Inov-8 roadfly 1

Learn more about the Inov-8 roadfly 1 male running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Inov-8 roadfly 1

Price

220

Rating

High

Popularity

Less Popular

The Inov-8 Roadfly 1 is a lightweight road running shoe designed for speed, sitting as a streamlined, minimal option compared to other Inov-8 models that focus more on trail and mixed terrain capabilities.

3 colorways

Colorway: Black/White

Widths available: normal, wide

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Summary

The Inov-8 Roadfly 1 is a lightweight and versatile running shoe designed for road runners looking for a responsive ride with minimalistic features. It fits into Inov-8's lineup as a road-specific shoe, contrasting with the brand's more rugged trail-focused and cross-training offerings. The Roadfly 1 features a stripped-down design that focuses on speed and efficiency on paved surfaces, making it an ideal choice for runners seeking a versatile option for road training and racing. Its minimalist design is intended to promote natural movement and enhance the runner's connection to the ground, which is a staple philosophy in Inov-8's running shoe approach, focusing on biomechanics and natural running form. The Roadfly 1 sets itself apart from other models in the lineup like the X-Talon or Trailroc, which are more heavily geared towards traction and protection in off-road conditions.

Surface

road

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(24mm)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(ADAPTERFIT upper)

Weight

265g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

6mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal, wide

Grip

LowMediumHighMax

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Inov-8 roadfly 1 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 10 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The Inov-8 RoadFly is a highly versatile and lightweight running shoe that excels in comfort, stability, and performance across various terrains and paces, making it suitable for both casual and serious runners. While it offers excellent grip and a natural feel, some reviewers note potential issues with cushioning for longer runs and inconsistent sizing..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Firm

The main points to note are that many users appreciate the shoe's comfortable cushioning system, while a significant number find it too firm and lacking in softness for longer runs.

insole (2)

minimalism (2)

firmness (2)

support (2)

density (1)

ground_feel (1)

responsiveness (1)

cushioning (1)

Pros

"The EVA midsole provides a dense yet comfortable cushioning system, offering support without feeling too firm."

cushioning

support

"The midsole includes a boomerang insole that adds comfort and responsiveness, enhancing the overall cushioning system."

insole

comfort

responsiveness

"The shoe contains an ultra-cushy insole that enhances overall comfort during runs."

cushiony

comfort

softness

"The cushioning is designed to avoid excessive softness while promoting a connected feel with the ground, enhancing the running experience."

cushioning

natural feel

"The shoes offer a firm yet responsive ride, providing a good balance of cushioning and responsiveness."

firm ride

responsiveness

neutral cushioning

"The Powerflow Pro midsole contributes to the cushioned feel of the shoe, enhancing comfort during runs."

Powerflow Pro

midsole

EVA

"The Roadfly provides a cushioned midsole that offers a natural feel."

cushioning

natural feel

midsole

"The shoe offers substantial energy return designed for long miles."

energy return

TPU beads

long distance

"The cushioning system in the Inov8 Roadfly absorbs shock well despite the low stack height, enhancing comfort."

Powerflow Pro

shock absorption

comfort

"Despite its minimal cushioning, the Roadfly still provides adequate support for various runs."

responsive

support

cushioning

Cons

"The shoe feels dense, which may limit comfort for some runners."

comfort

cushioning

"The EVA midsole lacks the resilience of newer foam technologies."

midsole

foam

"The shoe may not provide sufficient cushioning for runners who prefer a softer feel."

cushioning

responsiveness

"Midsole firmness can be noticed during slower runs, which might not be ideal for every runner."

midsole

feel

"The shoe has a firm ride, which may not appeal to those who prefer more cushioning."

cushioning

ride

softness

"The shoe's performance may not satisfy runners seeking maximum cushioning and support during longer runs."

cushioning

performance

"A more substantial cushioning option may be required for longer distances or for heavier runners."

long miles

support

cushion

"The shoe lacks the extra cushioning and stack height found in other models, making it a more basic road shoe."

cushioning

stack height

minimalism

"The shoe lacks adequate cushioning for higher mileage, making it less suitable for long runs."

cushioning

long runs

"The lower stack height may not provide the comfort some runners expect over longer distances."

stack height

comfort

long runs

"The energy return from the midsole is lower than expected, impacting the overall performance of the shoe."

energy return

midsole

cushion

"The shoe may feel too minimal for some runners looking for more cushioning."

cushioning

minimalist

bounce

"The cushioning is minimal, which may not suit everyone."

cushion

comfort

"Some users might find the lower profile less comfortable on long runs."

