Pioneering sports brand inov-8 is launching a hiking boot ‘dirty double’ to stamp its footprint further into the outdoors market.
Largely renowned as an off-road running brand, inov-8 has made giant strides in hiking in recent years with their increasingly popular Graphene-enhanced boots.
Now inov-8 is making its biggest hiking statement yet with the launch of not one, but two, new waterproof boots on the same day (Thursday March 9th).
The ROCLITE G 345 GTX V2 is targeted at those who like a lightweight, agile boot, while the ROCLITE PRO G 400 GTX V2 offers a tougher, more protective feel.
Both are significant upgrades to the V1 models by the same name. New upper and midsole technologies in the V2s deliver greater comfort, a better fit, more protection and support, increased energy return, and longer-lasting durability.
The outsoles of both boots remain unchanged, featuring the exclusive use of Graphene, the world’s strongest material. This is infused into the rubber to make super-tough gripping treads that have proven to exceed 1,000 miles of use. Both also feature waterproof GORE-TEX technology, covering the uppers of the boots and keeping feet dry.
Speaking in the year inov-8 celebrates its 20th birthday, Wayne Edy, who founded the English Lake District based brand, said: “The original versions of both won ‘hiking boot of the year awards,’ but we never rest on our laurels. Instead, the team carefully listened to all the feedback and worked meticulously to make upgrades to both the uppers and midsoles.
“The improvements made to the feel, comfort and performance of the boots will help hikers tackle trails and mountains with even more confidence. I’m particularly proud that we’ve again found ways to further improve durability and make our footwear last even longer.”
The V1 models of both boots were worn by hikers to achieve incredible long-distance feats. They included the UK’s James Forrest, who set a then-record time for a self-supported, continuous 328-mile hike of all 214 Wainwright’s peaks in the Lake District. His partner, Nic Hardy, recently wore the new ROCLITE G 345 GTX V2 to hike the 84-mile Norfolk Coast Path.
Nic said: “I like the V1 boots, but I love the upgraded V2 version. They are comfy straight out of the box and feel light on your feet. I wore them for three consecutive days on my Norfolk Coast Path adventure and they hit the spot perfectly.”
Get more details on the boots – available in multiple colourways – at www.inov-8.com