10 Best Inov-8 Running Shoes Reviewed & Fully Compared
Brian Price 
Ana Nodilo Take a look below to see our list of the best Inov-8 running shoes!
This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:
Great traction
Several color option
Durable
Meant for long distance
Comfortable
Breathable
10 Best Inov-8 Running Shoes
1. Road Claw 275
Shock absorbent
Traction
Stability
Comfortable
Durable
Breathable
Wide toe box
Sizes may run small
May feel heavy
The Inov-8 Road Claw 275 is a comfortable running shoe that can handle rough roads while absorbing shock and providing traction. This shoe is a step up in performance while keeping a lot of features from the previous Inov 8, which itself enjoyed many years of popularity.
Read moreComfort
This is a comfortable and stable running shoe because it has some holes in the material to allow your feet to breathe more easily. It has a midsole underfoot protection that is designed to absorb shock when your foot hits the ground. This running shoe is built to withstand all road conditions.
Durability
This iThere have been no reviews of wear and tear. It allows you to have a good grip on the road with its claw-cleat lug design gives you ultimate traction. A durable outsole through the inclusion of TRI-C which provides solid grip/traction as we move through our gait cycles, as our body motions generate energy, this is transferred to the surface through this innovative outsole.
Cost and Value
These running shoes can be a bit more on the pricey side but are worth the money spent. The materials used in the shoe construction are durable and I like the secure hold onto the foot provided by the thoughtfully designed weave of the fabric in the upper for the mid-foot area.
2. Trail Talon 290
Great traction
Several color option
Durable
Meant for long distance
Comfortable
Breathable
break in period
The Trail talon 290 running shoe by Inov-8 is one of their more affordable options that looks great and isn't bulky. If you need a great trail running shoes that is affordable then you will find these may be the right pair of shoes for you.
Read moreComfort
These are really comfortable and breathable thanks to their mesh upper. They are great for long-distance running and will keep you comfortable for many miles.
Durability
These are really durable and their durable soles are built to last.
Cost and Value
This model is more affordable than other options on our list and they come in several color options to choose from.
3. Parkclaw 275
Breathable
Comfortable
Durable
Flexible
Lightly cushioned
Shock absorbent
Lightweight
Pricier if you want a specific color
Sizes may vary
The Parkclaw 275 shoes come in lots of colors and are also pretty affordable They provide great grip and they will keep you comfortable during all of your runs.
Read moreComfort
These shoes are really comfortable on both the road and the trails--so they are really versatile and can be taken anywhere. Runners will find these shoes are really breathable thanks to their mesh upper and the provide excellent shock absorption. They are pretty lightweight and allow for natural movement.
Durability
Their rubber outsoles make the shoes extremely durable and built to last.
Cost and Value
Thes running shoes come at a pretty good price depending on which color you go with.
4. Trailroc 285
Affordable
Breathable
Great for long distance
great traction and grip
Well-cushioned
Sizes may run small
Whether you want to run your next mud run or next your ultra marathon then these might be the right shoes for you!
Read moreComfort
As far as comfort these are it. They are well-cushioned and responsive as well as provide stability and support. They are lightweight and protective and provide great stability and support.
Durability
These are really durable shoes thanks to their sticky rubber outsoles. They are designed for long distance hardcore running--so they will last.
Cost and Value
These are one of the more affordable options yet also one of the more durable options that won't tear easily.
5. Terraclaw 220
EVA injected foam
Good drainage
Durable synthetic upper, good breathability
Impressive surface grip
Neutral arch
Nice energy return
Limited choice of color options
This is a running shoe that assures comfort blended with protective versatility while also being lightweight. This shoe gives a nice level of grip for racing due to the outsole being a sticky rubber feature and it's also good for use while running technical trails.
Read moreComfort
The shoe has a designed in a diagonal tongue which serves as protection against the entry of debris and small stones. Available in standard sizings for ladies and men, with upgraded drainage capability for the upper this means your feet will feel more comfortable.
Durability
The shoes are durable enough for using competitively and for trail running but its best to avoid extreme trail surfaces which require a more heavy duty shoe. Durability for this shoe is very good when it is used in the right context which the designers intended. The materials are good quality and give fair durability.
