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The Inov-8 Roclite G 290 is a trail running shoe designed to tackle diverse terrains with ease. This shoe is known for its innovative use of graphene in the outsole, enhancing durability and grip.
Key Features:
The Inov-8 Roclite G 290 is an ideal choice for trail runners who prioritize durability and grip for off-road adventures. Its lightweight design offers flexibility, making it suitable for both daily training and competitive events.
According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's just above the median price of running shoes.
The Inov-8 Roclite G 290 is praised for its excellent traction and comfortable fit, making it a favorite among trail runners. The G-Grip graphene-enhanced outsole is a standout feature, providing durability and grip on various surfaces, especially soft terrains like mud and grass. However, some users note a slight decrease in stickiness compared to previous versions. The shoe's low-to-the-ground design offers a responsive feel, though it may lack some underfoot protection. The PowerFlow midsole technology enhances shock absorption, while the Adapterweb upper ensures a secure fit. Despite its lightweight mesh upper, the shoe remains breathable and comfortable. Overall, the Roclite G 290 is a versatile trail shoe that excels in off-road conditions. Its combination of durability, grip, and comfort makes it a valuable choice for trail enthusiasts.
The Inov-8 Roclite G 290 is a special version of the Roclite 290. It features the innovative G-Grip graphene-enhanced outsole, which offers improved durability and traction compared to the standard model. The Roclite G 290 also incorporates PowerFlow midsole technology for better shock absorption and energy return. Additionally, the Adapterweb upper system provides a more secure fit, enhancing the shoe's overall performance on challenging trails.
The Salomon Speedcross 5 is a good alternative for those seeking a trail shoe with superior stickiness on wet surfaces. While the Roclite G 290 offers excellent durability with its G-Grip outsole, the Speedcross 5 provides a stickier grip, making it more suitable for wet and rocky terrains. However, the Roclite G 290 excels in durability and is lighter, making it a better choice for long-distance trail running.
The La Sportiva Bushido II offers improved underfoot protection compared to the Roclite G 290, making it a better option for mountainous terrains. While the Roclite G 290 provides a more responsive and natural feel, the Bushido II focuses on stability and protection, catering to runners who prioritize these features. Both shoes offer excellent traction, but the Roclite G 290's G-Grip outsole is more durable.
The upper of the Inov-8 Roclite G 290 features the Adapterweb system, which provides a secure fit by using a synthetic mesh material. This design ensures the shoe is breathable, allowing air to circulate and keep the foot cool during runs. The mesh construction also aids in quick drying, making it suitable for wet conditions. Additionally, the Y-Lock System and Toe Cap offer added protection and support, enhancing the shoe's overall stability on challenging trails.
The midsole of the Roclite G 290 incorporates PowerFlow technology, which is designed to improve shock absorption and energy return. This feature helps reduce the impact on joints during runs, providing a more comfortable experience. The Meta-Shank system runs the length of the sole, offering extra protection on steep terrains while maintaining flexibility. This combination makes the shoe suitable for long-distance trail running, where comfort and support are crucial.
The Roclite G 290's outsole is equipped with the G-Grip system, utilizing graphene-enhanced rubber for exceptional durability and traction. The aggressive lug pattern ensures grip on various terrains, from muddy trails to rocky paths. This outsole design is particularly beneficial for runners who frequently encounter slippery or uneven surfaces, as it provides stability and confidence in each step.
The Inov-8 Roclite G 290 is reported to fit true to size, with an average width that accommodates most foot shapes. The Adapterweb system in the upper ensures a snug fit, holding the foot securely in place during runs. This feature is particularly beneficial for trail runners who require stability on uneven terrains. However, those with wider feet may need to consider sizing up or exploring other options.
Comfort is a strong point for the Roclite G 290, with many users noting its comfortable fit right out of the box. The shoe's design minimizes seams inside the upper, reducing the risk of irritation during long runs. The breathable mesh material allows for effective ventilation, keeping the foot cool and dry. This comfort level makes the shoe suitable for extended trail runs and daily training sessions.
The Roclite G 290 offers moderate cushioning, with an 11 mm midsole in the heel and a 4 mm heel-to-toe drop. This setup provides a balance between comfort and ground feel, allowing runners to maintain a connection with the trail. While not the most cushioned option available, the shoe's design caters to those who prefer a more responsive and natural running experience.
Breathability is a key feature of the Roclite G 290, thanks to its mesh upper construction. This material allows air to flow freely, helping to regulate temperature and prevent overheating during runs. The shoe's ability to dry quickly after exposure to moisture is an added benefit, making it suitable for wet and humid conditions.
Stability is enhanced in the Roclite G 290 through its low-to-the-ground design and Adapterweb upper system. The shoe's 4 mm heel-to-toe drop and flexible construction allow it to adapt to uneven surfaces, providing a stable platform for take-off and landing. This stability is crucial for trail runners navigating challenging terrains.
Durability is a standout feature of the Roclite G 290, largely due to the G-Grip graphene-enhanced outsole. This material significantly extends the lifespan of the shoe, even with frequent use on rough terrains. The robust construction of the outsole, combined with the protective elements in the upper, ensures the shoe can withstand the demands of trail running.
