My evaluation of the inov-8 Rocfly G 390 GTX strolling boots, which the model calls “waterproof cushioned rockets”. There are additionally inov-8 Rocfly G 350 GTX sneakers. That is the up to date model of the non-waterproof fashions from 2021. In my evaluation of the non-waterproof inov-8 Rocfly G 390 mountaineering bots, I questioned why the model had not made the footwear waterproof.

Options of inov-8 Rocfly G 390 GTX strolling boots

Claims from inov-8:

MORE ENERGY: G-FLY Graphene midsole foam provides 25% extra power return, for a quick rebound with each step.

ALL-DAY COMFORT: The cushioned foam, wide-fit toe-box and plush internal all ship excellent consolation. Stack heights of 35mm (heel) and 29mm (forefoot) lead to a cushty 6mm drop.

UNIQUE AGILITY: A revolutionary ADAPTER-FLEX groove cuts by means of the outsole rubber and midsole foam, permitting the foot and boot to maneuver extra naturally.

BE PROTECTED: The waterproof GORE-TEX membrane retains ft dry, whereas the sturdy – but nonetheless versatile – ripstop higher materials repels any grime.

GET A GRIP: 4mm rubber lugs enhanced by the world’s strongest materials – Graphene – give long-lasting robust grip over all terrains.

PERFECT FIT: Overlays on the higher join the heel and midfoot. When the laces are tightened, this pulls in an overlay to create a safe, locked-in really feel throughout heel and midfoot.

On check: inov-8 Rocfly G 390 GTX strolling boots

After I examined the non-waterproof model of those boots a few years in the past, I actually preferred the match and luxury. Nonetheless, I might not often put on boots that aren’t waterproof on UK trails and hills, so it’s nice to see an up to date model with Gore-Tex waterproofing.

The match is nice. I’ve a slim foot, which implies the fore-foot feels very roomy however it’s nonetheless superb. For anybody with a medium width foot, they may like this boot.

My ankles don’t slip round within the boot and the heel cup feels safe. The cuff top is mid and it’s reduce down on the Achilles. I can see this won’t swimsuit folks with an inclination to get niggly Achilles tendons however for many walkers, it’s a cushty type of mid-height boot.

It’s simple sufficient to get the boots to lace as much as give a safe match.

Strolling within the boots looks like a comfortable pair of trainers, solely with the added ankle safety for tough floor.

After I first wore inov-8 sneakers greater than a decade in the past, they didn’t design deep foam soles. The sneakers had been all about close-to-the-ground soles. Extra lately, the model has been introducing footwear with thicker foam soles. These are nice in the event you plan to stroll long-distance and like a number of cushioning.

I believe the soles should not removed from being the identical as some Hoka sneakers and boots. (Hoka is well-known for deeper soles and excessive ranges of cushioning.)

Regardless of the thicker sole, it doesn’t really feel just like the boots sap my power. The froth is agency sufficient to be responsive but deep sufficient to supply consolation over many miles. A buddy, Sarah, borrowed the boots for a Munro hike and she or he stated it was like “strolling on air”.

The soles are made for trails and hills, though they aren’t as deep lugged as a few of inov-8’s footwear that’s made for steeper and muddier terrain. I’ve discovered the soles to be ideally suited for native woodland trails and hill paths.

Sarah was very comfortable carrying the boots on the mountain hike and located the Rocfly G 390 GTX strolling boots to be grippy even on moist and rocky scrambley sections. I’ve additionally discovered the boots to be properly grippy on most terrain, each moist and dry.

In the event you plan to stroll the place it’s steeper and muddier or with extra off-path terrain, I counsel you go for the inov-8 Roclite PR G 400 strolling boots.

Though lined with a Gore-Tex membrane, the boots do let in some water when it’s raining. I believe that is as a result of mid-height ankle cuff. The ingress will not be too unhealthy but when you’ll be strolling in heavy rain and the place vegetation is soaked, you may need to add gaiters.

The boots look pretty. It’s at all times a bonus when a strolling boot or shoe appears enticing. It could be good to see a few different color selections for girls.

One other wee annoyance is that the loop in the back of the boot that can assist you pull on the boots will not be simple to make use of. It must be a bit greater and extra “crazy”.

The worth is about what I’d count on.

• I acquired a pair of shoes from inov-8 with out cost in return for an impartial and sincere evaluation.