Update (Aug '25): I have put these shoes to the test, as evidenced by the pic below. Happy to report that they continue to deliver. I've always worn high-top hiking boots for rigorous backpacking. However, I've heard of people wearing high-performance running shoes. So, I tried these Topos on a 15-mile backpacking trip through the Tetons recently. I was often carrying a 40lb pack, on rocky trail. They did fantastic. No sore feet. No rolling of the ankles. (From May '25): I have a high arch & other foot issues, so finding the ideal shoe has been tricky. My active lifestyle includes working out often, hiking, skiing, hunting, walking, and such. I tried the Hoka Clifton 9, the Clifton 10, & the Altras. Had never heard of Topo. The Topo Auras, in my opinion are more comfortable than the others. Walking on them is a bit of an experience: they subtly cushion & conform to your feet, while also giving you a bit of propulsion, without compromising stability. Also, the Auras are an officially "stability" shoe which means they give more arch and ankle support. Thanks Topo! Read more
I own several pairs of Topo shoes, and am a big fan of their products. However, I should make clear that I am not a runner, but use their shoes for walking, hiking and travelling. I read reviews that the Aura is good for walking so purchased a pair to check them out. My other Topos include the Ultraventures and Phantom 3, for instance, for comparison. As usual, I really enjoy the build quality and fit of Topo. I also am a fan of the simple designs. I appreciate that others may prefer more colour, but I stick with blacks and grays. The one thing to consider with all Topos, if you are new to the brand is the fit. The toe box is anatomical and roomy, but the mid foot or waist is quite snug, and the arch might be too pronounced for some people. Sometimes I enjoy the snug fit, but other times one may wish more room in that area. So do be careful with sizing in that regards. As for the Auras in particular, let me make a comparison with the Phantom 3 as walking shoes. The Auras are not super plush but are more comfortable than the Phantoms. But because of the higher stack, the Aura has more toe spring. For runners, I'm sure this makes for a smoother gait, but personally, with the way I walk, I prefer a less pronounced toe spring, and prefer the Phantom 3s because of this. Nonetheless, am very happy with my purchase. Hope this info helps those considering these for walking shoes. Read more
Didn't get to really own these, just tried them on so I cant talk about durability. But as far as comfort and cushion goes these are even more cushiony then hokas over worn like gaviota5 and bondi 9. The problem for me was a little too snug in the waist area. Plenty of room for the toes. Im thinking maybe an extra wide would do but they don't have that for this shoe, but would be concerned about too much room in the front. Almost perfect. Read more
Topo makes the best designed sneakers on the market, honestly. They are the most comfortable, most effective, best performing shoes I've ever tried compared to brands like altra, Hoka, and especially the normie stuff like nike/adidas etc. The only downside is I think generally speaking, they have durability or QC issues sometimes. The product is definitely still worth it though. I have the atmos which I've worn daily for over a year and the spectre which I wear for fun sometimes. These auras are just amazing and as far as deciding between the aura and atmos, the atmos feel a little softer and the aura are a little more supportive but pretty hard to tell the difference for me anyway. The spectre is definitely more firm but it's extremely light and feels fast. So for a long day of walking or running, definitely the aura or atmos, for sprints or sports you could rock any of them but probably the spectres cause they're lighter and more responsive. No matter what, the wide toe box and comfortable ergonomics of topo is unmatched. I try to get everyone I know to try a pair just once and they all get flooded. Atmos and aura following by a hair depending if you like support or just want the softest ride are my most recommended. Oh and this grey color is gorgeous... Like a soft cool grey accented by warm grey white and black is just amazing. Read more
Awesome shoe, so comfortable. The wide toe box is so nice and the cushioning is top tier Read more
Extremely comfy, firm and resistant while also being breathable and soft. Great for the road not for anything otherwise Read more
I own a pair of Phantom 3 shoes. Got these since they are advertised as stability shoes. The fit was much, much larger and the toe box is shaped nothing like the Phantom, more like a New Balance shoe. They seem well made but not the size or shape I needed. Read more
like bedroom slippers! at first when i put them on i thought the footbed wasn't cushy enough. but this morning i tried them on the steep uphill rocky trail near our house and they were amazing! they did not trigger my neuroma pain on the bottom of my foot like some other shoes. they are very lightweight, good looking and a great addition to the 3 pairs of Topos i have already. these are designed for running and i'm not a runner, but they're GREAT for hiking! i'll report on durability once some time has passed. Read more
