INOV8Men's Bare-xf 210 V2 (M) Cross Trainer
M**E
Still an amazing shoe, though I liked the V1s better. Order a 1/2 size down.
First and foremost, I am satisifed with this shoe. In my opinion, it is one of the best, zero drop "bare" shoes out there. However, I prefer the first version of these shoes more.I loved their first version of these. The size 9 fit like a glove. However, the V2's are a bit longer and I had to go down to 8.5 (even then, they are just a bit long but size 8 was too small).My V1's lasted 3 years with near-daily use before the sole just barely started to separate. I decided it was time to get a new pair when the shoelace loops started to separate. (pictured)With the V2s, they changed up the way the laces attach, so I dont expect the separation issue. They kept the sole the same, though the V2s feel a bit thicker and not as maliable (though that could be because I had worn down my V1s so much).They added a beefier heal loop/support so the shoe really cups the heel nicely.One thing I'm not a fan of is that they've added a significant amount of padding on the top of the shoe (as compared to the V1s). It feels cushy and comfortable but my feet definitely sweat more in these than the V1s. Perhaps it adds marginally more protection from dropped weights. I liked the V1s better because they didnt habe this extra cushion (and the fit was just a little more precise).The toe also uses a rubber material instead of the fabric like on the V1s. The V2 offered noticeable protection when I stubbed my toe on the equient in the gym (V1s...not so much).Finally, though looks have never been a huge deal for me, the black and green just flat out look cooler than the V1s.All in all, this is an amazing shoe and I highly recommend it. I just wish they would have kept the sizing the same and didn't use that thicker material on top of the shoe's toe box (but maybe it'll grow on me).UPDATE: May 29, 2019.I upped the rating from four stars to five. I can't believe I bought these shoes almost two years ago. While I still agree with everything I originally wrote when comparing them to the V1s - these shoes have held up so freakin' well I had to give the extra star. They still fit like brand new. They even still look new. I use them 3-5 times a week for crossfit/boxing/weight training and they're still going strong. I've picked up more Orange Theory classes and work in an Athlean-X program now and these are still my go-to shoes. I replaced the laces with some of those Xpand laces (but because the laces were going bad or anything, just wanted to try the no-tie style) and the shoe/laces combination are phenomenal. I slip these things on/off with no issue and I'm confident the shoes stay snug and secure even during my (short, never more than 1/4 mile) sprints. At this rate, these shoes are going to be going strong or another couple years.
E**S
Perfect for Crossfit & lifting. Maybe not for outdoor running.
I am completely happy with these shoes. My application is light treadmill running and Crossfit-style workouts. I have been running 5-10 miles a week for several weeks and working out 5x a week now in these. They've broken in very well. I have tall and wide feet, and wear the laces loosely, which is typical for how I wear most athletic shoes that aren't specifically an E+ width.These are thin-soled with a grippy rubber. They are a stable base for lifting. I used to take off my shoes to squat or deadlift, but I don't anymore.It's rural winter with poorly maintained roads, so I have not tried running outside in these yet. The treadmill I run on has some shock absorption, and I've done as much as 6 miles at a stretch and felt okay. Lighter runners might do better than me in that regard. I'm a tank - 5'11" and 220, built to lift heavy things more than run very far. I think running on pavement in these would be hard on my knees more than a mile or two, though. No way I'd trail run in these. Completely wrong shoe for that.But for Crossfit style lifting and WoDs? I love these shoes.
L**R
Great shoes; should be tight.
So, though I checked, "fit as expected", that's actually not accurate; any other selection would've been equally incorrect, but also an indictment. Here's something which I found out: minimalist/barefoot runners are supposed to be snug, fitting as a layer over your feet, not some clunk cushion-box like normal running shoes. I was about to send them back (and the folks at inov8 were responsive and quick to send the return shipping material) when I thought I should do more research on how these kinds of shoes should fit. I'm glad that I did. I kept them and they have been wonderful, comfortable (just took a wee bit of time to get used to the snugness - not to be confused with being too small), and rugged. I have worked out in them indoors and gone on quite a few walks with them (my running days are behind me), and they have benefited me not only in comfort, but also in working with my efforts to begin walking correctly while wearing shoes. There are gobs of videos on how to walk correctly in shoes (the way that we walk without shoes), and I would highly recommend watching such videos by a professional. If you're considering barefoot/minimalist shoes, it goes foot-in-glove to work on proper stride, footfall, and posture at the same time, though that's definitely optional.I recommend the Inov-8 Men's Bare-XF 210 V2 sneaker. These are sturdy, comfy, and quite beneficial for working on changing the way you walk and/or run to the more natural impact and posture that we pose while barefoot.Godspeed.
K**R
Truly Stellar Trainers - superb design, craftsmanship & fit
These are truly stellar trainers. I train under iron and on the track (former 100m sprinter.)I’ve been looking for trainers like these for a very long time; and no other comes close in my opinion: they are superbly crafted; they fit like shoes ought to fit (narrow/grabby heel, with roomy fore-foot - too many manufacturers don’t seem to get this concept), are zero rise (essential for training); they also have just the right amount of sole thickness - you can feel the ground (very important) but your feet are still protected.I’m so very glad I found them. They are as near to barefoot as you can get - without the weirdness/looks of VFFs,.If you are new to minimalist/near barefoot trainers, you should ease into them. Your feet will thank you. :)Gloves. Fit. Like.Love :)
J**T
Great for the gym.
I’m using these for the gym, weights, circuit training and boxing. Being flat, they are more stable than raised and cushioned shoes, making me more confident with my footwork. They are well made and very comfortable- I’m a size 10 with a medium width foot. I haven’t used them for a run outdoors so can’t comment on that.
R**T
Brilliant
I have been wearing barefoot zero drop shoes for years now. I've gone through all the brands and have my favourites. These are now my new favourites. Perfect fit and so comfortable. You will feel a stone if you stand on one but that's why we go barefoot
Æ**N
great light gym shoe
I like this product for what I use it for, which is in the gym to run short sprints and lift weights
F**G
Excellent shoes
I've used these now a few times for the gym; kettlebell & barbell training as well as for CrossFit style training which included box jumps, climbing, rowing and short distance runs/carries. They are very comfortable and also very durable showing no signs of wear. Excellent shoes but be aware they are very minimal so they might not be to everyones taste.
M**L
A good value minimalist running shoe.
I use the shoes for running - they are comfortable and generally stable but feel a little ‘narrow’ compared to my VivoBarefoot Primus Trail shoes. They look good and are well made and, as such, are very good value.
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