Advnture Verdict
With 3mm drop, massive grip and a tough upper, the Inov-8 X-Talon 255 blend simplicity with performance.
Pros
- +
Tough
- +
Ferocious grip
- +
Decent value
Cons
- -
Could be too much volume for shallow feet
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First impressions
The Inov-8 X-Talon 255 is the wide-fitting version of Inov-8’s legendary X-Talon shoe – a classic in the British fell-running scene, where you’ll hear the adage, ‘Mudclaws for winter training, X-Talons for race day.’
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Some will see this wide version as spoiling the precision feel of the slimmer X-Talon, while others will feel these add a longer-run versatility and toe-splay fit. Inov-8’s Stickygrip outsoles are famously clingy, and on the X-Talon a tough upper should see you through a long lifespan.
• RRP: $155 (US) / £120 (UK)
• Gender availability: Men’s, Women’s
• Weight (per shoe, men’s UK11): 304g / 10.7oz
• Colors: Blue & Green
• Drop: 3mm
• Compatibility: All trails
On the trails
The extra width brings plenty of toe-wiggle room for those wanting to feel the strength of their feet through the toe-off stage of their gait. Lacing over the mid-foot and a secure fitting heel cup ensure a solid lockdown although runners with shallow or medium width feet may find there’s more volume up front than required. They still manage to contour well – there’s never any feeling that they’re cumbersome. They feel as light and nimble as you’d expect for a racing fell shoe.
You’d also expect grip, and Inov-8 do not let us down – 8mm sticky rubber lugs bite into soft terrain superbly, and stick to hard rock with equal tenacity. And when your trail takes you on short, hard-packed sections the thin midsole – from 5mm under the forefoot to 8mm under heel – is compliant enough to carry you on comfortably until the route turns fell-ward again, and the X-Talon’s are back in their happy place.
Ground feel is plentiful without being painful. I found the width a touch wider than I might need but, more critically, I found the shoe’s volume seemed expressed through height. The collar came up a little high and bothered my ankle bones a bit.
But get these on peat bogs and they come alive; they make you feel like a fell slaying pro!
