Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280

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Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280: Review

β€œA lightweight, durable trail running shoe for ultra-distance runners.”

Overview


The Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 is a trail running shoe designed for long-distance comfort and safety. This shoe is part of the Inov Trailfly Ultra G family and is known for its lightweight design, making it a standout choice for ultra-distance runners.

Key Features:

  • Weight: At just 281 grams, this shoe offers the durability and comfort of traditional long-distance trail shoes in an extremely lightweight model.
  • FlySpeed Foam Midsole: Made with nitrogen injection, this feature reduces weight and provides exceptional reactivity and energy return.
  • Graphene-Enhanced Rubber Sole: This feature enhances grip and flexibility, making it suitable for all types of terrain and conditions.
  • 4-Millimeter Mid Lugs: These are perfect for all types of terrain and conditions, making this shoe a reliable choice for ultramarathons.

The Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 is an ideal choice for medium and low weight runners who prioritize comfort and stability for everyday training or racing. Its breathability and orthotic compatibility offer additional benefits, making it suitable for a variety of running conditions.

According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's just above the median price of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280


The Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 is a trail running shoe that offers a combination of comfort, safety, and durability for long-distance runners. Its lightweight design, combined with high-quality components, makes it a strong contender in the ultra-running market. The shoe's standout feature is its nitrogen-infused FlySpeed foam midsole, which provides exceptional reactivity and energy return. However, the shoe's upper is reported to absorb moisture, which could be problematic in wet conditions. Despite this, the Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 is a solid choice for runners seeking a lightweight, durable shoe for daily running or racing on trails. From our perspective, the Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 offers good value for money, especially for ultra-distance runners.

Updates to Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280


The Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 is a new addition to the Inov Trailfly Ultra G line. It features a nitrogen-infused FlySpeed foam midsole, which is a new technology that provides exceptional reactivity and energy return. This feature is a significant update from previous models, such as the Inov-8 TrailFly Ultra G 300 Max, and contributes to the shoe's lightweight design.

Comparable Shoes


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The Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 is often compared to the Inov-8 TrailFly Ultra G 300 Max. While both shoes are designed for long-distance running, the Trailfly Ultra G 280 is lighter and features a nitrogen-infused FlySpeed foam midsole for exceptional reactivity and energy return. However, the TrailFly Ultra G 300 Max may offer more cushioning, making it a better choice for runners who prefer a more cushioned ride.

6 Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Lightweight design suitable for long-distance running.
Nitrogen-infused FlySpeed foam midsole provides exceptional reactivity and energy return.
Graphene-enhanced rubber outsole offers all-purpose grip.

3 Cons

Upper tends to absorb moisture, which could be problematic in wet conditions.
Midsole could use a bit more cushioning.
May not be suitable for heavier runners due to its lightweight and fairly minimalist design.

In Depth


Upper

The Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 features a woven synthetic mesh upper that is lightweight and breathable. However, some runners have noted that the upper tends to absorb moisture, which could be a drawback in wet conditions. Despite this, the upper provides good heel hold and overall stability, making it suitable for long-distance running on trails.

Midsole

The standout feature of the Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 is its nitrogen-infused FlySpeed foam midsole. This feature reduces weight and provides exceptional reactivity and energy return, making it ideal for long-distance running. Some reviewers have suggested that the midsole could use a bit more cushioning, but overall, the midsole provides good ground feel and protection.

Outsole

The Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 features a graphene-enhanced rubber outsole that offers all-purpose grip. This makes the shoe suitable for a variety of terrains and conditions. The 4-millimeter mid lugs further enhance the shoe's grip, making it a reliable choice for ultramarathons.

Size/fit

The Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 offers a true-to-size fit with a nicely broad toe box for comfort. The shoe provides good heel hold and overall stability, making it suitable for long-distance running. However, it is primarily aimed at runners of medium and low weights, as its lightweight and fairly minimalist design may not be suitable for heavier runners.

