Inov-8 X-Talon G 210 V2 | Tested and reviewed

The updated Inov-8 X-Talon G 210 V2 trail running shoe is designed to be a combination of flex, toughness, and low weight for fast running over soft and technical terrain. Expert tester and long-distance runner Natasha Breen put the X-Talon to the test across muddy riverside paths and boggy wind-swept fells.

Slipping on the Inov-8 X-Talon was a ‘will they, won't they’ moment, due to my wide feet sometimes making fitting into trail running shoes an issue for me. I was surprised not only at the comfort, but also at the give to the X-Talon. It felt like slipping on a my favourite slippers - a positive beginning, before having run a single yard.

Features and design

Loud but functional, the florescent yellow colour of the X-Talon draws the eye and adds to visibility while out on the trails. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about misplacing these bright kicks.

While tackling thick mud and climbs, I was amazed at the lightness of the shoe, its weight at 210g feeling virtually unnoticeable. For this reason, the X-Talon is perfect for both cross-tri athletes and fell runners, especially as winter trail running shoes.

The lightness, combined with comfort and all the visual styling of a high-end shoe merge to make me feel light and fast on my feet, which isn’t always easy when slugging across boggy British fields!

The 8mm graphene lugs offer a high amount of traction. The hardy outsole feels stronger, tougher, and more elastic than other trail shoes I’ve run in. Though this depth of lug can pick up a fair amount of countryside as you run, transitioning over different terrain quickly shakes it off.

It’s Inov-8’s innovative graphene-enhanced outsole rubber that we’ve got to thank for the impressive grip and durability. The soles feel tough, have good traction, and manage to maintain some give over varied terrain. The good traction also applies to wet rock. I was stable on my feet as I descended steep rocky paths and crossed streams.

Powering through streams was interesting as though the shoe instantly filled. But the permeable nature of the hardy Cordura mesh upper meant that this was quickly expelled. Unlike other trail shoes when wet, the Talon-X’s squelch factor after water immersion was noticeably less - a big tick for breathability and comfort.

Performance

My main concern with the relatively small stack of 9mm/6mm is the amount of padding, which is minimal to keep the shoe light and nimble. The 3mm drop also doesn’t provide a huge amount of stability to the arches and ankle. As such, the X-Talon suits those who enjoy a close to the ground feel. This geometry connects the runner to the earth, its camber and undulations, for a more immersive run experience. Fans of Vivobarefoot shoes might find this Inov-8 shoe is of interest.

I found the X-Talon performed exceptionally across hills and fells, with good flexibility felt through the shoe. However, it should be noted that the slight padding does translate to very little shock absorption when traversing the inevitable short stretches of road, which can feel a little uncomfortable. For me, the X-Talon performed best over shorter runs or races, especially at pace.

Verdict

Don’t mistake the day-glow colour or feather lightness as weaknesses, the Inov-8 X-Talon G 210 V2 is in fact very well made and tough - like a ballet shoe with steel toe caps.

Having given the shoe sound thrashing across all terrains and in all weathers, everything is as it should be. The uppers and sole enduring the elements, terrain, miles and my unwieldy wide feet.

The mesh upper seems strong and durable and a simple but effective lacing system kept the shoe in place during some very challenging runs. The precision fit of the shoe meant a more comfortable run as less debris and detritus made its way inside the shoe.

Overall, I found the Talon-X to be a well-constructed, light shoe that’s best for tackling more extreme, muddy, and slippery terrain. It’ll meet the needs of most trail runners, especially those that like to explore off-piste across the fells. Yet, the 3mm drop may feel limiting for those who need more support and on harder surfaces.

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