REASONS TO BUY
Lower weight
Great gym and turf traction
Immediate ground feedback
REASONS TO AVOID
So-so durability
Below-average hiking performance
Inov8 Bare XF V2 Review
This gym-oriented model is excellent for barefoot enthusiasts wanting a shoe for working out, on-pavement runs, and casual hikes
Credit: Zach Lovell
By Zach Lovell ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ July 3, 2026
RELATED: The Best Barefoot Shoes for Men
Our Verdict
If you want an around-town barefoot shoe for workouts or running, the Inov8 Bare XF V2 is a great option. These bare-bones shoes offer a flat platform that our team loved for squats and deadlifts, and their lightweight design was great for plyometrics. The XF V2's outsole was excellent for lateral movement on indoor floors, though its lugless design was not ideal for loose hiking trails. The mesh-centric upper kept our feet cool even on the hottest days, though that breathability came at the cost of durability. We were also big fans of this option for walks and runs on paved paths around town, making the XF V2 an ideal training companion across a variety of indoor and outdoor settings.
Our Analysis and Test Results
These offer great sensitivity and stability for shoppers keeping their barefoot shoes in the gym, pavement, or moderate trails. Credit: Zach Lovell
Likes
We were impressed by the Inov8 Bare XF V2's modest weight, at 14.9 ounces in a men's 9. We especially loved that low weight for runs and agility work in the gym.
These felt like we hardly had anything on our feet. Credit: Zach Lovell
The Inov8 Bare XF V2 also boasts great ground feedback for shoppers who want to feel as much detail as possible through their feet. The wider toe box allowed our toes to splay comfortably, which was essential for stability during weightlifting and for running on uneven ground.
Although the Inov8 Bare XF V2 didn't excel in loose dirt or mud, we really appreciated its outsole on smooth pavement, hard-packed trails, and gym floors. It provided a reliable grip during runs and kettlebell lateral drills, whereas some lug-focused competition showed slippage.
These shoes have a great outsole for smooth surfaces, but if hitting steep, loose trails, there's likely a better option. Credit: Zach Lovell
Dislikes
These lean on a mesh design for better ventilation, which is especially ideal for gym use. However, it comes at the cost of reduced durability, especially on rougher hikes. The Inov8 Bare XF V2 can still last a long time if you keep it away from abrasive rock, but it is a bit more fragile than we'd like.
The Inov8 Bare XF V2 isn't our top choice for hiking on loose dirt, mud, or unstable gravel. The outsoles lack lugs, so they don't bite into the ground as easily as more hiking-centric models (a classic trade-off for slick-surface traction). These shoes aren't the most protective, and they require more caution on rugged hiking terrain because of their modest toe cap.
On firmer ground, the XF traction was great, but on looser trails, this was not ideal Credit: Zach Lovell
Should You Buy the Inov8 Bare XF V2?
We tested the Inov8 Bare XF V2 over several weeks for daily errands, hikes, and gym workouts, and it proved to be the most suitable as casual trainers for walks and runs on smooth trails or pavement. This model is fairly affordable, though it isn't the longest-lasting pair in the lineup. These are well worth your consideration if you'd like a barefoot trainer that's comfy to wear around town and can handle light-duty hiking. The XF V2 has great grip on most gym floors, and the mesh uppers help reduce foot sweat in hot weather. These are not recommended for extensive hiking, but they're great for outdoor runs as long as you stay on paved pathways.
What Other Barefoot Shoes Should You Consider?
For an all-terrain pair, consider the Merrell Vapor Glove 7, which is better suited to outdoor activities than the XF V2. If durability is a priority, the Merrell Trail Glove 8 is a below-ankle shoe built to withstand sharp rocks, tree branches, and rougher trails.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare Inov8 Bare XF V2 versus top competing products:
| Awards | |
|---|---|
| Price | $120 List Check Amazon (on sale!) |
Overall Score  |
|
| Star Rating | |
| Bottom Line | This gym-oriented model is excellent for barefoot enthusiasts wanting a shoe for working out, on-pavement runs, and casual hikes |
| Pros | Lower weight, great gym and turf traction, immediate ground feedback |
| Cons | So-so durability, below-average hiking performance |
| Rating Categories | Inov8 Bare XF V2 |
| Ground Feedback (30%) | |
| Stability (20%) | |
| Traction (20%) | |
| Weight (15%) | |
| Durability (15%) | |
| Specifications | Inov8 Bare XF V2 |
| Measured Weight (per pair) | 14.9 oz (size 9) |
| Stack Height | 8.5mm |
| Heel to Toe drop | 0 mm |
| Outsole | INOV8 Rubber |
| Midsole | None |
| Insole | BOOMERANG Footbed |
| Upper Material | Air mesh and KPU |
—Zach Lovell
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