Details
Brand
Topo Athletic
Heel To Toe Drop
4 mm
Breathability
7/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Road
Type
Minimalist
Key Features
• 4mm drop• EVA rubber outsole• Low Weight• Mesh upper• Additional eyelet for structure
Upper
The upper has been updated from the previous version. The upper uses a mesh material that is breathable. The mesh upper’s updates help provide more durability and structure. In addition, there are now six eyelets, up from five on the previous version. This update helps keep the foot in place and snug for a more structured feel. Reviewers were pleased with the upper overall. Some had slight issues with the fabric sewn into the tongue rubbing on the foot.
Midsole
The Fli-Lyte 2 midsole has been slightly updated so that it is softer without any added thickness. Topo uses light cushioning and EVA to provide a soft, flexible running experience. The best part about the change to the midsole is that the low weight remains. Reviewers felt that the cushioning was ideal, yet still is responsive. These features contribute to using the shoe as an everyday trainer.
Outsole
The Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 2 outsole is comprised of EVA rubber. This rubber is designed to withstand abrasion on road surfaces. The rubber runs the length of the shoe. Reviewers boasted that the outsole is highly durable. However some did note that there was some early scuffing, but no durability issues associated with this on the outsole.
Breathability
The updated upper is made from a mesh material that is very breathable. Reviewers felt this is a main benefit that helps keep the foot cool and dry. They felt that Topo was consistent in using material that is breathable and wicks away moisture.
Comfort
The Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 2, while lightweight, still manages to pack in the features that keep the feet comfortable. Starting with the toe box that has an additional room, reviewers loved that the foot had more room, yet still felt secure. The shoe provides a snug fit through the mid-foot. The lightweight cushioning also contributes to keeping the foot comfortable. Reviewers only had one comfort issue and that was related to the fabric sewn into the tongue. Some felt that the additional fabric rubbed the foot.
Style
The Fli-Lyte 2 offers two color options a blue with orange and grey. The shoe comes in a sleek design made to keep the weight low. While some appreciated the two color options, others wanted more of a selection outside of the bright color and the neutral color.
Durability
This is made to be a durable shoe that will last mile after mile. The shoe uses EVA rubber on the outsole that withstands abrasion on road surfaces. The midsole cushioning also is a strong cushioning that doesn’t wear even with its low weight. The upper’s mesh material is designed to stand up to wear and tear. Reviewers were pleased with the shoe’s durability and had no issues.
Protection
The Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 2 offers a good amount of protection. The shoe is designed to be used while running on the road, so the outsole uses EVA rubber to protect the foot from any abrasion. The light cushioning also protects the foot during impact. The mesh upper is designed to keep the foot snug and protected from road debris. While there are no added elements, the shoe does a good job of protecting the foot.
Responsiveness
The Fli-Lyte 2 is a highly responsive shoe. Reviewers were impressed with the connection from foot to the ground, as the transition offered firmness with cushioning. The Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 2 uses light cushioning and EVA to create a flexible, soft running experience, while keeping the weight down. The shoe boasts a 3 mm drop that ensures that the shoe allows for natural movement during a transition. Overall, the shoe provides a strong amount of responsiveness.
Support
This shoe offers support throughout so that runners can feel comfortable while running. The shoe’s mesh upper keeps the foot locked in place, providing additional structure without affecting the overall weight of the shoe. The cushioning and outsole also are designed to support the foot while running on road surfaces. While there are no built-in support features outside of the typical shoe, reviewers felt that the Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 2 provided more structure than most other lightweight shores available on the market.
Terrain
The Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 2 is designed to be used for road running. The outsole is comprised of EVA rubber that withstands abrasive surfaces, while protecting the foot. The midsole also uses EVA rubber with cushioning to ensure the foot is comfortable while running on the road. In addition, the upper uses a mesh material that stands up to debris often found on the road. Reviewers thought the shoe had great traction, but this made it a bit less flexible.
Price
The Fli-Lyte 2 is quite affordable for how well-designed the shoe is. Reviewers felt that the shoe maintains the great features from the original version, while upgrading those elements that needed it. Compared with other models on the market, the shoe is a good price.
Drop
The Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 2 has a 4 mm drop. This is a lower drop compared with some other shoes on the market. However, given the shoe’s focus on keeping the weight low, the shoe is made for those looking for a more minimal running experience. The shoe still manages to provide a good amount of cushioning with a running experience that is more natural.
Stability
The Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 2 is a neutral shoe that has some elements of stability, but purchasers should notice that these are not Motion Control shoes. If more stability is needed, purchasers can visit the motion control category for more options. The shoe’s upper helps keep the foot snug and in place. This contributes to the overall stability of the shoe throughout a run. The shoe also added an extra eyelet that helps keep the foot stable during running as well. The Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 2 has a strong outsole with midsole cushioning that keeps the foot stable during impact. Overall, the shoe has a good amount of stability for a neutral platform.
Flexibility
This is described as being a flexible shoe. With the updated platform from the previous version, the shoe is definitely softer and more flexible than the previous version. The shoe also has a very natural feel. Reviewers still felt that the shoe needed more flexibility due to the stiffness of the outsole.
Traction
The Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 2 outsole is designed using strong EVA rubber. The traction on the shoe works well for road running, and when conditions are wet. Reviewers had no issues with traction, except that the great traction made the shoe a little less flexible.
Bottom Line
The Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 2 is made for runners who need a shoe designed with comfort and speed in mind. Runners should feel comfortable about the affordable price combined with all the features that make this a great everyday trainer option. Topo was focused on taking the original shoe and upgrading the elements that needed a little tweaking. The shoe has a more structured upper that is evident by the strong mesh material and additional eyelet to keep the foot snug. The wider toe box allows room for the toes to stay comfortable while the mid-foot still stays supported. The midsole has also been upgraded to allow for more cushioning without adding any additional weight. The outsole uses EVA rubber to ensure a highly durable running foundation for those runners adding miles. Purchasers can feel comfortable that this shoe will be with them for many miles. Topo has even added in some flexibility, although some runners still wanted a bit more. This versatile shoe is a great option for runners who need an everyday trainer, no matter how many miles.
