In 2017, I tried out the first release of the Topo Terraventure. While I really liked the shoes, they suffered from two fatal flaws: they did not drain well and the traction in wet conditions was near non-existent. With the release of the Terraventure 2, Topo heard the complaints and made various updates to address them.
Overall: The updates Topo has made to the Terraventure 2 are the most welcome improvements. Terraventure 2 has quickly become my favorite shoe for ultra trail runs, knocking out my previous favorite, the Saucony Xodus ISO.
Testing:
I took the Terraventure 2 out on 2 runs with varying terrain and conditions. Overall, I ran just over 65 miles in them across 2 different runs.
- 3 miles – Technical with water crossings and super steep climbing
- 100k (62 miles) – Bandera 100k – Dry, technical trail.
Full Review:
What’s changed: While I don’t know all the changes Topo made to the Terraventure 2, there were two that had the biggest impact to me. First, Topo added drainage ports to the forefoot. Secondly, Topo changed the outsole to a Vibram outsole.
Comfort: The Terraventure 2 is just as comfortable as the first version. They have a roomy (natural shaped) toe box and 3MM drop. I had no significant issues with hotspots or blisters.
Protection: I was happy to see and feel that the Terraventure 2 protect my feet just as much as the first version. I slammed my toes numerous times during the Bandera 100k and only one time did I significantly feel it. The Terraventure 2 also has a built in rock plate which I appreciate given the trails I typically run.
Drainage: The new drainage ports work!!! I cannot express how much of an improvement the additional drainage ports are. The Terraventure 2 drain. This addresses one of my biggest issues with the first version.
Grip: My other issue with the first version of the Terraventure was its grip (or lack thereof) when wet. With the change to Vibram outsoles, the Terraventure 2 actually have a grip when they are wet.
In Conclusion: I am thrilled with the updates to the Topo Terraventure 2. Topo has fixed the biggest issues with the shoe while keeping all the great features from their first version. The Topo Terraventure 2 is my favorite shoes for technical trail ultras (I only wish I got them in the new dope yellow color).
Photos
