Has anybody tried the Inov-8 F-lite 195s?

Jill B.

Barefooters
Oct 11, 2010
21
0
1
I need something for slushy/snowy roads....My VFFs (and Injinjis) aren't doing the trick. I just might lose some toes before the Spring. Thanks!

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http://birthdayshoes.com/foru

http://birthdayshoes.com/forum/feet-and-fivefingers-accessories-and-alternatives/inov8-f-lite-195-pics-and-initial-impressions/
 
 that's a pretty good thread

that's a pretty good thread but as someone who is currently testing for Inov8 I thought I would share my thoughts. I have been running in the 195's for about a month now and I can say I have very little negative to say about them. The toe box is slightly narrow but if you get them to fit the length of your foot correctly then it is not that much of an issue. They have a specific place in the sole for metatarsal flexion and if you get that lined up with your foot then you should have enough room in the toe box.

the only other negative i have is the sole durability. you are trading sticky traction for durability which is not a bad trade but they will wear a little faster than conventional shoes. i've got a lot of miles on mine and i can see wear spots but nothing that makes me think the shoes wont last a long time.

they are super light, very flexible, and comfortable. i have really enjoyed running in them and recommend them for anyone looking for something in the racing flat category. i am in texas so i cannot speak to anything below 30 just yet but they've held up well at 30 in the rain. i had good traction and warm feet if that helps you at all.

another thing i've really liked about them is that when my foot makes contact with the ground i know it. they have great feedback in that aspect. there is no excessive bounce or cushion to be worried about and that lends itself to keeping my form clean. there is a 2mm heel to toe drop but you really wont notice it since the shoe is flexible and thin enough overall to allow your foot to do as you would like with your form. I could say a lot more and my official review of them says it but it has not posted yet.

bottom line is i highly recommend them.
 
 Thanks a lot, Jimmy!  I

Thanks a lot, Jimmy!

I actually did get a pair tonight. I pulled out the insoles and have been wearing them inside my house for a couple of hours. I think I like them......a lot. I can't wait to run in them. I'm just wondering now if I should go down a size since I plan on running without the insole. I'm used to the snug fit of the VFFs, so know I don't know how these should fit! I definitely have plenty of room for my toes though! Looking forward to reading your review.
 
 the insole in mine was thin

the insole in mine was thin enough that taking it out created more room but not so much that it changed the shoe. if yours are that way too i would say roll with them and you will be fine. if they got overly roomy though i would take that into consideration and maybe you can return them after a trial run?