Inov8 Roadfly Review
By Matthew Klein and Andrea Myers
Inov8 RoadflyPrice: $130 at Inov8
Weight: 9.3 oz, 265 g (men's size 9/women's size 10.5)
Stack Height: 27 mm / 21 mm
Drop: 6 mm
Shoe Purpose: Low Stack Height Daily Training Shoe
Pros: Low Stack Height, Wide Anatomic Toe Box, High Durability, Nimble Ride
Cons: Higher Weight Relative to Lower Stack Height
RUNNING SHOE SUMMARY
The Inov8 Roadfly is a low-to-moderate stack height road shoe for those who want an anatomic, natural feeling and cushioned training shoe. A full-length Powerflow Pro midsole provides a significant amount of shock-absorbing cushioning at a lower stack height. A extensive outsole provides both forefoot flexibility and high-level durability, allowing this shoe to handle a variety of road conditions and even light off road treks. Finally, an anatomic upper sits up top, providing plenty of natural room for the toes and a comfortable, slightly wider fit that is easy to lock down. A refined version of the natural road shoes from its past, the Inov8 Roadfly is a great option for those that want a natural ride with good cushioning at a lower stack height.
SIMILAR SHOES: Altra Escalante 4, Topo Magnifly 5
PAST MODEL: new model
FIT
(To learn how a shoe should fit, check out our full podcast on fit by Matt Klein.)
Matt: The Inov8 Roadfly fits me true to size in my normal Men's US size 10. I was given a wide version, which fits me more normally. Those with narrow feet may want to consider the non-normal version while those with normal to wide feet should definitely go with the wide. The forefoot is anatomic and wide with plenty of room for toe splay. The volume is normal to slightly high with a little bit of upper stretch. The midfoot fits normally with a well gusseted, moderately thick tongue. I do have to tighten the laces to get a secure fit but did not have to lace lock the heel. The heel fits normally with only a little heel collar padding and a flexible heel counter. Most people with heel sensitivities should be fine as the counter has not bothered me but those with severe sensitivities should still be cautious. The inner aspect of the upper is quite comfortable against bare skin. I have worn this sockless frequently, although would suggest socks due to the wider fit. The front 2/3 of the upper is more comfortable against bare skin than the back half, so those prone to heel chaffing should still stick with socks.
Typical Size: Men's US Size 10
Shoes that have fit Matt well: Saucony Guide 17, ASICS Kayano 30, Hoka Gaviota 5, Saucony Endorphin Elite, Nike Ultrafly
Shoes that have fit snug: Hoka Arahi 7, Saucony Kinvara 14
Shoes that have fit large: Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 2, Altra Timp 5
Andrea: I received a men's 8 in the wide version because the women's version was not available in wide, and I thought I would need the wide version for proper fit. The men's wide fit true to size and I appreciated the ample room in the toe box. I agree with Matt that the standard width will work well for people with narrow feet and the wide width for those with normal width to wide feet. The upper feels like a more structured and refined version of the Altra Escalante 3. The upper material is soft, but the overlays on the medial and lateral midfoot, dorsum of the forefoot, and rearfoot provide structure and help stabilize the foot in the shoe. The midfoot and heel are normal width and I did not have any difficulty achieving sufficient lockdown with the laces. The rearfoot has a semi-rigid counter and a small amount of internal padding. The gusseted tongue is thick, moderately padded, and stays securely in place thanks to the gusset and a lace loop. This is one of the most comfortable uppers I have tested this year and I am pleased with its secure fit and roomy, but not sloppy, toe box.
