Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V2

Name: inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V2 SKU:8914239
Uploaded: 2023-01-15
Description: As the name suggests, the Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V2 provides crossfit trainers with a barefoot construction

Editor rating: 8.9 / 10

User's rating: based on 3 user ratings

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By Jessica Pilla

All Inov-8 Shoes

Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V2 Review Facts

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As the name suggests, the Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V2 provides crossfit trainers with a barefoot construction that’s surprisingly stable. Instead of a typical midsole unit, it features a Power Footbed insole to cushion and absorb shock. The shoe’s sticky rubber outsole, which also guards against impact, resists abrasion and provides incredible traction on many different surfaces. And the stretchable mesh upper is fully equipped with protective features to keep the wearer going safely from workout to workout. These include an aggressive toe bumper, large external heel clip, and Rope-Tec technology to make rope-climbing easier and less painful. When paired with a minimalist design and plenty of toe room, buyers have a perfectly protective and versatile training shoe.

Editor's Pros & Cons

Pros

-Highly durable

-Ample toe room

-Very lightweight wear

-Incredible traction

-Flexible

Cons

-Does not fit true to size

-Very stiff toe cap

See How

What are buyers saying?

We have spent 4 hours analyzing a total of 171 reviews.

These reviews are then categoried into "Positive" and "Negative" feedback.

Below you will read a summary of them:

Positive

These shoes are lightweight with just enough flexibility to have natural foot movement.
The flexibility does not take away from the secure hold of the upper.
Although these are minimal shoes, they do have a bit of padding and extra support.
The outsole is grippy.
The heel cup provides a good, solid hold.
The laces are sturdier than on previous models.
These are durable enough to last through a year of regular use.
Some buyers say these work well as barefoot road and trail running shoes.
A good level of craftsmanship was put into the construction of these shoes.
The zero drop provides a nice, sturdy ground feel.
The toe box is roomy enough to allow for natural toe splay.
Many reviewers say these are great for weight lifting.
The barefoot design and good traction make these good for burpees and training that requires quick and agile movements.

Negative

These have minimal arch support.
Although the toe box is roomy, the overall shoe is not. Buyers don't recommended these for people with wide feet.
The outsole is a bit rigid.
Some of the overlays make the midfoot feel a bit constricted depending on your foot shape.
The upper may shrink a little after getting thoroughly wet.
There are some inconsistencies in sizing. Many buyers had to size up or try several sizes before finding a good fit.
On some smooth surfaces, the traction might not hold up.
If you are not used to barefoot shoes, it is recommended to make the transition slowly to avoid injury.
There are limited reviews on the long-term durability.
Some buyers complain that the heel collapses under the foot when putting these on.
There are several reports of the inserts coming unglued and shifting during activity.

8.2

Outsole

Inov-8 uses a sticky rubber compound to construct the Bare-XF 210 V2’s outsole. Aside from giving the wearer a firm grip as they go through intense workouts, it also allows for incredible traction on wet and slippery surfaces. It’s also durable and responsive, having shock-absorption properties and holding up well against abrasion. To enable a more flexible wear, it features a Meta-Flex across the forefoot section. This deep flex groove permits a completely natural gait cycle and even gives a stronger toe-off.

Midsole

Due to its minimalist design and intended usage, the Bare-XF 210 V2 does not have a fixed midsole unit. Instead, It features a 3mm-high Power Footbed insole that provides necessary shock absorption. It has no height difference between the heel and toe, making it a zero drop platform. This, above all other features, is what gives the shoe its truly barefoot design and enables the wearer to have better balance and posture as they go through a number of difficult workouts.

Upper

The Bare-XF 210 V2 uses a stretchable mesh fabric when constructing the bulk of its upper. Other than permitting breathability, it also works with the shoe’s already wide profile in order to accommodate different foot shapes. Synthetic overlays form an external heel clip at the back, keeping the foot locked in place, while Italian blown rubber is used to create a protective toe bumper at the front. The midfoot area is quite unique, as it makes use of the brand’s Rope-Tec technology and integrates it within the lacing system. It provides a stronger and easier grip during rope-climbing workouts, and the Met-Cradle lacing system offers a secure and customizable wear that’s also supportive.