cushion

comfort

comfort
Breathability: More breathable

The main points to note are that comfort is frequently highlighted due to the shoe's breathable and cushioned design, while some users may find the forefoot too firm and have issues with toe mobility.

padding (2)

breathability (1)

upper material (1)

upper_material (1)

design (1)

toebox (1)

fit (1)

adaptability (1)

Pros

"The upper material allows for good breathability enhancing comfort during runs."

ventilation

comfort

fit

"The shoe's upper is a one-piece engineered air mesh that provides both ventilation and support."

ventilation

support

"The shoe features a soft and supple upper that enhances overall comfort during wear, even for casual activities."

comfort

casual use

"The padding around the heel and tongue supports a comfortable fit without adding unnecessary bulk."

comfort

heel support

"The cushioned tongue and padded heel counter contribute to an overall comfortable fit."

cushioned tongue

padded heel

comfort

"The upper design is comfortable with strategic cushioning, enhancing the overall fit and experience."

breathable

cushioned

"The Roadfly has an anatomical toebox that provides ample comfort and room for toe splay."

anatomic

toe splay

comfort

"The Roadfly features a comfortable and spacious fit with flexibility."

comfort

toe box

flexibility

"It offers good comfort across different paces, from tempo to longer runs."

comfort

pacing

long runs

tempo runs

Cons

"The forefoot may feel too firm for some runners."

forefoot

firmness

subjectivity

"Those with toe mobility issues may struggle in this shoe."

toe mobility issues

flexibility

durability

The pros of the shoe's durability, such as impressive minimal wear and high durability for long-term use, appear frequently, while the cons highlight concerns about the toebox durability and outsole performance compared to other models.

wear-resistance (2)

protection (1)

longevity (1)

outsole (1)

outsole_durability (1)

materials (1)

toebox (1)

grip (1)

Pros

"The outsole's durability is impressive, showing minimal wear after testing."

durability

outsole

longevity

"The shoe's durability is impressive with minimal wear even after significant distance."

durability

minimal wear

150k

"The shoe features a durable rubber outsole that acts almost like a rock plate, providing protection on gravel trails."

solid rubber

gravel trails

"The outsole shows minimal wear even after 75 miles, indicating good durability for long-term use."

minimal wear

long-lasting

"It features a full-length outsole that ensures consistent ground contact and durability."

full-length

durable

coverage

"The shoe demonstrates high durability, making it suitable for many miles of training without noticeable wear."

high durability

long-lasting

outsole

Cons

"The shoe does not feature advanced materials like graphene, which might be expected for enhanced durability in upper-tier models."

durability

materials

graphene

"The shoe's toebox durability score is low, indicating it may not withstand wear over time."

toebox

durability

"The outsole durability does not hold up as well compared to other road running shoes, leading to quicker wear."

outsole

durability

"The shoe might lack the durable grip needed for challenging conditions."

durability

rubber

performance

performance
Distance suited: Medium (10-20km)
Rocker: Less rocker

The main points to note are that the shoe is frequently praised for being lightweight and versatile, while it is also criticized for lacking advanced features and being relatively heavy.

versatility (3)

lightweight (1)

smoothness (1)

weight (1)

feedback (1)

responsiveness (1)

ground feel (1)

agility (1)

Pros

"The shoe is very light, enhancing performance during runs."

lightweight

agility

nimble

"The Inov-8 RoadFly is suitable for a variety of workouts, making it versatile."

workouts

multifunctional

cross-training

"The Roadfly performs well across a variety of paces and surfaces, making it a versatile choice for various running styles."

speed

variety

surfaces

"The shoe is highly versatile, suitable for various running speeds and types."

versatile

multi-purpose

adaptability

"The shoe transitions smoothly, giving a joyful running experience."

transition

running experience

performance

"Weighing under 9 oz, the Roadfly is lightweight for a daily trainer."

lightweight

daily trainer

"The shoe excels in flexibility and ground feel, allowing for better feedback from the running surface."

flexibility

ground feel

"With a responsive ride due to the Power Flow Pro foam, the Roadfly performs well in various running conditions and speeds."

energy return

versatility

"The Roadfly offers an excellent ground feel, making it suitable for various terrains."

ground feel

versatile

terrains

"It provides a playful and agile ride, which adds to the running experience."

playful

agility

experience

"Testers appreciated the extra bounce in the shoe's performance during training."

bounce

training

performance

"The shoe maintains a connected and natural feel to the road surface."

natural feel

speedwork

training

"The shoe provides a nimble and light ride, aiding in a more responsive running experience."

