Hydroventure

I've been thru Topo Hydroventure, Ultraventure 1/2/3, MTN Racer 1/2/3/4. The UV3's lost the outer/lug grip plot, the MTN3's felt like running in floppy support-free canvas bags (the MTN4's are a return to form). I haven't tried the Vistas yet. What I'm concerned about with the Vistas is catching little rocks in that split heel just like Saucony Peregrines do. Did you experience this in your run test? Other than that, the lugs are the same as the MTN4's, right?

My waterproof Topos did great for me on the Zion Traverse a few weeks ago. I usually get blisters between my 3rd and 4th toes, but nothing this time. The wide toe box is great if you have wider feet.

Non goretex trail runners Topo are my jam. Big wide toe box. Altra is my second choice

I’ve worn Altras and Topos. My wife has some Hokas. It really depends on what fits your feet.

I’ve gotten 500+ miles on several Topo models, though I hear Norda 001 last even longer.

Have you looked at the Topo lineup of shoes? Same wide toe box, same 0mm drop options. I have a bunch of them. Some zero drop, some 3 and 5mm drops. The only thing I don't like about Topos is that I hate ortho-lite insoles so I swap in super feet insoles instead. But that is probably an issue in most trail shoes since they try to go lightweight.

I had the same problem and ended up with sized up mens topos (I'm a woman). I suggest trying out REI if you're in the states because if you are a member, you can buy a pair and have up to a year to return them for something different. edit to add I tried the Altra LPs and my toenail almost fell off (probably should have sized up tbh but this was before I knew about REI)

Everyones feet are different. I tried Altras, then womans topos both of which have a big toe box for my wide feet. Both of them were not good for my toenails. So I ended up a size bigger in mens topos. My feet are now happy. It's an expensive trial and error but shoes that fit you are essential. I also went to a running store to get an idea of their suggestions. The place I went to had a one month return policy. If you are in the states, I'd suggest getting a membership at REI. They have a return policy of up to a year if the shoe doesn't fit.

Everyones feet are different. I tried Altras, then womans topos both of which have a big toe box for my wide feet. Both of them were not good for my toenails. So I ended up a size bigger in mens topos. My feet are now happy. It's an expensive trial and error but shoes that fit you are essential. I also went to a running store to get an idea of their suggestions. The place I went to had a one month return policy. If you are in the states, I'd suggest getting a membership at REI. They have a return policy of up to a year if the shoe doesn't fit.