Weight

With men’s sizes averaging in at 8 oz. and women’s rounding out at 7 oz., the Bare-XF 210 V2 serves as an incredibly lightweight training shoe. Because it’s designed to carry the wearer through a number of intense workouts, from weight-lifting to rope-climbing, it has to be as lightweight and agile as possible while still providing them with a great deal of stability. Reviewers say that this also makes the shoe incredibly versatile, as several have also used this model for both regular workouts and more intense activities such as martial arts.

Breathability

Most reviews don’t mention the Bare-XF 210 V2’s level of breathability, indicating that it’s likely substantial enough for most consumers. The stretchable mesh material that makes up the forefoot and tongue allows plenty of ventilation to make sure that hotspots are eliminated. However, its extensive use of overlays and heavy Rope-Tec around the midfoot do limit the amount of airflow that it can offer. Several reviewers have said that the padded tongue has actually made the shoe feel uncomfortably hot.

Comfort

The Bare-XF 210 V2 stays reasonably comfortable for a zero drop training shoe. The stick rubber outsole and Power Footbed insole work together to keep the underfoot reasonably cushioned and provide much-needed shock absorption. Its mesh upper is stretchy and wide-set in order to accommodate many different foot shapes. And its heavy use of overlays and Rope-Tec safeguard against potential injuries. That said, this shoe would be extremely uncomfortable for those who aren’t used to a barefoot construction. Several reviewers have also reported that their fit was either too wide or too narrow.

Style

Aside from having a more textured design and a smaller logo, the Bare-XF 210 V2 hasn't changed all that much from the original model. However, reviewers have noticed that there aren't as many eye-catching color options as before. Most of the options available are grey and black with a brightly colored lining. These include green, purple, orange, and coral depending on the buyer's sizing preferences. However, there is also a red/black model in men's sizes and a purple/black model in women's sizes.

Durability

Most reviewers have praised the Bare-XF 210 V2 for its high levels of durability. Its outsole's sticky rubber compound can hold up just as wet against gym equipment as it can against paved roads and other rough surfaces. While the upper's mesh material isn't that sturdy on its own, it's equipped with synthetic overlays and a blown rubber toe bumper to help it retain its shape and safeguard against damage. This, of course, is enhanced even further by the inclusion of Rope-Tec technology along the sides of the shoe. Though some buyers have had issues with the lacing system, saying that it comes apart easily, most are happy with how well it holds up.

Protection

No matter what hazards a crossfit enthusiast could run into, the Bare-XF 210 V2 keeps them completely protected. The outsole's sticky rubber compound and tire-like tread pattern perform multiple tasks that include resisting abrasion, absorbing impact, and ensuring a strong grip on wet, slippery, or uneven surfaces. The Power Footbed insole also has shock absorbing properties, keeping the wearer safeguarded against pain and fatigue. Italian blown rubber is used to create an aggressive toe bumper to prevent possible injuries, while overlays form an external heel clip to keep the foot locked into place. Finally, the brand's specialized Rope-Tec technology wraps around the midfoot area to make rope climbing easier and much less painful.

Responsiveness

Since it doesn't have a fixed midsole unit, and because of its barefoot construction, the Bare-XF 210 V2 isn't quite as responsive as most other athletic shoes on the market. But it's not without this quality altogether, as it contains a Power Footbed insole that gives minimal cushioning and works to safeguard the underfoot against impact. This is enhanced even further by the sticky rubber outsole, which is as sturdy as it is flexible. In addition, the mesh material of its upper is stretchy, allowing it to both accommodate different foot shapes and follow the wearer's every movement.

Support

It's clear from its external design that the Bare-XF 210 V2 does not offer a lot of underfoot support. It has no fixed midsole or added heel cushioning, and its Power Footbed insole is only 3mm high. Most of the support that this shoe offers can be found in its upper unit. Despite its wide toe box, many reviewers still say that it gives a narrow fit along the sides. It also comes equipped with a sturdy midfoot cage integrated into the shoe's lacing system. This consists of the brand's specialized Rope-Tec and a Met-Cradle lacing system, which draws its side panels closer to the foot every time the laces are tightened. A padded tongue further enhances this supportive wear.

