Topo Athletic Cyclone
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Overview
The Topo Athletic Cyclone is a lightweight running shoe designed for performance. This shoe is part of the Topo Athletic Cyclone family and is known for its responsive cushioning and breathable upper.
Key Features:
- ZipFoam Midsole: Provides responsive cushioning and reduces impact on joints.
- Breathable Mesh Upper: Ensures ventilation and comfort during runs.
- Wide Toe Box: Allows natural toe splay for a more comfortable fit.
The Topo Athletic Cyclone is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize lightweight design and responsiveness for speed training and daily running. Its breathable upper offers comfort, making it suitable for various running conditions.
According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 65%. This puts it in the lowest rated 10% of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the most expensive 40% of running shoes.
Verdict
The consensus on the Topo Athletic Cyclone
The Topo Athletic Cyclone is a lightweight and responsive shoe that excels in speed training and shorter runs. The ZipFoam midsole provides a springy toe-off, making it ideal for tempo runs and speed workouts. However, some runners may find the cushioning too firm for longer distances, leading to discomfort in the knees and calves. The breathable mesh upper ensures good ventilation, but the lacing system can be tricky to adjust. Overall, the Cyclone is a solid choice for those looking for a performance-oriented shoe with a wide toe box and a natural running feel. While it may not be the best option for long-distance runs, it shines in shorter, faster sessions.
Updates to Topo Athletic Cyclone
The Topo Athletic Cyclone features several updates from previous models in the Topo Athletic Cyclone family. The introduction of the ZipFoam midsole provides more responsive cushioning and better shock absorption. The breathable mesh upper has been improved for better ventilation and comfort. Additionally, the outsole design has been enhanced for better traction and durability. These updates make the Cyclone a more performance-oriented shoe compared to its predecessors.
Comparable Shoes
The Altra Rivera is a good alternative to the Topo Athletic Cyclone for those seeking a softer cushion. While the Rivera weighs slightly more, it offers a similar foot-shaped design and a more comfortable ride for longer distances. The Rivera's cushioning is softer, making it a better choice for runners who find the Cyclone too firm.
6 Topo Athletic Cyclone Pros & Cons
4 Pros
2 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The upper of the Topo Athletic Cyclone is made from a single layer of breathable mesh, ensuring excellent ventilation during runs. This design helps keep the feet cool and dry, making it a great choice for well-ventilated running shoes. The upper fits true-to-size and features a wide toe box, allowing for natural toe splay and added comfort. However, the lacing system can be difficult to adjust, which may be a drawback for some runners.
Midsole
The midsole of the Topo Athletic Cyclone features ZipFoam, a combination of polyurethane and hybrid EVA rubber. This material provides responsive cushioning and reduces impact on the joints, making it suitable for speed training and daily running. The 5 mm heel-to-toe drop (the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot) promotes a natural running gait, while the springy toe-off enhances running efficiency.
Outsole
The outsole of the Topo Athletic Cyclone is designed for optimal traction and durability. It features a durable rubber compound and a multi-directional tread pattern, ensuring good grip on various surfaces. This makes the shoe suitable for road running and provides added wear resistance, extending the life of the shoe.
Size/fit
The Topo Athletic Cyclone offers a true-to-size fit with a wide toe box, allowing for natural toe splay and added comfort. The midfoot and heel areas provide a secure fit, thanks to the well-designed upper and lacing system. However, some runners may find the lacing system difficult to adjust, which can affect the overall fit.
Comfort
The Topo Athletic Cyclone provides a comfortable fit, especially in the midfoot and toe box areas. The breathable mesh upper ensures good ventilation, keeping the feet cool and dry. However, the firm cushioning may not be suitable for longer runs, as it can cause discomfort in the knees and calves.
Cushioning
The ZipFoam midsole of the Topo Athletic Cyclone offers responsive cushioning, making it ideal for speed training and shorter runs. However, some runners may find the cushioning too firm for longer distances, leading to discomfort in the knees and calves. The 5 mm heel-to-toe drop promotes a natural running gait, enhancing overall running efficiency.
Breathability
The breathable mesh upper of the Topo Athletic Cyclone ensures excellent ventilation, making it a great choice for well-ventilated running shoes. This design helps keep the feet cool and dry during runs, enhancing overall comfort.
