6 Best Inov-8 Workout Shoes | Picks for CrossFit, Lifting, and More

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Inov-8 is a shoe and apparel brand that makes gear for a wide range of contexts. Most know Inov-8 for their trail running shoes, but the company has also steadily grown in the running shoe and cross-training shoe markets.

As someone who routinely rotates through Inov-8 training shoes for lifting, CrossFit, and athletic-style workouts, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with Inov-8 shoes and I’ve found which models work best in certain contexts.

If you’re considering investing in new Inov-8 shoes, it’s important to find the shoe that matches your training needs best. In this article, I’ll break down some of the nuances that make some Inov-8 shoes better than others.

Best Inov-8 Shoes for CrossFit

When it comes to establishing which Inov-8 shoes are ideal options for CrossFit, I’m considering three key construction and performance components. First, I’m looking at a shoe’s overall durability. Can it hold up to CrossFit workouts?

Second, I assess a shoe’s stability and test how heavily you can load them to ensure they’re good for heavy CrossFit WODs. Third and lastly, I assess a shoe’s versatility and consider its use for things like box jumps and double-unders.

Top Pick: Inov-8 F-260 V2

The Inov-8 F-Lite 260 V2 is taking my top pick as the best Inov-8 shoe for CrossFit. Honestly, the F-Lite 260 V2, F-Lite G 300, and 235 V3 all work well for CrossFit, but I’m giving the edge to the F-Lite 260 V2 for a few key reasons.

First, I really enjoy the PowerFlow midsole construction in the F-Lite 260 V2. The midsole in this model provides a nice level of stability for heavy squats, cleans, and deadlifts, so it’s a safe option for heavy WODs.

Second, the RopeTec and Dynamic-Fascia Band on the outsole both give this shoe a nice boost for rope climbing performance and traction. The RopeTec grips ropes well and the Dynamic-Fascia Band gives this shoe a nice maneuverable fit and feel.

The third and last thing that I enjoy with the Inov-8 F-Lite 260 V2 is just how lightweight this model is. This shoe’s built with a breathable mesh and synthetic upper and despite being lighter in weight, their durability are pretty solid.

• Best For: CrossFit-Style Training
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
• Weight: 10.5 oz
• Removable Insole: Yes
• Sizing: True to Size, but if you have a wider foot, then some may want to size up a half size
• For More Info: Read My Review

Inov-8 F-Lite 260 V2

4.6

Stability

4.6

Versatility

4.7

Durability

4.6

Pros

• This shoe has a good level of versatility for lifting, CrossFit, and lifting. It's a good do-it-all-style training shoe.
• If you enjoy sock-like fitting training shoes then you'll resonate with this shoe. It feels lightweight and mobile on the feet.
• PowerFlow midsole has good responsiveness. This shoe feels great for plyometrics like box jumps, jump rope, and broad jumps.

Cons

• This shoe can feel pretty narrow through the forefoot and midfoot for flatter feet and athletes with EE-width feet or wider.
• With its narrower platform, this shoe can feel interesting for lateral work if you're used to wider midsoles. This isn't bad, per se, just different.

Best For

• CrossFit Workouts
• Recreational Lifting
• Versatile Training
• HIIT and Agility Workouts

Falls Short

• For Wider Footed Athletes
• For Cost-Efficiency

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Best Inov-8 Shoes for Cross-Training

One of the cool things about Inov-8 training shoes is that most of them work really well for cross-training. If you like to lift, jump, sprint, and blend multiple workout modalities into one session, then you’ll want to explore Inov-8 cross-training shoes.

To assess the best Inov-8 shoes for cross-training, I’m most concerned with a shoe’s versatility. Can it hold its own for heavy strength sessions, HIIT workouts, and even short runs?

Top Pick: Inov-8 F-Lite G 300

The Inov-8 F-Lite G 300 is taking my top pick as the best Inov-8 shoe for cross-training. Of all the Inov-8 training shoes, it’s really tough to fault the performance of the F-Lite G 300 and this is also a model that works well for CrossFit.

