Shark Tank Special Sale

February 1st, 2013 by: — Barefoot Running

Did you just see us on ABC’s Shark Tank? (if not, click here)

Xero Shoes Barefoot Running Sandals on Shark Tank

Want to try a pair of Xero Shoes • Original Barefootware and have the fun and benefits of being barefoot… plus:

  • The protection you want
  • A perfect fit (you can trim them to size if you like)
  • Style that expresses your personality (with fun lacing or decorative add ons)
  • An affordable price
  • Complete natural movement
  • Our 5,000 mile warranty

Over 27,000 people in 87 countries love Xero Shoes for:

  • Walking
  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Paddle boarding
  • Yoga
  • Crossfit
  • Kayaking
  • Working out
  • Jogging
  • Running 100-mile ultramarathons!
  • … and having fun!

Our DIY barefoot sandal kits are the perfect project for the family… you can make your own shoes in just a few minutes.

Or you can let us do the work — send us a tracing of your foot for a custom-made pair of Xero Shoes.

Not sure what to get, or ordering for a friend or family member? Get a gift certificate instead.

 

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  • http://www.facebook.com/cody.roberts.3591 Cody Roberts

    i think they were wrong not to support you guys, but i’m sure another investor will step up, and i liked the jab at a certain competitor lol

    good luck guys! I still have my INVISIBLE shoes, and i forgot that i bought them only a few months after you guys started!
    When my pair finally die, i’ll probably be buying the connect

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      Thanks so much, Cody. You think you know which barefoot shoes smell bad? ;-)

      • http://www.facebook.com/cody.roberts.3591 Cody Roberts

        thanks so much for replying, and ho ho…i don’t think, i KNOW >:)

  • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

    Make sure you type in all caps: SHARKS

    If that doesn’t work, call us: 800.499.8880 or 303.447.3100

  • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

    I’m not sure how to answer that… if for no other reason than I’m not a doctor and can’t make medical claims. They’re sandals that fit well, have good barefoot feel, and a layer of protection and some style. If you enjoy being barefoot and having natural movement, then you may enjoy them.

  • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

    I’m not sure how to answer that… if for no other reason than I’m not a doctor and can’t make medical claims. They’re sandals that fit well, have good barefoot feel, and a layer of protection and some style. If you enjoy being barefoot and having natural movement, then you may enjoy them.

    • RollTideRoll

      Being a Diabetic I can say that you have to treat your feet like they are the only thing on your body that matters! With that I am going to get a pair because I also know that bare foot is the best for any foot. Diabetics are not suppose to leave their feet unprotected and we are reccomended to wear shoes at all times even indoors. You have developed something that will protect our feet from potential damage but will feel like we are barefoot! Awesome!! I would suggest that you research with a foot doctor or diabetic specialist to see what the best material or some sort of protective coating for the string that touches the foot like between the toes or around the back of the foot. Some sort of cushion or tube that slides over the string to add to those locations. Maybe neoprene? Thats what Im gonna try to use to modify them myself. Kudos to you for making a DIY kit! I hope that your exposure on shark tank does well for you. I beleive in this. Wish I had the connections and funds to back you because I deffinately would have been onboard! A big thank you from Alabama! Roll Tide!

  • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

    Thanks so much, Bev!

  • lee

    Can i call you with a size, without making a trace of my foot and you make them for me?

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      If you want to order a custom-made pair, we need the tracing, because we trim the sore to fit your foot perfectly, and put the toe hole in the perfect place.

      If you’re ordering a kit… just measure your foot — http://www.xeroshoes.com/measure

      • lee

        Was going to order a few pairs for gifts, have friends who hate wearing shoes and thought this would be great

  • larue

    I just ordered a pair and I can hardly wait to get them! Thanks to Shark Tank…even though they didn’t get on board, I’m sure you’ve got orders pouring in! You did a great presentation and sold me :)

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      Thanks, Larue… we’ll get your order out asap! And can’t wait to hear what you think when you can Feel The World!

  • http://www.facebook.com/patcallahan Pat Callahan

    Well phooey on them… I ordered my 2nd pair for me and my 2nd gift pair – this time for a HS track runner. I love these sandals and they sure make my back feel better. I think it is difficult to get people who wear ‘those’ kinds of shoes to embrace nekkid feet feelings.

  • Marla

    I run on dirt roads and trails, do you experience a lot pebbles becoming lodged between your foot and the shoe?

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      No actually.

      Or, more specifically, some people do at first (only SOME), and then their form subtly changes and it stops.

      Besides, if it does happen, you can knock out a pebble with a little flick.