Terrain

Obviously, the Bare-VF 210 V2 was primarily designed for use at indoor training facilities. Its sticky rubber outsole holds up well against abrasion as it ensures a strong grip on wet, slippery, and uneven surfaces. And the use of heavy overlays, including Rope-Tec technology, permits even greater protection during activities such as rope-climbing. Many reviewers have indicated that is works just as well during several forms of outdoor fitness. These range from light jogging all the way to trail running. However, those who are not used to running shoes with a barefoot construction should not use this model for outdoor activity until they have completely grown accustomed to its wear.

Price

At just $110, the Bare-XF 210 V2 is noticeably lower in price than most of Inov-8’s other models. This is even more impressive when considering the fact that most high-quality athletic shoes range from $120 to $130. And when buyers get a feel for its versatile wear, amazing traction, and high level of durability, they consider this particular price to be an incredible bargain. However, some consumers have been scared away by this shoe’s inaccurate sizing and occasional lack of breathability. Therefore, it’s recommended that they either try a pair on in-store or choose an online retailer with an excellent return policy.

Traction

As a training shoe, the Bare-XF 210 V2 has to offer an incredible amount of traction. The sticky rubber compound used to create its outsole already ensures a perfectly secure grip as the wearer goes through various exercises such as rope-climbing and powerlifting. In addition, its tread pattern closely resembles that of a car tire, guaranteeing an extra strong grasp that even works on wet surfaces. Though a number of reviews indicate that it can hold up against rough surfaces, those who aren't used to a barefoot wear should put these aside when it comes to hiking and trail running.

Flexibility

In general, reviews about the Bare-XF 210 V2's level of flexibility seem to be mixed. On one hand, it has to be pliable in order to allow the wearer to comfortably move their foot as they go through rigorous training. On the other hand, it needs to be stiff and stable enough to safeguard against slips, twists, and other accidental movements. The outsole features a Meta-Flex, a deep horizontal flex groove, across the forefoot that enables a more flexible wear. And a stretchable mesh upper is present from the toes to just past the ball of the foot. While the front stays pliable, the back of the shoe stays stiff to ensure security. Whether or not the reviewer enjoys this wear is based entirely on their own personal preference.

Stability

While they don't always have corrective features, all good training shoes are created to provide stability. The Bare-XF 210 V2 achieves this by having a durable yet flexible outsole, heavy overlays, and a protective midfoot cage. The outsole's sticky rubber compound strikes a good balance between stiff and pliable to ensure completely natural movement while still preventing accidental bending or twisting. It also works together with the Power Footbed insole to absorb impact and keep the wearer going along smoothly. An external clip wraps completely around the heel to keep the foot locked into place. And the Met-Cradle lacing system wraps completely around the midfoot area for a supportive and secure wear.

Drop

As the name suggests, the Bare-XF 210 V2 is designed to give the wearer a barefoot feeling. This means that it’s swapped out a traditional midsole unit for a 3mm Power Footbed, which features a zero drop platform. This gives minimal underfoot support along with a close-to-the-ground feel and a completely natural gait cycle. However, it does mean that those who prefer some added heel cushioning or a higher platform would not be happy with this model.

Key Features

-Sticky rubber outsole with responsive Meta-Flex groove
-Power Footbed insole takes the place of a midsole
-Mesh upper with synthetic overlays and blown rubber bumper
-Rope-Tec technology for more secure rope climbing
-Met-Cradle lacing system for a more secure fit
-Colorways consist of mostly grey with a vibrant lining
-Zero drop platform for greater balance and control

Bottom Line

Across all online review platforms, it's clear that the Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V2 would make an incredible addition to any CrossFit enthusiast's footwear collection. Its barefoot construction gives the wearer a greater sense of balance, posture, and control over their movements. The sole unit is both sturdy and flexible while still having just enough shock absorbing properties for a smooth and stable wear. And the upper is fully equipped with protective features that allow the wearer to confidently move from one activity to the next without risk of injury or accidents. Though some reviewers did have issues with this model's sizing and lack of breathability, most are incredibly impressed with how effective this shoe is during their workouts.