We managed to get our hands on a lovely pair of Inov-8 minimalist racing shoes to review which is great because Inov-8 shoes are the choice of many obstacle racers including the World Toughest Mudder champ Junyong Pak and should definitely be in your consideration when looking for a new pair of trainers. The X Talon 190’s designed as a lightweight trail racing shoe weighing in at an incredibly light 190g.
Like many of the Inov-8 range, the 190’s have a bit of a tribe following and I am one of their followers I must admit.
Grippy, fast and light the 190’s are designed to suit the minimalist runner. Originally red was a popular choice and when I heard this was to be changed to a fluorescent orange I wasn’t too sure.
We’ve had these new shoes for some time now to give them a thorough test.
The Solution To The Problem
We run in mud which can make it difficult than normal. The 190’s feature thick teeth on the sole of the shoe which provide pretty much all the grip you’ll ever need. With scrambling up muddy hills, jumping mud mounds and anything else always on the agenda.
Wearing these shoes will result in a more efficient race but is also a safety decision to stop slipping and pulled muscles from over exertion.
Lighter Than A Feather
As with all Inov-8 shoes 190 represents the weight. The heel of the shoe is 3mm which is on the closer side to a barefoot feeling from the 212 X Talon’s and Mudclaw. Asides from this I found the support on the shoe really good.
The Durability Concern
These shoes are pretty and light. This however can lead to slight problems. Being so light it means that the materials used is not as durable as other shoes, however they will let water in and out easily - a prerequisite for an obstacle racing shoe.
Compared to the older shoe they have Inov-8 have added protection around the toe to add reinforcement. This is an improvement but running in off road areas can cause this to be torn and therefore reducing the life of the shoe. When referring to their fit for Obstacle Racing it would be good to have more reinforcement in this area, but these shoes aren’t just designed for us.
I think it’s fair to say these won’t last forever and you many only get one season out of them but that will be the best season of your life.
Protecting the grip
The thick teeth need protecting mind, and these are racing shoes that need a good home. So look after them and they will last.
Overall, another great shoe from Inov-8 which I still highly recommend for those wanting a light shoe that won’t be noticed when running with superb grip. Note these are for those that are serious racers and like little support when running.
But please bring back the red for the next edition!