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I tried the Topo Mtn Racer 3 too and struggling with plantar fasciitis, it didn't do the job for me, felt very painful. I got Altras (Wild Experience 2), which have a flat insoles, and see there, all the pain in my feet disappeard within a month, and they have plenty of space in the toebox.
Any of the Altra “Experience” line. They are 4mm drop with the same wider toe box. Topo wouldn’t work for me because though they have a roomy toe box, the midfoot and heel is actually regular to narrow, so my arch area would hang over the midsole and they just weren’t comfortable. I even tried the “wide” versions of Topos and they still had the same issue. I would really recommend trying some other brands that aren’t an “anatomical” toe box but do have wide sizes available. If you go with a 2E or 4E size, you will probably be fine even if it’s not a “foot shape” shoe. I really love Altras shape for my foot, but the midsole geometries/rocker/foam/cushion just aren’t my favorite. Check out the New Balance Hierro, that’s available in 2E and 4E width. Also Brooks has trail models in wide as well as Hoka.
I found for the Altra Experience Wild I had to go up half a size to get the right fit. Maybe try that? Mount To Coast T1 might be worth a look, I think it’s a decently wide toe box. I also think a lot of On shoes have a roomy forefoot.
Altra has their Experience Wild 3, which is a 4mm drop. I have the original Experience Wild and it works well for my wide foot, though I did have to go up half a size in that shoe vs my other Altras.
Altra Experience Wild are 4mm drop
Hi all, Background: long time new balance cross trainer user, but switched to hoka recently as I did not like the new designs. (Old new balance designs were DURABLE and lasted years apiece) Bought the hoka challenger 8 in August, which was actually quite comfortable… …but only used it like 2-3 months and ultimately had to file warranty claim, due to cloth separation from the rubber sole area… which they approved I now have credit for new shoes, and was wondering if y’all had any recommendations for: \- cross trainer \- not zero drop \- more durable \- black colored Would appreciate what models I should look into. Some have suggested speed goat
Hi, thank you for reaching out. I appreciate your expertise. Previously for the new balance, I used to use I think something like an 860 series, which I understand is more geared towards comfort, but stability. I’ve always liked using shoes with decent tread pattern, even for a daily basis. I am aware that they will wear down, but I feel like I get a lot more grip and support than with the standard walking shoes, which I hate with a passion Because of the whole issue with my Challenger8, I ended up buying an altra experience wild. I’m loving the shoes so far. With that data in mind, what would you recommend accordingly?
Various Altra models. Lone peak series are pretty decent. However, for comfort for 50ks and longer, I have been using the Altra Mont Blanc Carbons. More response and better all day comfort. The Exoerience series are pretty decent, my boys run trails races those and love them.
Altra Olympus are great shoes, but it's worth noting that theyre zero drop, which if you're not used to it will feel really strange and likely give you pain in your calves due to them putting more pressure on your lower legs. If you want that Altra feel but aren't used to zero drop it's worth looking at the Altra Experience Wild which have a 4mm drop Personally, I love my New Balance Hierro v8 and my Nike Pegasus Trail 5, which are very do everything shoes and are really comfortable
I've pretty much followed the same path as you and for over 100km: Tarkine Trail Devil 2 > Topo Mtn Racer 3 > Lone Peaks Although I think the LPs have the most forgiving shape and just this week, I got a pair of **Altra Experience Wild**, which are the standard Altra shape (LP are Original shape shape) but much bigger stack height and 4mm offset. They also take the Altra gaiter system, which I really like, so these may get to the top of the list- just need to get some runs in them. So, if you kinda like the LPs but want a bit more, these might be an option for you.
I’m hoping to get some suggestions from other runners with wider feet. I absolutely loved the original Saucony Xodus Ultras, but I’ve finally run through my stockpile and need to find a new go-to trail shoe. About me: I’m a heavier runner (200lbs) with wider feet, so I need a good toe box and enough room in the midfoot (too snug and I end up with pain after longer runs.) Here’s what I’ve tried recently: * Altra Experience Wild - Good fit, enjoying these so far. * Topo Ultraventure 4 - Also a solid fit, no complaints. * Topo MNT Racer 3 - Too narrow in the midfoot, caused discomfort after a 10-miler. * Saucony Xodus Ultra 3 - Unfortunately too narrow overall for me. * Peregrine 12's (wide) - Good for technical routes and quicker paces. I’m open to rotating a few models for different distances and terrain. I’m curious about the following shoes but am open to other suggestions. Not a big fan of zero drops. Have caused calf issues in the past. * Brooks Catamount / Caldera / Cascadia * North Face Altamesa 500 * Norda 001 * NNormal Tomir 2.0 Would love to hear from anyone with similar need, especially if you’ve found a solid Xodus Ultra alternative that works for wider feet. Bonus points for shoes that can handle longer miles or varied terrain.
I loved my Sense Rides but then I found Altra Experience Wilds. They are so light they have the same fun ride the Sense Rides had but removed the main issue I had with the rides being how narrow they were. Only downside is they last about 1/2 as long before needing replacing.
Rankings by Use Case
Top recommendations from others in the same boat
Best for Deep mud and soft ground

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Salomon - Speedcross Series
Best for Quick draining and drying for wet trails

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Hoka - Speedgoat Series
Best for Road-to-trail transitions

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Nike - Pegasus Trail Series
Best for Steep technical descents

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Salomon - Genesis Series
Best for Technical rocky terrain

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La Sportiva - Prodigio Series
Best for Ultra-marathon racing

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La Sportiva - Prodigio Series





