Review: Inov-8 Roclite 275 GTX

I had the opportunity to test out the Inov-8 Roclite 275 GTX a couple months before they became available for public purchase (you can now find them on the Inov-8 website under Products, Off Road). These are an updated version of the popular female specific shoe. The first thing you'll notice is that the previous mesh upper has been replaced with a much stronger mesh material. This should significantly decrease the likelihood of an upper blowout due to extended use as well as trail hazard (rocks, sticks, etc.) cuts and tears. The heel was designed to be narrower to match the shape of the female foot. It has good cushioning with a lower than average differential. This is a great training shoe and perfect for long runs in wet slippery conditions. The sole of the shoe was developed using rock climbing rubber technology to optimize grip in wet conditions. The GORE-TEX lining keeps my feet warm and dry running the wet Pacific Northwest Chuckanut trails as well as hiking high elevations on the North Cascade trails still covered in 5 feet of snow. This has been one of my favorite pair of Inov-8s because it is so versatile, comfortable and reliable.