The original Topo Athletic Specter was just okay from our perspective, it was a solid first step but definitely had room to improv. The Specter 2 aims to deliver just that and more. Designed as a daily road running trainer that skews uptempo and is usable for distance, the Specter 2 boasts some serious advances while remaining true to Topo Athletic’s core principles and design style. Let’s check out makes this shoe tick and how it holds up on the pavement.
Technical Specs
- Weight – 8.1oz or 230g for a US Men’s 9, 6.8oz or 193g for a US Women’s 7
- Cushion – 37mm of cushion and a 5mm heel/toe drop
- Pricing – $164.95 USD
- Colors – 2 colors
First Impressions and Fit
Your first look at the Topo Athletic Specter 2 will be me with a positive vibe, they just glow and the gradient color pallette is unlike anything else out there. Lightweight and fitted with a full PEBAX midsole, it’s made for runners who appreciate a unique ride. The Specter 2 fits true to size, though it’s slightly more relaxed than its predecessor, offering a broader toe box. This relaxed fit may challenge those with narrower feet looking for a snug feel, particularly at faster paces, BUT it is worth still checking them out.
Upper Construction
The upper is the first place where the Specter 2 shines both in terms of comfort and breathability and its also one of the big shifts from the original model. It offers excellent heel and midfoot security, featuring a more padded ankle and Achilles collar compared to the previous version. The lack of a rigid heel counter doesn’t compromise the secure fit—thanks to a stiff overlay running from the rear of the shoe to the lace area. The mesh used is durable yet sufficiently breathable, suitable for various weather conditions. The slots you see definitely add an aesthetic element, but more importantly enhance ventilation. Lacedown is solid and the on tongue lacing system removes the need for a gusset as the tongue stays in place well.
Midsole and Cushioning
The midsole is arguably the star of the show here. Using a full PEBAX foam construction eliminates the previous version’s EVA carrier foam (So PEBAX wrapped in EVA), resulting in a softer, more flexible ride. This supercritical foam offers a cushioned yet responsive experience, ideal for long-distance running, training, racing, etc. The updated rocker mechanism ensures that runners experience a smooth, energetic toe-off without feeling too stiff or unresponsive. With a stack height of 37mm in the heel and 32mm in the forefoot, the Specter 2 added more cushion while not sacrificing anything in terms of weight, design, or feel. So higher stack, lighter feeling, and faster.
Running in the Specter 2 offers a unique experience primarily due to its geometry and cushioning. The rocker design promotes a forward-rolling motion, making each stride feel efficient. Whether dealing with flat passes or downhill segments, the Specter 2 adjusted well, providing a stable ride that didn’t compromise on speed.
Outsole Durability
While the outsole has minimal hard rubber coverage, it still stands up well to varied terrains as they placed it in key contact points on forefoot and heel. The dense PEBAX midsole protects against feeling sharp rocks or other debris underfoot. The grooved lines you see carved into the rubber are there to mitigate water and wetness trying to actively channel it out.
Arch, Support, and Stability
Support is substantial in the Specter 2, especially under the arch, which is a defining feature of Topo shoes. It offers a comforting hug underfoot, ideal for those who may suffer from mild foot pain or need that extra bit of support during long runs. The Ortholite insole adds to the cushioning layer, contributing to a smooth, supportive run every time.
Despite the increased stack height, the Specter 2 remains stable, thanks in part to the cantilever design and broad platform. Flexibility has been improved from the first version, creating a shoe that feels less rigid but equally supportive and responsive. Even at slower paces, the Specter 2 manages to stay stable, a feat considering its cushy midsole and rocker design.
Conclusion
The Topo Athletic Specter 2 excels in balancing cushioning, responsiveness, and stability. Its thoughtful design, from the full PEBAX midsole to the secure, breathable upper, makes it a worthy daily trainer for long-distance running. While it may take a few runs to break in and adjust to its unique ride, the benefits become evident. Bottom line is the Specter 2 offers a comfortable running experience useful for runs of most lengths, its way better than the original, and it is a great shoe if you have been debating trying something from Topo Athletic.
Learn more on the Topo Athletic website
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Check Out Other Reviewers Thoughts
As always, we gather together some of our favorite reviewers so you can get a well-rounded view of the shoe. Here are our favorites.
