Thanks, Darren! I was looking at pictures from a recent trip where I was wearing these shoes, and you automatically look at them first! It's like having spot lights on your feet! 🤣 Thanks for watching!
Nice one Jeff, good to see folk using Inov-8 over your side of the world. That's a great shoe if you like a zero drop & it fits the shape of your foot, the durability will mean you get your monies worth, shame they didn't quite fit your foot though 🏃👍
Thanks! Yes, I wish more people over here knew about this shoe. It is amazing! Just not wide enough for my Altra wide toe box loving feet. But I really don't think my feet have ever had so much fun on the trail. Not sure what magic Inov8 puts in this G 270, but it's working!
Man, for $160 you better get 500+ miles out of those! Surprised you didn't get wet feet with all that mesh in the snow, that's a good mark. The lack of traction on wet wood is a little concerning. Even a $60 pair of Columbias can handle that without much issue. It'll be interesting to see where you finally land in your shoe quest. Totally feel you on the wife bit. I really have to watch what I spend on gear or a dirty look is the least of my worries.
Haha, ya $160 is a lot if these shoes doesn't end up lasting! But based on what I've read and watched, I think they'll last. Only time will tell! Getting the grip right on trail runners is tricky because weight is so critical as well. The Vibram outsoles are good, but I had high hopes for this Graphene Grip from Inov8. Thanks for watching!
@@DoseofDirt granted we ask A LOT out of shoes...and taking into consideration the ideal local/usage of the shoe should say more than what a marketing team dreams up... I'd imagine these would be a power house shoe in 3 season weather where they don't really encounter wet wood (a weakness for more than a few shoes)...wood just gets so much more saturated with water than trail or rock would... Also...graphene is such a catch phrase now days...I'd almost avoid a brand that touts that...it's a 2 dimensional later of carbon...sturdy and tough, yes! But grip isn't an inherent quality of carbon...also graphene is only sturdy as an unbroken hexagonal sheet...if you shape it it'll lose it's structure(from what i've gleaned looking into why that material isn't EVERYWHERE)
@@evandickinson6393 Your making me feel like I didn't do enough research on Graphene... 🤣 Ya, it does seem to be popping up everywhere. As you said, this will be a powerhouse 3 season shoe, as long. Hoping to see how long of a run I can take them on in cooler temps without snow. Love your comments, Evan!
Great review. I also have had issues with the quality of Altra, I have like them in the past but the newer version of their shoes have been a disappointment. They are streamlining the product and sizing along with quality have dropped off. I have come across TOPO and have liked their shoes for the most part. But haven't truly fallen in love with them yet, I have yet to try the Mountain Racer 2 which is on my list. I did send off a email to Inov8 about their sizing and how it compares to a regular wide with US shoe sizing. I do usually wear a 2E in shoes but have had no issues with the older versions of Altra and TOPO's. I was just wondering your take on the Inov8 and comparing it with TOPO and Altra. Thanks
Thanks Stan! Glad I'm not the only one having issues (though I feel bad you've had issues with them as well!). As you pointed out, unfortunately the issues seem to be getting worse--not better. As far as Inov8 vs Topo vs Altra, I will say that Inov8 is definitely not as wide in the toe box as Altra and Topo. I can feel it as soon as I put the shoe on, and I get hot spots on the sides where the toe box hits my feet. I don't experience that same pain/hot spot in Altras or Topos, which tells me the Inov8s just aren't as wide. I will say that the fit in the heel cup is nice and snug. Sometimes the heel felt sloppy in Altras so I'd have to mess with the lace tightness, runners knot, etc to try to lock it down. The Topo feels as wide as an old school Altra toe box. I'll notice several miles into a trail session that my toes still feel like they have plenty of room despite some probably swelling a few hours into a run or hike. So far I've only tried the MTN Racer 2, which is not a zero drop (it's actually a 5mm drop) but I don't feel like I really notice the drop, even after running and hiking in nothing but Altras for 4-5 years. One thing I'm holding my breath on with the Topo MTN Racer is that it feels like a lot of mesh on the upper, which gives me durability concerns. But I've got 50 miles in them so far and no issues, so hopefully that's how it stays. That said, the Inov8 is FUN to run in. That low stack height, Graphene Grip outsole, and flex grooves really come together for a blast of a run. Just wish that dang toe box was wider so I could use it on longer runs! (sorry! long answer! 🤣)
Great early review Jeff! Wondering how this will hold up to more miles for your durability test (since you mentioned the Altras tend to fall apart more quickly). If it holds up longer it might be more worth the $160 price tag.
