Welcome to Trail Shoes Reviewed. Today, we’re taking a detailed look at the Inov-8 Trailfly, breaking down its specifications, fit, and best uses to help you decide if this is the right trail running shoe for you.
Key Specifications of the Inov-8 Trailfly
- Weight: 280g (UK Size 9)
- Stack Height: 29mm (heel) | 23mm (forefoot) | 6mm drop
- Outsole: Graphene Grip (G-Grip) rubber compound
- Lug Depth: 4mm multi-directional lugs for improved traction
- Midsole: Highly cushioned with responsive insole technology
- Upper: Loosely woven breathable mesh with overlays for durability
- Lacing System: Standard lacing with strong midfoot lockdown
The Graphene Grip outsole, 4mm lugs, and responsive midsole cushioning make the Trailfly a well-balanced shoe for both long-distance trail running and road-to-trail transitions.
Check the price of the shoes on Amazon:
Fit and Comfort
Inov-8 markets the Trailfly as an anatomically fitting shoe, meaning it is designed to support the natural shape of the foot:
- Heel Cup: Snug and soft, but could benefit from more reinforcement for additional support.
- Midfoot Lockdown: Laces hold the midfoot securely, ensuring a stable fit.
- Forefoot Fit: Wide toe box allows for natural toe splay, reducing forefoot compression on impact.
One key feature is the Inov-8 Boomerang insole, a TPU beaded insole designed to provide 40% energy return. While this adds to the shoe’s responsiveness, some runners might find that it raises the heel slightly, affecting the heel cup’s depth. This could create a feeling of reduced stability in the heel, though midfoot lockdown helps prevent actual heel slippage.
Removing the insole allows the heel to sit lower, improving security for those who prefer a deeper heel cup.
Performance on the Trails
Inov-8 advertises the Trailfly as a shoe for hard-packed, long-distance running, and it excels in:
✔ Dry and compact trails
✔ Long-distance runs, including ultra distances
✔ Mixed-terrain conditions, including wet grass, rocky paths, and coal trails
Despite being marketed primarily for dry trails, real-world testing has shown that the Graphene Grip outsole provides strong traction on wet surfaces, including rocks and damp trails.
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Road-to-Trail Potential
The breathable upper, energy-returning insole, and cushioning make it a solid road-to-trail option. However, soft, sticky rubber compounds (like those used in the outsole) tend to wear down faster on tarmac and concrete, so heavy road use may reduce the shoe’s lifespan.
For those looking for a durable road-to-trail shoe, the Brooks Catamount 3 might offer better longevity.
Who Should Consider the Inov-8 Trailfly?
This shoe is ideal for:
✔ Runners looking for a wide forefoot and secure midfoot lockdown
✔ Those needing traction on mixed terrain without deep lugs
✔ Long-distance trail runners, including ultra-distance athletes
✔ Runners who want a high-cushion, energy-returning midsole
If you prefer a firmer, more responsive ride, the La Sportiva Mutant might be a better alternative.
Final Thoughts
The Inov-8 Trailfly is a well-balanced trail running shoe with strong traction, an anatomical fit, and energy-returning cushioning. It works well on light to moderate trails and ultra distances, but durability on hard surfaces could be a concern for those running significant road sections.
For a deeper dive into its real-world performance, check out our full review on YouTube.