inov-8 have expanded their range of graphene-soled trail shoes with the new Mudclaw G 260 – claimed to be the ‘ultimate shoe for running through mud’.
In 2018, running shoe brand inov-8 announced several new shoes featuring graphene – the strongest known material. Inov-8 claim that the rubber used is ‘scientifically proven to be 50% stronger, 50% more elastic and 50% harder wearing’.
The range has now been expanded to include a model in the Mudclaw series. Mudclaw shoes have highly aggressive soles designed to be used on muddy surfaces.
inov-8 Product & Marketing Director Michael Price said: “The rubber studs look more like claws or fangs. Through extensive testing we have found that these new shaped studs give the best possible traction when running or obstacle racing over muddy terrain and, unlike racing spikes, also provide underfoot comfort on harder ground.
“Since 2003 we have carved out a worldwide reputation for designing off-road running shoes with the best grip. Now, by pooling all our expertise and learnings from those last 16 years, we have taken it to a new level, delivering footwear with the world’s toughest grip.”
Amongst the athletes to have rigorously tested the Mudclaw G 260 is international Great Britain mountain runner Ben Mounsey. The 37-year-old has been wearing a prototype pair of the shoes for several months and has clocked up more than 1,100 miles in them. During that time inov-8 have also worked to further improve other elements of the shoe, including the durability of the upper materials.
Mounsey, an inov-8 ambassador, said: “I’ve been blown away by these shoes. I’ve never got such good mileage out of a pair of running shoes. The grip when running over soft and muddy ground is the best I’ve ever known.”
The shoes, designed for trail and fell runners, orienteers, and cross-country athletes – all of whom regularly run or compete in muddy conditions – are on sale for £140 from selected retailers.
