The Minimal Shoe Review: Inov-8 Road-X 155
As described by Inov-8, the Road-X 155 is a lightweight, natural running shoe that offers the utmost in proprioception for the minimalist or elite runner. Unlike other Inov-8 models, the Road-X 155 doesn’t incorporate Dynamic Fascia Band but rather relies solely on foot strength from the runner. The Road-X 155 offers a 5mm heel-to-toe height difference that allows the runner to run in a smooth natural running style.
That’s the description, here’s my review:
In October 2011, I was in Swansea at the Divided We Fall CrossFit Games and was just about to come up against a double under (DU) skipping challenge however my Vibram FiveFingers® were slowing me down as the rope kept getting caught in between my toes. Wanting to smash the challenge I needed new footwear, so I wandered off to the GearAsRx stall and checked out their Inov-8 range. After trying on several of the Inov-8 range I settled on the Road-X 155 and contributed around 250 DU’s to my team’s 5 minute, maximum DU challenge. First Inov-8 #win.
After slipping out the insole, they feel great on foot. Coming from running barefoot and using Vibram FiveFingers® a lot, I always expect a lot of feedback from my feet about what I’m standing or running on. The Road-X 155 delivered on that for me. I’ve been running in them several times since October and I am happy with their lightweight feel & overall performance on road, grass and off-road.
Looks-wise I love them. As a man that rotates between black/grey & dark blue clothing (so I don’t ruin clothes in the gym obvs. Otherwise I am a man of impeccable style) I like to wear outrageous colors on my feet. Hey, it’s how I express myself. The yellow upper and white foam sole gives the impression that they won’t last very long but they are actually quite hardy. Despite wearing them for almost every CrossFit workout barring Olympic Lifting sessions they have minimal wear and tear, except from rope climbs (which to be honest will tax the toughness of most shoes).
Criticisms I have of them are, no pun intended…minimal. When performing the squat or Olympic lifts the Fusion Sole that consists of Light Rubber and EVA Foam compresses, thus creating a little instability. I have often kicked them off to squat & deadlift or I’ve reverted to my Oly lifting shoes. Oh, and they get a bit mucky…if that bothers you…Despite this they are a good investment if you are making the switch to a minimal running shoe. If you are looking for an all-round CrossFit shoe I can’t help but think there is a pair of shoes out there that will be better suited. A pair of these will set you back around £75.
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