From MUDROC to MUDCLAW and X-TALON, our running shoes have ruled the mud for two decades. Now – using all that expertise amassed over an incredible 20-year journey – we’ve designed the ultimate fast-feel shoe for muddy running, the MUDTALON SPEED.
With exciting new enhancements in grip, cushioning, protection, durability, shape and fit, this new breed of beast is ready to meet the next generation needs of runners who like to play dirty on fells, hills, mountains and trails.
The MUDTALON SPEED is also the first shoe to launch from our new 2024 rebranded footwear collection, featuring the biggest and most exciting design enhancements in our history.
In this blog post we take you behind the design of the MUDTALON SPEED in a Q&A with our Senior Footwear Designer Luke McConnie.
WHY IT WAS A ‘BLAST’ DESIGNING THE MUDTALON SPEED
1. THERE IS SO MUCH NEWNESS IN THIS SHOE, HOW EXCITING WAS IT TO DESIGN?
Working on this project was a blast! We were granted more creative freedom, enabling us to explore new ideas and redefine performance within the soft and muddy terrain category. Significantly, the MUDTALON SPEED also marks a pivotal moment in the brand's history as the first entry in a series of new product to showcase a refreshed design direction, along with the introduction of a new logo.
2. WAS IT ALSO SLIGHTLY DAUNTING, GIVEN OUR REPUTATION AS LEADERS IN DESIGNING SHOES FOR MUDDY RUNNING OVER FELLS, TRAILS AND MOUNTAINS?
It’s fair to say there was a sense of trepidation, as updating beloved product demands careful consideration. Understanding the appreciated attributes of a shoe was just as crucial as identifying which elements could be improved. At the same time, we didn’t want to feel inhibited of change, since we constantly strive to challenge ourselves to innovate and deliver better performing product.
3. HOW MUCH DNA DID YOU TAKE FROM THE ICONIC MUDCLAW AND X-TALON SHOES TO DESIGN THE MUDTALON SPEED?
Whilst designing the MUDTALON SPEED, we wanted to ensure we carefully retained the essence of both the MUDCLAW and X-TALON franchises. The result is an aggressively cleated yet remarkably agile shoe, specifically tailored for those who like to run over muddy fells, hills, mountains and trails.
4. AND WHAT ARE THE MAJOR DESIGN DIFFERENCES IN THIS NEW SHOE VERSUS THOSE TWO LONG-ESTABLISHED MUD-SLAYERS?
The most prominent change can be attributed to the improved shape of the last, the foot-formed mold used in crafting the shoe. After experiencing the fit and comfort of this design, you’ll quickly see why it’s a game-changer.
5. WHAT MAKES THE NEW-LOOK OUTSOLE SO SPECIAL?
Our soles have been renowned for leading the way with their exceptional grip for many years now. It was therefore vitally important for us to retain the essence of this with the design of the all-new MUDTALON SPEED. We have kept the distribution of the lug positions like that that on the X-TALON and MUDCLAW as we know these provide optimal performance in a variety of conditions – whether that’s grip, shedding of mud, or balance of wear. We have also been working hard on new rubber compounds that improve grip without sacrificing durability. Together with a more aggressively shaped lug that aids propulsion and braking in extreme conditions, we believe we have taken our grip to the next level.
6. AND WHAT WAS THE THINKING BEHIND A BRAND NEW, MORE CUSHIONED, SPRINGY MIDSOLE FOAM?
Foams are constantly evolving and improving. The introduction of a new POWERFLOW PRO foam was driven by the aim to deliver a new compound offering heightened levels of cushioning with a more responsive ride.
7. THE UPPER LOOKS COMPLETELY DIFFERENT TO ANY OTHER INOV8 SHOE PREVIOUSLY. WHERE DID THE DESIGN INSPIRATION COME FROM AND WHAT WILL RUNNERS LOVE ABOUT THIS UPPER?
The upper design takes inspiration from geodesic structures which were popularized by architect and inventor Buckminster Fuller. Geodesic structures are known for being lightweight and strong, whereby triangular elements distribute stress evenly across their framework. In footwear terms this translates to an overlay design that provides support whilst allowing the shoe to adapt to the natural movements of the foot.
8. IT’S ALSO THE FIRST SHOE TO FEATURE OUR BRAND NEW SHAPE AND FITS. WHY CHANGE THE SHAPE OF OUR SHOES?
The decision to alter the shoe's shape was driven by a desire to enhance the fit and introduce a more natural feel. This led to the development of a wider toe shape, contributing to a more comfortable and accommodating fit.
9. HOW LONG DID IT TAKE TO DESIGN THIS SHOE AND WHICH ELEMENT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?
Crafting a shoe from the ground up is a time-consuming process, spanning anywhere from 18 months to several years depending on the complexity and research involved. This held especially true for the MUDTALON SPEED, given the multitude of variables in play.
In this case, we developed a new last, implemented new tooling, undertook a significant rebranding effort — a substantial task in itself — and collaborated with a new factory located in a different country. Despite encountering several challenges along the way, what I'm most proud of is the team's ability to successfully execute all the above.
10. HOW IMPORTANT WAS TESTER FEEDBACK DURING THE DESIGN PROCESS AND WHAT HAVE SAID ABOUT THE NEW SHOE?
Given the numerous new elements in play, conducting comprehensive testing was essential to exceed the performance and durability benchmarks set by the shoe’s predecessors. Our rigorous testing, both in the lab and through feedback from numerous wear testers, enabled us to consistently improve the product with every sample round.
We actively encourage our wear testers to challenge the product on the most demanding trails and under various conditions. Interestingly, they consistently highlighted how the fit and comfort surprised them the most, while also welcoming the improved grip.