Cost and Value
This product is designed with EVA injected foam efficient for absorbing shock while giving an impressive return of energy. This helps to aid runners with their stride and causes an impressive toe-off every time. Functionality and performance are delivered through the built-in dynamic-fascia-band which runs from the heel through to the forefoot. Unfortunately, the pricing of the shoe is somewhat higher than similar products from other brands as a result of these impressive features.
6. X-Talon 230
8 mm lugs
Great for slick surfaces
Wide toe box
Not for roads
Narrow fit
What we love most about this updated design of the X-talon is that it is made to grip trails without weighing you down. It is composed of lightweight and easy materials to keep you light on your feet. Plus, it still boasts excellent cushioning and supports to keep your feet and joints protected as you climb difficult trial heads.
Read moreComfort
The most notable feature of this design is that it has an outsole unlike anything else out there. It boasts 8 mm lugs, which means that it will really dig into the dirt and mud to get you up that hill (standard trail runners often have lugs that measure to be around 5 mm). It also has a sticky texture which makes it ideal for slick surfaces as well.
The narrow design of these trainers helps to promote lockdown so it doesn’t shift around on your foot as you run. While it may feel a little tight to some users, it is important to note that the toe box is wide to allow your toes to splay to help keep your balance when running on uneven surfaces.
Durability
Durability proved to be excellent for this model.
Cost and Value
The greatest thing about the new and improved X-Talon is that it is composed of super lightweight and breathable materials that feel like you aren’t wearing anything at all. Super deep treads and a narrow fit provides runners with excellent stability and protection, and a wide variety of color options allows you to express your personal style.
7. Roclite 350
Waterproof upper
Rock plate
Graphene outsole
Narrow toe box
Does your trail runs often get a little muddy and wet? If you find yourself wringing out your socks at the end of your run, you will want to check out the Roclite 350.
Read moreComfort
It’s important to note that this option is one of Inov-8’s more structured designs. It provides users with added stability not only in the outsole and midsole, up in the upper as well. The stiff upper keeps your foot securely in place to prevent rolled ankles. It is also coated with a layer of waterproof materials to keep your socks from getting soaked when running through water and muck.
We also love the addition of a rock plate in the midsole. The plate helps to protect your feet when running over sharp rock and tree roots, but it also helps to naturally correct your gait from overpronation to take the pressure off of your knees and joints as well. The graphene outsole makes this design twice as durable as other similar designs out there on the market.
Durability
If you are in the market for something that is made from strong and durable materials to keep your feet high, dry, and protected when running on muddy trails, you can’t go wrong with this design. We love that it boasts a completely waterproof upper that is also stiff and structured for added support and stability.
Cost and Value
What we love most about this design is that it boasts a tough outer shell that is composed of waterproof materials to keep your feet high and dry when training in less-than-ideal trailheads.
8. F-Lite 230 V2
EXTEROFLOW midsole
MET-CRADLE technology
Very versatile
Minimal support
Not very durable
Need something that is slick and versatile? What we love most about the F-Lite 230 V2 is that it is made to be lightweight and easy. It is the perfect pair to take for an easy road run or a grueling CrossFit workout at the gym. The best part is that it comes in at a price point that won’t break the bank.
Read moreComfort
What runners love most about this style is that it is lightweight and won’t hinder your full range of motion in the slightest. It isn’t a minimalistic trainer, however. It has key features found in the midsole to provide extra support as well as protect your knees and joints.
MET-CRADLE technology is built into the laces of this design to help promote lockdown. This means that as you train and take fast and tight corners, the shoes will stay firmly in place to help you keep your footing. EXTEROFLOW found in the midsole is lightweight and flexible materials provide excellent energy feedback to give your stride a little extra bounce.
Durability
When it comes to durability, this model is quite durable, even though there are options on this list which proved to be superior in terms of material quality.
Cost and Value
If you are in the market for a minimalistic design that still provides just a little bit of extra cushioning and support, this is a great option. It is a perfect companion for road running or working out at the gym. We also like that it comes in at an affordable price point that makes it worth checking out.
9. Race Ultra 270
Breathable
Long distance running
Comfortable
Durable
Padded tongue & collar
Lightweight
Flexible
The toe box may run narrow
This shoe is designed for runners looking for a lightweight shoe which can allow for putting on the speed while maintaining stability, comfort, durability, protection all blended into a stylish looking running shoe.
