These Inov-8 Trailroc 245s are especially designed for long distance trail running on rocks and roots. I personally find my Inov-8 Xtalon 212s more versatile as they are lighter and better suited also for off-trail orienteering. The stiffer midsole of the Inov-8 245's is supposed to protect the foot from sharp rocks, etc, but this also adds weight to the shoe and impairs the ground feel. I bought the Trailrocs mainly becaulse they were heavily discounted and thus much cheaper than the 212's. I will use the 245's for trail running and hiking only. Extensive running on hard surfaces and wet off-trail is not recommended. The 245's seems to be one half size smaller than the 212's.