Topo Athletic Phantom
Buy Topo Athletic Phantom at today's best price (men's/women's)
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Overview
The Topo Athletic Phantom is a running shoe designed for comfort and performance on the road. This shoe is known for its generous cushioning and ergonomic design, which includes a roomy toe box to allow for natural foot movement.
Key Features:
- Roomy Toe Box: Provides space for toes to spread naturally, enhancing stability and comfort.
- ZipFoam Midsole: Offers a balance of soft cushioning and firm support, ideal for daily running.
- Low Heel-to-Toe Drop: Encourages a more natural running gait and minimizes the decline from heel to toe.
- High Traction Outsole: Delivers reliable grip on road surfaces, contributing to a secure running experience.
The Topo Athletic Phantom is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize a blend of cushioning and natural foot movement for their everyday training. Its low heel-to-toe drop and high traction outsole offer a comfortable and stable ride, making it suitable for a variety of distances from 10k to marathon.
According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the most expensive 30% of running shoes.
Verdict
The consensus on the Topo Athletic Phantom
The Topo Athletic Phantom has garnered positive feedback for its comfortable fit and ample cushioning, making it a reliable choice for daily road running. The shoe's roomy toe box is a standout feature, allowing for natural toe splay and enhancing stability. The dual-layer ZipFoam midsole provides a soft yet supportive ride, striking a balance between comfort and responsiveness. While the shoe may not boast the latest bells and whistles, it delivers solid energy return and is versatile enough for cross-training and long walks. However, some runners have noted a desire for a more secure fit in the forefoot and heel, as well as improved traction in wet conditions. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Topo Athletic Phantom is praised for its durability and breathability, making it a worthwhile investment for wider-footed runners seeking a lightweight and cushioned daily trainer. The consensus is that the Topo Athletic Phantom is a dependable workhorse for runners valuing comfort and a natural stride.
Updates to Topo Athletic Phantom
The Topo Athletic Phantom has seen updates from its predecessor, the Topo Athletic Phantom 2, with improvements in cushioning and breathability. The latest model features a dual-density midsole for a balance of comfort and responsiveness, and an upper made with up to 30% recycled polyester, enhancing the shoe's sustainability credentials.
7 Topo Athletic Phantom Pros & Cons
4 Pros
3 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The Topo Athletic Phantom features an upper made from a breathable and stretchy synthetic material, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit. The design includes a wide toe box that allows for natural toe splay, which is particularly beneficial for runners with wider feet. However, some users have reported a desire for a more secure fit around the forefoot and heel, suggesting that the shoe may be better suited for those with a specific foot shape.
Midsole
The midsole of the Topo Athletic Phantom is equipped with Topo's proprietary ZipFoam, providing a cushioned yet firm ride. This dual-density foam offers a soft step-in feel with enough support to handle daily mileage. The 5 mm heel-to-toe drop encourages a more natural running gait, making it a good option for those looking to transition to a lower drop shoe.
Outsole
The outsole of the Topo Athletic Phantom is designed for high traction, featuring a durable rubber compound and a multi-directional tread pattern. This ensures a secure grip on road surfaces, although some users have noted that the traction could be improved in wet conditions. The wide base of the shoe contributes to its stability, making it a solid choice for neutral runners.
Size/fit
The Topo Athletic Phantom generally fits true to size, with a snug midfoot and a wide toe box that accommodates natural foot expansion. The secure lockdown in the midfoot area, combined with a rigid heel cup, helps to prevent unwanted foot motion within the shoe. Runners with average foot width have found the fit to be perfect, while those with narrower feet may need to adjust lacing for a tighter fit.
Comfort
Comfort is a key strength of the Topo Athletic Phantom, with its ultra-cushioned midsole and breathable upper. The shoe's design promotes a comfortable and natural running experience, with a wide toe box and snug midfoot offering a balanced feel. The cushioning is particularly appreciated by middle-aged runners and those looking to avoid joint irritation during longer runs.
Cushioning
The Topo Athletic Phantom's cushioning is highly rated by users, with the ZipFoam midsole providing a high level of protection and energy return. The cushioning is soft enough to absorb impact yet firm enough to prevent a feeling of sinking, making it suitable for a variety of running distances and paces.
