Inov-8 X-Talon G 210 vs. X-Talon G 235 | Fell Shoe Reviews
X-Talon G 235 vs X-Talon G 210
Inov-8 has recently launched two new up dates to it’s X-Talon range. These are the Inov-8 X-Talon G235 and the Inov-8 X-Talon G210. The X-Talon range of shoes comes with 8mm long studs designed to grip wet and muddy terrain. These two new shoes have the same tried and tested sticky rubber but, this rubber has been mixed with Graphene. The Graphene makes the soft sticky rubber more durable without any loss of adhesion. It also makes the outsole more flexible and less likely to tear. So, you have less chance of ripping a stud off while descending down a rocky hillside at speed.
Both shoes are made on Inov-8’s precision fit last which is a narrow fitting last. This is so that the shoe fits snuggly around the foot. Even when descending or contouring the shoe hugs the foot to reduce any movement (if you have broad feet then look for Inov-8 shoes made on the Standard last eg X-Talon 200, X-Talon 260 Ultra, X-Talon 255).
The upper of the X-Talon G210 is a soft light mesh that absorbs no water. This makes this shoe ideal for Run Swim Events or Cross Country as well as Fell Racing. The upper of the X-Talon G235 is a bit tougher. Designed to stand up to the longer harsher fell races. As with the X-Talon 210 the materials still absorb no water.
The main difference between the two shoes is the midsole. The X-Talon G235 has a 6mm heel to forefoot drop and a slightly thicker midsole (13mm/7mm). The G235 also has a Metashank. This is a three finger thin polymer that is hidden in the midsole of the shoe. This gives some underfoot protection from rocks and sharp stones. Gives the shoes some spring and a bit of rigidity. The X-Talon 210 is 3mm from heel to forefoot (9mm/6mm). This makes it a shoe designed more for the midfoot strikers. There is no metashank. So, you have more feel for the ground in these shoes and they are more flexible. This is what makes them a better option for swimming in (during Swim Run Events) or running on muddy cross country courses.
Both shoes are compatible with the Inov-8 Debri-Gaiter. This gaiter prevents debri from getting into the shoes and also bridges the gap between the shoes and your tights in winter. This keeps your ankles and feet warmer.
To summarise if you are a midfoot striker looking for a light flexible shoe with plenty of underfoot feel then try the X-Talon G210. If you are more of a heel striker but, still like a light flexible shoe then the X-Talon G235 is worth a try.
Charlie @ Northern Runner Newcastle
Here are a few other shoes that have similar attributes to the Inov-8 X-Talons that you may wish to consider:
VJ Sports has been quietly making shoes in Finland for the Orienteering and Mountain Running market since 1981. They have only been widely available in the UK for a few years. So, are new to the fell running scene. Their outsoles are made from Builth rubber. This is a natural rubber that is a real rival to Inov-8’s Graphene sticky outsoles. The fit and feel of the two brands is different. VJ shoes aren’t as flexible as the Inov-8 X-Talon. They have a more solid feel.
https://www.northernrunner.com/vj-sport-m108
Scott Supertrac RC is also worth a look. The rubber on these is grippy and durable too. The Supertrac RC isn’t a purists fell shoe. It is a little stiffer with a bit more midsole. This makes it a bit more versatile as it is comfortable and smooth on harder surfaces too. This is a good thing as a lot of the tracks in our National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty get resurfaced to reduce erosion. The fit is a little broader than the VJ’s and the Inov-8 X-Talon but, they are still not really wide shoes.
https://www.northernrunner.com/search/scott-supertrac-rc
Walsh made the original fell shoes and they have stood the test of time. The PB Trainer is pretty much the same as the shoe that was being sold in the 1970’s. The upper moulds to your foot and once they have got wet a few times and takes the shape of your foot. This makes Walshs very comfortable shoes.
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