I've done a lot of running in racing flats, but had yet to try out any of the zero drop shoes that were out on the market. The Bare X Lite 150 is the lightest shoe in the Inov-8 lineup, weighing in at 6.1 ounces in a size 9.
The shoe features a heel height of 7mm and forefoot height of... wait for it... 7mm, after all that's why it's called a zero drop shoe. In case you don't know what zero drop means, it's that the heel and forefoot are the same height. Most running shoes the heel height is substantially higher than the forefoot, which creates a drop.
The purpose behind the zero drop foot is to promote forefoot striking. One thing that I love about the 150 and the 155 is that the shoe is incredible flexible, with one hand you can easily grasp the shoe and fold it in half. The shoe also has a wide toe box, which I also enjoy.
Looking at the shoe and the first thing you notice is how white they are, they are really white. The upper is almost entirely mesh, breathable to say the least. The lacing system uses a quick lace system, what triathletes use to speed up their transition times. I'm not a huge fan of the quick lace system and would rather have standard shoe laces, but it's not a big deal.
I consider myself an efficient runner, but the first few runs in the 150's and I had mixed feelings. It's hard to describe, but they feel different. I stuck with them and have logged several runs since then and have come to really enjoy the fit and feel of the shoe.
The Bare X Lite 150 will make a great racing flat or a great trainer for someone who is looking for a minimalist shoe. Once again, I'm a big fan of Inov-8, easily my favorite shoe company today.
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