lightweight

nimble ride

responsive

"The Roadfly is Inov8’s best road shoe, showcasing significant improvement."

best

improvement

road shoe

Cons

"The shoe's performance as a road racing shoe may not be sufficient for those looking for cutting-edge designs and technologies."

performance

racing

cushioning

"The shoe is relatively heavy considering its stack height, which could hinder performance."

weight

performance

stack height

"The midsole is not responsive enough for speed workouts."

lack of responsiveness

speed workouts

"The shoe lacks advanced features like a carbon plate."

performance

technology

fit
True to size: Runs small
Toebox width: Wider
Heel width: Average
Orthotic friendly: No

The most common points mentioned are that the shoe fits true to size and accommodates various foot shapes well, which is a positive aspect, while some users find the fit may not suit everyone and can feel restrictive, indicating that these issues are significant to many.

toe_box (2)

width (2)

true-to-size (1)

natural (1)

lockdown (1)

flexibility (1)

snug_fit (1)

anatomical (1)

Pros

"The shoe fits true to size and accommodates various foot shapes well."

accommodating

fit

comfort

"The shoe features a lower stack height, which allows for a more natural running feel."

stack height

ground feel

natural running

"The anatomical fit and design allow for a comfortable yet secure lockdown, preventing heel lift."

heel fit

security

"The shoe allows for natural foot movement and flexibility, enhancing stride mechanics."

natural movement

flexibility

"The Roadfly has a spacious toe box that fits the natural shape of the foot, ensuring comfort and security during runs."

toe room

comfort

fit

"The shoe offers a wide anatomic toe box, which provides ample space for toe splay and comfort."

wide fit

toe splay

anatomic

"The shoe provides a snug fit that prevents slippage during runs, enhancing performance on steep terrains."

snugness

performance

downhill

"The anatomical shape of the shoe allows for a natural foot spread, enhancing comfort during runs."

anatomical fit

comfortable

natural spread

"The shoe offers a minimalist vibe with a lightweight feel, enhancing the ground connection during runs."

lightweight

ground feel

"The upper of the shoe is noted for its structure and comfort, contributing to the overall fit and lockdown."

comfortable upper

secure fit

roomy

"The Roadfly fits true to size and offers a comfortable fit in both standard and wide options."

true to size

wide fit

forefoot space

Cons

"The wide version of the shoe may not fit well for runners with narrow feet."

fit

wide

"The shoe's fit may not suit everyone despite being described as accommodating, as it may still feel restrictive for some."

fit

accommodation

roominess

"This shoe may feel sloppy for runners who require more lockdown in the fit."

fit

sloppy

"The fit may require adjustments for those used to different brands, which could affect the overall experience."

sizing

fit

"The sizing of the shoe runs small, requiring some runners to order a larger size."

sizing

fit issue

stability
Stability level: Average

The main concerns about the shoe are that its flexibility might reduce stability for some users and that the heel counter may not offer enough support, which were mentioned frequently.

overall (1)

flexibility (1)

heel fit (1)

gravity (1)

heel_transition (1)

support (1)

ankle stability (1)

drop (1)

Pros

"The shoe provides good stability without added stability elements."

stability

support

balanced

"The shoe offers a highly flexible design that adapts well to different terrains, providing comfort and stability."

adaptability

comfort

stability

"The shoe provides a locked-in heel fit for stability during speed."

stability

speed

downhill

"Testers noted improved center of gravity and connection to the surface."

center of gravity

surface connection

stability

"The heel area allows for a smooth transition, helping runners maintain their rhythm."

smooth transition

heel bevel

rhythm

Cons

"The softness of the heel counter may not provide adequate support for all runners."

heel

counter

"Some runners may prefer a more traditional shoe structure that provides better ankle stability."

flexibility

stability

"The drop of the shoe varies significantly from the stated specs, making it less appealing for those seeking a true low-drop experience."

drop

variation

forefoot

"The shoe's flexibility may compromise stability for those who require additional support."

stability

flexibility

"The heel counter stiffness is rated low, which may not provide adequate support for some runners."

heel counter

stability

"The heel transition can initially feel clunky due to the large lateral flare."

clunky

heel transition

"Runners may need sufficient foot and ankle mobility to run comfortably in the shoe."

foot strength

mobility requirements

grip

The pros of the shoe's grip, such as excellent traction on various surfaces and performance in wet conditions, are highlighted frequently, while the cons mention potential limitations on uneven terrains and grip compared to lighter alternatives.

traction (2)

wet conditions (1)

outsole (1)

terrain (1)

Pros

"The outsole provides excellent grip on both dry and wet surfaces, enhancing safety."