Thanks, Philip! Ya, these things have been super fun to run in! Never had such a low stack height before! Just wish that toe box was a little wider! Thanks for watching!
@@philipv3098 those almost look like cleats! 6mm stack in the front with 8mm lugs. DANG! I bet those shoes are a blast to run in. Now I want to try them! I'll have to see if they have something similar but a bit wider, because these look fun! Ya, it's important to remember that every foot is different, so what might be too narrow for me is too wide for you. People sometimes get to hung up on what works for others rather than figuring out what works for them.
Upon your recommendation, I decided to get this shoe! My first pair of innov8s. I have definitely been enjoying them! Quick and nimble and responsive as I like in a trail running shoe. This was overall a great purchase even though I wish the toebox was slightly wider as you mentioned and pull tabs would be nice for getting them on and the laces a bit longer for the running tie that I like to do. I did have one incident where a sharp rock penetrated through the foam in the outer sole and went all the way to my foot. I think this was a freakishly sharp rock though and overall I do really like the shoe and I am now wondering if I should try one of Altra's new shoes (timp, mont blanc, lone peak) or try the topos that you have recommended.
Hey Mordechai! We both wish the toe box was wider! I think that the Topo Runventure 3s have a similar feel, but higher stack height and slightly wider toe box. They are the shoes I used for my 50k 2 weeks ago in the mud and snow, and they worked great! I'm still struggling with my Mont Blancs. I bought them to use for my 50k, but ended up ditching them for the Topos because of the snow and mud I was anticipating (and I'm glad I did!). I'm finding the MBs hard to lock down and have heard that maybe ordering a half size smaller may help (but I don't have another $180 to burn...ugh).
@@DoseofDirt Thanks a lot for your input on that. I have a 50k coming up in about 6 weeks and I was thinking about getting some mont blancs for that but I think I will hold off now. I may just use the terraultras, which have been great so far on shorter run, or I am wondering if a bit more of a cushioned shoe would be better for that
@@mordechaisopher2611 I know there are a few people out there that are LOVING the Mont Blancs. But they definitely aren't working quite the way I'd hoped. One of my buddies, James (channel is Move More Now with James Nielson") loves the Mont Blancs. I'm thinking that verson 2 is going to be amazing (or at least I'm hoping they do a version 2 and it's amazing...)
Loving that loud ass color! Tired of shoes that wanna blend in with the surroundings...it makes more sense to have something that screams "that's a body down there!" In the off chance that something unfortunate happens. Seeing your reaction to the toe box...I might reconsider the saucony suggestion as they look similar. Those overlays look sturdy enough but it gets one wondering if that indicates weak spots overtime. $160 is RIDIC! but hey, keep us posted, maybe those shoes will last you 500 miles of specific usage. The low stack height...oof I donno, does someone REALLY need to become best friends with every root and rock? LOL. Maybe I'm spoiled a bit with 24+ height, but 12mm seems like we're getting into minimal territory and at that point where do shoes begin and bare-feet end, LOL The quest continues!
"That's a body down there!" 🤣🤣🤣 #1 on reason to get these shoes. 😆 Ya, I agree with you on all your points. The funny thing about the stack height is that I didn't realize it was SO LOW until I had already taken them on several runs and hikes. Somehow that Graphene Grip outsole seems to be more protective than my Altra Superiors, which has almost double the stack height! Not sure what black magic Inov8 used on Graphene Grip, but it seems to be working! But that dang toe box. As you said, the quest continues!
