20 years in the making, the new BARE-XF brings together everything we have learned over the past two decades, culminating in the ultimate barefoot training shoe.
Striking the perfect balance between freedom and protection, it allows you to lift, live, jump and train like never before in minimalist, wider-fitting natural comfort.
In this blog post we take you behind the design of the BARE-XF in a Q&A with Graham Jordison - our Head of Product Design, Footwear - who has worked for INOV8 since day one back in 2003!
1. Which part of the shoe did you design first and why?
I always work from the ground up no matter what type of shoe I’m designing. The sole unit provides the end user’s interaction with the terrain and is therefore vital for the best experience, whether that’s through grip or the balance of a proprioceptive underfoot feel.
2. The BARE-XF has been a hugely popular shoe in our range for many years. What makes this one different?
The fit is key here. We’ve done a lot of development work on our lasts (the foot form around which the shoe is constructed) to make the shoes more foot-shaped, which enhances comfort and stability. We’ve kept with the one-piece upper but this time we’ve used an engineered mesh that focuses on providing comfort, breathability and durability in the key areas. We’ve also utilized a 3D printed upper to reduce the weight but keep the right amount of supportive structure.
3. Is it easier or harder to design a shoe that is more stripped-back and minimal than most others?
I imagine most people would think it’s easier to design a shoe that is more simplistic by nature, but as a designer, the challenge is to focus on the detail of the functionality of the shoe. Adding too much design flare and perceptive value through ‘designer itch’ can lead to an over-engineered solution.
4. Tell us more about what sits under the feet in this shoe and the benefits the design in this area brings when working out.
The sole of the BARE-XF is formed purely of an outsole which is only 2.5mm thick and 1.5mm thick in the grooved areas, of which there are many to increase flexibility and reduce weight. On top of this sits a thin EVA Strobel and our BOOMERANG footbed. These give foot-forming comfort.
Having such a thin sole unit means the foot is doing a lot more work to support and stabilize the body’s dynamic movements. This in turn strengthens the foot and improves overall body balance and alignment.
5. What does the XF stand for in the shoe’s name?
The XF stands for a word we’re not allowed to use! The word is used by cross fitters and training athletes and features in the name of the sport’s biggest annual competition. Yes, you can probably guess it. The ‘BARE’ part of the shoe’s name is a nod to its barefoot build.
6. Where did you take design inspiration for this shoe?
The original Bare-XF inspiration came from the anatomy of the foot, which is clear to see from the outsole.
For the updated version, I was inspired by indigenous art of the Americas when researching the Tarahumara tribe that are well known for long-distance barefoot running. Combining natural anatomy with Aztec and abstract contouring helped form the functional language of the sole design.
7. How involved were you in the testing of the new shoe?
I always test the product. Having a sample size foot is a huge benefit for a shoe designer! Understanding the end user experience allows for a better development process, when you can directly assess the performance of the materials and construction.
8. What feature of the design are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of the sole design. The old one was – and still is – a good design in my humble opinion, so to move it on and improve functional elements such as grip and flexibility was a nice challenge.
9. Finally, you’ve worked for INOV8 from the very start, how would you describe the magnitude of the changes made for the 2024 collection?
I’m really excited about the changes we’re making for the 2024 collection. It’s not just the product, but the brand which is seeing a lot of positive changes. I particularly love the new brand logo which represents our ‘Ambition in Motion’ and the ‘Talon’ motif speaks to our grip heritage.
As a shoe designer working with the branding day in day out, I see a new opportunity to improve the overall aesthetic. The asymmetry of the old logo could often pose a challenge for placement between left and right shoes which I’d imagine most people wouldn’t consider.