Reviewers say:

Good: Inov-08 are a proper hard North of England company. This shoe is the peak of trail ultra comfort. Great spread for the wide foot. Good sizing with the +0.5 addition for trail/ long distance being compatible. Fantastic grip and mud loss, minimizing retention. Number relates to weight in grams: feel amazingly light yet solid. Good ankle support with flexibility. Minimal blistering. Last a good 12-18mths of hard use. Latest models have much improved lacing systems, and most of the half-arsed GTX (Goretex) attempts have been ditched.

Bad: Toe/ foot joint material cracking complaints have been made on some sites. Returns are good though.

Price from: £80/$122

Links:

Inov-8 website

Runner’s World reviews

Differences to 2012 model:

• Revised Weight – 30g lighter

• minor changes to zippered pocket positioning

• Front bottle holders revised – it now fits more bottles

• Sizing now includes an XL option

Reviewers say:

Good: XL makes it even more like a cropped waistcoat than a pack, the high ride and front strapping (twin link) system make it feel part of your body so you forget it’s there even when fully-loaded. The front strapping system (which replaces chest and waist straps and buckles) expand as you breath, without losing pack positioning – now seems more solid. Underarm routing of liquid makes access easier and insulation cover now improves cold condition running. Internal zipper compartments extended, with the same clever flexing for wet/ dry kit. Handles compulsory gear on runs like UTMB – comes with fitted emergency blanket and whistle. Multiple compression points to maintain fit. Things like the spare velcro gel pocket for switching at aid stations are genius in a small way.

Bad: Because it’s more like an item of clothing, you need to factor its ‘warming impact’ as an extra layer. Extension of the size has avoided some of the lower-back chafing problems suffered by taller runners. Although you can work out what most things do/ are for, features like pole carrier are still poorly explained. As with all packs, a certain degree of double-jointedness required to access bottom rear pockets on the run. Slightly small 1.5l bladder, but extended front access bottle holders help compensate. Hydration piping lightly too short. High-end pricing.

Price from: £134.99/$200

Links:

Salomon website

Ian Corless – Talk Ultra