Since launching in 2003, Inov-8 has become a go-to for runners who are allergic to pavement. The company’s fledgling model, the Mudroc 290, was built on a sticky rubber outsole inspired by climbing shoes and won converts for its flexibility, ruggedness, and grip. These qualities set the bar for Inov-8’s unique “ground-up” design philosophy—crafting each outsole for specific types of terrain—that still guides the brand’s shoes today. Both road and trail options are designed to be lightweight, Michael is a freelance writer with years of experience covering gear and the outdoors for.
Best Inov-8 Running Shoes
The Expert: I became a runner in middle school and have covered running and outdoor gear for years, both on-staff at Runner’s World and as a freelance journalist. Running shoes is the category of gear I’ve written about the most, and I have firsthand experience with models from a range of brands. To write articles like this one, I talk with brand reps about the company’s latest shoes and tech, consult RW tester feedback, and draw on my own experience within the running shoe industry. With direction from RW editors, I combine all that info to choose what shoes make it onto this page.
Rough and Ready Trail Tech
All Inov-8 shoes use a Met-Cradle, a series of bands along the outside of the upper that attach to the laces. When the shoe is tied, these bands tighten around the midfoot for a secure fit that’s designed to naturally expand along with your foot as you run. A Dynamic Fascia Band (DFB) is found in many Inov-8 shoes, and it’s a midsole shank that creates tension and stiffens the shoe as you transition onto your forefoot during your stride. The DFB then acts like a stiff lever to launch you forward more efficiently at toe-off. Tri-C refers to a special outsole formulation of three different kinds of rubber: soft and sticky around the edges to grab onto rough ground, high-abrasion rubber at the heel for improved durability, and hard tacky rubber on the lugs to dig into softer terrain.
Inov-8’s kicks are known for their firm—rather than cushy—ride and low-to- moderate heel-toe offset, although some of the company’s newest shoes stray from that style. You can tell just how much of an offset to expect by the arrow markings on the heel of the shoe: fewer arrows mean a lower drop, more arrows mean a higher drop. Inov-8’s standard cushioning is EVA-based Powerflow. Powerflow+ is infused with TPU for added energy return, and Powerflow Max, found in the X-Talon Ultra 260, has additional TPU for even more bounce and improved overall cushioning. In addition, Inov-8 uses a Boomerang footbed made from TPU beads to boost responsiveness and comfort in several of its shoes. The company’s latest foam, called Flyspeed, debuted in the Health - Injuries in 2022. Flyspeed is infused with nitrogen gas to create a cushioning material that’s lightweight, soft, and notably bouncy. It helps the Health - Injuries generate a plush ride for long-distance runs.
Gripping with Graphene
Working with researchers from the University of Manchester, Inov-8 developed graphene-infused rubber outsoles—called Graphene-Grip—for its G-Series shoes, which debuted in 2018. Graphene is a lightweight, flexible material that is 200 times stronger than steel, and when combined with rubber, it makes an incredibly durable compound. Inov-8 also uses graphene in one of its cushioning materials, called G-Fly. It debuted in 2021 on the Michael is a freelance writer with years of experience covering gear and the outdoors for and combines EVA, TPU, and graphene to create a highly resilient foam. According to the brand’s internal testing data, G-Fly delivers more energy return and durability for an undiminished bouncy feeling—even after hundreds of miles of wear.
Key Considerations
When shopping for running shoes, I suggest considering seven key factors: weight, cushioning, energy return (how quickly the sole of the shoe bounces back after your foot lifts), support (countering overpronation and helping keep your foot in place inside the shoe), breathability through the upper, traction, and durability.
To choose the right running shoe for your needs, think in terms of these factors. If you need a shoe to set a PR in your next 10K, look for racing models that prioritize low weight and high energy return—they’ll help you run fast. Need a daily trainer? You’ll want something with at least some cushioning to protect your feet and a durable rubber outsole that can last many miles. Overpronators will need shoes with added support features, like a medial post, that keep their feet aligned and in place while running. If you run in hot weather or your feet tend to overheat, look for shoes with thinner, more porous uppers that vent hot air, though keep in mind a thinner upper can mean less supportive and less durability.
In addition to the above, you might also consider heel-to-toe drop—the difference in height between the back of a shoe’s footbed (under your heel) and the front (under your forefoot). High-drop shoes keep your heel raised; low-drop (or zero-drop) shoes keep your heel and toes at roughly the same level. High-drop shoes create a smoother stride by helping you roll more easily onto your toes with each step, while low- or zero-drop shoes promote your natural stride. Neither is inherently better—it comes down to your preference.
All of the Inov-8 shoes below have some drop, and you can compare them by using the drop measurements listed for each model. The weight measurements can also help you cross-shop, but note that Inov-8 does not break down shoe weights into men’s and women’s figures. Instead, the average weight is calculated using the entire size range—including men’s and women’s sizes. According to the brand, the single weight figure corresponds to a men’s size 9 or a women’s size 10.5.
