Inov8 X-Talon 200 Trail Running Shoes

A flexible, lightweight racing shoe that delivers unrivalled grip over soft or extreme terrain and is super-fast on dry trails too. The number one choice for elite athletes wanting to run fast off-trail. Highly durable, quick-draining and packed with protection features that make it perfect for wet, rocky off-trail running and obstacle course racing at high speed.

Inov8 Shoe Fit Scale

For technical footwear, a good fit is essential to enhance your performance. Inov8's new Shoe Fit Scale makes it easier to find the perfect fitting shoe. All Inov8 shoes are designed with Met-Cradle technology to lock down the mid-foot for a stable hold, where they differ is in the toe box. The shoes are now graded from 1 to 5, Grade 1 representing their closest, most precise fit and Grade 5 representing the widest fitting toe box.

The lower the number on the scale, the narrower the fit, which ensures minimal internal movement of the foot when running fast on technical terrain. Shoes with the higher numbers on the scale will suit athletes with a wider foot and those wanting that extra comfort in the toe box. This wider toe box allows the toes to splay for increased stability when lifting heavy weights. It's also perfect for longer runs and races when toes begin to swell.

Inov8 have graded the X-Talon 200 Trail Running Shoes as Grade 4.

Upper - Met-Cradle/Synthetic Mesh

The Inov8 X-Talon 200 Trail Running Shoes is composed of a synthetic Mesh which covers the upper for lightweight, breathable coverage. The ventilated construction actively allows air to permeate the interior footbed for reliable freshness to the feet. Get more miles out of your shoes: Industry-leading lightweight upper material increases durability. The material, combined with the new mesh tongue, further aids shoe breathability and comfort.

The upper construction is covered with a DWR (durable water repellent) treatment, this is water resistant and breathable layer that provides partial weather protection from rainy days but does not fully diminish the effect if the weather gets more intense.

Cradling the upper structure, Inov8's Met-Cradle is a synthetic webbing upper that links the eyelets and supports the forefoot, providing a secure fit and feel. It locks the foot in place for a superior hold, bringing the material closer to the foot for better flexibility and responsiveness.

Finally, a TPU Lacing System uses TPU lacing supports for a strong, lightweight and secure fit. The extra-protective lace eyelets and narrower lacing system ensure a secure, snug fit across the mid-foot. Working in unison with the eyelets, securing and supporting the foot through transition and enjoy more protection: Reinforced toe box delivers outstanding protection on descents, and against stones and other debris.

Midsole - Injected EVA/1 Arrow Shoc-Zone

The midsole for the Inov8 X-Talon 200 is set with an Injected EVA Foam for resilient cushioning with maximum memory retention. The active compound reduces resistance and forces pressed upon the underfoot, engaging a smooth stride through transition and over uneven grounds.

The X-Talon 200 has a 1 Arrow Shoc-Zone. This provides minimal underfoot cushioning and a 3mm heel-to-toe drop. The 3mm heel-to-toe drop brings the foot closer to the ground and encourages faster speeds while still retaining superb underfoot comfort. This is Inov8's 2nd lowest level of cushioning on their 0-4 arrow scale. As this takes place a Fascia Band running from the heel to the forefoot acts as a rigid lever arm, releasing energy with each step and propelling the runner forward.

Outsole - Dual-C/Meta-Flex groove

The X-Talon 200 is an off-trail outsole built with an aggressive lug pattern. It is ideal for loose rock, grass, mixed terrain or mud. The 8mm sticky rubber studs not only claw through soft terrain but also hold firm on harder ground, delivering phenomenal all-round grip. Inov-8's Sticky compound has been specially developed using climbing rubber technology. The hardened Rope-Tec rubber on the outsole protects against burning when racing up and down ropes. and also optimises grip in wet conditions, however, the trade-off is it wears down quicker.