Breathability
The upper of the Topo Athletic Phantom is crafted from a perforated, highly breathable material that keeps feet cool and dry during runs. This feature is complemented by the shoe's lightweight construction, which enhances overall comfort and performance.
Stability
Despite being a neutral running shoe, the Topo Athletic Phantom offers a moderate level of stability, thanks to its wide base and secure midfoot lockdown. The rigid heel cup further contributes to a stable ride, making it a good option for runners who require a balance of cushioning and support.
Durability
Durability is a standout feature of the Topo Athletic Phantom, with many users reporting that the shoe holds up well over time and distance. The high-quality materials and construction of the shoe contribute to its longevity, making it a reliable choice for regular runners.
Grip
The grip of the Topo Athletic Phantom's outsole is generally effective on road surfaces, providing confidence during runs. However, some users have suggested that the grip could be improved in wet or slippery conditions, indicating room for enhancement in future models.
Who should buy the Topo Athletic Phantom?
The Topo Athletic Phantom is well-suited for runners who value a cushioned ride and a natural foot movement during their runs. It is particularly beneficial for those with wider feet who require a roomy toe box. The shoe's low drop and high cushioning make it ideal for runners of medium to heavy weights, as well as those who prefer a relaxed pace for long runs or recovery sessions.
Who should not buy the Topo Athletic Phantom?
Runners who prefer a very snug fit throughout the shoe, especially in the forefoot and heel, may not find the Topo Athletic Phantom to be the best fit. Additionally, those who prioritize a highly responsive and fast-feeling shoe for speedwork or racing might consider other options. Runners seeking exceptional traction in wet conditions may also want to explore alternative models with more aggressive outsole designs.
Topo Athletic Phantom: What's it good for?
The Topo Athletic Phantom is well-suited for road running, offering a comfortable and stable experience for daily training. Its cushioning and roomy toe box make it a strong candidate for long-distance runs, including half marathons and marathons. The shoe's design also makes it a good option for cross-training activities, providing versatility for runners who mix their workouts.
4 Topo Athletic Phantom FAQs
Is the Topo Athletic Phantom suitable for long-distance running?
Yes, the Topo Athletic Phantom is designed with ample cushioning and a comfortable fit, making it suitable for long-distance running, including marathons. Its roomy toe box and low drop also contribute to a natural and comfortable stride over extended distances.
Can the Topo Athletic Phantom be used for cross-training?
The Topo Athletic Phantom's cushioning and stability make it a versatile shoe that can be used for cross-training activities in addition to running. Its durable construction and responsive midsole are well-suited for a variety of workouts.
How does the wide toe box of the Topo Athletic Phantom benefit runners?
The wide toe box of the Topo Athletic Phantom allows for natural toe splay, which can enhance stability and comfort during runs. It is especially beneficial for runners with wider feet or those who prefer a more spacious fit in the forefoot area.
What type of cushioning does the Topo Athletic Phantom offer?
The Topo Athletic Phantom features Topo's ZipFoam cushioning, which provides a balance of softness and support. This dual-density foam offers a comfortable ride without compromising responsiveness or durability.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | |||
| released | ReleasedJun 2019 | Jun 2016 | Nov 2015 | Apr 2017 | Jul 2014 | Apr 2017 |
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| Weight | WeightM: 289 g W: 244 g | M: 269 g W: 241 g | M: 249 g W: 207 g | M: 238 g W: 190 g | M: 213 g W: 179 g | M: 235 g W: 184 g |
| Forefoot | Forefoot25 mm | 22 mm | 20 mm | M: 20 mm W: 18 mm | 17 mm | 16 mm |
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop5 mm | 4 mm | 4 mm | 8 mm | 6 mm | 4 mm |
| Heel | Heel30 mm | 26 mm | 24 mm | M: 28 mm W: 26 mm | 23 mm | 20 mm |
| Brand | BrandTopo Athletic | Saucony | Nike | Nike | Nike | Nike |
| Strike Type | Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Fore/Midfoot strike |
| Shoe Type | Shoe TypeMaximalist | Low drop | LightweightLow drop | Lightweight | Lightweight | LightweightLow drop |
| Techs | Techs | Nike Flyknit | Nike Flyknit | |||
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental Characteristics | Vegan Ⓥ | Vegan Ⓥ | |||
Common characteristicsRoadDaily runningNeutralNeutral pronationHigh arch |
- May 2021
- Jun 2019
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