Running shoes for trail, road, and walks – the best choices for summer

Summer in Sweden is a time for movement. With bright evenings and more relaxed days, the door opens for more and longer excursions, new running goals, and spontaneous everyday adventures. Whether you run in the mountains, take evening sessions on the road, or go for long walks in the city, the right shoe is crucial – not just for performance, but for the overall experience. Here we guide you to which Topo Athletic model suits best depending on how your summer looks.

When the trail leads into the forest and up the mountain

For those who want to get away from the asphalt and out into nature, summer offers endless opportunities. Running on trails, hiking in the mountains, or moving over varied terrain requires a shoe that provides security, grip, and long-lasting comfort. Here, Ultraventure 4 is an obvious choice. It is our most cushioned trail shoe so far – developed to handle long distances and technical trails with ease. The updated Vibram® outsole provides secure grip whether you run on dry forest trails, damp mountain terrain, or loose gravel. Thanks to an improved midsole and a more stable heel grip, Ultraventure 4 offers support throughout the trip, regardless of length or intensity.

For road sessions in the summer sun

When the evenings are bright and the temperature drops after a warm day, many take the opportunity to go out on the road or gravel. Here, the feeling of flow, lightness, and responsiveness is important, especially if you want to run a bit faster. Specter 2 is designed for just that – a road shoe with modern cushioning in Pebax foam, optimized for pace and distance. With a rockered sole and low weight, you get a natural drive in your step and a smooth running feel that makes you want to run a little longer than planned. Specter 2 is the shoe for those who want speed and comfort in the same package.

For the active summer on the go

Summer is not just running – it can also be days filled with city walks, excursions, spontaneous adventures, and an active everyday life. Then versatility is key, and a shoe that handles both movement and rest without compromising comfort. This summer we launch Phantom 4, an all-round shoe with maximum cushioning and a new, breathable mesh upper. It is the model that works just as well for a calm morning jog as for a whole day on the move – whether you travel, walk in the city, or want a shoe that can handle the entire vacation day. Phantom 4 gives you stability, softness, and a feeling of security under your foot, every step.

When you want to push yourself in technical terrain

For those seeking challenges in hilly environments – where the trail demands concentration, foot strength, and good grip – the choice of shoe is crucial. The new MTN Racer 4, released this summer, is developed for that kind of tough trail. It is lighter than its predecessor, yet more protective and stable, with an aggressive Vibram® Megagrip sole and improved fit for fast running in technical terrain. Whether you run vertically up mountain slopes or take quick sessions in rooty forest, MTN Racer 4 gives you the precision and confidence needed to fully enjoy.