Andrea's Typical Size: Women's US Size 9.5
Shoes that have fit Andrea well: New Balance Beacon v3, Brooks Hyperion Max, Topo Cyclone 2, Nike Vaporfly 3, Altra Via Olympus 2
Shoes that have fit snug: Saucony Kinvara 14 (length and toe box width), Altra FWD Experience (length and width), Hoka Cielo Road (toe box width), Saucony Endorphin Speed and Pro 1-3 (length)
Shoes that have fit large: Adidas Boston 12 (length), Adidas Adios 8 (length)
Doctors of Running Checklist
Is This a Good Shoe for Walking: Yes
Is This a Good Shoe for Standing: Yes
Is the Forefoot Flexible: Moderately Flexible
How Flexible is the Shoe: Moderately Flexible
Is This a Good Heel Bevel: Yes
Recommended for Haglunds: Somewhat
Recommended for Sockless: Yes
Durability Expectation: Above Average
PERFORMANCE
Matt: The Inov8 Roadfly is a low to moderate stack height daily training running and walking shoe. The midsole is full-length Powerflow Pro, which feels slightly firm but absorbs shock well. The midsole material is not super responsive but does feel protective despite the lower stack height. There is a little bounce from the 6mm TPU BOOMERANG sock liner, which softens the ride just slightly. The Roadfly feels nimble and runs lighter than its listed 9.3 oz weight (men's size 9). There is a 6 mm heel drop although this can feel slightly lower due to the lower stack height. The heel transition is initially slightly clunky due to the large lateral flare but this breaks in quickly due to the presence of a slightly lateral posterior bevel. This transitions into a quick-moving but narrow midfoot and a smooth forefoot. The forefoot features a flex groove called "Meta-Flex" which along with the forefoot rocker provides a smooth transition off the toes. Those with toe mobility issues will not do well in this shoe while those that want some flexibility will do well.
The Roadfly feels best at easier and longer efforts for those who are used to less shoe. I have run up to 8-10 miles in my pair and would go longer if my body was used to less shoe at this time. I have used them as an all day shoe and even after being on my feet for 8-10 hours they still feel fine. They are nimble enough to be used for shorter speed workouts but I prefer a little lighter and snappier road for those time of workouts. They feel best getting into an easy to uptempo rhythm, so those wanting speed may want to check out some of the other shoes in the upcoming Roadfly line.
The outsole traction is quite good on a variety of smooth surfaces and can be used on light trail. I have had no issues with slippage on dry pavement, wet pavement or smooth floors. The outsole durability is excellent as I have over 60 miles and months of all-day wear on my pair with no outsole impact. Those wanting a highly durable, low to moderate stack height shoe that can handle casual and running may want to consider the Roadfly.
Andrea: The Inov8 Roadfly is a lower stack road running shoe that provides plenty of ground feel and a comfortable upper. I have enjoyed running in the shoe because it helps me feel more connected to the ground after testing so many super trainers this spring and summer. The 27mm/21mm stack height provides just enough underfoot protection that the shoe does not feel harsh. The POWERFLOW PRO midsole is on the firmer side, but the flexible forefoot and late forefoot rocker give the shoe a little pop at push off. I agree with Matt that the TPU BOOMERANG sock liner does soften the ride up a bit, but the overall feel of the shoe for me was pleasantly firm. The META-FLEX grooves in the forefoot line up well with my 1st MTP and make the shoe ride quite naturally for me. I did not feel like I was fighting the geometry of the shoe at all while running. The shoe feels lower than its stated 6mm drop, which is likely due to the lower stack height and flexible forefoot. Like most Inov8 shoes, this shoe feels ideal for midfoot landings due to its 6mm drop and flexible forefoot. I was surprised to see the 9.3oz weight in the tech sheet for a men's size 9, because my men's size 8 feels like a sub-8 oz shoe to me.
I have primarily used the shoe for easy runs, but have been able to use it for pickups and strides without any issues. The midsole does not feel responsive enough to use for speed workouts for me. My longest run in the shoe has been 6 miles, but I think I could use it up to 10-12 miles without any issues. Inov8 has always been known for their grippy trail outsoles, and the full coverage rubber outsole of the Roadfly is no exception. I had zero issues running on wet pavement, grass, or dirt in this shoe. This would be a great road to dirt option, although I would not use it on more technical trails due to the lack of lugs. I have 25 miles on my pair and there is zero visible wear on the outsole, so I would expect high durability from the shoe.
