Topo Athletic Hydroventure

Women’s 230 g (8.1 oz.) Men’s 255 g (9.7 oz.) Drop ratio: 3 mm $190

Topo Athletic calls the Hydroventure the lightest waterproof trail shoe available today.

What it calls “eVent” technology, a waterproof material sandwiched between the breathable outer and inner mesh layers on the upper, doesn’t work quite as well as the latest version of Gore-Tex, but it does a decent job keeping your feet dry.

The Hydroventure is very much a hybrid of two of Topo’s other shoes, using the same outsole as the MT-2 and other design features of the Runventure. Like these two shoes, the Hydroventure is a competent trail shoe for those who are looking for lots of grip (by way of sizeable 4.5 mm lugs) during foul conditions and a minimal drop.

The nicest feature of all is the full heelto-toe rock plate. It’s embedded within the midsole itself, but has flex grooves at the arch and toes to allow for full movement. Coupled with a subtle 4 mm drop, the Hydroventure provides a minimalist experience with maximal protection.