Women’s Topo Athletic Traverse Trail Runner Review

Bottom Line

The addition of the Traverse to the Topo lineup is a huge win for long-distance backpackers and FKTers. We’ve used the Topo Terraventure for a long time, but the new Traverse is now our go-to because it combines the best qualities of the Terraventure—such as durability and a roomy toe box—with a more breathable upper, a closed-cell insole, and extra cushioning, making it the ultimate rugged trail shoe.

On our backpacking trip in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, the shoe performed exceptionally well on all trail types. It also drained quickly and dried out rapidly after river fords and boggy sections.

Despite being a lighter mesh, the durable upper resisted damage from rocky terrain, while keeping our feet cool and dispersing moisture buildup. The Vibram Megagrip on the outsole provided excellent traction on various surfaces.

Our only caveats are that the gaiter compatibility isn’t universal and that, for the first few miles, the toe box felt a little tight before loosening up.

To see all the trail runners we tested, check out our guide to the best trail running shoes for women.

How We Tested

We first encountered the Traverse at the Appalachian Trail Days festival in Damascus, VA, where we had the chance to try it on for the first time. The reps explained how the shoe was designed with thru-hikers and long-distance runners in mind.

We experienced this attention to detail firsthand during our section hike of the AT in New England, through New Hampshire and into Maine, as well as on training runs for our upcoming backpacking trip in the Pyrenees.

Traction

The Topo Athletic Traverse features an aggressive lug pattern with deep lugs and a sticky Vibram Megagrip outsole, making it an excellent trail shoe for almost every type of terrain. We tested it on a section of the Appalachian Trail, as well as during several hikes and runs in Pennsylvania. Whether the trail was muddy, slick, dirt, or rocky, the Traverse never left us feeling unsure. 

The average day on the Appalachian Trail in the White Mountains includes some hands-on scrambling, steep slabby rock, muddy or boggy trail, and slippery plank bog logs. The Traverse provided us with excellent traction and stability on all of these surfaces.

Unlike most other trail shoes, the Traverse was designed primarily for hiking, which makes them highly versatile. Those who spend long days in the mountains will find these to be the perfect companion, whether they are navigating technical terrain or muddy trails.

comfort

Topo Athletic offers shoes with an anatomical toe box for great comfort and room for toe splay and swelling during long, hot efforts, including the new Traverse. Our testers found the toe box in this model to be slightly more restrictive than other Topo shoes and noticed a pinch point in the widest part of their forefeet during the first few miles. That irritation eventually subsided, but we recommend sizing up half a size from your usual Topo size for extra room.

It’s worth noting that while the toe box provides plenty of wiggle room, the midfoot and heel fit more snugly. This offers a comfortable space in the toes without feeling sloppy, though those with high-volume feet seeking width throughout might prefer the Altra Lone Peak or Hoka Speedgoat.

Besides that, the moderate stack height and firm foam offered great cushioning without losing ground feel. The rock plate in the forefoot prevented our feet from getting battered on the constant rocks and roots of the Appalachian Trail.

Weight

At just over a pound per pair, the Topo Athletic Traverse falls right within the average weight range for trail runners. They strike a balance between rugged durability and aggressive traction, with moderate cushioning and rock protection, all while keeping the weight low—making them a great choice for long days.

The Traverse is built for thru-hikers and FKT setters, as well as anyone putting in long days in the mountains. That group needs shoes that perform without extra weight, and these shoes deliver. Even after 20+ mile days on the Appalachian Trail, our feet didn’t feel heavy or bogged down. 

Durability

One of the things we love most about Topo Athletic shoes is their incredible durability. The Traverse continues this tradition. Even after logging dozens of miles on rocky, root-filled trails, they show very little wear.

We appreciate the durable mesh that combines breathability with strength, as well as the generous overlays in high-abrasion areas that add a second layer of protection. Despite the side abrasion from rocks, the Traverse did not blow out on the side or suffer any tearing, unlike many comparable shoes on the market.

Additionally, the full-coverage Vibram Megagrip outsole protects the midsole from debris, and the toe rand and extensive bumper shield the foot and toebox from damage. We were satisfied with the overall protection the shoe provided and its durability after many miles of rugged terrain.

Breathability

Although not the most breathable mesh, the Topo Athletic Traverse effectively dispersed heat and moisture enough to keep our feet comfortable, even on the hottest and most humid days. We found the slightly less breathable mesh to be a worthwhile trade-off for its remarkable durability; however, those not tackling very rugged trails or recreating in hot climates might want to consider other options.

Additionally, we were pleased with how quickly the Traverse drained after being submerged in river fords on the Appalachian Trail and how fast the shoe’s interior dried. Topo designed the insole with a closed-cell construction to be less absorbent, which we considered a major advantage on the consistently wet AT.

Responsiveness

Despite their hiking-forward construction, runners will still find the Traverse to be a versatile trail shoe suitable for nearly any type of terrain. This hybrid shoe offers plenty of responsiveness with a firm yet plush midsole that provides ample energy return. Our testers found it to have just the right amount of cushion to keep our feet fresh without sacrificing ground feel.

The Traverse felt nimble, unlike a lot of hiking forward designs, and our testers were pleased with its versatility for both long section hikes on the Appalachian Trail and daily trail runs.

While we did miss some of the rocker motion that helps create a smoother gait, the Traverse did not feel flat or clunky like other low-top hikers. Topo Athletic has done an excellent job of strengthening a trail running shoe without sacrificing responsiveness. Those who switch between trail running and hiking will find a lot of value in the Traverse as a shoe that excels in both roles.

Should You Buy the Women’s Topo Athletic Traverse?

Long-distance trail enthusiasts will find the Topo Athletic Traverse to be a highly versatile, durable trail shoe. The Traverse is designed mainly for multi-day efforts like thru-hiking, FKTs, and multi-day races. It features improved components for faster drying, reducing moisture absorption in the insole, increased durability in the upper, and an aggressive set of lugs with a Vibram Megagrip outsole.

All these elements, combined with Topo’s well-known wide toe box and minimal heel-to-toe drop, create a long-lasting, comfortable trail runner. Those who split their time between trail running and hiking will discover this to be a great all-around shoe and a solid value for the miles it offers. 

However, those seeking maximum cushioning, better breathability, or overall width and volume (not just in the toe box) may want to consider other options. 

What Other Women’s Trail Runners Should You Consider?

If the Topo Athletic Traverse doesn’t meet your needs, consider these similar trail runners with trail-approved traction.

Topo MTN Racer Review: Check out this Editor’s Pick if you’re looking for a trail shoe that offers aggressive traction and excels on more technical terrain with more cushioning.

Saucony Peregrine 15 Review: Check out this Editor’s Pick if you’re looking for a minimal drop trail shoe that offers room for your toes while keeping a more traditional profile and highly breathable mesh.

Brooks Cascadia 18 Review: If you want plenty of toe room, a more traditional drop, and increased durability, these trail runners might be just what you need. They come in two widths.