grip

traction

safety

"The shoe has excellent grip across various surfaces which is beneficial for uneven terrain."

grip

uneven surfaces

rubber outsole

"The shoe has a reliable and grippy outsole, ensuring good traction on various surfaces."

grippy

traction

surfaces

"The Inov8 Roadfly shows good traction on different surfaces, which is beneficial for varied running conditions."

traction

varied surfaces

light trail

"The shoe performs exceptionally well in rainy conditions, offering excellent grip and drainage."

excellent grip

drainage

"The outsole design is effective for traction on various surfaces while maintaining a light profile."

traction

grip

lightweight

Cons

"Although versatile, the shoe's performance on uneven surfaces may lessen its appeal for specific terrain types."

performance

terrain

"While lightweight, the shoe may not provide the same level of grip as lighter alternatives designed for more competitive scenarios."

weight

grip

traction

"Low 2mm lugs might not provide sufficient grip on more technical terrains."

lugs

traction

outsole

other

The main points to note are that the shoe is often praised for its good value for money and compact design, while it is criticized for being heavier than expected and not suitable for all types of runners.

value (2)

versatility (2)

travel (1)

design (1)

natural_motion (1)

lightweight (1)

visibility (1)

pricing (1)

Pros

"This shoe is excellent for travel because of its compact design."

portability

compact

convenient

"This model offers great value for money, considering its performance qualities."

affordable

cost-effectiveness

performance

"It's reasonably priced, making it an attractive option for runners looking for quality."

affordable

quality

price

"The Roadfly is designed to reconnect runners with the road, enhancing the running experience."

reconnection

experience

design

"The Inov-8 Roadfly encourages natural foot movement, allowing the feet to function effectively within the shoes."

natural movement

strength

posture

stress distribution

"The lightweight nature of the shoe makes it easier to run with and less tiring over long distances."

under 300g

lightweight

easy to run with

"The shoe's reflective points improve visibility during evening or early morning runs, enhancing safety."

reflective

safety

visibility

"The RoadFly's price point makes it an appealing option for budget-conscious runners looking for durability and performance."

budget-friendly

value

"The Inov8 Roadfly doubles as a casual shoe, adding versatility to its use."

casual

versatile

everyday

"The shoe is noted for being suitable for a variety of activities beyond running, such as walking and standing."

walking

standing

multi-use

"The website is currently experiencing a connection issue with Cloudflare."

Cloudflare

server

error

"Visitors are advised to try accessing the website after some time."

retry

access

website

"Website owners are prompted to investigate the server issue further."

owner

investigate

server

"Cloudflare provides automatic monitoring for errors."

Cloudflare

errors

investigation

"Website owners can pull error logs to assist with troubleshooting."

error logs

support

investigation

"The Ray ID can be used for tracking the specific error incident."

Ray ID

error tracking

support

"The Inov8 Roadfly features a low stack height, which supports a more natural running experience."

low stack height

natural running

anatomic design

"The shoe is good value for money compared to other options in the market."

value

affordable

price

Cons

"There is a connection issue between Cloudflare and the origin server."

Cloudflare

server issue

connection problem

"The web page cannot be displayed due to this issue."

web page

display issue

error message

"Visitors are advised to try accessing the site again later."

visitor advice

retry

timing

"Website owners are advised to investigate the issue via error logs."

website owner

error log

support team

"Cloudflare will automatically investigate the cause of the problem."

automatic investigation

error monitoring

Cloudflare

"The road-focused design may not suit all types of runners, especially those who prefer trail shoes."

road

design

audience

"The shoe is heavier than anticipated for a lower stack height model."

heavy

stack height

comparison

"Despite good durability, the outsole's extensive coverage may contribute to the shoe's weight."

outsole durability

weight issues

"Lacking the pedigree of established road-running brands may affect confidence."

brand

confidence

"The muted color palette might not appeal to all runners."

design

style

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Model Updates

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Reviews

Read reviews about the Inov-8 roadfly 1 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

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Wear-tester reviews (10)

4.2/5

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Inov-8 roadfly 1

Inov-8 roadfly 1

Surface

Cushioning

Category

Breathability

Weight

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Support

Width options

Grip

Suitability

Based on your running style and needs

Want to know if the Inov-8 roadfly 1 is right for you?

Pros & Cons

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion

Pros

Cons

comfort

Pros

Cons

durability

Pros

Cons

performance

Pros

Cons

fit

Pros

Cons

stability

Pros

Cons

grip

Pros

Cons

other

Pros

Cons

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Older Models

Newer Models

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4.2/5

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