Customer Reviews inov-8 Roclite™ G 286 GTX®

I last used a pair of the Roclite 325 GTX for light hiking and got three years out of them. I decided to go for the 286 this time around largely due to the Cordura uppers. First putting on the 286 felt really cool. These are like soccer cleats for trails with a snug fit and very agile. I sized up a half size from what I wear in Van's sneakers and the fit is great for trails, snug in the heel and a bit of room at the toe. Now that I've put some miles on them they are a bit different than expected. The midsole is flexible and thin. If your weight isn't on the cleats there's little cushion or protection. I ended up bruising my left foot at the midsole, probably because I planted my foot on a rock and expected the force to dissipate. For what it's worth my right foot went without injury. The midsole definitely has more support on the 325. That said, I don't have any issues with these shoes when trail running. Weight is more on the ball and heel when running and these shoes feel great. I've been getting more into trail running and I'm satisfied with these shoes for that purpose, but I thought others could benefit from my experience because I couldn't quite tell how supportive the soles would be from the pictures. I plan to try out some inserts, but most likely I will use the 286 for trail running and get a more supportive boot for when I'm carrying a pack.

I have not gotten into any wet weather with these shoes, but they are comfy, warm but not hot, and oh so lightweight! The build seems solid and the way the back dips you can slip them on pretty easily. Overall I am really impressed!

My unfavorable review was removed. I’ve owned over a dozen pair of Inov8 boots and shoes. I tried several sizes with no luck. I like a stiff boot, but these are stiff in all the wrong ways. Waste of money and time.

I have been using this boot for winter running for several years. The shape and size has changed slightly over the years. In my experience, this boot tends to run a bit small but it suits my needs perfectly.

I've had several pairs of inov-8 boots. Last pair I wore 5 days a week for work and the lasted 2+ years. No complaints with my new pair. They have a couple up grades from the last model. Material appears to be high quality. My only gripe is the breathability, but that's the trade off for a waterproof boot. I'm excited to get some miles on the trail with them

Extremely light for a mid top hiking boot. Excellent grip on all terrain and fit is roomy in the toe area. I would get an aftermarket insole like the Superfeet green or the Sole thick.

Feels great!! Super light and feels as if you're not wearing shoes. Although, if you pronate, tend to roll your ankles or need arch support, avoid this shoe.

I absolutely loved this model boot from about 6 years ago. Hands-down, my favorite lightweight hiking boot I have ever owned. This new redesign is nowhere near the last pair I owned. The exterior material is much cheaper. They redesigned the cut of the boot, and the front of my foot is now sliding all over the place. What used to be a very comfortably snug boot now feels a little unstable.

The left shoe leaked badly the first time I wore them on a wet trail. Wish they hadn't, because I liked them otherwise.