Topo Athletic Cyclone

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Topo Athletic Cyclone: Review

β€œA lightweight shoe designed for speed training and daily running.”

Overview


The Topo Athletic Cyclone is a lightweight running shoe designed for performance. This shoe is part of the Topo Athletic Cyclone family and is known for its responsive cushioning and breathable upper.

Key Features:

  • ZipFoam Midsole: Provides responsive cushioning and reduces impact on joints.
  • Breathable Mesh Upper: Ensures ventilation and comfort during runs.
  • Wide Toe Box: Allows natural toe splay for a more comfortable fit.

The Topo Athletic Cyclone is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize lightweight design and responsiveness for speed training and daily running. Its breathable upper offers comfort, making it suitable for various running conditions.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 65%. This puts it in the lowest rated 10% of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the most expensive 40% of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the Topo Athletic Cyclone


The Topo Athletic Cyclone is a lightweight and responsive shoe that excels in speed training and shorter runs. The ZipFoam midsole provides a springy toe-off, making it ideal for tempo runs and speed workouts. However, some runners may find the cushioning too firm for longer distances, leading to discomfort in the knees and calves. The breathable mesh upper ensures good ventilation, but the lacing system can be tricky to adjust. Overall, the Cyclone is a solid choice for those looking for a performance-oriented shoe with a wide toe box and a natural running feel. While it may not be the best option for long-distance runs, it shines in shorter, faster sessions.

Updates to Topo Athletic Cyclone


The Topo Athletic Cyclone features several updates from previous models in the Topo Athletic Cyclone family. The introduction of the ZipFoam midsole provides more responsive cushioning and better shock absorption. The breathable mesh upper has been improved for better ventilation and comfort. Additionally, the outsole design has been enhanced for better traction and durability. These updates make the Cyclone a more performance-oriented shoe compared to its predecessors.

Comparable Shoes


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The Altra Rivera is a good alternative to the Topo Athletic Cyclone for those seeking a softer cushion. While the Rivera weighs slightly more, it offers a similar foot-shaped design and a more comfortable ride for longer distances. The Rivera's cushioning is softer, making it a better choice for runners who find the Cyclone too firm.

6 Topo Athletic Cyclone Pros & Cons


4 Pros

Super light
Wide toe box
Breathable upper
Quick and responsive

2 Cons

Too firm
Hard to lace properly

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Topo Athletic Cyclone is made from a single layer of breathable mesh, ensuring excellent ventilation during runs. This design helps keep the feet cool and dry, making it a great choice for well-ventilated running shoes. The upper fits true-to-size and features a wide toe box, allowing for natural toe splay and added comfort. However, the lacing system can be difficult to adjust, which may be a drawback for some runners.

Midsole

The midsole of the Topo Athletic Cyclone features ZipFoam, a combination of polyurethane and hybrid EVA rubber. This material provides responsive cushioning and reduces impact on the joints, making it suitable for speed training and daily running. The 5 mm heel-to-toe drop (the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot) promotes a natural running gait, while the springy toe-off enhances running efficiency.

Outsole

The outsole of the Topo Athletic Cyclone is designed for optimal traction and durability. It features a durable rubber compound and a multi-directional tread pattern, ensuring good grip on various surfaces. This makes the shoe suitable for road running and provides added wear resistance, extending the life of the shoe.

Size/fit

The Topo Athletic Cyclone offers a true-to-size fit with a wide toe box, allowing for natural toe splay and added comfort. The midfoot and heel areas provide a secure fit, thanks to the well-designed upper and lacing system. However, some runners may find the lacing system difficult to adjust, which can affect the overall fit.

Comfort

The Topo Athletic Cyclone provides a comfortable fit, especially in the midfoot and toe box areas. The breathable mesh upper ensures good ventilation, keeping the feet cool and dry. However, the firm cushioning may not be suitable for longer runs, as it can cause discomfort in the knees and calves.

Cushioning

The ZipFoam midsole of the Topo Athletic Cyclone offers responsive cushioning, making it ideal for speed training and shorter runs. However, some runners may find the cushioning too firm for longer distances, leading to discomfort in the knees and calves. The 5 mm heel-to-toe drop promotes a natural running gait, enhancing overall running efficiency.

Breathability

The breathable mesh upper of the Topo Athletic Cyclone ensures excellent ventilation, making it a great choice for well-ventilated running shoes. This design helps keep the feet cool and dry during runs, enhancing overall comfort.

