Inov-8 Trailfly Max Performance Review

The Inov-8 Trailfly Max represents Inov-8’s first real attempt at taking their grippy trail shoes to the max cushion level and upping underfoot comfort with a supercritical EVA midsole. Let’s find out if Inov-8 was successful with its latest trail running shoe.

What is the Inov-8 Trailfly Max?

The Inov-8 Trailfly Max feels like the brand’s first go at a ‘max’ category shoe, parting from prior models that felt stripped down and more minimalist. The Trailfly Max is built up and serves as the long-distance trail shoe in Inov-8’s lineup.

Cushion/Midsole/Support

The Inov-8 Trailfly Max features a Flyspeed Pro midsole, a new foam combination from Inov-8, that’s a supercritical EVA blend. This midsole is a softer and bouncier ride than previous Inov-8 models, and more like what we typically expect from brands putting out a max cushioned shoe. Although there is plenty of foam beneath the shoe, I felt like the midsole still maintained a light and grounded ride. I wasn’t blown away by the midsole, but it’s soft and cushioned at a level I haven’t seen in Inov-8 yet. 

Accompanying the midsole is Inov-8’s eTPU Boomerang insole. As I have mentioned in previous reviews, few brands do this (Norda being one of them), but these beaded insoles really enhance the running experience and are a nice compliment to a midsole. The insole provides a bit more energy return, which mimics a bounce that a lot of runners now seek in their shoes. 

Despite a high-ish stack, I find this to be a stable and neutral shoe with good support. Although it’s more cushioned than previous Inov-8 models, it still maintains the brand’s ground-control DNA.

Traction

The outsole is Inov-8’s Graphene Grip, with 4-5mm arrow-shaped lugs. Graphene is an extremely durable and strong material that enhances the rubber. Inov-8 stays true to their brand on the Trailfly Max as this outsole is super grippy and durable (you can find our previous Inov-8 reviews here and the traction is always a high point). My only note is that it may be slightly chunky for a max cushioned shoe. The burlier the outsole, the clunkier the ride tends to be.

Upper

Compared to other Inov-8 models, the upper on the Trailfly Max feels more pliable and softer. It’s a lightweight engineered mesh with several overlays that provide structure to the toe box and midfoot.

Despite the lighter upper, it’s durable and protective. The overlays in the toe box provide nice protection while the mesh offers some flexibility for your foot. The tongue is padded and soft, with an additionally soft and cushioned heel closure. Everything feels soft, which is not a word I’d typically use to describe an Inov-8 shoe. I think the focus here is on maximum comfort, and the upper does a good translating that.

My only gripe with this upper is the low volume in-step. For most Inov-8 models, I often struggle to feel like my heel is stepped fully into the shoe. I’m not sure if it’s my footshape, but I would imagine anyone with a high arch like me could experience the same thing. Although my foot ends up being locked in, it feels like my ankle is exposed, and can be a bit off-putting mentally.

Is the Inov-8 Trailfly Max wide foot friendly?

I think so. The Inov-8 Trailfly Max is anatomical and shaped much like an Altra or Topo, but not quite as wide as those. I found there to be enough space, particularly in the toe box.

Is the Inov-8 Trailfly Max worth $170?

$170 is right in line with the market for a shoe with this technology and use case.

How to use the Inov-8 Trailfly Max

I would use the Trailfly Max for long days (or any day you’re seeking comfort). It’s a fairly bombproof outsole for a max cushioned shoe, so you’ll be able to take it anywhere you want.

Inov-8 Trailfly Max Summary

The Inov-8 Trailfly Max is a max cushioned trail crusher. With a new midsole, anatomical fit and durable outsole, it’s a reliably comfortable shoe that would work well with someone who likes how Inov-8 fits and wants that technically proficient trail shoe.

How does the Author Run?

Sam Lohse (age 28, 6’0″, 170 lbs): Runs daily, sometimes morning/night doubles, with one rest day a week (typically). Hangs right around 40-50 miles a week in general unless in race-specific training. Races distances from 50K to 100 miles, almost always on the trails.

Disclosure

While Inov-8 did provide pairs of the Trailfly Max to facilitate this review, the company had no involvement in this review, didn’t receive an advance look at it, and has not attempted to influence it.