Read moreComfort
This is a comfortable and stable running shoe. It's best for running on trails or long distances. They aren't waterproof but have been tested by reviewers in wet conditions and drain well. They have a mesh fabric on top of the show to allow air to flow more easily so your feet can breathe.
Durability
This is a durable and quality running shoe. There have been no reports of wear and tear from reviewers. The forefoot of the shoe has rock protection, while the outsole has sticky-rubber tread to allow for traction.
Cost and Value
The cost of these running shoes is quite average for a good pair of runners. Built into the shoe is the Gen111 Meta Shank which lines up with the metatarsals in the foot, this innovative system enables energy while continuing to maintain protection during foot impact on hard surfaces.
10. Terraultra G 260
Wide toe box
Versatile
Breathable upper
Graphene rubber outsole
Too wide for some
The Terraultra G 260 offers runners a good deal of support and comfort when running on hard trails, and it is also zero-drop. By lowering the drop to zero, runners have a more keen understanding of the ground under their feet to maintain their footing on uneven surfaces. The construction of the outsole is designed to really grip the trail, whether it is wet or dry!
Read moreComfort
What makes the Terraultra G 260 stand out from the pack is the fact that it boasts an outsole that is enhanced with Graphene rubber. This type of rubber is incredibly lightweight and responsive, and it has a slightly tacky finish that is perfect for gripping slick surfaces, such as trails covered in wet leaves.
Durability
Runners love that the upper is composed of durable, stretchy mesh materials that contours to the shape of your foot. This tight-fitting mesh material helps to promote lockdown so that it feels securely strapped to your feet to prevent you from rolling an ankle on uneven trials. The underfoot technology on this design is flexible to promote ease of motion, but still provides users with a modest level of energy feedback to protect your knees.
Cost and Value
If you are in the market for something that is built for long distances, you can’t go wrong with the Terraultra G 260. We love that it has a wider frame to allow for natural movements, and it is made from lightweight materials that are both flexible as well as supportive.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
Shoes need to be comfortable or you are not going to want to wear them. And if you do wear uncomfortable shoes chances are you will get blisters and bruises and sore spots, which is never a good thing! Thankfully with these Invo-8 running shoes, you will be good to go with a comfortable and reliable pair of running shoes that will serve you well for a long time to come.
We looked at comfort & Stability and this criterion is broad, we wanted to know the following:
- Does the sole provide any shockproof qualities, comfort and stabilizing assertive tech and if so we wanted to know, how?
- Does the midsole have tech which promotes comfort and assists stability?
- Is there any tech designed into the running shoes to support for the high foot arch?
- In terms of providing stability and comfort, how flexible ( or rigid) is the sole and the overall shoe structure?
- Does the shoe toe-box allow toe flexing for stability and comfort and the overall shoe design allow for foot swelling?
- Which tech is engineered into the shoe for comfortable stable good cushion effect?
- Is the shoe designed with materials which enable comfort through air breathability and wick-ability?
- Is the shoe height and the heel system conducive towards stability & comfort?
Durability
Shoes are meant to protect your feet while you are out and about on your runs. Whether you are at the gym, on the sidewalk or traversing mountain trails, you rely on your shoes to be durable and to protect your feet. Invo-8 running shoes are made to be tough and will protect you against wear and tear and will holdup against rough terrains and environments too!
Durability is an important aspect that evaluates the quality of the shoe based on the material and design that is used in making it. When evaluating the durability aspect, the below questions were considered:
- Are the materials in the shoe durable?
- Can they withstand and last through the challenges met while running tough often rugged terrains in all types of weather conditions?
Materials
Good material choices can also come into play when it comes to how well a pair of running shoes perform. Invo-8 running shoes use quality materials that are durable yet also breathable so your feet stay protected and comfortable even on the longest of runs. These shoes are designed to feel good no matter what you face, making them a good choice for beginning runners as well as seasoned pros!
Read also about zoot shoes.
This was an interesting creteria to look at because there are some manufacturers that can make a product look very good but in reality, they choose low-quality materials in the construction, low quality for trail running shoes can result in injury and at the very least, disappointment. The shoes don’t live up to the challenge and fall apart, you invest only to find that within a very short time you have to go out and spend money again.
