Two training runs, 1 race in snowy, frigid temps, 1 OCR boot camp, and 1 day of hiking in my new Inov-8 Roclite 295s. That should be ample enough wear to give them a proper review. My first thought when I put them on was “sturdy, but comfortable” . Compared to the X-Talon and Trailroc, this was more of a shoe in the sense that it just felt like it had more support and protection. From the very first training run on a mulch track to an obstacle race in 30 degree weather, the shoes were the least of my worries. That’s a good sign. I’m not going to talk about all the specs of the shoe, because you can find them directly from the source here.
In a quick, consumable fashion here are the rest of my thoughts.
- They are a little heavier than my X-talons and Trailrocs, but not horribly so.
- There seems to be a little less proprioception, but just a tad bit. I love using the word “proprioception”…makes me feel smart!
- Like the other Inov-8s that I’ve worn, these are good at dispelling water.
- Great traction for coming out of muddy berms and climbing slickery hills. I am probably not the first person to use this term, but I just coined “slickery” for myself so don’t bother looking it up in the dictionary. I think you can figure it out.
- I prefer these shoes more for longer runs and/or hiking than I do for sprint racing. In fact, they are now my hiking shoe of choice.
Final judgment: I like these shoes, not so much for racing, but especially for training and hiking. If you want to try some Inov-8s, but aren’t sure if you will like ‘less of a shoe’, then I would recommend you give the Roclites a try.
Disclosure: Inov-8 provided me these shoes to review, but there was no obligation to provide a positive review. This assessment is 100% mine. I own it.
PS. Also be sure to check out OCR Gear and their selection of Obstacle Course Racing shoes.
On My Way To Sparta 