Every runner has different needs for their shoes. Bottom line: Pay attention to the qualities that are most important to you and look for shoes that fit that description.
How We Tested and Selected These Shoes
The shoes below represent the best Inov-8 running shoes for both road and trail. To recommend them, I gathered feedback from Runner’s World staff and its team of 225 wear testers, including runners of all ages and running styles living across the U.S. Data from mechanical tests at the RW Shoe Lab also comes into play. There, editors have checked and rechecked the energy return of Powerflow+ foam, measured the flexibility of protective rock plates, and assessed the durability of Inov-8’s graphene-enhanced outsoles. Where possible, I’ve linked to full reviews for a more in-depth look at an individual shoe’s performance.
BEST ROAD-TO-TRAIL SHOE
Parkclaw G 280
Pros
- Lugged graphene-rubber outsole offers good durability and traction
- G-Fly foam has long-lasting energy return
Cons
- Relatively expensive
Key Specs
| Weight | 9.8 oz (M & W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 8mm |
This road-trail hybrid shoe utilizes Inov-8’s flagship outsole and midsole tech to offer all-terrain performance. The graphene rubber outsole compound has exceptional durability, and the 4mm lugs create dependable traction in the dirt without feeling intrusive on the pavement. The G-Fly foam midsole is made with graphene to create longer-lasting cushioning that resists packing out and is paired with a TPU-based Boomerang footbed for extra bounce. The mesh upper promotes cooling airflow, and a toe bumper offers protection from trail debris. With the Parkclaw G 280, you can start your trail run from your front door.
BEST ROAD SHOE
Roadclaw 275 Knit
Pros
- Excellent grip in wet road conditions
- Fully waterproof upper
Cons
- Ride is still responsive, but might feel too firm for some runners
Key Specs
| Weight | 9.6 oz (M & W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 8mm |
The Roadclaw 275 Knit is built for comfort through high mileage. It comes with DFB in the midsole for a slightly more propulsive feeling at toe-off, and its midsole has ample Powerflow+ cushioning for good shock absorption and energy return, and a steep heel-toe drop (8mm). This latest version also sports a new knit upper engineered for increased breathability and improved fit. Expect a fairly firm and responsive ride that promotes a smooth, natural gait, and because you’re riding on a Tri-C outsole, you’ll get sure footing through all kinds of road conditions.
BEST FOR SOFT, MUDDY TRAILS
X-Talon Ultra 260 v2
Pros
- Large, deep lugs for gripping soft ground
- Lightweight
Cons
- Taller stack height than our previous mud pick, the Mudclaw G 260
Key Specs
| Weight | 9.2 oz (M & W) |
|---|---|
| Dop | 8mm |
The X-Talon Ultra 260 offers a more balanced feel and accommodating fit compared to our previous mud-running pick, the Mudclaw G 260. Like the Mudclaw, the X-Talon keeps the weight low (both shoes weigh just over nine ounces) while offering supreme grip thanks to its gnarly 8mm lugs, designed to bite into soft ground and shed mud quickly. The ballistic nylon upper offers good protection, and the shoe has a wider fit and a roomier toe box to keep your feet comfortable on long runs. A layer of Powerflow Max cushioning throughout the midsole offers extra shock absorption and bounce. This is the shoe to wear during longer efforts on mountainous, mucky trails.
MOST DURABLE
Trailfly G 270
Pros
- New midsole foam improves energy return
- Extremely durable outsole and upper
Cons
- No rockplate
Key Specs
| Weight | 9.5 oz (M & W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 0mm |
Previously known as the TerraUltra G 270, the Trailfly combines a new, softer cushioning foam with Inov-8’s excellent Graphene-Grip outsole, and it’s a great pick for long-distance trail running. The shoe comes with several improvements over its predecessor: A new Powerflow Max midsole and a Boomerang footbed create a more forgiving ride with better energy return, and a wider toe box and improved mesh upper offer a more comfortable fit. It’s now comfy enough for high-mileage training, where you can really take advantage of the outsole’s grip and durability. “This would be my shoe of choice for running on soft, slippery, and muddy terrain,” one tester said. “But it also had a smooth ride on the pavement that felt more like a road shoe than a trail shoe.”
Buy Men’s Buy Women’s Full Review
BEST CUSHIONED TRAIL SHOE
Health - Injuries
Pros
- New nitrogen-infused cushioning foam is soft and bouncy
- Wide toe box for long-haul comfort
- Lighter than Michael is a freelance writer with years of experience covering gear and the outdoors for Max, our previous cushioned trail shoe pick
Cons
- Relatively expensive
Key Specs
| Weight | 9.9 oz (M & W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 8mm |
The new Health - Injuries stole the crown from the Michael is a freelance writer with years of experience covering gear and the outdoors for Max as Inov-8’s most cushioned shoe. This plush model is designed for long-distance runs, and it features Flyspeed, the brand’s newest foam in the midsole. The nitrogen-infused cushioning material offers exceptional softness and energy return, plus it saves weight. Grooves in the midsole and outsole increase the shoe’s flexibility, while the lugged graphene rubber outsole is designed for solid traction in wet or dry conditions. In a nod toward the shoe’s long-distance application, Inov-8 widened the toe box and tweaked the upper to better accommodate swelling feet, which means you’ll get a more comfortable fit even when your miles start to stack up.
