Verdict from 13 experts and 100+ user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- Many cross-training enthusiasts commended the comfort and breathability of the lightweight mesh upper of the Inov-8 F-Lite 235 v2.
- Expert reviewers have praised the shoe’s support, flexibility, and lightness for its ability to keep up with various functional fitness workouts, from plyometrics to weightlifting.
- Several athletes found that the trainer’s 0-mm drop and stiff heel improved their weightlifting performance.
- A few wide-footed wearers appreciated the shoe’s fit, particularly the wide toe box.
- Its improved rope guard system, the Rope-Tec 360, was a welcomed addition by most CrossFitters as it protected the shoe from damage caused by rope exercises.
- The price tag of $130 was considered slightly expensive by some consumers, but they thought that the product’s performance and quality made up for it.
2 reasons not to buy
- A handful of people complained that the mesh parts of the upper quickly tore apart after only a few months of gym use.
- Some users criticized its shoelaces for being short and getting easily untied.
Bottom line
The Inov-8 F-Lite 235 v2 is a comfortable and breathable CrossFit shoe that was highly regarded by a lot of fitness buffs. They liked that the shoe was flexible and light enough for plyometrics and cardio-focused exercises while still being sturdy enough for Olympic weightlifting. Wide-footed wearers also took delight in its wide toe box.
There were a few gripes about the shoelaces and the durability of the mesh upper, but the overall the shoe was considered excellent value for the price.
Tip: see the best crossfit training shoes.
Good to know
The Inov-8 F-Lite 235 v2 is a minimalist cross-training shoe that is specially designed to keep up with the full range of functional fitness workouts. Some of its design elements were derived from the original Inov-8 F-Lite 235, but the F-Lite 235 v2 managed to create its own aesthetic identity, thanks to the addition of new features, which also serve a purpose.
This training shoe from Inov-8 boasts of a thick rubber toe cap that cushions the toes from burpees. Meanwhile, the Rope-Tec 360 wraps around outsole and extends to the upper to protect the shoe against the damage from rope climbing exercises.
The geometric-patterned bottom is made of sticky rubber that allows for good traction and grip while making it possible for maximum ground contact.
The shoe’s forefoot also has the META FLEX grooves. They accommodate natural flexion that enables increased efficiency and flexibility for plyometrics and cardio-focused activities.
The midsole consists of a heel made from the brand’s Powerheel technology, making it 40% denser than the forefoot. It helps in creating a firm and stable platform for heavy lifting while still offering cushioning and flexibility for agility and speed workouts.
The Inov-8 F-lite 235 v2 employs the brand’s proprietary Dynamic Fascia Band. It is an anatomically designed technology built into the heel to give a spring to every step. It replicates the windlass effect.
The F-Lite 235 v2’s lightweight and breathable mesh upper uses the AdapterFit technology to organically conform to the foot without inhibiting movement.
The midfoot is secured with the Met-cradle, a soft, elastic, and gusseted mesh liner that works with the lacing system to secure the midfoot in place, giving a customized and snug fit.
The heel counter features a Y-lock system that locks down the heel to give the necessary support when lifting heavy weights.
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