The lightweight mesh upper has some good stretch to it and has a nice and comfortable fit. It is very breathable, I could feel fresh air on my feet while running, but does not provide total protection against dust and tiny rocks. The Trailroc 245 shed water easily and dry fast. While in motion the whole upper of the shoe follows and provides total range of foot flexion. For long runs and hikes, it leaves plenty of freedom for the feet to swell as well.
The Trailroc range is built around the Inov-8’s Anatomic last. This means they have a roomy toe box, even for someone with wide feet like me The front of the shoe is protected by a small rubber pad for those times when your foot bumps on a rock.
