The Inov8 Trailfly Max Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Inov8 Trailfly Max is a distance-ready cushioned trail running shoe designed to provide shock absorption and comfort during long runs. Ideal for runners seeking a roomy fit due to its foot-shaped toebox, this model features a notable Graphene Grip outsole for enhanced traction on various terrains.

Lab tests reveal that the Inov8 Trailfly Max excels in cushioning, but it may not be suitable for those who prefer firmer support underfoot. With a focus on durability and comfort, this shoe is structured to deliver a stable performance over extended distances.


Pros

  • Well-cushioned for long distances and ultras
  • Accommodating foot-shaped fit (+wide option)
  • Excellent traction on wet rocks and mixed terrain
  • Very flexible for a high-stacked shoe
  • Thick and responsive Boomerang insole
  • Great lockdown through the midfoot
  • Durable graphene-infused outsole

Cons

  • Lacks lateral stability
  • Sloppy heel hold
  • Upper could be more durable for the price

Key Features

  • GRAPHENE-GRIP Rubber Outsole: Features 4mm studs positioned in multiple directions to enhance grip, improve traction, and assist in braking effectively.
  • FLYSPEED Pro Midsole: Comprises nitrogen-infused foam designed for an optimal balance between cushioning, ground-feel, and stability over uneven landscapes.
  • Air-Mesh Upper: The breathable single-piece air-mesh ensures comfort while thick MET-CRADLE strips secure your midfoot, enhancing fit and support.
  • BOOMERANG Footbed: Designed for energy efficiency with foam beads that offer 40% energy return, making it ideal for long-distance runs.
  • Choice of Fits: Available in Standard Fit and Wide Fit to accommodate different foot shapes, ensuring a snug yet comfortable experience.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Rubber
  • Closure type: Lace-Up

Inov8 Trailfly Max Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Inov8 Trailfly Max Topo Ultraventure 4 Saucony Xodus Ultra 4 Hoka Mafate Speed 4
Price $170 $150 $170 $185
Trail terrain Light Light Light Moderate
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.2 oz / 289g 10.1 oz / 286g 11 oz / 312g 10.3 oz / 293g
Drop lab Drop brand 7.6 mm 6.6 mm 6.5 mm 7.2 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size - True to size - True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Soft Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Small Normal Normal
Toebox durability Decent Bad Decent Good
Heel padding durability Decent Decent Bad Good
Outsole durability Good Good Decent Good
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Medium Wide Medium Medium
Toebox width Wide Wide Medium Narrow
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Moderate Moderate Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Flexible Stiff Flexible
Lug depth 3.4 mm 3.2 mm 3.5 mm 3.9 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 37.1 mm 35.1 mm 37.6 mm 38.0 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 29.5 mm 28.5 mm 31.1 mm 30.8 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Bottom 1% Bottom 41% Bottom 45% Top 36%
Popularity Bottom 5% Top 41% Bottom 42% Top 23%