Topo - Cyclone 3

The Cyclone is my absolute favorite fun shoe to run in. It should be part of everyone’s rotation. Caveat is mostly that it isn’t as padded or as supportive as some higher stack alternatives. My shoe formula is 1) around 5mm drop, 2) light weight, 3) rocker sole. Clifton 9 was the epitome of that but is now gone. Topo Specter or Atmos might be better Topos to start with, but definitely end up with Cyclone in your rotation.

I love my 6.8oz Cyclone 3 even more than my old flame Escalante Racer.

My vote is Topo Cyclone. It’s light and low, and a delight to run in.

I started w a pair of Atmos and am at 300 miles. New runner 59m/ 200 lbs (down from 285 a year ago)! I have Cyclone 3 for races. I need a new pair for training and will look at both. What's the difference if I can ask?

Topo!! Changed my life. LOVE the shoes. Most seem to have 5mm drop, but they do offer some zero drop.

If you're ready to invest in a good pair, Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 are love them or hate them race shoes, super soft and snappy but maybe too unstable for slow long runs, so best for faster workouts or race day rather than every single training run. Meanwhile, Topo shoes like the Cyclone tend to be more balanced everyday trainers that work well for regular runs and longer mileage without the super shoe feel. You could also check ShopWSS since they often carry popular running models and occasionally have great discounts, which is nice when you're still figuring out what works best for your feet.

Topo makes shoes from low 20s to mid 30s stack with zero to 5mm drops. Various models (primarily Cyclone and Specter) have been my go-to now for the last three years. I came from Hoka and Saucony where the widths and lower toe boxers were hard on my feet especially during longer mileage weeks.

Obsessed with the ultrafly and cyclone

It can be tough starting out. If you have something you love shop similar shoes. If not, go to a store and try on a bunch. Never buy the latest model and search for discounts and 5+ websites. Even then it can be expensive with the starting price of shoes these days. Personally, I start with the drop because I like a low drop (3-5mm) shoe, but not zero drop. This excludes a lot of brands and models. E: my go to is Topo for low drop, currently on my second pair of Cyclones. Not the most cushioned, if you can find the Specter discounted it might be what you're looking for. Unfortunately Topo rarely goes on sale.

Saucony Elite wouid be way aggressive for newer or even intermediate runners. Saucony Azura, due out in a few weeks, would be a better pick. Sort of a more stable alternative to the popular Adidas Evo SL. If you want slightly more agressive, Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 has a nylon plate, but is not very stiff or harsh. Asics Novablast 5 is a bit more cushioned, but a very good all around shoe. Not known to last the longest, however. Someone suggested Nike Vomero Plus. More cushioned yet, not as much of a speed shoe, but a very good option. Topo Cyclone.....has a lower 5mm heel to toe drop. You might feel it in your calves and Achilles area if not used to lower drop running shoes. Really a good idea to go to a running store that can assess your gait, where your feet land, any pains or injuries, scan your foot shape, assess your personal preferences and goals. The fewer running shoes you have, the more you need a pair that is versatile enough for different paces, distances, and types of runs.

I was so sad when brooks discontinued the pure line! They were my favorite! Currently run in topos cyclone, new balance rebels (and then a few other scattered in that I don’t love that much).

Or the Topo Spectre / Cyclone for real Pebax foam. Both comfortable while still having great energy return and some ground feel.

Topo Athletic. Specter or Cyclone. Love them.