting on your front porch, preparedness is key to a successful run. If you’re driving, you can wear more casual shoes in the car and lace up your running shoes when you park. If you’re running straight from home, grab your water pack or waist belt and get your wide toe box zero drop shoes tied and ready. A shoe that lets your toes spread naturally sets the pace for a comfortable run before you’ve covered a single mile. Up the Trail or Down the Road Once you’re moving, focus on settling into a comfortable, secure stride. Road running shoes with wide toe box and a zero drop sole give your toes room to move while supporting better balance without pinchi...