Daniel Ross, Mountain Guide
These are the kicks that work best for MY foot. Low drop and wide toe box. Love them
Recommended in Trail Running
Brand: Topo Athletic
Category: Trail Running Shoes
Recommended by Sarah Carter, Trail and Road Runner — Boulder, CO
Highlights: cushioned, long distance, lightweight
The Topo Athletic MTN Racer 4 is engineered for trail enthusiasts seeking superior performance and comfort on rugged terrains. With advanced cushioning and a robust design, it ensures you conquer every challenge with confidence. 1. 33 x 28 mm platform provides optimal underfoot cushioning for enhanced comfort during long runs. 2. FKT insole allows for rapid water drainage and increased energy return, keeping your feet dry and responsive. 3. Improved gaiter attachment system effectively blocks debris, ensuring a clean and uninterrupted running experience. 4. Vibram® Megagrip outsole delivers exceptional traction and durability, perfect for navigating slippery or uneven surfaces. 5. Fine-tuned upper construction enhances fit and support, specifically designed for technical trail performance. 6. Compatible with Switchback Gaiter for added protection against dirt and moisture. The MTN Racer 4 is ideal for trail running, racing, and daily training on challenging terrains. It excels in wet, muddy, or rocky conditions, making it perfect for adventurous runners of all skill levels. Whether you're tackling steep inclines or navigating technical descents, this shoe is designed to provide stability and comfort, ensuring peak performance in all seasons.
Price: $155
These are my go-to racer for everything from techy 50k's to fast sub-ultra courses. The perfect balance of lightweight, cushioned, and functional across all terrain!
Recommended by Sarah Carter, Trail and Road Runner
These are my go-to racer for everything from techy 50k's to fast sub-ultra courses. The perfect balance of lightweight, cushioned, and functional across all terrain!
Sarah Carter recommends the Topo Athletic MTN Racer 4 for trail running shoes. These are my go-to racer for everything from techy 50k's to fast sub-ultra courses. The perfect balance of lightweight, cushioned, and functional across all terrain!
Yes — Sarah Carter recommends the MTN Racer 4 by Topo Athletic as their trail running shoes pick. These are my go-to racer for everything from techy 50k's to fast sub-ultra courses. The perfect balance of lightweight, cushioned, and functional across all terrain!
Sarah Carter recommends it for long efforts: These are my go-to racer for everything from techy 50k's to fast sub-ultra courses. The perfect balance of lightweight, cushioned, and functional across all terrain!
In Sarah Carter's experience: These are my go-to racer for everything from techy 50k's to fast sub-ultra courses. The perfect balance of lightweight, cushioned, and functional across all terrain!
3 experts recommend the Topo Athletic MTN Racer 4.
These are the kicks that work best for MY foot. Low drop and wide toe box. Love them
Recommended in Trail Running
As someone who has experienced chronic foot pain and discomfort (and who was ultimately a late bloomer in realizing that my feet are wide), I became a Topo Athletic fan in 2025. It's been pretty eye-opening to realize and learn about how much shoe fit and shape can impact you as an athlete. My toes now have ample room to spread out for greater stability. I no longer experience the chronic pain I used to. As for this particular model, the MTN Racer 3 and 4's have been my main training shoe for shorter and technical distances for almost 2 years now. The Vibram + Topo partnership is a must in my mind -- as Vibram is a well-trusted brand that, even before Topo, I made sure to always choose shoes with their rubber. I'm able to scramble on rocky surfaces or along ridge traverses without any doubt about the grip. Overall, I'd say the MTN Racer is best for mountainous and rugged terrain where you want to be light on your feet. These are more minimalistic in nature, so if you want something with more cushion, check out my rec for the Topo Vista.
Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use
“These are my go-to racer for everything from techy 50k's to fast sub-ultra courses. The perfect balance of lightweight, cushioned, and functional across all terrain!”
“These are my go-to racer for everything from techy 50k's to fast sub-ultra courses. The perfect balance of lightweight, cushioned, and functional across all terrain!”