In the context of cross-training, I really enjoy the Inov-8 F-Lite G 300’s midsole construction. This shoe’s midsole gives a stable yet responsive feeling, so you can squat heavy in them but also use them for jumping and they’ll be relatively comfortable.

The Graphene and Dynamic-Fascia Band construction on the outsole are also perks of this shoe’s overall performance. This model’s outsole tends to grip different surfaces well and it has a nice level of durability and flexibility.

The Inov-8 F-Lite G 300 can also be a good training shoe for those that like bootie-style construction and a bit more arch support. This model has a more athletic fit and they do a good job of locking down the foot for training.

• Best For: Lifting, HIIT, CrossFit-Style Training
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6mm
• Weight: 12.3 oz (for my size 10 model)
• Removable Insole: Yes
• Sizing: True to Size
• For More Info: Read My Review

Inov-8 F-Lite G 300

4.6

Stability

4.6

Versatility

4.6

Durability

4.7

Quality

4.5

Pros

• Midsole is stable yet responsive delivering a well-rounded performance for lifting, HIIT, and CrossFit.
• These can be a good option for those who like a little more width in their forefoot for toe splay.
• Great option for lifters and athletes who like having more arch support in their training shoes.

Cons

• The TPU midfoot cage can press into the top of the feet if you have a high instep or thick feet.
• If you have flat feet, pass on this shoe. The tapered midfoot may feel too snug for your foot anatomy.
• The bootie-style construction isn't for everyone and if you like traditional tongue and lacing systems you'll want to consider this.

Best For

• Versatile Training
• Recreational Lifting
• Shorter Runs
• Plyometrics

Falls Short

• For Cost-Efficiency

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Best Inov-8 Shoes for Lifting

If you’re looking into Inov-8 training shoes strictly for lifting, then you’ll want a shoe that has a nice level of stability and articulation. Essentially, you’ll want a shoe that you can train heavily in that feels seamless on the foot.

You’ll also want to make sure the shoe has adequate traction for different lifting contexts. Whether you’re training on rubber gym floors, wooden platforms, or machines, you’ll want a shoe that limits overall slippage.

Top Pick: Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V3

The Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V3 is taking my top pick as the best Inov-8 shoe for lifting. Note, the F-Lite 260 V2, F-Lite G 300, and Bare-XF 210 V3 are all great options for lifting as well, but I do like the 235 V3 the best for lifting for a few reasons. They also work well for cross-training.

First, I think if you like more “athletic-fitting” shoes that have more maneuverability for lifting, then you’ll enjoy the F-Lite 235 V3’s performance. This model has a more “minimalist” and athletic feel while still delivering a strong training shoe performance.

On top of its flexibility, I also enjoy the PowerFlow midsole and Dynamic-Fascia Band on this shoe’s outsole. Compared to the other training shoes listed in this round-up, I feel like the Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V3 accentuates these features the most.

For additional lifting context, the Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V3 is a great shoe for someone who likes to blend barbell, dumbbell, kettlebell, and even more functional movements like yoke carries and farmer’s carries into one workout.

• Best For: CrossFit-Style Training, Versatile Workouts, Lifting
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
• Weight: 10.3 oz (for my size 10 model)
• Removable Insole: Yes
• Sizing: True to Size
• For More Info: Read My Review

Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V3

4.5

Stability

4.3

Versatility

4.6

Durability

4.4

Quality

4.4

Pros

• If you want training shoes that have a more "minimalist" feel then you'll enjoy the pliability of this shoe's sole construction.
• These shoes feel sock-like on the feet which can be great for giving you an athletic fit for versatile training and lifting.
• This model's midsole and outsole perform well for lifting, CrossFit, and cross-training workouts. They're a good do-it-all shoe.

Cons

• If you like more structure with your training shoe's upper then you'll likely want to pass on this model.
• This model isn't the best for wide feet and for lifters with high insteps. In this context, the sock-like fit can feel aggressive.
• These won't be the best Inov-8 training shoes for hybrid workouts. Look into the F-Lite G 300 or F-Fly for those asks.

