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Topo Athletic Ultrafly 5: Complete Review & Comparison Guide
In-depth review of the Topo Athletic Ultrafly 5. See how it compares to similar cushioned long-run shoes, specs, pros, cons, and where to buy.

Topo Athletic Ultrafly 5: Complete Review & Comparison Guide
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Check your local running store or online retailers for availability.
Overview
The Topo Athletic Ultrafly 5 is Topo's cushioned long-run trainer—combining their signature wide toe box with high-stack cushioning for extended distance comfort. With generous foam and natural foot geometry, the Ultrafly 5 protects feet during marathon training and high-mileage weeks.
This is Topo's plush option: wide toe box meets cushioned comfort.
Key Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Category | Daily Trainer, Long Run |
| Cushion Level | High |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 5mm |
| Weight (Men's/Women's) | 10.0oz / 8.6oz |
| Stack Height | 33mm heel / 28mm forefoot |
| Pronation Support | Neutral |
| Width Options | Standard |
| MSRP | MSRP: $150 |
| Surface | Road |
What It's Known For
The Ultrafly 5's cushioned stack height makes it Topo's best option for longer distances. Runners who love the brand's wide toe box can now get plush protection for marathon training without sacrificing the natural foot feel Topo is known for.
Runners appreciate the Ultrafly's ability to handle 20+ mile runs with wide-toe comfort.
Why Runners Love It
Pros
-
Cushioned: High stack for long-distance protection.
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Wide Toe Box: Signature Topo foot freedom.
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Good for High Mileage: Built for marathon training blocks.
What Some Runners Don't Like
Cons
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Heavier: Cushioning adds weight at 10.0oz.
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Limited Availability: Smaller brand distribution.
Who Should Consider This Shoe
The Topo Athletic Ultrafly 5 is ideal for:
- Long-distance runners (20-65 miles per week) wanting wide toe box
- Half marathon to ultra training
- Runners with plantar fasciitis seeking cushion with toe room
- Marathon trainers doing high mileage
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere
Consider other options if you:
- Want lightweight trainers
- Need mainstream availability
- Prefer narrow fit
- Need responsive speed shoes
How It Compares: Cross-Brand Comparison
| Shoe | Cushion | Drop | Weight (M) | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Topo Athletic Ultrafly 5 | High | 5mm | 10.0oz | MSRP: $150 | Wide toe cushion |
| Altra Torin 7 | High | 0mm | 10.0oz | MSRP: $150 | Zero-drop cushion |
| Brooks Glycerin 21 | High | 10mm | 10.1oz | MSRP: $160 | DNA LOFT comfort |
| HOKA Clifton 9 | High | 5mm | 9.1oz | MSRP: $145 | Lightweight cushion |
| Saucony Triumph 22 | High | 10mm | 10.0oz | MSRP: $165 | PWRRUN+ cushion |
Topo Athletic Lineup: Same-Brand Comparison
| Shoe | Cushion | Drop | Weight (M) | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ultrafly 5 | High | 5mm | 10.0oz | MSRP: $150 | Cushioned long run |
| Phantom 3 | Moderate | 5mm | 9.0oz | MSRP: $140 | Daily trainer |
| Specter | Moderate | 0mm | 8.4oz | MSRP: $140 | Zero-drop speed |
| Terraventure 4 | Moderate | 5mm | 10.2oz | MSRP: $140 | Trail running |
| MTN Racer 3 | Moderate | 5mm | 9.4oz | MSRP: $150 | Trail speed |
Final Verdict
The Topo Athletic Ultrafly 5 delivers cushioned long-run comfort with Topo's signature wide toe box. It's for distance runners who value foot freedom with plush protection.
For cushioned wide-toe running, the Ultrafly 5 is an excellent choice.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Check your local running store or online retailers for availability.