Good review. That toe box space concerns me enough to skip looking at these. I think Inov8 makes solid looking and serious shoes but they just don't make enough room in that toe box!! Maybe all of us ex Altra fan boys need to band together and make our own shoe company. 😃
Hey Byron! Ya, if you like an Altra wide toe box, this is not the shoe for you! Since I also like an Altra wide toe box, I've been going back and forth between potentially selling these to someone used or keeping them for the shorter runs. They are a blast, but just not wide enough for me. I'm in for the Wide Toe Box Lovers Shoe Company! WTBLSC? We should work on the acronym... 🤣 I'm waiting to do a full review on the Topos until I can get a 10 mile+ run in them. I've gotten a 30 mile hike, but that's not quite the same. Thanks for watching!
Well had him for a while I have more narrow feet I guess because the meters are like almost 2 roommates. The only issue I had with it was the the tongue was a little short and a little harsh version two I guess they fix that arm I love how flexible it is it’s almost like I’m wearing a minimal like five fingers or something. It’s a unbelievably fat flexible matter fact, a Running Trail Sandals a lot Sharma, and these are more flexible than my sandals I mean it’s so I love them come and they last so if you don’t like him, he won’t be able to get a new pair really quick, but keep them in your closet for when they work out good video
Great review Jeff, Very detailed and I liked how you also provided your experience trail running vs backpacking. Lime green, lol
Thanks, Darren! I was looking at pictures from a recent trip where I was wearing these shoes, and you automatically look at them first! It's like having spot lights on your feet! 🤣
Thanks for watching!
Nice one Jeff, good to see folk using Inov-8 over your side of the world. That's a great shoe if you like a zero drop & it fits the shape of your foot, the durability will mean you get your monies worth, shame they didn't quite fit your foot though 🏃👍
Thanks! Yes, I wish more people over here knew about this shoe. It is amazing! Just not wide enough for my Altra wide toe box loving feet. But I really don't think my feet have ever had so much fun on the trail. Not sure what magic Inov8 puts in this G 270, but it's working!
I feel it's appropriate to say I did NOT dislike this video ;-) Great review, dude!
Haha! It just means the likes mean so much more when you give them. ❤️
Man, for $160 you better get 500+ miles out of those! Surprised you didn't get wet feet with all that mesh in the snow, that's a good mark. The lack of traction on wet wood is a little concerning. Even a $60 pair of Columbias can handle that without much issue. It'll be interesting to see where you finally land in your shoe quest. Totally feel you on the wife bit. I really have to watch what I spend on gear or a dirty look is the least of my worries.
Haha, ya $160 is a lot if these shoes doesn't end up lasting! But based on what I've read and watched, I think they'll last. Only time will tell! Getting the grip right on trail runners is tricky because weight is so critical as well. The Vibram outsoles are good, but I had high hopes for this Graphene Grip from Inov8. Thanks for watching!
@@DoseofDirt granted we ask A LOT out of shoes...and taking into consideration the ideal local/usage of the shoe should say more than what a marketing team dreams up... I'd imagine these would be a power house shoe in 3 season weather where they don't really encounter wet wood (a weakness for more than a few shoes)...wood just gets so much more saturated with water than trail or rock would...
Also...graphene is such a catch phrase now days...I'd almost avoid a brand that touts that...it's a 2 dimensional later of carbon...sturdy and tough, yes! But grip isn't an inherent quality of carbon...also graphene is only sturdy as an unbroken hexagonal sheet...if you shape it it'll lose it's structure(from what i've gleaned looking into why that material isn't EVERYWHERE)
@@evandickinson6393 Your making me feel like I didn't do enough research on Graphene... 🤣 Ya, it does seem to be popping up everywhere. As you said, this will be a powerhouse 3 season shoe, as long. Hoping to see how long of a run I can take them on in cooler temps without snow. Love your comments, Evan!