STABILITY
(Learn more about stability in our full guide)
Matt: The Inov8 Roadfly is a neutral running shoe. There are no traditional methods of stability but are a few guidance methods. The heel features a great deal of sole flare with a posterior lateral heel bevel. Combined with the lower stack, this creates a somewhat centered ride. The midfoot features medial and lateral sidewalls, although these only slightly offset the narrowed sole. The forefoot is wide and features sole flare. Combined with a moderate amount of flexibility and a gentle rocker, the forefoot is the most stable of these areas. However, these methods are quite mild, making the shoe overall quite neutral, especially in the midfoot.
Andrea: The Inov8 Roadfly is definitely a neutral shoe. There are some mild guidance features, including the later forefoot rocker, moderate rearfoot sole flare, and mild forefoot sole flare. The multiple overlays provide some structure to an otherwise soft and voluminous upper. However, the low stack height, flexible forefoot, and narrow midfoot place the shoe solidly in the neutral category. Runners will need sufficient foot strength and 1st MTP mobility to run comfortably in the Roadfly.
Thoughts as a DPT: Using Minimal and Low Stack Height Shoes for Non-Running
By Matthew Klein
As more footwear has become higher stack height, even among casual shoes, it is easy to get disconnected from the ground. A reader/listener recently messaged us asking what shoes we wore when we were not running. For several years, I have continued to use either minimal shoes from Xero, walked barefoot/with only socks when appropriate and most recently have used the Inov8 Roadfly extensively for walking, standing, lecturing, treating and more. While I have run extensively in this model, I prefer minimal and lower stack height shoes for walking and standing due to the known benefits to the foot/ankle and for the break from maximal stack height shoes.
While running in minimal footwear certainly has benefits, it also carries inherent risks (Bonacci et al., 2013). These can include increased risk of foot/ankle injuries and bone stress injuries if an individual has not properly adapted to this footwear type. Walking in this type of footwear carries far lower risks but great benefits. We have known for years that simply walking in minimal shoes can improve foot muscle size and (we hoped) foot muscle strength (Ridge et al., 2018). Recent longitudinal research has found that adults that spend most of their day (walking and standing) in minimal shoes have over 50% great foot strength compared to those in traditional shoes (Curtis et al., 2021). This study did not specifically include runners, instead looking at average people, suggesting that all of us may find some benefit spending the rest of our time outside of running using more minimal shoes.
While I now spend most of my running in maximal shoes due to that being the most common shoe on the market (and I am lucky enough to be in a position to review shoes), all of my time outside of running is spent in minimal shoes or barefoot. This has made the transition into running in minimal and zero drop shoes much easier compared to previous experiences. This is likely due to keeping my baseline foot strength at a higher level, which is further improved by all my heavy lifting being done barefoot. Therefore, even if you do not like or have the tolerance to handle minimal shoes while running, they may still provide great benefits while walking, standing and daily activities.
Bonacci, J., Saunders, P. U., Hicks, A., Rantalainen, T., Vicenzino, B. G. T., & Spratford, W. (2013). Running in a minimalist and lightweight shoe is not the same as running barefoot: a biomechanical study. British journal of sports medicine, 47(6), 387-392.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Matt: I ran in several of Inov8's original road line and always had issues with fit and cushioning. The Roadfly does a much better job of balancing protection, durability and runnability than prior models. The anatomic fit is also quite comfortable both for running and all day wear. My only suggestions are smooth out the heel slightly and consider lightening the shoe. There is a little extra posterior flare that isn't necessary and I would suggest reducing it and moving the bevel slightly more lateral. For the lower stack height, I would expect a lower weight but that may be due to the extensive outsole and fantastic durability. If weight could be dropped without further narrowing the forefoot or decreasing durability, that would be great (possibly lightening the upper?). For now, this is a great value shoe that provides a great fit, high durability and a rare lower stack height. I do not have further suggestions yet as I think many of the above thoughts will be answered by the full line up of the Roadfly series. So at this time, I think this is a solid option that provides something currently not common on the market (lower stack height trainer with anatomic shape that isn't zero drop).
