Topo Athletics ST-6: Quick Evaluation
By Bach Pham
Topo Athletics ST-6Price: $120
Weight: 6.6 oz, 187 g (men's size 9), 5.2 oz, 147 g (women's size 8)
Stack Height: 14mm
Drop: 0 mm
Shoe Purpose: Daily Trainer
Pros: Simple, clean fit, some very minor stability to help manage the shoe
Cons: Midsole feels a bit dated
SIMILAR SHOES: Altra Escalante, Xero HFS
PAST MODEL: Topo Athletics ST-5
PERFORMANCE SUMMARY
The Topo Athletics ST series has been their minimal, zero drop training option for several years now. We last reviewed the ST-5 back in 2023. The latest edition doesn't really change the formula. If you want a wide toebox with a very minimally stacked 14mm of Zipfoam (EVA), flexible training option for both daily miles and gym activities, this is still very much that shoe. There is a bit of stiffness in the back half of the shoe which made the ST-6, like the ST-5, manageable for me and my stability needs after the shoe broke-in (it was a little too soft and flexible the first couple of runs, but firmed up a little). I do have flat feet and this remains an option I can use for shorter distance daily mileage. I tried to pick up the pace, but I didn't feel like I had the foot strength to really take it more than strides. The shoe is quite light and easy to turnover. The heel is slightly clunky, but the lightness makes up for it.
The fit of the shoe in general is sufficient. The shoe locks down well, and the toebox has the signature spaciousness you expect out of Topo. The upper feels flexible and as minimal as the rest of the shoe, with no heel counter or major source of structure. The upper isn't the most voluminous, but the flexible material helps accommodate somewhat. The heel is a touch wide but I didn't face any heel slipping. There is a little bit of an arch bump, which may suit runners who have higher arches more. I did notice it slightly with my flat feet, especially standing/walking. It didn't bother my feet, but was noticeable. The outsole is fairly good at gripping the road as well. You will feel rocks (and maybe even get stuck into its grooves) since it is so minimal, so plan to stick to the roads with this one.
One thing I did find is that for my stability needs I didn't feel totally comfortable with walking long distances in the ST-6, especially out of box when the foam hadn't settled. I personally felt I just needed a bit more support all-around during my long walks in the shoe and was ready to take it off the second I finished. This is weirdly one I prefer logging miles or doing my physical activities in rather than wear all day. If you are used to barefoot shoes or low stack shoes in general, you may be fine, especially after the foam breaks in.
Doctors of Running Checklist
Is This a Good Shoe for Walking: No
Is This a Good Shoe for Standing: No
Is the Forefoot Flexible: Yes
How Flexible is the Shoe: Very
Is This a Good Heel Bevel: No
Recommended for Haglunds: Yes
Is This Shoe Orthotic Friendly: Yes
Recommended for Sockless: Yes
Durability Expectation: Moderate
FINAL THOUGHTS
Bach
Fit: A- (Generous width, no lockdown issues. Flexible upper helps with slightly lower volume)
Performance: B (The zipfoam isn't particularly exciting. It is a very no frills shoe)
Stability: B- (Better than most minimal shoes thanks to some stiffness, but still a very neutral shoe)
Value: A- (One of the more affordable options in the market)
Personal: B (Due to my stability needs not something I'm taking out often. I appreciate it, but I don't know if I personally find it a shoe I need in my rotation year-round)
Overall Design: B
Back when the ST-5 released, finding minimalist shoes was already a challenge. Since then, there's even less options with companies continuing to pull back their low stacked models. Altra, Topo Athletics, Merrell, Xero, Vibram and Vivobarefoot remain the last running shoe companies to carry this class of shoes. The ST-6 essentially just dials in what ST-5 lovers enjoyed, offering a pure and simple low stacked training option with all the ground feel. I personally do prefer options with drop and that are a bit stiffer for support due to my stability needs when it comes to a gym shoe, but those who want a minimal shoe may find this to be a decent option. This option kind of sits in between a shoe like the Reebok Nano and a very minimal shoe like the Xero HFS.
SHOP | SUPPORT DORTopo Athletics ST-6Price: $120
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FURTHER READING
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