For quality, our overriding indicator in the review was to look for the use of quality materials which provide longevity, protection and serve towards the factors of stability, durability, and comfort. We can conclusively say that we found all these factors present when we reviewed Inov 8 running shoes.
Style
Invo-8 running shoes are available in a range of styles so finding something that works with your current running gear or that flows with your unique style and flare should be easy! We made sure to include several style choices so you should have no trouble at all getting a quality pair of running shoes that will serve you well no matter when or where you do your running.
Style is an important aspect when designing modern shoes and most companies value the outlook of the final product when compared to previous decades. In order to properly market a pair, style goes a long way to ensure consumers buy your product. This criteria was used to evaluate Inov shoe brands because the company makes some of beautifully designed running shoes that comes in various shapes and sizes.
Outsole
One of the most obvious yet under appreciated parts of a running shoe is the outsoles. This is the bottom sole that is in contact with the ground when you are running or working out. This is where the tread of the shoe is and it is a very important part of running shoes overall design though most people fail to consider the soles carefully enough when choosing their shoes!
You will want to check the tread of any shoe you are looking at to make sure it will meet your wants and needs. A good running shoe has ample tread that will give you good grip and traction.
This is especially true if you do a lot of outdoor and trail running in uneven rough terrain. But it is also important for gym running to ensure you do not slip and lose your footing while on the treadmills!
The outsoles also support your feet and provide cushioning, support, and shock absorption so they are not something to gloss over and ignore during your search.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Comfort Style Durability Materials Outsole
For anyone who is curious about trail running, it's important to keep in mind that the sport has the potential to be extremely dangerous. Because of the isolated location in which many runners engage in this activity, it can be difficult for emergency services technicians to reach you if you sustain a life-threatening injury. Remember to be very cautious when trail running!
If you would like to start trail running but don't have much experience with regular running, there's an easy way to ensure that you manage to avoid most minor to moderate running injuries: orthotic insoles. Although most of the trail running shoes listed here are sturdy and provide excellent underfoot protection, it never hurts to get a bit more!
Before starting any sort of workout routine, it is important to make sure you discus your plans with your doctor. This is particularly true is you have any chronic health conditions or health concerns that will need to be addressed. Back injuries, muscle and joint problems, chronic illnesses and such will affect what you can and cannot safely do. Your doctor can work with you to design a workout regiment that will help you reach your fitness goals without putting you at risk for injury and without the risk or worsening your medical condition!
Other Factors to Consider
Value
It is vital to consider pricing when evaluating a brand because this would determine its value in the market. Considering all the features of a pair, the price comes last after coming to the conclusion that a shoe is valuable. You would buy an expensive durable, stylish shoe because you would be well-informed of its quality as compared to buying a cheap one with poor features. Pricing also informs the consumer just how good a product is.
Drop
Another important feature for running shoes that is worth considering is the amount of heel drop there is. Not all running shoes are the same and if you are concerned about the rate of drop you may want to look for a pair of shows with a low drop rate. Some of the shoes on our list here are lower drop than others so you should be able to find something that will meet your wants and needs.
Shock Absorption
With every step that you take, your feet- particularly your heels- are subjected to shock impact. Many of the Invo-8 running shoes we have featured on our list here are designed with supportive soles and heel support that reduced shock impact. This will reduce the chance of injury or foot pain and fatigue after your runs. It is worth considering if you suffer from knee pain and want a shoe that can help with that!
Read also about best ultra marathon trainers.
Stability
The final factor worth considering when you are in need of new running shoes is how much stability they can provide. This is especially important if you do a lot of trail running or if you are prone to weak ankles. A good running shoe will help you stay stable and will help you keep your balance so you do not injury yourself. These Invo-8 running shoes are all great when it comes to providing stability!
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Which is the best season for trail running?
Like the song says, some like it hot, some like it cold and some like it in the middle. The seasons come in variations, it depends on what you want, dry dusty trials, firm surfaces or wet mud, snow etc. Read a review about trail running.
q: Which size lugs are best for trail running?
Durable lugs are designed for different surfaces and come in different shapes and sizes. You need to consider which surface and then read RunnerClick reviews.
q: Are minimalist running shoes the best choice?
This really depends on what individualistic runners are looking for; there isn't a set answer.
Sources
- , ATI, Blog Post
- , I Run Far, Article
- , US Trail Running Conference, Article
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