Inov-8 Roclite Pro G 400 GTX Women’s £200
Billed as Inov-8’s ‘toughest ever hiking boot’, the Roclite Pro G 400 is a burly upgrade to the best-selling Roclite G 345. It feels stronger and sturdier than its predecessor, with a stiffer heel counter for enhanced stability, a tougher toe cap for added protection, and an EVA midsole plate for extra side-toside stiffness. The result is a boot that can cope with rocky, rough terrain.
But don’t get the wrong impression – this is far from a heavy, hefty number. As is Inov8’s modus operandi, the Roclite Pro G 400 is exceptionally lightweight (370g) and extremely comfortable. It offers trainerlike comfort, with soft, flexible ankle support, and is clearly designed for fast and light adventures.
A Gore-Tex membrane provides waterproofing and the upper – a Schoeller ceramiccoated fabric in a honeycomb pattern – is lightweight yet reasonably tough. But this boot’s pièce de résistance is the graphene-infused rubber outsole with 6mm deep studs for excellent traction.
IF WE’RE BEING FUSSY Despite Inov-8’s claims of superb durability, the upper is so lightweight it’s undoubtedly vulnerable to rips and tears, and there is so much flex in the forefoot (near the back end of the toe box, at the base of the lacing system) that creasing and cracking could be an issue.
■ MEN’S SIZES 6-14
■ WOMEN’S SIZES 3-8.5 ■ WEIGHT 370g per boot (women’s size 6.5)
Verdict
Ultra-light, with excellent grip – but not as durable or sturdy as some might like.