Best For

• Agility Workouts
• Plyometric Training
• Athletic Training
• Recreational Lifting

Falls Short

• For Cost-Efficiency

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Best Inov-8 Shoes for Hybrid Training

If you’re looking for a good Inov-8 shoe for hybrid training or workouts that blend running and cross-training, and lifting together, then you’ll want to consider your hybrid needs before investing in one of the shoes below.

For example, when considering hybrid training shoes, it’s important to recognize if your training bias will be more oriented toward lifting or running. By keeping this in mind, you can make the best shoe choice for your hybrid needs.

Top Pick: Inov-8 F-Lite Fly G 295

The Inov-8 F-Lite Fly G 295 is the best Inov-8 shoe for hybrid workouts and training. This is a running shoe that has a nice level of stability and responsiveness for short runs, sprints, and light lifts.

If I’m doing track workouts where I’m blending a few miles or pick-up runs with kettlebell and bodyweight exercises, then I’ll often reach for the Inov-8 F-Lite Fly G 295 as this shoe delivers a strong performance for track workout-style contexts.

This shoe features a responsive EVA foam midsole that’s blended with G-Fly tech which sits under the midsole. These two features give this shoe a nice “pop” and athletic feeling when sprinting and jumping.

I could see the Inov-8 F-Lite G 295 being a good hybrid training shoe for someone who blends a fair amount of miles into their training every week. If you’re wanting a shoe for Hyrox, then I’d explore the F-Lite 235 V3 or F-Lite G 300 as they’ll give you a better grip for sled pushes.

• Best For: Sprints, Short-Mid Range Runs, Light Training
• Mileage Comfort Threshold: 0-6 miles
• Lifting Stability Threshold: <225 lbs
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
• Weight: 11.45 oz (for my size 10 model)
• Removable Insole: Yes
• Sizing: True to size
• For More Info: Read My Review

Inov-8 F-Lite Fly G 295

$170

4.7

Versatility

4.8

Durability

4.7

Quality

4.7

Pros

• Graphene construction boosts this shoe's durability
• Midsole feels responsive for sprints and plyometrics
• Great shoes for track-style workouts

Cons

• Outsole tread can fade on concrete over time
• These don't have the widest toe box
• Arch can be a turnoff for flat feet

Best For

• Sprints and Fast-Paced Runs (<1 mile)
• Short Mid-Range Runs (1-5 miles)
• Circuit-Style/Hybird Training Sessions
• Long Walks and Standing

Falls Short

• For Runners That Want More Cushion
• For Lateral Training On Turf and Grass
• For Cost-Efficiency

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Best Inov-8 Shoes for Weightlifting and Squats

Inov-8 creates a few different weightlifting shoes that many reach for to help with their Olympic lifts and squats. Unlike other weightlifting shoes, Inov-8 weightlifting shoes typically run lighter in weight which some athletes love.

For a good weightlifting shoe, you’ll want a model that has good durability so your investment goes the distance. You’ll also want a shoe with good stability, midfoot security, and adequate traction.

Top Pick: Inov-8 Fastlift Power G 380

The Inov-8 Fastlift Power G 380 is taking my top pick as the best Inov-8 shoe for weightlifting and squats. This model has quickly become one of my favorite weightlifting shoes and that’s for three key reasons.

First, the Fastlift Power G 380 has a nice level of toe box articulation. If you like shoes that have more flexibility, then I think you’ll enjoy this feature, especially if you find shoes like the Reebok Legacy Lifter 2 and Nike Romaleos 4 to run a little stiff through the toe box.

Second, I like the level of midfoot security that you get from the Fastlift Power G 380. This shoe’s midfoot strap and lacing system do a good job of locking down the feet for squats and Olympic lifts.

Third and lastly, since the Fastlift Power G 380 runs lighter in weight and has a nice level of maneuverability, it’s a good weightlifting shoe to use for a little bit of everything. They work well for squats, Olympic lifts, machine work, and accessories like quad-biased split squats.

