Running brand inov-8 has unveiled its latest and best trail running shoe, which is designed with new Graphene-enhanced foam.
The cushioned foam, called 'G-Fly’, features as part of inov-8’s Trailfly Ultra G 300 Max shoe.
The product is aimed at ultra runners.
Scientific tests show that the foam infused with graphene, the world’s strongest material, delivers 25 per cent greater energy return. It is also claimed to be far more resistant to compressive wear.
The theory is that the shoes will help runners to maintain a faster speed over greater distances, aid their feet in feeling fresher for longer and prolong the life of the footwear.
A cushioned trail shoe is new for inov-8 and the Trailfly Ultra G 300 Max has what is known as 'Adapter-Flex' technology "to adapt and react to uneven terrain".
Michael Price, COO of British-born inov-8, said: “G-Fly cushioned foam not only gives runners incredible, long-lasting energy return but an underfoot feel free of rigidity and full of agility."
inov-8 first used graphene in 2018 when launching 'Graphene-Grip' rubber on the outsoles of its running, hiking and fitness shoes.
What is graphene?
Graphene is 200 times stronger than steel, as well as being the world’s thinnest material. It is also very flexible.
Its 2004 discovery as an almost invisible single layer of graphite atoms, earned scientists at the University of Manchester the Nobel Prize in physics.
Since then, a team of 300 staff at the university has pioneered a diverse range of projects and contributed to graphene-enhanced sports cars, medical devices, aerospace developments, improving infrastructure and sports footwear.
Dr Aravind Vijayaraghavan, Reader in Nanomaterials at The University of Manchester, home to both the National Graphene Institute and Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre, said: “As well as on the trail, we also tested extensively in the laboratory, including subjecting the foam to aggressive ageing tests that mimic extensive use. Despite being significantly aged, the G-Fly foam still delivered more energy return than some unaged foams."
The Trailfly Ultra G 300 Max, which weighs 300g and has a 6mm drop (heel to toe differential), is available to pre-order ahead of going on sale on April 8. The shoes are priced at £170.
