Verdict from 8 experts and 100+ user reviews
12 reasons to buy
- Numerous training enthusiasts applauded the great comfort offered by the Inov-8 Fastlift 370 BOA.
- The BOA system gained the favor of many users as it provided them with a custom fitting feel; it was also found easy to adjust.
- The wide toe box accommodated many wearers by allowing a natural toe-splay during squats and lifts.
- A handful of testers took note of the flexible forefoot section of the shoe which was a benefit for jumping exercises.
- A lot of testers were amazed at how light the shoe was compared to other weightlifting models.
- The elevated heel of the shoe received praise for allowing a good forward lean of the body during squats.
- Many weightlifting aficionados found the construction of the shoe to be solid and supportive.
- Several reviewers mentioned that they were able to achieve new personal records when they wore the trainer.
- Most purchasers thought that the shoe was a great investment.
- Based on general user feedback, the shoe is true to size.
- The fact that it was easy and fast to put on was appreciated by those who often needed to switch shoes for different types of workout.
- A great number of consumers lauded the stylish look and the color schemes of the shoe.
3 reasons not to buy
- The elevated, rigid heel became a problem for those who tried running or performing lateral movements in the shoe; apparently, it was too stiff and inflexible.
- Several testers experienced problems with the BOA closure system; they found it difficult to adjust to from the start.
- A buyer complained that after only three uses the heel started to chip and the material under the shoe started to peel back at the heel.
Bottom line
The Inov-8 Fastlift 370 BOA definitely impressed the cross-training community. It received a lot of praise for its comfort, sturdiness, support, and lightweight nature. A lot of positive feedback was given to the BOA closure system, which offered a secure and customizable fit. On the downside, its rigid heel decreased the shoe’s versatility as a cross-training shoe. Also, some buyers took a dim view of the BOA system. However, the vast majority of reviewers thought that it was a solid and durable weightlifting shoe and an excellent value for the price.
Tip: see the best weightlifting training shoes.
Good to know
- The Inov-8 Fastlift 370 BOA was designed for those CrossFit WODs which incorporate plenty of weightlifting exercises. It features the innovative BOA system instead of the conventional lace-up closure to offer a more precise fit with no pressure points.
- The upper design of the Fastlift 370 BOA is quite understated compared to its predecessor. The metatarsal strap on the top now features a “RISE TO IT” motto printed on it.
- The midsole still utilizes the POWER-TRUSS technology in the form of 8 TPU pillars for enhanced durability. The heel-to-toe drop is 16.5 mm. Such a stack height accommodates a more upright position during squats. At the same time, heel stability is ensured by the external TPU heel cup, which holds the rear portion of the foot firmly in place. This platform is the same one as found in the popular Fastlift 325 model.
- The shoe retains the signature FASTLIFT outsole. It is a flat rubber sole that’s designed for maximal grip.
The Inov-8 Fastlift 370 BOA is available in both men’s and women’s sizes. It follows the Inov-8’s Standard Fit width, which offers a wider toe box for a natural toe splay. The width profiles are D - Medium for men and B - Medium for women.
The outsole unit of the Fastlift 370 BOA features the FASTLIFT, which is a flat, rubber sole with a 0-mm lug depth. It is designed to provide an optimal grip on various indoor surfaces.
The STICKY RUBBER is employed to enhance grip on wood, rubber and concrete platforms. It features a checker plate design as well as the suction cups and in the heel area to prevent slipping.
The forefoot section of the outsole makes use of the META-FLEX technology in the form of shallow grooves to offer more flexibility for the wearer.
The midsole utilizes the POWER-TRUSS technology, which comprises of 8 strategically-placed, hollow TPU pillars. TPU is a strong, high-density plastic material. It makes up a sturdy heel structure, which is able to deliver a stable maximum load bearing of over 1200 lbs (544 kg). It is how much weight the shoe can receive before starting to buckle.
The heel-to-toe offset of the Inov-8 Fastlift 370 BOA is 16.5 mm. Such an elevated heel helps athletes to maintain balance and a more upright position during heavy squats.
There is also a removable 3 mm foam footbed, which offers light underfoot comfort during the workout.
The most notable feature of the upper unit is the BOA closure system, which comprises of a low-friction cable locked-up by two regulation knobs. The knob on the tongue is used to tighten the ankle while the one on the side is attached to the metatarsal strap and tightens the midfoot. The regulation is done by twisting each knob. Such a system helps to equalize tension across the instep and to deliver a customized fit. It is also much faster to tighten and loosen than the regular lacing system. This technology is also used in the Adidas Leistung 16 II lifter.
The materials used for the upper are a combination of mesh and synthetic. It delivers a light, flexible and breathable support to the foot. At the same time, a fabric lining offers a soft and breathable in-shoe feel.
The Inov-8 Fastlift 370 BOA employs the EHC (external heel cage) made of a strong but lightweight TPU material to provide better stability for the heel. It is also connected to the POWER TRUSS wedge for maximized sturdiness.
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