Inov-8 Trail Talon 290

Your rating
Price band
β€Œ
Pro athlete users
β€Œ
Damian Hall
Latest model

Buy Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 at today's best price (men's/women's)

UK

Inov-8 Trail Talon 290: Review

β€œA versatile trail running shoe for long-distance comfort and grip.”

Overview


The Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 is a trail running shoe designed for long-distance running on various terrains. This shoe is part of the Inov Trail Talon family, known for its balance of cushioning and flexibility.

Key Features:

  • PowerFlow+ System: Enhances flexibility and provides a lighter feel.
  • Tri-C Sticky Rubber Outsole: Offers excellent grip and durability on wet and slippery surfaces.
  • Two-Arrox Shock Zone: Improves impact absorption and performance response.

The Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize cushioning and flexibility for long-distance trail running. Its durable outsole and advanced midsole technology offer a comfortable and secure running experience on various terrains.

Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently just above the median price of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290


The Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 is well-regarded for its performance on compact and not very technical terrain. The new upper material enhances breathability and appearance, making it a solid choice for long-distance trail running. The PowerFlow+ system in the sole provides a lighter and more flexible feel, while the Tri-C Sticky Rubber outsole ensures excellent grip and durability. The Two-Arrox Shock Zone system in the midsole offers improved impact absorption and performance response. However, some runners might find the shoe's cushioning to be less responsive on highly technical terrains. Overall, the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 is a reliable and durable option for trail runners seeking comfort and stability over long distances. It is a versatile and dependable trail running shoe for various terrains.

Updates to Inov-8 Trail Talon 290


The Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 features several updates from its predecessor, the Inov-8 Trail Talon 235. The most notable change is the new rubber-type fabric in the upper, which enhances breathability and appearance. The outsole and midsole remain largely the same, retaining the 4 mm lug system and Tri-C compound for excellent grip and durability. The PowerFlow+ system has been incorporated to improve flexibility and provide a lighter feel, making the shoe more suitable for long-distance runs.

Comparable Shoes


β€Œ
β€Œ

The Salomon Speedcross 5 is a good alternative for runners seeking more aggressive traction and support on technical terrains. While the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 excels in comfort and flexibility, the Speedcross 5 offers superior grip and stability on rugged trails. However, the Trail Talon 290 is lighter and more breathable, making it a better choice for long-distance runs.

β€Œ
β€Œ

The Hoka Speedgoat 4 is another popular trail running shoe known for its cushioning and support. Compared to the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290, the Speedgoat 4 provides more cushioning and is better suited for runners who prefer a softer feel. However, the Trail Talon 290 offers better flexibility and breathability, making it a more versatile option for various terrains.

β€Œ
β€Œ

The Brooks Cascadia 15 is a trail running shoe that offers excellent stability and protection. While the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 focuses on flexibility and breathability, the Cascadia 15 provides more support and durability for technical trails. Both shoes are suitable for long-distance runs, but the Trail Talon 290 is lighter and more comfortable for extended use.

7 Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 Pros & Cons


4 Pros

Excellent grip on various terrains.
Breathable upper material.
Good cushioning for long-distance runs.
Lightweight and flexible design.

3 Cons

Less responsive on highly technical terrains.
Not suitable for overpronators.
8 mm drop might not be ideal for all runners.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 features a new rubber-type fabric, replacing the synthetic leather used in previous models. This change enhances the shoe's breathability, making it more comfortable for long runs. The material also provides a better appearance and durability, ensuring the shoe can withstand the rigors of trail running. The upper's design aims to keep the foot secure while allowing for natural movement, making it suitable for various terrains.

Midsole

The midsole of the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 incorporates the Two-Arrox Shock Zone system, which improves impact absorption and performance response. This system helps distribute the impact in two directions, providing a more comfortable and efficient running experience. The midsole also features the PowerFlow+ system, which enhances flexibility and offers a lighter feel, making it ideal for long-distance trail running.

Outsole

The outsole of the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 is made from Tri-C Sticky Rubber, known for its excellent grip and durability. This material ensures the shoe performs well on wet and slippery surfaces, providing runners with the confidence to tackle various terrains. The outsole also features a 4 mm lug system, which enhances traction and stability, making it suitable for both compact and technical trails.

Size/fit

The Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 is designed to fit true to size, accommodating a range of foot shapes. The shoe's upper material and overall design provide a secure yet comfortable fit, allowing for natural foot movement. This makes it suitable for runners with different foot types, including those with high arches.

Comfort

Comfort is a key feature of the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290, thanks to its cushioned midsole and breathable upper. The shoe's design ensures a comfortable fit for long-distance runs, reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort. The PowerFlow+ system in the midsole adds to the overall comfort by providing a lighter and more flexible feel.

Cushioning

The Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 offers excellent cushioning, making it suitable for long-distance trail running. The Two-Arrox Shock Zone system in the midsole enhances impact absorption, providing a more comfortable running experience. The shoe's 8 mm drop also contributes to a cushioned feel, making it ideal for runners who prioritize comfort.

Breathability

The new rubber-type fabric used in the upper of the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 significantly improves breathability. This material allows for better air circulation, keeping the foot cool and dry during long runs. Enhanced breathability reduces the risk of blisters and discomfort, making the shoe suitable for various weather conditions.