• Best For: CrossFit, Squats, and Weightlifting
• Effective Heel Height: 22mm/.86″
• Weight: 13.50 oz (for my size 10 model)
• Removable Insole: Yes
• Sizing: True to size (neutral width)
• For More Info: Read My Review

Inov-8 Fastlift Power G 380

$210

4.6

Stability

4.8

Versatility

4.4

Durability

4.6

Pros

• Great for lifters that love forefoot flexibility
• Good stability through the heel
• Outsole has good traction

Cons

• May feel too flexible in the forefoot for some
• Higher price point

Best For

• Squats and Leg Workouts
• Weightlifting (Clean & Jerk/Snatch)
• Functional Fitness Workouts
• Narrow and Neutral Width Feet

Specs

Heel-to-Toe Drop	22mm
Weight	13.50 oz
Width	Medium
Lifting Threshold	385 lb

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Best Barefoot Inov-8 Shoes for Working Out

If you’re looking into barefoot shoes and typically enjoy how Inov-8 shoes fit, then you may want to explore Inov-8 barefoot shoes as they’ll likely work for your foot anatomy and needs.

A good barefoot shoe for working out needs a secure upper, an outsole with good traction, and a nice level of articulation to increase ground feedback when training.

Top Pick: Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3

The Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3 is taking my top pick as the best barefoot Inov-8 shoe that you can work out in. At the time of writing this article, the Inov-8 Bare XF 210 V3 is the only barefoot shoe that Inov-8 offers.

For working out and lifting, I really enjoy the performance of the Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3. This shoe has a super minimalist stack height so you get a lot of ground feedback when doing leg workouts and deadlifts in this shoe.

I also really enjoy the upper construction on the Bare-XF 210 V3. The upper on this model has a nice level of security and it breathes well so this is a good model for rocking with and without socks which adds to its versatility.

My only real knock against the Inov-8 Bare XF 210 V3 is that it’s not the widest barefoot shoe. If you’re looking for a barefoot shoe for training with maximal toe box width, then I’d suggest checking out my best barefoot shoes for lifting round-up.

• Best For: CrossFit, Lifting, and Daily Wear
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
• Weight: 6.95 oz
• Removable Insole: Yes
• Sizing: True to Size
• For More Info: Read My Review

Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3

4.8

Stability

4.9

Versatility

4.7

Durability

4.8

Pros

• The sole is super minimalist in this shoe which gives you a ton of ground feel when running, walking, and lifting.
• The upper construction is durable and it does a good job in CrossFit settings where abrasion can be more prevalent.
• These run a little narrower through the toe box which make them a great pick for lifters and athletes with narrower feet.

Cons

• Since this shoe has such a minimal stack height, it may not be the best pick for beginners.
• The tread can fade on concrete if you're running a ton in these but that's the tradeoff with their super minimalist feel.
• If you have wide feet, you may want to look into options like the Bare-XF from Inov-8 and skip on the V3.

Best For

• Functional Fitness
• Heavy Resistance Training
• Daily Wear
• Shorter and Mid-Range Runs

Falls Short

• For Delivering Maximal Toe Box Width
• For Lateral Training

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If you have additional questions on any of the Inov-8 shoes featured in this round-up or have additional questions about best use cases for certain Inov-8 shoes, drop a comment below.

Takeaway Thoughts

Inov-8 makes a wide range of performance-focused training shoes. When it comes to working out, I enjoy the consistency that you can expect from Inov-8’s durability and construction in their shoes.

All of the Inov-8 shoes featured above have subtle nuances that exist between them. These nuances make certain Inov-8 shoes better for some training contexts over others.

If you’re looking into new Inov-8 shoes, then I’d suggest writing out how you plan to train in the shoes, then cross-referencing your needs with the shoe’s performance.

If have additional questions about Inov-8 shoes for working out, drop a comment below or reach out to me personally via Instagram (@jake_boly or @that_fit_friend).