Why the Inov8 Trailtalon Speed is a Goldilocks off-roader
Weight: 270g (unisex)
Lug length: 6mm
Stack height: 11mm (heel), 7mm (forefoot)
Heel-toe drop: 4mm
Type: trail/performance
Inov8 Trailtalon Speed
The shoe
Inov8’s Trailtalon series consists of three shoes: the Trailtalon, Trailtalon GPX and Trailtalon Speed. The first offers a comfier ride for longer distances; the second is waterproof; the third is lighter and more low-profile. As someone who enjoys running in more minimalist off-road shoes, I opted for the Trailtalon Speed.
Yet, in some ways, the whole Trailtalon series might seem a little superfluous to requirements. With so many top-quality trail shoes in its stable, Inov8 would seemingly have all the off-road bases covered by now. Heading for the thick mud? Go for the Mudclaw or Mudtalon. Running on drier trails? Opt for the Trailfly or Parkclaw.
So I was a bit sceptical when I heard about the release of Inov-8’s ‘most versatile trail shoe’. Would it be bringing anything meaningful to the party? Here's my verdict.
How does the Inov8 Trailtalon Speed fit?
The first thing to note here is that all three models in the Trailtalon range offer a standard and wide fit. I’ve experimented with both of these widths in the past, and can run happily in both, but this time I opted for the wide in my usual size 9.
The Trailtalon Speed fits true to size. And if you have a medium-width foot, the lacing system is strong and secure enough to create a snug feel even in the wider fit. There’s plenty of wiggle room in the forefoot, allowing toes to splay naturally on landing, and the upper feels robust enough to handle running through rugged off-road terrain.
On a two-hour run over a wide variety of off-road terrain, the shoe felt comfortable and secure, and I experienced no hotspots or blisters.
What is the Inov8 Trailtalon Speed like to run in?
At 270g with a 4mm heel-toe drop, the Trailtalon Speed is definitely designed for uptempo running and racing. It churns through thick mud, thanks to its 6mm graphene lugs, but is also more comfortable on hard trails and road sections than some of its stablemates such as the Mudclaw or Mudtalon, both of which have 8mm lugs.
While remaining a fairly stripped-down shoe, there’s also superior cushioning and comfort here, making the Trailtalon Speed a shoe that nimbler trail runners could likely take up to marathon distance.
I haven’t run in many trail shoes with 6mm lugs before (most are either 4mm or 8mm). To me, 6mm feels like the sweet spot in terms of being able to deal with the likely terrain most year-round UK trail runners will encounter. They’re long enough to see you confidently moving through properly thick mud and deep puddles, but short enough to easily transition to drier, harder surfaces. As such, I'd say Inov8’s marketing of them as its ‘most versatile trail shoe’ feels justified.
RW verdict
Having started as a Trailtalon sceptic, I've been fully converted to a shoe that can genuinely do everything required of a year-round trail shoe. It’s comfortable, rugged and unshowy. Its 6mm lugs thrive on a variety of off-road surfaces. And its graphene sole and grip are durable and effective.
Its £140, which puts it at the more premium end of trail shoes. But I think the genuine versatility and durability here justify the price tag.
If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, however, the Inov8 Mudtalon has much to recommend it, as does the Hoka Speedgoat 6.
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