Inov-8 RoadFly Review: How does Brundlefly eat?

Introduction to the Inov-8 RoadFly

MELISSA: The RoadFly is Inov-8’s latest road shoe, designed for everyday running on both roads and uneven surfaces.

Part of Inov-8’s 2025 lineup, the RoadFly features a new anatomical shape with two width options — standard and wide — for a more customized fit. The breathable mesh upper, paired with a gusseted tongue, ensures comfort and security, while reflective details enhance visibility for winter runs. The PowerFlow Pro midsole and Boomerang footbed deliver a responsive ride and promote natural movement, even on gravel and non-technical trails. Meanwhile, the durable rubber outsole offers excellent grip and protection from rocks, keeping you steady and confident in all conditions — including rainy weather.

So, with all of that out of the way, let’s get into my first Inov-8 road shoe.

What we like about the Inov-8 RoadFly

MELISSA: One of my first impressions of the RoadFly was its minimalist vibe. It’s relatively lightweight, and you can really feel the ground beneath you. Despite the low to medium stack height, I felt well-protected thanks to the solid rubber outsole that almost acts as a rock plate- making it an excellent choice for gravel trails. The upper design is also a highlight- it’s comfortable, cushioned in the right spots, and built to last.

The RoadFly delivers a very natural, connected running experience. As someone who typically goes for the higher stack, well-cushioned shoes, I found this shoe to offer a refreshing, grounding experience. It performed especially well on rainy days, offering excellent grip and good drainage.

Finally, the Roadfly’s price point makes it a great option for runners seeking a budget-friendly shoe that can rack up the miles. After 75 miles of road and gravel running, my pair shows very little outsole wear. Because the outsole and upper are both durable, I could see this shoe lasting at least 400 miles or possibly even more.

What we don’t like about the Inov-8 RoadFly

MELISSA: Like the Inov-8 TrailFly, I thought the RoadFly’s sizing felt a bit off. I typically wear a US W6.5 or a US W7, but I had to bump up to a US W7.5 in Wide to get the right fit.

Additionally, while a lower stack height and better ground feel might appeal to some, I found the lack of adequate cushioning less ideal, especially for higher mileage efforts. That said, the shoe felt comfortable for runs up to 75 minutes.

Final thoughts on the Inov-8 RoadFly

MELISSA: The Inov-8 RoadFly is a solid choice for those seeking a minimalist, wallet-friendly hybrid that handles roads and non-technical trails equally well — with bonus points for wet surfaces. Its lightweight design, durable outsole, and natural feel make it a great pick for shorter runs and outings when you know you’ll venture off the beaten path. I think the RoadFly truly shines in wet conditions, providing outstanding grip and drainage, while its durability promises hundreds of miles of fun.

That said, the RoadFly may not suit those who are running longer or prefer a plusher ride. Also, the sizing can be inconsistent, so you might want to size up or try on your pair before you buy.

You can pick up the Inov-8 RoadFly for $130 from Inov-8 by using the buttons below.