n walking the dogs in the forest if the conditions are precarious, there is more then enough cushioning for those extra long runs. These shoes would be great for Obstacle Course Racing or a Tough Mudder competition as well. The X-Talon Ultra 260 are a 4 on Inov-8's width scale but they feel wider, my Trailtalon 290's are a also 4 width but the X-Talon Ultra 260's are definitely wider (more like a 5) if you have a wide foot or an average size foot but prefer lots of room in the toe box to allow for swelling or splaying of the toes during a long race you will love these, the laces are great and really allow you to lock the shoe down, if you have a narrow foot or prefer a more precision fit look elsewhere in the Inov-8 lineup, perhaps an X-Talon or Mudclaw that are a 1 or 2 on the width scale. I order a 10.5 in all of my Inov-8 shoes, I probably could have gotten away with a 10 in the 260's but the laces allow me to lock them down for a secure fit so it's not an issue, I love the blue/black colour combination. While they are not waterproof, the material they use on this shoe does repel water so your feet stay dry for a longer period of time, there are gaiter attachments as well, I use the Inov-8 gaiters occasionally and they work really well. I highly recommend the Inov-8 brand, they have fantastic range of shoes and certainly a model to suit just about any activity. Read LessRead less about You can't get much better then the

e the 8mm lugs offering unparalleled traction for steep ascent/descents. These shoes grab! The confidence I have in never worrying about slipping offers me the ability to increase my speed on steep descents freeing up my focus for route selection. The sticky rubber sole is a true lifesaver on slippery rocks. Since my first review I have wore out 5 pairs and am on my 6th - enough said! Would I recommend them to friends? Without hesitation, and to anyone else who would listen :-)

These are definitely a niche shoe and what I use them for in moving fast and confidently though the mountains, may not be for everyone. But if you are that individual you would be remiss in not giving them a try - I think you would be pleasantly impressed. Read LessRead less about So here I am back again with a

rience, I recommend them. Read LessRead less about This things grip like nobody’s

as needed while securely locking my foot into the heel cup and preventing any forward movement during long steep descents. The highlight feature of the X-Talon 260 Ultra's is the extremely aggressive sole providing unparalleled traction on both ascents and descents, increasing my confidence that my feet will remain planted where they land. As with most trail shoes these days, Inov8 uses the sticky rubber compound which you definitely realize when scampering over wet rocks without slipping and I couldn't be happier. Another feature of these shoes that might go un-noticed is Inov8's claim to use a water resistant upper, which not to be confused with Goretex, is surprisingly functional. It has been raining solidly for the last few days and again out in a soaker today had me kick off the shoes when I returned having only slightly damp socks - most impressed. This leads to the question as to why I've given the review 4/5. Although the thick midsole provides for a very comfortable ride, in my opinion it could definitely use a rock plate which it noticeably lacks (my Inov8 Trailroc 285's had it and was most effective), because when you step on a stone, 'you will certainly feel it'. If a fire road or a stone strewn section of trail is part of your route, it may make for a longer more tiring day on your feet. I purchased these shoes for the fall/winter season and so far I couldn't be happier. In terms of sizing, I have a true size10 foot and my Trailroc 285's required me to go up a 1/2 size and could have likely gone up a full size. The X-Talon 260 Ultra's fit perfectly in a size 10, so I would say they fit true to form. Would I buy them again? Yes. Would I recommend them to a friend? Definitely, but with the above caveats, which I don't think are too troublesome......I hope this helps. Read LessRead less about I've had the X-Talon 260 Ultra's for 2

ted with a water repellent which, while not waterproof, does keep the water out for a little while. Cushioning leans to the "light and dynamic” side rather than “plush and maximalist." Read LessRead less about This is a specialty shoe. The lugs are