Try Before You Fly: Discover Your Perfect Inov8 Run at BASALTsix
- Jonnie Black
- May 29
- 4 min read
At BASALTsix, we’re excited to be the only official stockist of Inov8 running shoes in Northern Ireland. Known for their innovative design, grip, and performance, Inov8 shoes are trusted by runners around the world and now they’re available right here in your local running and lifestyle boutique.
But we know that choosing the right running shoe can be very overwhelming. With so many models, brands, and opinions out there, it’s easy to get lost in the noise. That’s why we’ve launched our 'Try before you Fly' Inov8 demo scheme, a new way to help you find the perfect fit with total confidence.
Our demo scheme lets you take out a pair of Inov8 shoes and truly put them to the test on your regular routes, over different terrains, and in real conditions. You don’t just try them on in-store, you run in them, live in them, and decide if they’re right for you. No pressure, no rush, just honest miles in high-performance footwear. It’s all part of our commitment to helping you navigate the complex world of running shoes with support and expert guidance, not sales pressure.
Already, local runners have been loving the experience.
Members from the Springwell Trail Running Club:
"Very comfortable and supportive shoes. The TrailFly have great grip for trail running, but also feel comfortable running on the road too. A nice all-round running shoe."
A local athlete training for the Norn Iron Ultra 100:
"Game changer! 10 miles in the bag with no pain at all in my foot. Thanks a million, they are super comfortable."
So whether you’re new to running or a seasoned racer, we believe everyone deserves shoes that truly suit their stride. With Inov8’s cutting-edge technology and our hands-on support, you can find the perfect pair on your terms. Drop in, chat with our team, and try a pair for yourself. Your next favourite run could start here.
Navigating the Running Shoe Maze
Runners today face a whirlwind of information and opinions when it comes to their footwear. Shopping for running shoes often means being bombarded with terms that shoppers are expected to not only understand but also spend a lot of money on.
From heel striking to forefoot landing, from barefoot trends to high-tech soles, everyone seems to have a theory on how your feet should hit the pavement. With so many viewpoints and running styles, it’s no surprise that many runners end up more puzzled than informed.
Shoe brands can contribute to the confusion by labelling their footwear with different terms and phrases, leaving consumers to try and figure out which category they fall into. Sorting through all of this can be overwhelming, so let’s break down the basic anatomy of running shoes to make things a bit clearer.
Neutral vs Stability vs Barefoot: What's the Difference?
Footwear companies design their shoes around the biomechanics of different foot types. Stability shoes are built for runners who overpronate, often associated with flatter arches. Pronation is the natural inward roll of the foot as it lands and helps spread out impact forces. However, sometimes this motion is exaggerated, which can cause the foot to roll inward too much, leading to improper push-off mechanics, especially through the big toe.
To counteract overpronation, stability shoes incorporate firmer, denser materials along the inner edge. This helps limit excessive inward motion and supports the arch, preventing it from collapsing too much during motion.
In contrast, neutral shoes are intended for runners with a more balanced gait and often a medium to high arch. These shoes tend to be stiffer and, as a result, they don't always absorb impact well. In this case, neutral shoes help manage a condition known as over-supination, where the foot fails to roll inward and instead stays tilted outward. These shoes typically offer added cushioning on the outer side to help the foot absorb shock.
Barefoot shoes are designed to give the feeling of running barefoot by providing minimal support and cushioning. These minimal shoes are suitable for experienced runners who have developed strong foot and leg muscles.
Both pronation and supination are natural aspects of movement. The goal of neutral and stability shoes is to enhance this process by providing the right amount of support and cushioning, helping maintain a healthy stride whether you’re walking or running. Whereas the goal of barefoot shoes is to allow your body to run and move in the way that is most natural to it. However, if you are at the beginning of your running journey, barefoot shoes may not be the right choice for you just yet.
Comfort Comes First
Understanding your foot mechanics can definitely help reduce injury risk, but there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Even if your foot tends to overpronate or strike in a neutral pattern, the “right” shoe is ultimately the one that feels best to you.
When trying on running shoes, comfort should be your top priority. The shoe should feel natural from the first step, regardless of your pronation pattern. After all, a well-fitting shoe is the first step toward enjoying your run and staying injury-free.
Comments