Grip is one of the Roclite G 290's strongest attributes, with its aggressive lug pattern and G-Grip outsole providing excellent traction on various surfaces. The shoe performs well on soft and slippery terrains, such as mud and grass, making it a reliable choice for trail runners. While it may not be as sticky on wet rocks, the overall grip is impressive and suitable for most trail conditions.
Flexibility is a notable feature of the Roclite G 290, allowing the shoe to adapt to the natural movement of the foot. The combination of a low stack height and flexible materials ensures the shoe can bend and flex with ease, providing a responsive feel on the trail. This flexibility is beneficial for runners who prefer a more natural running experience.
The Inov-8 Roclite G 290 is ideal for trail runners who value durability and grip on diverse terrains. Its G-Grip outsole is perfect for those who frequently encounter muddy or grassy trails. Runners who appreciate a low-to-the-ground feel and responsive design will find this shoe appealing. The breathable mesh upper makes it suitable for those running in warmer climates or wet conditions. Additionally, its lightweight construction is beneficial for those seeking a shoe for both daily training and competitive events.
Runners seeking maximum cushioning and underfoot protection may find the Roclite G 290 lacking. Its minimal cushioning and focus on ground feel might not suit those who prefer a more cushioned ride. Those with wider feet might find the fit too snug, as the shoe is designed with an average width. If you prioritize stickiness on wet rocks, you might consider other options, as the G-Grip outsole, while durable, is not the stickiest. Alternatives like the Salomon Speedcross 5 or La Sportiva Bushido II might be more suitable for these preferences.
The Inov-8 Roclite G 290 is excellent for trail running, particularly on off-road terrains. Its durable G-Grip outsole provides reliable traction on muddy and grassy surfaces. The shoe's lightweight and breathable design makes it suitable for daily training and competitive events. Its low-to-the-ground feel is ideal for runners who enjoy a responsive and natural running experience. The Roclite G 290 is also a great choice for those participating in fell running.
The Inov-8 Roclite G 290 is designed for trail running with its G-Grip graphene-enhanced outsole, providing excellent durability and traction on various terrains. Its lightweight and breathable design make it ideal for off-road adventures.
The Roclite G 290 offers impressive grip with its aggressive lug pattern and G-Grip outsole. While it may not be as sticky on wet rocks as some competitors, its durability and traction on soft terrains like mud and grass are standout features.
Yes, the Roclite G 290 is comfortable for long-distance running, thanks to its breathable mesh upper and PowerFlow midsole technology, which enhances shock absorption and energy return.
The Roclite G 290 generally fits true to size with an average width. However, runners with wider feet may need to consider sizing up or exploring other options.
The Roclite G 290 features a 4 mm heel-to-toe drop, providing a low-to-the-ground feel that enhances responsiveness and stability on trails.
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bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
priceBand | Price band | |||||
similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | ||
released | ReleasedMar 2019 | Jun 2019 | May 2019 | May 2022 | Nov 2017 | Feb 2020 |
expertReviewScore | Expert Review Scoreβ β | β β | β β | β β | β β | β β |
productAthletes | Pro athlete users | |||||
Weight | Weight289 g | M: 179 g W: 150 g | M: 247 g W: 207 g | 289 g | 230 g | M: 241 g W: 213 g |
Forefoot | Forefoot7 mm | 12 mm | 19 mm | 23 mm | 7 mm | 18 mm |
Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop4 mm | 4 mm | 4 mm | 6 mm | 6 mm | |
Heel | Heel11 mm | 16 mm | 19 mm | 27 mm | 13 mm | 24 mm |
Terrain | TerrainTrail | Trail | Trail | Snow/iceTrail | Trail | Trail |
Brand | BrandInov-8 | La Sportiva | Altra | Saucony | Inov-8 | Merrell |
Support Type | Support TypeNeutral | Neutral | Neutral | NeutralStability | Neutral | Neutral |
Strike Type | Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike |
Shoe Type | Shoe TypeLow drop | LightweightLow drop | LightweightLow dropZero drop | Low drop | Lightweight | Lightweight |
Rock plate | Rock plate | |||||
Breathable | Breathable | |||||
Orthotic friendly | Orthotic friendly | |||||
Removable insole | Removable insole | |||||
Techs | TechsInov-8 G-Grip | BOA | Vibram | |||
Environmental Characteristics | Environmental Characteristics | Sustainable | Vegan β | |||
Common characteristicsNeutral pronationHigh arch |
Characteristics | |
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Sports | Running (+2049) |
Terrain | Trail (+533) |
Brand | Inov-8 (+38) |
Support Type | Neutral (+1603) |
Pronation Type | Neutral pronation (+1578) |
Strike Type | Fore/Midfoot strike (+1116) |
Arch Type | High arch (+1525) |
Shoe Type | Low drop (+277) |
Fit | Narrow toe box (+222) |
Features | Rock plate (+127) |
Materials | Mesh (+942) |
Techs | Inov-8 G-Grip (+1) |
Events | Fell running (+59) |
Colorways | Blue / Black / Grey, Blue / Yellow, Navy / Orange, Red / Black / Grey / Pink |
Specifications | vs Average | |
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Model | G 290 | |
Released | Mar 2019 | |
Measurements | ||
Weight | 289 g | |
Heel to toe drop | 4 mm | |
Heel | 11 mm | |
Forefoot | 7 mm |