Great review. I also have had issues with the quality of Altra, I have like them in the past but the newer version of their shoes have been a disappointment. They are streamlining the product and sizing along with quality have dropped off. I have come across TOPO and have liked their shoes for the most part. But haven't truly fallen in love with them yet, I have yet to try the Mountain Racer 2 which is on my list. I did send off a email to Inov8 about their sizing and how it compares to a regular wide with US shoe sizing. I do usually wear a 2E in shoes but have had no issues with the older versions of Altra and TOPO's. I was just wondering your take on the Inov8 and comparing it with TOPO and Altra. Thanks
Thanks Stan! Glad I'm not the only one having issues (though I feel bad you've had issues with them as well!). As you pointed out, unfortunately the issues seem to be getting worse--not better.
As far as Inov8 vs Topo vs Altra, I will say that Inov8 is definitely not as wide in the toe box as Altra and Topo. I can feel it as soon as I put the shoe on, and I get hot spots on the sides where the toe box hits my feet. I don't experience that same pain/hot spot in Altras or Topos, which tells me the Inov8s just aren't as wide. I will say that the fit in the heel cup is nice and snug. Sometimes the heel felt sloppy in Altras so I'd have to mess with the lace tightness, runners knot, etc to try to lock it down.
The Topo feels as wide as an old school Altra toe box. I'll notice several miles into a trail session that my toes still feel like they have plenty of room despite some probably swelling a few hours into a run or hike. So far I've only tried the MTN Racer 2, which is not a zero drop (it's actually a 5mm drop) but I don't feel like I really notice the drop, even after running and hiking in nothing but Altras for 4-5 years. One thing I'm holding my breath on with the Topo MTN Racer is that it feels like a lot of mesh on the upper, which gives me durability concerns. But I've got 50 miles in them so far and no issues, so hopefully that's how it stays.
That said, the Inov8 is FUN to run in. That low stack height, Graphene Grip outsole, and flex grooves really come together for a blast of a run. Just wish that dang toe box was wider so I could use it on longer runs!
(sorry! long answer! 🤣)
@@DoseofDirt Thanks for getting back and all the great information. Very helpful, much appreciated.
Great early review Jeff! Wondering how this will hold up to more miles for your durability test (since you mentioned the Altras tend to fall apart more quickly). If it holds up longer it might be more worth the $160 price tag.
Only time will tell! Thanks for watching man!
Inov-8 is a fantastic company. I own this and 5 other of their models. Love them!
Thanks, Philip! Ya, these things have been super fun to run in! Never had such a low stack height before! Just wish that toe box was a little wider!
Thanks for watching!
@@DoseofDirt :) for me it’s a touch too wide :) my favorite is the x-talon 210… talking of low stack height! That’s a race machine.
@@philipv3098 those almost look like cleats! 6mm stack in the front with 8mm lugs. DANG! I bet those shoes are a blast to run in. Now I want to try them! I'll have to see if they have something similar but a bit wider, because these look fun!
Ya, it's important to remember that every foot is different, so what might be too narrow for me is too wide for you. People sometimes get to hung up on what works for others rather than figuring out what works for them.
Upon your recommendation, I decided to get this shoe! My first pair of innov8s. I have definitely been enjoying them! Quick and nimble and responsive as I like in a trail running shoe. This was overall a great purchase even though I wish the toebox was slightly wider as you mentioned and pull tabs would be nice for getting them on and the laces a bit longer for the running tie that I like to do. I did have one incident where a sharp rock penetrated through the foam in the outer sole and went all the way to my foot. I think this was a freakishly sharp rock though and overall I do really like the shoe and I am now wondering if I should try one of Altra's new shoes (timp, mont blanc, lone peak) or try the topos that you have recommended.
Hey Mordechai! We both wish the toe box was wider! I think that the Topo Runventure 3s have a similar feel, but higher stack height and slightly wider toe box. They are the shoes I used for my 50k 2 weeks ago in the mud and snow, and they worked great!
