In the not too distant past, footwear was easy to buy. There were running shoes, mainly for the road, and a few with tougher outersoles for trails. And there were hiking boots. There were a handful of major players and then another handful of minor companies. You made your choice based on cost, quality or both—pretty much the same as today. That’s about the only thing that has not changed.
Today, however, the playing field has changed. The old favorites are still here. Companies that once did running shoes are now doing lightweight trail shoes. Companies that once did boots are now doing lightweight trail shoes and in some cases, road running shoes. Then add in new companies, many from Europe, that have entered the footwear market. If you’re in the market for trail shoes, the market is very competitive.
What’s happened? The popularity of adventure racing in all its shapes for formats, the increased numbers of trail runners, and the increase in hikers tired of wearing heavy hiking boots has exploded the market—and everyone wants a piece of the action.
Inov-8 is an example of one such shoe company. Headquartered in England, the company makes lightweight trail running shoes that also work well for hikers. The shoes have a lower heel, 
are very breathable and drain well, and have an aggressive outersole. Their shoes have received great reviews from athletes around the world and have been featured in many magazines doing footwear reviews. In all fairness, I have two pair of Inov-8 shoes that the company sent me to review. I had just ordered a pair of trail shoes from another well-known company—and used them on trails. While they were good shoes, the heel plastic counter rubbed on my foot and I knew if I used the shoes in a long run, I’d develop blisters. Then I got the Inov-8 Flyroc 310 and Terroc 330 shoes. What a difference. Light, airy, fantastic traction, and without a doubt, the most comfortable trails shoes I’ve ever worn.
The changes in footwear are a positive move for today’s athletes. Companies are stretching their boundaries as they try to make shoes with better features than their competitors. Shoes and boots are made better with more features. Consumers have more choices than ever before. While the trail runners/lightweight hikers shoe segment of the market has seen the most growth, road shoes and boots have also benefited. In the long run, we all gain. My feet are happy. I hope yours are too.