Comfort

The Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 is designed for long-distance comfort. Its lightweight design, combined with its FlySpeed foam midsole and graphene-enhanced rubber outsole, provides a comfortable and protective ride. However, some reviewers have suggested that the shoe could use a bit more cushioning for added comfort.

Who should buy the Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280?


The Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 is an ideal choice for medium and low weight runners who prioritize comfort and stability for everyday training or racing. Its lightweight design and high-quality components make it a strong contender in the ultra-running market. Runners who enjoy a minimal style shoe with good grip and durability will also find value in this product.

Who should not buy the Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280?


The Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 may not be the most suitable choice for heavier runners due to its lightweight and fairly minimalist design. Additionally, runners who frequently run in wet conditions may find the shoe's upper, which tends to absorb moisture, problematic. Runners who prefer more cushioning may also find the shoe's midsole lacking in this regard.

Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280: What's it good for?


The Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 is good for long-distance running on trails. Its lightweight design and high-quality components make it a strong contender in the ultra-running market. The shoe's nitrogen-infused FlySpeed foam midsole provides exceptional reactivity and energy return, making it ideal for ultra-distance runners.

3 Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 FAQs


Is the Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 suitable for long-distance running?

Yes, the Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 is designed for long-distance running. Its lightweight design and nitrogen-infused FlySpeed foam midsole provide exceptional reactivity and energy return, making it ideal for ultra-distance runners.

Is the Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 suitable for heavier runners?

The Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 is primarily aimed at runners of medium and low weights. Its lightweight and fairly minimalist design may not be suitable for heavier runners.

How does the Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 perform in wet conditions?

Some reviewers have noted that the upper of the Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 tends to absorb moisture, which could be problematic in wet conditions. However, its graphene-enhanced rubber outsole offers all-purpose grip, making it suitable for a variety of terrains and conditions.

Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 alternatives

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released
Released
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Weight
Weight
281 g
M: 281 g
W: 235 g
M: 312 g
W: 252 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
25 mm
24 mm
31 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
8 mm
8 mm
10 mm
6 mm
Heel
Heel
33 mm
32 mm
37 mm
37 mm
Terrain
Terrain
Trail
TrailMudSnow/iceTrailTrailTrailMudTrail
Usages
Usages
Daily runningRacing
RacingSpeed trainingDaily running
Brand
Brand
Inov-8
Arc’teryxNew BalanceNew BalanceNikeNew Balance
Strike Type
Strike Type
Heel strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
Maximalist
Lightweight
ComfortableComfortableComfortable
Breathable
Breathable
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
Inov-8 FLYSPEEDInov-8 G-Grip
VibramGore-TexNew Balance Fresh FoamVibram
New Balance Fresh FoamVibram
Waterproofings
Waterproofings
Water repellentWater repellentWaterproof
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Sustainable
Sustainable
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Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280: 6 Expert video reviews

Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280: 1 Manufacturer video

Inov-8 Trailfly Ultra G 280 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainTrail (+533)
UsagesDaily running (+1132)Racing (+183)
BrandInov-8 (+38)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Strike TypeHeel strike (+1097)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
Shoe TypeMaximalist (+428)
FitNarrow toe box (+222)
FeaturesBreathable (+753)Orthotic friendly (+456)Removable insole (+439)
MaterialsKnit (+212)
TechsInov-8 FLYSPEEDInov-8 G-Grip (+1)
EventsObstacle course racing (+168)Ultra marathon (+136)
Environmental CharacteristicsSustainable (+175)
ColorwaysBlack, Burgundy Red, Grey, Light Blue / Blue, Mint / Grey / Nectar, Orange, Pine / Nectar, Red
Specificationsvs Average
Released
Oct 2022
Measurements
Weight
281 g
Heel to toe drop
8 mm
Heel
33 mm
Forefoot
25 mm

Evolution of the Inov Trailfly Ultra G product family

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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.
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December 18, 2024 at 9:55 AM
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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%