Inov-8 Trailroc 255

Summary

This is a very light but tremendously protective and comfortable trail running shoe with a solid crampon-like grip on virtually all terrain. They feel like bedroom slippers and are a great performance neutral constructed shoe. As my first pair of Inov8s these have become my trusted best friends on the trail when the going gets ruff.

The TrailRoc line from Inov8 come in three models  each with different heel-toe drop (differential). The 255 has  6 mm,  the 245 has 3 mm, and the 235 has 0 mm differential, so if this is important to you then please be aware of the different model numbers.  

They fit best at 1/2 size up from your street shoe size. Comfort wise, they felt like bedroom slippers out of the box, no break-in. I've had these shoes 2 months and used them on a variety of terrain from cushioned grassy hills, to very steep dry rocky fire breaks, so up and down all of these I've  not experienced any chaffing, friction, or pressure points.

If you anticipate snow, sand, gravel then gaiters would be a good idea, but I haven't had any problems with debris accumulation. They are not waterproof. Traction is just exceptional. The TrailRocs are not insulated for use in snow so if you're planning an ascent of the North Face of the Eiger, then save these for after the climb.  

These are easy-on, easy-off shoes and everything about these shoes exceeds expectations. As a performance neutral shoe they are very well constructed and durable.

I have been trail running for several years and while not a world class or professional, I usually hold my own in my older age group. I have had these shoes in both wet and dry, hot and cold, steep, and flat environments and they have performed flawlessly.