Thru-hikers obsess over two things: calories and footwear. Topo Athletic is betting on the second one with the Traverse 2, a new version of its popular low-top hiking shoe, released in November 2026, that's built specifically for multi-month treks like the Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail.
The original Traverse already earned a following among long-distance hikers for its traction, toughness and fit. The sequel doubles down on durability. A new high-abrasion mesh upper with strategically placed overlays keeps grit and trail debris out without piling on weight — a real consideration when every ounce gets judged over 2,000 miles. Topo has also added its universal gaiter attachment system, so hikers can seal out dirt, rocks and rain on wet or sandy stretches.
Underfoot is where the changes get interesting. The shoe runs on a full-length Vibram Megagrip outsole, one of the most trusted rubbers for wet rock and technical terrain, paired with a flexible forefoot rock plate to blunt the sting of sharp trail sections. The three-piece midsole mixes a softer foam at the heel base with a firmer foam along the medial arch, aimed at stability when you're hauling a heavy pack all day. Inside, the FKT insole uses TPU beads for cushioning and rebound — and to help the shoe drain and dry quickly after stream crossings or storms.
The geometry stays consistent with Topo's house style: a 5-millimetre drop for a more natural gait, a roomy toe box, and a snugger hold through the midfoot and heel. That shape has become the brand's calling card, and it tends to suit hikers whose toes need space to splay over long days.
Weight figures are respectable for a protective hiking shoe: 9.2 ounces in a women's size 7 and 11.2 ounces in a men's size 9. In other words, it sits in the sweet spot between burly leather boots and flimsy trail runners — enough shield and support for rocky, loaded-down hiking without tipping into clomping boot territory.
Why should a traveller care? If you're planning a long-distance hike in the US, a multi-week trek, or even just day hiking on rough ground, footwear is the single most consequential piece of kit you'll buy. The Traverse 2's gaiter compatibility and quick-drying insole also make it a sensible pick for shoulder-season walking, river crossings and changeable weather — not just dedicated thru-hikes. It's worth a look if you've struggled with cramped toe boxes in conventional hiking shoes, or if you want rock protection without boot-level weight.
The takeaway for anyone eyeing the AT, PCT or a similar epic: shoe tech keeps inching forward, and the latest round of updates is all about lasting thousands of miles with fewer blisters and less foot fatigue. Backcountry