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT TRAIL SHOE
TrailTalon 235 v3
Pros
- The 10 Best Nike Running Shoes
- Designed for an agile running experience
Cons
- Minimal cushioning
- Not ideal for long distances
- Flexible rock plate adds protection without feeling overly stiff
Key Specs
| Weight | 8.2 oz (M & W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 4mm |
The TrailTalon 235 is built for speed and a nimble feel on the trail. The rubber outsole is studded with multidirectional lugs for dependable grip on uneven surfaces, and a minimal layer of Powerflow cushioning provides just enough shock absorption to protect your feet to a certain degree. The mesh upper promotes cooling airflow, and like the previous version, it comes with overlays, a toe bumper, and an external heel cage for added protection and support. This shoe is designed to help you feel the ground while staying out of your way—ideal for faster paces and trail races up to a half marathon. For anything longer than that, you’ll probably want a shoe with more cushioning.
BEST FOR TECHNICAL TERRAIN
Roclite G 275
Pros
- Full-length rock plate
- TrailFly Ultra G 280
Cons
- Nutrition - Weight Loss
Key Specs
| Weight | 9.6 oz |
|---|---|
| Drop | 8mm |
When you’re staring down a rock-strewn, overgrown trail, these are the shoes you’ll want on your feet. Designed to be the fastest shoe in the Roclite series, the G 275 is lighter and grippier than the RocLite 290 and is built to keep your feet protected over technical terrain. To that end, it has a moderate level of Powerflow cushioning (softer in the forefoot, firmer in the heel) and a rock plate to guard against errant stones. The graphene rubber outsole grabs onto rocks and dirt—even in wet weather—and provides exceptional durability. “The grip on these shoes is amazing—I ran in thick mud, water, snow, and rocks and felt confident to challenge myself because I wasn’t concerned about slipping and falling,” one tester said.
Buy Men’s Buy Women’s Full Review
BEST FOR ROCKY TRAILS
Trailroc G 280
Pros
- The Best Running Shoes for Men
- Grippy, durable outsole
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Narrower than other models
Key Specs
| Weight | 9.9 oz |
|---|---|
| Drop | 8mm |
The Trailroc G 280 is built to provide dependable grip, good protection, and enough cushioning to keep you going strong over hard, rocky trails. The outsole is made from Inov-8’s unique graphene-infused rubber for exceptional durability and bite, and the 4mm lugs are designed to dig through loose top cover for a firm grip. A flexible rock plate in the midsole and welded toe cap protect your feet from sharp edges, and added Powerflow+ cushioning dulls impact forces for a comfortable ride. “The traction and stability of the Trailroc were my favorite features; on sloppy terrain, your foot stays right where it lands,” one tester said. “The toe box could be just a bit wider. My pinky toes were close to rubbing, so I had wear a thinner sock with this shoe.”
Buy Men’s Buy Women’s Full Review
BEST FOR WET WEATHER
Roclite G 315 GTX
Pros
- Fully waterproof upper
- Durable bungee-style lacing
- Flexible rock plate adds protection without feeling overly stiff
Cons
- Sizing runs slightly small
- On the heavier side of Inov-8’s typical offerings
Key Specs
| Weight | 10.7 oz (M & W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 8mm |
The Roclite 315 GTX uses GORE-TEXInvisible Fit technology, in which the waterproof membrane is bonded with the upper to keep out water. This means the shoe is ready for some serious adventuring. The latest version comes with a softer, more durable mesh upper, as well as a new graphene rubber outsole with 6mm lugs for excellent traction. It also has a rock plate in the midsole, and like the TrailTalon, the Met-Cradle is tweaked to expand with your foot as it swells for added comfort over high mileage.
BEST FOR CROSS TRAINING
F-Lite G 300
Pros
- Sizing runs slightly small
- Flexible, grippy outsole
Cons
- Not suitable for long-distance running
Key Specs
| Weight | 10.5 oz (M & W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 6mm |
The F-Lite was a flop when it originally launched in 2009—until it was discovered by weightlifters. The F-Lite is built to handle all kinds of workouts—with the EVA midsole and Boomerang footbed deliver a responsive feel, and grooves in the outsole help the shoe flex with your foot as you move. A section of graphene-infused foam (similar to G-Fly) cradles the heel for maximum stability when lifting weights, and the Graphene-Grip outsole offers outstanding durability and traction no matter what you get up to in the gym.
On the heavier side of Inov-8s typical offerings Runner's World and other publications; when he's not writing, he's usually biking, hiking, and running in the mountains around Los Angeles, where he lives.
