Inov-8 launch new ultra trail run shoe

Brit brand Inov-8 has today launched the Terra Ultra G270s, an updated version of the G260s that’s aimed at triathletes and runners who go ultra-long. We’ve just received a pair for review. That’s to come in the main magazine shortly. For now, here’s the highlights and upgrades over the previous model.

The loftiest change is found in the midsole with the Staveley outfit’s new PowerFlow Max platform. It’s 12mm upfront and outback, meaning it’s still a zero drop like the 260s but is 3mm higher. That’s down to the higher percentage of midsole TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) than past editions that, it’s claimed, results in 20% greater energy return than the 260s and, of course, a more cushioned foundation.

This was a criticism levelled at the 260s – that for very long efforts, they just lacked cushioning. Whether the 270s strike the sweetspot between long-course comfort without losing feel for rugged terrain, well, we’ll find out soon. That extra stack comes with a nominal 10g weight penalty for a solid 270g offering.

That ‘G’ prefix refers to its graphene-infused outsole, designed to add durability. As we discovered with the impressive X-Talon G235s, they also add a tacky feel, providing impressive levels of grip on the slippiest of rocks. That grip, according to Inov-8, should be heightened further with the 270s as the pattern of the 4mm lugs is designed to disperse water quickly.

Another nod to ultra efforts comes via the adaptable upper that reacts – in other words, gives slightly – to the natural swelling of the feet over long efforts, especially in the summer. Structured overlays in the upper should temper any concerns that this adaptability results in instability. Finally, on Inov-8’s shoe-fit scale – where one has the narrowest-fitting toe box and five the widest – not surprisingly for an ultra shoe, it’s a ‘five’.

The 270s are available from today (15^th July 2020) and retail for £145 at inov8.com.

Matt Baird Editor of Cycling Plus magazine

About

Matt is a regular contributor to 220 Triathlon, having joined the magazine in 2008. He’s raced everything from super-sprint to Ironman, duathlons and off-road triathlons, and can regularly be seen on the roads and trails around Bristol. Matt is the author of Triathlon! from Aurum Press and is now the editor of Cycling Plus magazine.