Details
Brand
Inov-1
Heel To Toe Drop
6mm
Breathability
8.5/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Trail
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• EVA cushioning• Tri-compound rubber outsole, made of three different endurance rubber for incredible traction• Perfect for long distance, training, or every day running• Fast drying mesh• Long-lasting• Third generation Meta-Shank ensures natural movement with rock protection
Upper
Translucent synthetic overlays, line the side of the upper part of these Inov’s and covered almost fully in a lightweight mesh that allows for ideal breathability when running through puddles and mud. A reinforced toe adds to the protection of the toes and extra support of the shoe. TPU lacing gives the shoe a tighter fit, to form better around the upper part of the foot, many runners noted this feature is useful when doing off-course or mud runs to prevent the shoe from slipping off.
Midsole
EVA cushioning lines the midsole of this shoe. With memory retention foam to rest your foot in for a soft, yet supporting, fit every time. The Trailroc 255’s provide a neutral arch support to allow for a more natural feel to resemble the runners own foot. The midsole also has a meta-shank rock plate to protect the metatarsals from uneven surfaces, like rocks and gravel, on trail runs. Runners noted that the cushioning in these shoes provided comfort and protection, even during long distance runs.
Outsole
The outsoles of these shoes are composed of Tri-C compound, meaning there are 3 different rubbers that make up the outsole to provide optimal grip. This endurance rubber covers the entire bottom of the shoe is small, almost spike-like, squares to give runners the confidence to take on any terrain without fear of falling or slipping. Runners reported that the grip on these shoes was absolutely phenomenal. Whether the terrain was wet, dry or even muddy, the traction kept each stride flowing into the next.
Breathability
Running through water, puddles, or mud? No problem with these fast-drying shoes with incredible drain ability. The breathable mesh that overlays the upper of these Trailroc 255’ s push or water for a comfortable run without prolonged sloshing of water in your shoe. Consumers said on average it only took about 5-10 minutes for their shoes to feel completely dried out after completely submerging their feet in the water.
Comfort
These shoes were highly noted for their comfort for running lost distance on tough terrain. Long-distance runners raved about the perfect cushioning and even traction the shoe provided while running distances up to 12 miles without discomfort. When the Inov – 8 Trailroc 255’s were compared to other Inov-8’s, they were described as a much softer and smoother ride than other shoes in the line. However, many did comment that the shoes do run slightly narrow and for those who prefer a little more wiggle room or wear wider size, runners should definitely order a size wide.
Style
These modest, yet sleek, trail running shoes are ideal for the minimalist runner looking for a subtle shoe. With a variety of colors like black, blue, grey and purple, all with a simple splash of color and sporting the Inov-8 logo on the side, these low-key looking running shoes will match with anything. The darker colors are also a bonus because running on trails can get dirty in a hurry, so having a darker color can keep shoes from looking too worn and dull.
Durability
If you are constantly running through mud and water, on rocks and uneven terrain, or through an obstacle trail course, you need shoes that are going to go the distance with you. These Trailroc 255’s do not disappoint when it comes to durability. Consumers stated they easily put up to 500 miles on rough courses and the shoes held up extremely well. Many reviewers stated they took these shoes on some of the toughest terrains there was and were pleasantly surprised about how long these shoes lasted.
Protection
Run at ease knowing that these shoes will provide you with the optimal protection while running through bumpy terrain. The memory foam cushioning that lines the insole of the shoe offers effective dispersion of impact throughout the foot on uneven terrain. While the meta-shank rock plate in the midsole protects the metatarsals against rocky gravel. The reinforced toe also adds a little extra protection to the toes when kicking up rock-strewn paths.
Responsiveness
The cushioning of these Trailrocs is infused with EVA technology, which allows for a good bounce-back of energy with each step. While the responsiveness is not one of the key features of this shoe it was also not a complaint. The other qualities, such as the traction, breathability, and lightness of the shoe seem to outweigh this quality.
Support
Delivering seamless protection from uneven terrain, the Trailrocs are very form fitting to the foot for a natural feel. The TPU lacing allows for tightening or loosening of the shoe for individual needs. With a neutral arch support, that seems to please most people who use this shoe. Most runners felt the cushioning was the ideal combination of firm and supportive yet still soft and comfortable. As for the support of the outsole, just the look of the rubber grips speaks for themselves. The amount of traction these shoes get protect runners from slips and slides when conditions get difficult.
Terrain
Anything bumpy, muddy or rocky will suit these Trailroc’s. They were crafted with the sole purpose of being on trails and made to endure the beating. There was a wide array of terrain runners reported running, from mountains, dessert, wooded trails, and rocky paths, these shoes powered through them all. So if off-road running is your passion these shoes could be love at first run!
Price
The price of these shoes ranges from $115-127. This is an average price for running shoes and these shoes seem to be well worth the money if you are looking for shoes for trails. When running on uneven surfaces it is important to have shoes that are built to handle the terrain to assist in preventing injuries, so while some runners thought the price was slightly high, it is worth it to have proper shoes for your running needs.
Drop
With a 6 mm drop, the Inov-8 Trailroc 255’s have a low profile to most closely resemble the natural drop of the foot.
Traction
Wet or dry, smooth or bumpy, these shoes can handle it all. The Trailroc 255’s were commended for their ability to handle all types of running environments with the perfect amount of traction. The outsoles of the shoes are made with three different types of endurance rubber to allow athletes to conquer trail with ease. The small rubber traction cubes protrude from the bottom of the shoe to prevent slipping, thus helping to prevent injuries. Many runners found these shoes to be their go-to for obstacle trail races, stating that nothing on the obstacle course could stop these shoes!
Bottom Line
These shoes are begging to be taken on the unbeaten path, you know that wooded trail down the street or that mountainous terrain that is calling your name. Take these shoes out through a tough trail with a smooth ride. Theses Inov-8 Trailroc 255’s were made with an off-road specialty in mind. If you are in search of the perfect shoe for rough terrain, you may have reached the end of your search. With so many positive aspects, like the outsole made of Tri-compound rubber for astounding traction, fast drying upper mesh, and a lightweight feel, Inov-8 has definitely figured out what trail runners want and put it in this Trailroc 255 shoe!