I'm still struggling with my Mont Blancs. I bought them to use for my 50k, but ended up ditching them for the Topos because of the snow and mud I was anticipating (and I'm glad I did!). I'm finding the MBs hard to lock down and have heard that maybe ordering a half size smaller may help (but I don't have another $180 to burn...ugh).
@@DoseofDirt Thanks a lot for your input on that. I have a 50k coming up in about 6 weeks and I was thinking about getting some mont blancs for that but I think I will hold off now. I may just use the terraultras, which have been great so far on shorter run, or I am wondering if a bit more of a cushioned shoe would be better for that
@@mordechaisopher2611 I know there are a few people out there that are LOVING the Mont Blancs. But they definitely aren't working quite the way I'd hoped. One of my buddies, James (channel is Move More Now with James Nielson") loves the Mont Blancs. I'm thinking that verson 2 is going to be amazing (or at least I'm hoping they do a version 2 and it's amazing...)
Nice review. Keep it up.
Thanks, man! Much appreciated!
Loving that loud ass color! Tired of shoes that wanna blend in with the surroundings...it makes more sense to have something that screams "that's a body down there!" In the off chance that something unfortunate happens.
Seeing your reaction to the toe box...I might reconsider the saucony suggestion as they look similar.
Those overlays look sturdy enough but it gets one wondering if that indicates weak spots overtime.
$160 is RIDIC! but hey, keep us posted, maybe those shoes will last you 500 miles of specific usage. The low stack height...oof I donno, does someone REALLY need to become best friends with every root and rock? LOL. Maybe I'm spoiled a bit with 24+ height, but 12mm seems like we're getting into minimal territory and at that point where do shoes begin and bare-feet end, LOL
The quest continues!
"That's a body down there!" 🤣🤣🤣 #1 on reason to get these shoes. 😆
Ya, I agree with you on all your points. The funny thing about the stack height is that I didn't realize it was SO LOW until I had already taken them on several runs and hikes. Somehow that Graphene Grip outsole seems to be more protective than my Altra Superiors, which has almost double the stack height! Not sure what black magic Inov8 used on Graphene Grip, but it seems to be working!
But that dang toe box. As you said, the quest continues!
@@DoseofDirt godspeed! Your first major series is off to a thrilling start!
Good review. That toe box space concerns me enough to skip looking at these. I think Inov8 makes solid looking and serious shoes but they just don't make enough room in that toe box!! Maybe all of us ex Altra fan boys need to band together and make our own shoe company. 😃
Hey Byron! Ya, if you like an Altra wide toe box, this is not the shoe for you! Since I also like an Altra wide toe box, I've been going back and forth between potentially selling these to someone used or keeping them for the shorter runs. They are a blast, but just not wide enough for me.
I'm in for the Wide Toe Box Lovers Shoe Company! WTBLSC? We should work on the acronym... 🤣
I'm waiting to do a full review on the Topos until I can get a 10 mile+ run in them. I've gotten a 30 mile hike, but that's not quite the same.
Thanks for watching!
Great info. Thanks.
Hey! Glad you found it helpful! Thanks so much or watching and taking the time to leave a comment! Much appreciated!
Top review , as previously mentioned it’s a great shoe that will last but not wider for my hobbit feet ! Thanks man…
Thanks, James! Yup, you were exactly right! How do we convince Inov8 to make a hobbit version?? 🤣
Well had him for a while I have more narrow feet I guess because the meters are like almost 2 roommates. The only issue I had with it was the the tongue was a little short and a little harsh version two I guess they fix that arm I love how flexible it is it’s almost like I’m wearing a minimal like five fingers or something. It’s a unbelievably fat flexible matter fact, a Running Trail Sandals a lot Sharma, and these are more flexible than my sandals I mean it’s so I love them come and they last so if you don’t like him, he won’t be able to get a new pair really quick, but keep them in your closet for when they work out good video
Are you still loving this shoe or do you like the Topo Runventure better??