First Shoes

Anyone?

I am sold on Inov-8's. They are awesome shoes.

I do like Inov-8's too, but wish they were slightly wider in the toe box. I'm sticking with them for now, although I'm going up by another half size soon. Of course this wouldn't be a problem if my feet didn't keep growing.

u absolutely must try shoes on before buying them … or risk being stuck with ill fitting shoe

even in kangaroo land there must be a place to try shoes …

inov sizing is extremely variable even between their own models …

We that live in Oz understand the lack of lightweight gear here, and are used to purchasing sight unseen, and keeping our fingers crossed for correct sizing and good quality! Of course, the reviews on BPL give invaluable help when it comes to deciding on our purchases.
I was surprised to find a shop here in little old Townsville that stocks Inov8 shoes. Bevan at Beyond Running http://www.beyondrunning.com.au/index.html (ph 07 47791130) has a small range that includes the roclite 295, f-lite 220 and 230, and x-talon 212. All priced at around the $AU 200 mark. More expensive than other mail order, but he says he will post for free first up, and exchange if sizes need correcting. Might mitigate the initial cost. Or if you plan a holiday in North Queensland, you could try them on yourself.
By the way, despite the spruiking, – I am not affiliated with Bevan in any way, apart from being a satisfied customer. Just happy to share the joy of finding something local.

I have been pleased with my Dunlop KT-26's.

Ah – Jason with his Dunlop KT-26's reminded me of my first rock-hopping shoes – Dunlop Volleys – great grip, and a cheap option.

Many a Bushwalker has covered many a mile with these.

Could be worth a try.

Yeah, I use Dunlop Volleys in wet canyons, but I find the soles too soft for use in ordinary walking. 'Too soft' => 'wear out too fast' and 'feel the stones too much'. Mind you, I have worn them sometimes on very rocky stuff.

Now, Dunlop KT-26s! Yes indeed! The epitome of UL footwear, with an excellent grip. The life of the sole is better than for DVs, but not as good as for Salomons or New Balance. However, I do tend to buy them in bulk and wear them anywhere. Well, not in Europe: they are not real great on neve, and poor on extreme mud (think wet cow tracks).

After that, if you want something heavier, try New Balance. They sell ~7 million pairs a year, so they have to be doing something right. They also state the width, which is something most jogger companies do not do. You can search at http://www.nbwebexpress.com on size and width, and they also have numerous different lasts. My current favourites at NB are the MT876OR and the MT740TR shoes – in a 4E width. You will find some NB product reviews here at BPL.

The rest of the brands are narrower, and give me an aching foot.

Cheers

Hi Benen,
I am in SA and have bought Inov8s from wiggle in the UK, spend around $90 and they will ship them for free http://www.wiggle.co.uk/
I wear a size 43 in most shoes and have Inov8 roclites and terrocs in size 44 roclites are a bit slimmer but I can happily wear both. For around $100 they are alot cheaper than most outdoor shoes we have here (Ok they are a bit more than Dunlop's!!) and I find them comfortable straight out of the box.
Send me a PM if you have any questions.

I wear Inov-8 212 X-Talon's. First of all they fit. They have great grip and feel plus they are very light. I walk throug streams and they drain and dry quickly. If Salomon's fit you well and you like the grip then go for what fits. IMHO that is #1 priority. I have tried many different shoes since I gave up on my heavy leather boots.

Wow what a lot of responses! Since my approach shoes wore out I have been using a pair of Dunlop Volley's that I had lying around. I do like them but they are a bit small for me (my own fault obviously) and I find the interior lining a bit rough compared to most shoes. I wore them for a 4 hour bush walk the other day though and they were quite comfortable. I might head into town tomorrow and see what I can find in the outdoors stores.

Thanks for your replies :)

I love the Inov-8 line. Nothing lighter, quick drying, tougher, I really like them. I'm going with the 315's on my thru-hike of the PCT. Haven't tried any of the Goretex models…was thinking of trying a pair for the snowier legs. But the 315's are very light, breathable, and roomy. I just get about a size to size and a half bigger to allow for foot swelling.

Dug
http://thf2.wordpress.com