Andrea: I have enjoyed Inov8's trail shoes in the past (when I was doing more technical trail running) and similarly appreciate the new Roadfly. The toe box fit is roomy without being sloppy and the upper strikes a nice balance between comfort and structure. I think to improve the shoe, Inov8 should work on making it a little lighter to make it a more versatile training shoe. The upper could lose some weight and I would also guess that the outsole could be thinned slightly without sacrificing traction or durability.
WHO IS THIS SHOE FOR?
Matt: The Inov8 Roadfly is for those who want an anatomic fitting, lower stack height but cushioned daily training shoe for running and all day wear. The fit provides a rounded toe box and a foot shaped fit for those who want a little more wiggle room for their toes. The midsole is lower but still has good shock-absorbing cushioning for those who want a little more ground feel without being barefoot. The durability is one of the best parts as the outsole refuses to give in to my wear pattern, which makes this shoe a great value for those who want something they can run and and walk around all day in. This is one of the few low but not zero drop lower stack height trainers with an anatomic toe box on the market. Everything from Topo, who was one of the only non-zero drop anatomic companies to do that, has gone to much higher stack heights now. For this reason, I am excited for the Roadfly series to debut (I have not tested the others so don't know what is coming) as this shoe currently fills a gap that had disappeared for both runners and walkers.
Andrea: The Inov8 Roadfly is a great option for runners who prefer a shoe with lower stack, a flexible forefoot, and anatomical toe box. Most shoes with an anatomical toe box are zero drop (with the exception of the 3mm and 5mm drop options from Topo) and the Roadfly is a rare 6mm option. For those looking to transition to a lower stack, more natural riding shoe, the Roadfly could be a nice stepping stone to even more minimal options. Those who love the fit and ride of Inov8's trail line will find a lot to love in this road version. At $130, it is an incredible value, particularly considering the high durability of the outsole. I am looking forward to seeing what else Inov8 has in store for its road line in the future.
GRADES
Matt
Fit: A- (Anatomic toe box, easy to secure with tightening laces)
Performance: B+ (Lower stack height shoe that feels nimble and works well for easy/uptempo efforts. Great for all day wear and can likely handly longer mileage if your body is used to lower stack shoes)
Stability: B+ [Neutral] (Narrow midfoot, wider forefoot/heel with sole flare)
Value: A- ($130 for a unique and durable shoe is a great deal)
Personal: B+/A- (Great for all day wear and shorter mileage for me at this time due to transitioning back into lower stack height shoes. Midfoot not quite stable enough for me over longer distances)
Overall Design: B+/A-
Andrea
Fit: A- (wide toe box that is not sloppy, soft upper has enough structure from overlays to provide secure lockdown)
Performance: B+ (comfortable lower stack shoe that I found best for easy runs, but can be used for strides or pickups. A little heavy for workouts.)
Stability: B+ [neutral] (a neutral shoe that will require sufficient foot/ankle mobility and strength, including 1st MTP ROM)
Value: A ($130 is an excellent price for a highly durable shoe)
Personal: B+/A- (I have enjoyed using this shoe for easy runs and it has been a nice counterbalance to the max stack shoes I've been testing. I would like it even more if it were a little lighter, which would make it better for workouts and a truly versatile shoe)
Overall Design: B+/A-
SHOP | SUPPORT DORInov8 RoadflyPrice: $130 at Inov8
Shop Men | Shop Women
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FURTHER READING
A moderately cushioned, stable trail runner.
A stable walking and easy run shoe.
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