Test of the Inov-8 RocFly G 390 Trail Runner


Inov-8 continues to innovate in ultra-durable, trail tested footwear. Using their exclusive graphene midsole and outsole, they developed the RocFly G 390 to crush the competition in the lightweight hiking shoe niche.

This model was worn by Inov-8 Ambassador James Forrest when he established the fastest self-sufficient time known on a 500 mile hike of Britain’s three national summits and so it was only natural that we tested them to see if they are as good as they look.

the Inov-8 RocFly G390 In one look

MSRP: $ 210
Weight: 390g / 13.75oz (each)
Unique: GRAPHENE-GRIP â„¢ outsole
Pile height: 25mm heel / 19mm forefoot
Fall: 6mm
Equipment: Breathable knit upper

Circumstances of use

I put them to the test on day hikes and trails in cool, partially snowy conditions on the trails of a well-traveled park. The terrain consisted mainly of gravel roads, paved roads and wooded trails.

I walk and run normally in Topo Athletic shoes like Ultraventure and MTN Racer, which feature similar stack heights and durability claims, and I was excited to see how they would stack up.

Characteristics

inov-8 rocfly g 390

GRAPHENE-GRIP â„¢ rubber. Offers the toughest grip in the world: incredibly sticky traction AND increased durability without compromise. 50% more resistant, 50% more elastic, 50% more resistant to wear, all of which prolongs the life of the outsole.

G-FLY â„¢ foam. Graphene-enhanced foam retains its optimum levels of cushioning thickness and quick energy return longer, helping long-distance hikers feel fresher over greater distances.

ADAPTER-FLEX â„¢ groove. The deep 10mm groove allows the boot to adapt, respond and mold to rough terrain for a responsive, agile feel without stiffness but full of cushioning.

Rofly G 390 Advantages

Fit and feel. Inov-8 uses a scale of 1 to 5 to indicate the width of the toebox, as it differs from model to model. The RocFly G 390 have a five, which means it’s the widest version offered, and the fit was fantastic. I found them to be true to size and didn’t require sizing to get the best fit. Took them on an eight mile trail / hike right out of the box and they felt right away with no break-ins required.

While closely related to the fit, the feel is more about how the shoe performs in the long run. As soon as I put them on, it felt like they hugged my feet like an old pair of slippers. The upper is a flexible and porous knitted material, which provides superior breathability and fit for your feet when they swell during long efforts or hikes. Although I didn’t initially intend to run with them, they felt so good and light that I decided to give them a try. I was not at all bothered by the extra ankle support.

Characteristics. GRAPHENE-GRIP â„¢ technology is no joke. With large spaced legs, I felt completely safe walking over wet rocks and slippery roots. The graphene-enhanced midsole foam is a relatively new feature which, according to Inov-8, is “scientifically proven to deliver 25% better energy return and maintain its optimal levels of rebound and cushioning underfoot for more. long time”. While I don’t have any data on this in particular, I can attest to the fact that the midsole doesn’t feel deflated and sloppy after the first few miles, as it often does with less durable trail runners ( looking at you, Other).

Durability. It might be too early to call at this point, but based on other reviews we’ve had and my testing, which left them looking like new, I’m willing to bet they’ll outlast n any other shoe in my closet. The graphene grip just doesn’t stop and wears out like iron, which fully supports their claims.

Disadvantages of the Rofly G 390

inov-8 rocfly g 390

Price and availability. The elephant in the room with these is their prize. At over $ 200 a pair, they’re significantly more expensive than any trail runner on the market and a little more than comparable hiking shoes. While hard to swallow, they’re likely to last at least 50% longer than other options and may be worth the investment, especially if you can find them on sale.

Additionally, Inov-8 is a UK based brand so they can be hard to find at times. While often available from retailers like REI and Backcountry, size and model options tend to be limited.

Limited use. While this is not a drawback for everyone, there are certain circumstances in which RocFly is not a good choice. These shoes are ideal for rocky, rooted, rugged and wet trails such as those found in New England. However, they are less suitable for hot, dry, desert areas like California, Utah, or Nevada. This is because the knit upper is far too permeable and lets in sand and other debris that can cause blisters and other foot problems.

Conclusion

There’s a reason Inov-8 was selected as one of the top trail runners for touring in 2021, receiving accolades for its durability, grip and fit. The company continued its trend of innovation and expansion of offerings that include graphene technology. As a result, the RocFly G 390 are very impressive.

While many hikers tout the benefits of trail runners, not everyone is comfortable changing and ditching their boots. If you are hiking wet and rugged areas and more comfortable with a higher level of ankle support and incredible durability, these may be the perfect choice for you, provided you can bear the cost. .

Buy the Inov-8 Rofly G 390

Comparable shoes

Topo Trailventure

MSRP: 140 $
Weight: 13 ounces
Fall: 5 millimeters

Hiker Altra Lone Peak

MSRP: 140 $
Weight: 11.5 ounces
Fall: Zero

HOKA ONE ONE Stinson Mid GTX

MSRP: $ 180
Weight: 16 ounces
Fall: 5 millimeters

The Inov-8 Rofly G 390 has been donated for review.

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