Stability
The Topo Athletic Cyclone provides good stability, thanks to its well-designed midfoot and heel areas. The ZipFoam midsole offers a responsive and stable ride, while the wide toe box allows for natural toe splay, enhancing overall stability during runs.
Durability
The durable rubber compound and multi-directional tread pattern of the Topo Athletic Cyclone's outsole ensure good wear resistance, extending the life of the shoe. This makes it a reliable choice for daily running and speed training.
Grip
The Topo Athletic Cyclone offers good grip on various surfaces, thanks to its durable rubber outsole and multi-directional tread pattern. This ensures reliable traction during road running and other running activities.
Flex
The Topo Athletic Cyclone provides a flexible ride, thanks to its lightweight design and responsive ZipFoam midsole. This flexibility enhances running efficiency and allows for natural foot movement during runs.
Who should buy the Topo Athletic Cyclone?
The Topo Athletic Cyclone is ideal for runners who prioritize lightweight design and responsiveness. It's a great choice for those who engage in speed training and daily running. Runners who appreciate a wide toe box and a natural running feel will find this shoe particularly appealing. Additionally, those who prefer a breathable upper for better ventilation during runs will benefit from this shoe.
Who should not buy the Topo Athletic Cyclone?
Runners who prefer a softer cushioning for longer distances may find the Topo Athletic Cyclone too firm. If you struggle with adjusting laces, the lacing system might be frustrating. Those looking for a more flexible shoe for varied running conditions might want to consider other options. For a softer cushion and similar foot-shaped design, the Altra Rivera could be a better choice.
Topo Athletic Cyclone: What's it good for?
The Topo Athletic Cyclone is well-suited for speed training and daily running. Its lightweight design and responsive cushioning make it ideal for speed workouts and tempo runs. The breathable mesh upper ensures comfort during everyday training. However, it may not be the best choice for long-distance runs due to its firm cushioning.
5 Topo Athletic Cyclone FAQs
Is the Topo Athletic Cyclone suitable for long-distance running?
The Topo Athletic Cyclone is best suited for shorter runs and speed training due to its firm cushioning. Some runners may find it too firm for long-distance running, leading to discomfort in the knees and calves.
How does the Topo Athletic Cyclone fit?
The Topo Athletic Cyclone fits true-to-size and features a wide toe box, allowing for natural toe splay. The midfoot and heel areas provide a secure fit, but the lacing system can be difficult to adjust.
What type of cushioning does the Topo Athletic Cyclone have?
The Topo Athletic Cyclone features ZipFoam cushioning, which is a combination of polyurethane and hybrid EVA rubber. This provides responsive cushioning and reduces impact on the joints.
Is the Topo Athletic Cyclone breathable?
Yes, the Topo Athletic Cyclone has a breathable mesh upper that ensures good ventilation, keeping the feet cool and dry during runs.
What type of runner is the Topo Athletic Cyclone best for?
The Topo Athletic Cyclone is ideal for runners who prioritize lightweight design and responsiveness. It's great for speed training and daily running, especially for those who appreciate a wide toe box and a natural running feel.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | |
| released | ReleasedFeb 2021 | Apr 2025 | Jul 2017 | Apr 2025 | Sep 2024 | |
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| productAthletes | Pro athlete users | |||||
| Weight | WeightM: 224 g W: 184 g | M: 145 g W: 116 g | M: 306 g W: 275 g | M: 184 g W: 164 g | M: 255 g W: 215 g | M: 269 g W: 235 g |
| Forefoot | Forefoot23 mm | 23 mm | 24 mm | 29 mm | 30 mm | 23 mm |
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop5 mm | 4 mm | 5 mm | 6 mm | 6 mm | 10 mm |
| Heel | Heel28 mm | 27 mm | 29 mm | 35 mm | 36 mm | 33 mm |
| Brand | BrandTopo Athletic | Nike | adidas | Nike | adidas | adidas |
| Strike Type | Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Fore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike |
| Shoe Type | Shoe TypeLightweight | LightweightLow drop | Lightweight | Comfortable | ||
| Carbon fiber plate | Carbon fiber plate | |||||
| Orthotic friendly | Orthotic friendly | |||||
| Removable insole | Removable insole | |||||
| Rocker | Rocker | |||||
Common characteristicsRoadDaily runningRacingSpeed trainingNeutralNeutral pronationHigh archBreathable |
- Dec 2022
- Feb 2021
