As the name suggests, trail running shoes are intended to run on mountain paths. A must-have shoe that grips firmly on soil and gravel and protects your feet when you hit stones or wood roots, and combines elements of running and mountain climbing. In particular, lightness, which is essential for "running", is the most important thing. This is not simply because the shoes are light, but only because they combine the sense of unity when you put your feet in, the sense of ground contact when you land on the ground, and the security of being able to run around freely on slippery roads.
The TERRACLAW250 we will be reviewing this time is a very well-made pair of shoes specializing in running in the mountains. We also put in practical use in this year's Hasetsune, and despite the wet roads, we were able to run to the end with peace of mind. We will review the TERRACLOAW250 while comparing its previous model, the TRAILROC255, while comparing its new and old style.
table of contents
Detailed review
Item name
inov8 TERRACLAW250
![[Inovate] inov-8 Trail Running Shoes Terracrow 250 IVT2633M2 RBG (RBG/26.0)](https://images-fe.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41GK7o9zYbL._SS300_.jpg)
Main Specifications and ratings
| item | Specifications and ratings |
|---|---|
| weight | 284g (26.0cm per foot) |
| Upper fabric | Synthetic fiber/artificial leather/synthetic resin |
| Outsole | Rubber sole |
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| weight | ★★★☆☆ |
| grip | ★★★★★ |
| protection | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Stability | ★★★☆☆ |
| Overall score | ★★★★☆ |
This is amazing!
Grip power worthy of the name CLAW
The sharp protrusions on the sole create a very strong grip, and the finish is worthy of the name CLAW. It bites the ground firmly and grips not only on scuffs and rocks, but also on muddy roads after the rain. It is not slippery not only vertically but also horizontally, and can carry your body forward stably even when driving on single tracks that are often tilted to one side. The height of this grip is directly linked to the braking force, giving you a sense of security that you can hold your gear when decelerating.
What's exquisite is the number and depth of the protrusions. If you increase the number of protrusions any further, the width will be narrower and stones will be more likely to get caught in the gaps, and if you increase the protrusions any further further, they will get caught on the ground. I feel that it is well-made, while maximizing grip performance and does not interfere with driving.
The sole of the old model TRAILROC255. The TERRACLOW250's sole has become sharper and deeper, which has improved grip performance several times.
The shank structure has been developed with the spring structure of the plantar aponeurus, which has increased flexibility.
The flexible shank structure naturally supports your running movements like road shoes. Personally, I particularly like the last one of the shoes (foot shape), and the shape with plenty of room in the forefoot makes it perfect for the spoon shape that is common in Japanese foot shapes. I highly recommend this to those who have tried wearing Salomon shoes but have given up because they are thin. The room in the forefoot allows you to spread your fingers and hold your fingers out when landing or kicking, giving you a more direct feeling of the soles of your feet when contacting the ground. For example, this sole feeling is useful when you intentionally slide sideways to adjust your speed.
It's just the right amount of lightness with minimal protection
The sole is just right at 8mm forefoot and 16mm heel. TERRACLOW's lineup includes three types: 220, 250, and 280. The larger the number, the thicker the sole and the protection capacity increases, but the heavier the weight. The 220 is even closer to feeling like barefoot, but in order to wear shoes that are as light as possible, you need to have the leg strength to withstand damage. The 250 has a heel thickness of 16mm, so it moderately reduces the thrust when landing. The weight is 284g (one foot) and is also perfect for running.
The sole of the old model TRAILLOCK255 was slightly thin at 14mm.
Additionally, the tape stuck in an X-shaped position on the upper sole holds the forefoot firmly. It improves the fit between your feet and shoes. However, the upper material is thin and soft, so it does not have high protection capabilities. If you hook it on a tree root or hit it against a stone, you will suffer a reasonable amount of damage.
The perfect fit creates a sense of unity between the shoes and feet (=comfort)
The thin, soft upper material fits around the entire instep. In addition, the outer sole, which has a moderate thickness and rebound force, provides solid support from kicking off when running to landing. The sense of unity between your feet and shoes is extremely comfortable, and even though it's an irregular road, you can easily and freely drive around like a road. There are rare shoes that make running through the mountains feel so much fun.
This is not good
Toe Durability
From this time, the toe structure has been enveloping, and some people may have the possibility of their toes peeling off. The author was able to see the tip slightly floating after the finish line (71km).
Summary: I want to use it in these situations!
The TERRACLOW250 is perfect for running in the mountains, combining grip and lightness. It can be used well on rough roads as well as muddy roads. Its protection ability is not very high, making it ideal for mid-range users from intermediate to advanced users. The sharp sole is only effective on trails, but on paved roads, the grip may be slightly sweet due to the low contact surface. I think shoes are the perfect shoes for you to show off your true potential on a course with a high trail ratio.