Topo Athletic ST-5 Running Shoes

Topo Athletic is a specialized footwear brand founded in 2013 by Tony Post, the former CEO of Vibram USA. The brand is known for its distinctive approach to shoe design, featuring a roomy toe box, secure midfoot/heel fit, and low-drop platforms meant to promote natural biomechanics while running or walking.

Originally an independent startup based in Framingham, Massachusetts, Topo Athletic underwent a significant ownership change in late 2022 when it was acquired by Designer Brands Inc. (DBI). This acquisition allowed the brand to leverage DBI's extensive logistics and retail network while maintaining its specialized identity in the 'natural running' category.

While the brand was born in the United States, manufacturing is primarily centered in specialized factories across Asia, including countries like China and Vietnam. This is typical for high-performance athletic footwear to manage technical production requirements at scale. The brand continues to grow its global presence under the umbrella of its parent company, which also owns major retailers like DSW.