Stability

Stability is a strong point of the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290, thanks to its well-designed outsole and midsole. The Tri-C Sticky Rubber outsole provides excellent grip on various surfaces, while the Two-Arrox Shock Zone system in the midsole enhances stability by distributing impact evenly. This makes the shoe suitable for runners seeking a stable and secure trail running experience.

Durability

The Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 is built to last, with durable materials used in both the upper and outsole. The Tri-C Sticky Rubber outsole is known for its longevity, providing excellent grip and durability on various terrains. The new rubber-type fabric in the upper also adds to the shoe's overall durability, ensuring it can withstand the demands of trail running.

Grip

Grip is a standout feature of the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290, thanks to its Tri-C Sticky Rubber outsole. This material provides excellent traction on wet and slippery surfaces, making the shoe suitable for various terrains. The 4 mm lug system further enhances grip, ensuring a secure and stable running experience.

Flex

The Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 offers good flexibility, making it suitable for long-distance trail running. The PowerFlow+ system in the midsole enhances flexibility, providing a lighter and more natural feel. This allows for better foot movement and adaptability on various terrains, making the shoe a versatile choice for trail runners.

Who should buy the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290?


The Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 is ideal for trail runners who prioritize comfort and durability for long-distance runs. Runners with a neutral pronation (foot rolls inward slightly) and those who prefer a fore/midfoot strike (landing on the front or middle of the foot) will find this shoe particularly suitable. Its excellent grip and stability make it a great choice for those who run on various terrains, including wet and slippery surfaces. Additionally, runners with high arches will appreciate the shoe's accommodating fit.

Who should not buy the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290?


Runners who prefer highly technical terrains might find the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 less responsive. Those who need extra support for overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot) should consider other models, as this shoe is designed for neutral runners. If you are looking for a shoe with a lower drop, this model's 8 mm drop might not be ideal. Additionally, runners who prefer a more cushioned feel for road running should explore other options.

Inov-8 Trail Talon 290: What's it good for?


The Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 is well-suited for long-distance trail running on various terrains. Its excellent grip and stability make it ideal for trail running on wet and slippery surfaces. The shoe's cushioning and flexibility are perfect for ultramarathons and other long-distance events. Runners who enjoy off-road adventures will find this shoe to be a reliable and comfortable choice.

5 Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 FAQs


What type of terrain is the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 best suited for?

The Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 is best suited for various terrains, including compact trails, wet and slippery surfaces, and less technical trails. Its Tri-C Sticky Rubber outsole provides excellent grip and durability, making it a versatile choice for trail running.

Is the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 suitable for long-distance running?

Yes, the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 is designed for long-distance running, including ultramarathons. Its cushioning, flexibility, and breathability make it a comfortable choice for extended runs.

What is the drop of the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290?

The Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 has a heel-to-toe drop of 8 mm, which provides a cushioned feel and supports a more comfortable running experience.

Is the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 suitable for runners with high arches?

Yes, the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 is suitable for runners with high arches. Its design accommodates various foot shapes, providing a secure and comfortable fit.

How does the Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 compare to the Inov-8 Trail Talon 235?

The Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 features a new rubber-type fabric in the upper for better breathability and appearance. The outsole and midsole remain largely the same, with the addition of the PowerFlow+ system for improved flexibility and a lighter feel.

Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 alternatives

β€Œ
β€Œ
Inov-8 Trail Talon 290
Now viewing
β€Œ
Inov-8 Trail Talon 290
bestDealShow prices
priceBand
Price band
similarity
Similarity
Very similar
Very similar
Very similar
Very similar
released
Released
Jun 2018
Nov 2015May 2019Jul 2019Mar 2018
productAthletes
Pro athlete users
β€Œ
Damian Hall
β€Œ
Jesse ShotlandDamian Hall
β€Œ
Jeffrey SternPablo Villalobos
Weight
Weight
289 g
M: 221 g
W: 176 g
M: 181 g
W: 142 g
M: 241 g
W: 190 g
235 g
215 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
11 mm
8 mm
5 mm
17 mm
7 mm
16 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
8 mm
4 mm
4 mm
Heel
Heel
19 mm
8 mm
5 mm
17 mm
11 mm
20 mm
Brand
Brand
Inov-8
VibramVibramMerrellInov-8Salomon
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
LightweightLow dropZero dropBarefootLightweightLow dropMinimalistZero dropLightweightLow dropZero dropLightweightLow dropLightweightLow drop
Techs
Techs
VibramVibram
Waterproofings
Waterproofings
Water repellent
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan β“‹Vegan β“‹
0

Inov-8 Trail Talon 290 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainTrail (+533)
BrandInov-8 (+38)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1116)Heel strike (+1097)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
ColorwaysBlack / Blue, Black / Yellow / Grey, Blue, Blue / Grey / Black, Blue / Navy / Pink, Dark Red / Red, Navy / Orange, Teal / Grey / Yellow
Specificationsvs Average
Released
Jun 2018
Measurements
Weight
289 g
Heel to toe drop
8 mm
Heel
19 mm
Forefoot
11 mm

Evolution of the Inov Trail Talon product family

Pro athletes using Inov-8 Trail Talon 290

Related guides

AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
new!
Sync your parkrun results to your Strava activities
Profile picture
Tom Green
December 18, 2024 at 9:55 AM
Gunnersbury parkrun #230 (my #3️⃣4️⃣)
πŸ“Š Stats by geerly πŸ‘Ÿ πŸ•’ Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%