Solid upgrade on Phantom 3
I am a big fan of Topo shoes, and have purchased several different models. Am a big fan of the Phantom 3s (as well as the Ultraventure 4s, the Traverse and Fli-Lyte 6). Firstly, it’s important to note that I am not a runner, and use the various shoes from Topo for walking, travelling, hiking and sometimes the gym for light workouts; for heavier days I use other shoes. There are a few glowing reviews on the Phantom 4 from runners on Youtube. I want to share my opinions here on how it differs from the Phantom 3, as well as talk about it as a walking and travelling shoe on its own terms. Let’s start with that. As with all my experiences with Topo shoes, the build is solid, the fit is excellent, with its wide anatomical toe-box and snug midfoot. Regarding sizing, do consider the snug midfoot feeling, and not just the length of the shoe. I also like the simple designs and colourways offered by Topo, though they also have brighter colours on some of their other models, and while not for me, I am happy to see the brand offer those choices to others. The Phantom 4 stack height of 35mm and drop of 5mm is great for a walking shoe, and the midsole is just right in terms of softness and responsiveness. There is decent rubber outsole coverage. Some Youtube reviewers talk about the rubber outsole not offering the best grip on wet road, so keep that in mind. Personally, I don’t want too high a stack height for a walking shoe, and don’t want that much plushness either. A higher stack also results in a more pronounced rocker geometry with the shoe. In this regard, I prefer the Phantom 3, which has a slightly lower stack, same drop, but consequently less rocker and, for me, I find it better for walking. The Phantom 3 is much less plush, but it still offers plenty protection underfoot for walking, and I’m not a small person, weighing 200lbs. The Phantom 3 and 4 are not the lightest shoes, but they are not heavy. My feeling is that Topo’s Zipfoam midsoles may not offer the most responsiveness and lightness, but from my experience and from watching reviews, what their midsoles do offer is longevity, as they don’t bottom out after a hundred miles. Highly recommended.