Stability

The Topo Athletic Cyclone provides good stability, thanks to its well-designed midfoot and heel areas. The ZipFoam midsole offers a responsive and stable ride, while the wide toe box allows for natural toe splay, enhancing overall stability during runs.

Durability

The durable rubber compound and multi-directional tread pattern of the Topo Athletic Cyclone's outsole ensure good wear resistance, extending the life of the shoe. This makes it a reliable choice for daily running and speed training.

Grip

The Topo Athletic Cyclone offers good grip on various surfaces, thanks to its durable rubber outsole and multi-directional tread pattern. This ensures reliable traction during road running and other running activities.

Flex

The Topo Athletic Cyclone provides a flexible ride, thanks to its lightweight design and responsive ZipFoam midsole. This flexibility enhances running efficiency and allows for natural foot movement during runs.

Who should buy the Topo Athletic Cyclone?


The Topo Athletic Cyclone is ideal for runners who prioritize lightweight design and responsiveness. It's a great choice for those who engage in speed training and daily running. Runners who appreciate a wide toe box and a natural running feel will find this shoe particularly appealing. Additionally, those who prefer a breathable upper for better ventilation during runs will benefit from this shoe.

Who should not buy the Topo Athletic Cyclone?


Runners who prefer a softer cushioning for longer distances may find the Topo Athletic Cyclone too firm. If you struggle with adjusting laces, the lacing system might be frustrating. Those looking for a more flexible shoe for varied running conditions might want to consider other options. For a softer cushion and similar foot-shaped design, the Altra Rivera could be a better choice.

Topo Athletic Cyclone: What's it good for?


The Topo Athletic Cyclone is well-suited for speed training and daily running. Its lightweight design and responsive cushioning make it ideal for speed workouts and tempo runs. The breathable mesh upper ensures comfort during everyday training. However, it may not be the best choice for long-distance runs due to its firm cushioning.

5 Topo Athletic Cyclone FAQs


Is the Topo Athletic Cyclone suitable for long-distance running?

The Topo Athletic Cyclone is best suited for shorter runs and speed training due to its firm cushioning. Some runners may find it too firm for long-distance running, leading to discomfort in the knees and calves.

How does the Topo Athletic Cyclone fit?

The Topo Athletic Cyclone fits true-to-size and features a wide toe box, allowing for natural toe splay. The midfoot and heel areas provide a secure fit, but the lacing system can be difficult to adjust.

What type of cushioning does the Topo Athletic Cyclone have?

The Topo Athletic Cyclone features ZipFoam cushioning, which is a combination of polyurethane and hybrid EVA rubber. This provides responsive cushioning and reduces impact on the joints.

Is the Topo Athletic Cyclone breathable?

Yes, the Topo Athletic Cyclone has a breathable mesh upper that ensures good ventilation, keeping the feet cool and dry during runs.

What type of runner is the Topo Athletic Cyclone best for?

The Topo Athletic Cyclone is ideal for runners who prioritize lightweight design and responsiveness. It's great for speed training and daily running, especially for those who appreciate a wide toe box and a natural running feel.

Topo Athletic Cyclone alternatives

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productAthletes
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Weight
Weight
M: 224 g
W: 184 g
M: 269 g
W: 218 g
M: 215 g
W: 184 g
181 g
M: 241 g
W: 207 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
23 mm
30 mm
35 mm
36 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
5 mm
5 mm
5 mm
8 mm
Heel
Heel
28 mm
35 mm
40 mm
44 mm
Brand
Brand
Topo Athletic
NikeNew BalanceASICSASICSASICS
Strike Type
Strike Type
Fore/Midfoot strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
Lightweight
ComfortableMaximalistComfortableLightweightLightweightMaximalistLightweightMaximalist
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Carbon fiber plate
Carbon fiber plate
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
New Balance Fresh Foam
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Topo Athletic Cyclone: what the experts say (1 review)

Topo Athletic Cyclone: 4 Expert video reviews

Topo Athletic Cyclone characteristics and specifications

Specificationsvs Average
Released
Feb 2021
Measurements
Weight
M: 224 g
W: 184 g
Heel to toe drop
5 mm
Heel
28 mm
Forefoot
23 mm

Evolution of the Topo Athletic Cyclone product family

Pro athletes using Topo Athletic Cyclone

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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December 18, 2024 at 9:55 AM
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πŸ“Š Stats by geerly πŸ‘Ÿ πŸ•’ Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%