Rating: | 9.1 / 10 |
Comfort | 1.9 / 2 |
Durability | 1.9 / 2 |
Support Stability | 1.9 / 2 |
Weight | 1.6 / 2 |
Value for Money | 1.8 / 2 |
The Topo Athletic Women’s Ultrafly 4 Road Running Shoe was my first experience with the Topo range. I usually wear Altra Zero Drop shoes for both running and hiking so the biggest difference I noticed with the Ultrafly was the 5mm drop.
It took me a while to switch back but not as much time given I wear heels for work so it was more a mindset thing to overcome. Having said that, I did prefer these shoes more for walking rather than running because my running style was more accustomed to the zero drop runners. I guess once a habit is formed it’s hard to break!
Topo’s shoes have a wide toe box which suits those of us with wider than average feet and also those whose feet expand after long periods running or walking. The Ultrafly is definitely a more sturdier running shoe than I’m used to but with that comes extra support under the midfoot and around the heel.
Topo describes the Ultrafly’s as having ‘balanced’ cushioning, ‘light stability’ support and ‘moderate’ pliability. This means when compared to my Altra Escalante Racer Women’s Running Shoes, the Ultrafly is softer underfoot and offers more stability in the midsole and heel, but is also less flexible.
I preferred to wear these shoes for urban hiking rather than road running. While the Ultrafly has a mesh upper, they are relatively heavy at 516 grams a pair. The sizing is reasonably true – I’m wearing a size 9 which works well width wise but could be a fraction longer – something to keep in mind if you are yet to find the right Topo size for you.
These shoes have experienced some heavy wear over many months and while the sole is looking as it did on the first wear, the stacking heel to toe is showing signs of compression. Just on that, the stack height is 28mm at the heel thinning down to 23mm at the toe resulting in the 5mm drop.
Topo is a leader in manufacturing shoes from recycled materials and the Ultrafly is one their models that showcases this sustainable practice.
This shoe comes in a few colours – Wine/Black, Violet/Blue, Black/White and Mint/Green. Personally the Wine/Black is by far my preference and it seems for others also given this colour is increasingly hard to find.
Price-wise the RRP of these shoes in Australia is around AUD $200 which is very similar to other high quality runners and trail shoes. Given they are so robust, they will stay in good shape for many kilometres and represent good vale for money.
With any shoes, it always comes down to what suits you. While the Ultrafly has been great for urban hiking, I struggled to wear them running because of the 5mm drop. However, if you prefer the 5mm drop and want a super sturdy and comfy stacked sole, then the Ultrafly is a great option.
Its worth noting that a newer model is now available.
You can purchase the Topo Athletic Ultrafly 4 Road Running Shoe Online at from Amazon Australia
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AUD $200.00 RRP
Topo Athletic Ultrafly 4 Road Running Shoe Violet/Blue colour
Topo Athletic Ultrafly 4 Road Running Shoe Mint Green colour
Topo Athletic Ultrafly 4 Road Running Shoe Wine/Black colour
Topo Athletic Ultrafly 4 Road Running Shoe sole
Topo Athletic Ultrafly 4 Road Running Shoe Wine/Black colour showing the insert
Topo Athletic Ultrafly 4 Road Running Shoe top view
Topo Athletic Ultrafly 4 Road Running Shoe heel and toe view
This review was done with product purchased by Australian Hiker from a retail store
18 October 2024