  • http://twitter.com/Anniepurple01 Anne Andrako

    Thanks to Shark Tank for having you on their show! Am just ordering my first pair due to your great presentation! I believe the Sharks will be eating their words :)

  • Rylee

    I have been wanting to get me a pair of these since I saw it on Shark Tank! I got the coupon code and everything working, but it says that it will be $16.96.(a good price for me:)) and I was just wondering if that included shipping, and if not how much your shipping is. Thank you! Oh and one more question! I will be going to summer camp in the summer and I was just wondering if I should get the connect or contact. I will be hiking, but I go barefoot just about everywhere I go! Thank you for your time, I appreciate your product!

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      Hi Rylee… shipping will be on top of that price… and it’s calculated in real-time based on where you live and what you order.

      Regarding camp… if you’re usually barefoot, then I’d stick with the 4mm Connect. It’ll give you the best barefoot feel.

  • Melinda

    I just check out and forgot to use the SHARKS coupon. I did see you on Shark Tank…I thought they were jerks to you but I’m placing an order so hopefully them being jerks works in your favor! Can’t wait to try them although a little nervous that i’ll make them right :) Thanks Melinda

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      Melinda… can you call our customer service line: 303.447.3100 and they’ll help you out with the coupon.

  • KD

    Hi ~ I am a runner and love to run barefoot on the beach. How do these work for people who pronate or supinate?

    It is surprising the Sharks did not do their research (especially Robert, who is a runner) before dissing the idea. Running shoes (and racing flats) have gotten lighter and more molded to the foot over the past 20 years! Not only that but there are running shoes that look like gloves (with each toe being separated) to give you a more natural fit, i.e. more natural motion.

    Good luck!

    I will bordering at least one pair this week…

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      Hey, KD,

      Pronation is not, inherently a problem. Some of the best runners in the world pronate. It’s part of the spring mechanism of the lower leg.

      That said, when you run with good barefoot form — with a midfoot or forefoot strike — it reduces incorrect pronation because you’re landing with your foot and ankle in a strong, pre-loaded position.

      I *used* to be a pronator and wore orthotics for 30+ years. No more.

      The Sharks can’t research anything because they don’t know who they’re seeing until the entrepreneurs walk in to the Tank.

      But we were hoping he would be hip to the fact that most running shoes from 40 years ago and earlier were basically just like our soles but with an upper.

  • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

    You guessed correct. If your foot is 9 3/4″, you would order the size for feet “up to 10″ (which is the size F)… and the sole you get is actually 10.5″ long. Then you can trim it for a perfect fit.

  • Beach runner

    Steve, any feed back from beach use? I too like to run barefoot on the beach.

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      The feedback, not surprisingly is: they’re a big hit at the beach… but it also depends on what type of sand you’ve got: packed vs. loose vs. wet vs. dry… etc.

  • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

    Hi Jennifer…

    There’s only one type of sandal that we sell and people use that same one for walking, hiking, yoga, running and, yes, even ultramarathons. http://www.Xeroshoes.com/shop/

    Regarding support… read this: https://xeroshoes.com/barefoot-info/why-barefoot-running/ — in short, being barefoot or close to it puts LESS stress on your joints and bones.

    That help?

    And, yes, we LOVE it here in Colorado. We don’t understand why everyone doesn’t live here (but we’re glad they all don’t or it would be too crowded ;-) )

  • SuzSee

    We’re from Denver and was hoping to actually see your product somewhere in Boulder, but didn’t see a store listing. Any chance this is coming?

  • Jion

    Great presentation on Shark Tank. My question is this: I’m disabled, don’t run- have Lupus & MS, and osteoporosis (from steroid treatments) that causes me knee & hip pain. I read a lot on your site & I too, subscribe to the thought that I need orthotics, etc. yet, my feet, legs, etc. still hurt. Are your shoes advisable/helpful for someone with such medical issues? Or are they more designed for a healthy, more active person? Thanks for your time. I wish you both much continued success ~ and may all beings benefit.
    In Peace,
    Jion

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      Hi Jion,

      I’m sure you understand the many reasons why I can’t give medical advice (other than I’m not a doctor).

      One question: How do you do if you’re barefoot for a short amount of time?

      If that’s okay, then our shoes should be as well.

      And you can think about being barefoot like doing exercises… start with just a little and build up to doing more SLOWLY.

      Metta to you, too.

  • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

    Thanks, Devin… interesting idea. I have a friend whose first business was selling massage sandals. I’ll have to talk with him.

  • OLDBIKER

    Just saw this on SHARK TANK – - -very interesting.I’m going to try a pair – - foot problem is or was actually caused by my ski boots, wo tight and as I used to be a novice (first couple of years had them too tight and didn’t release the hasps to relieve pressure, and doctors think I may have damaged nerves.
    So, once I get a pair and try them we’ll update you.
    Great presentation though – - must be tough to ignore Kevin though – -staying focused during his rants and consistant hammering on “hopefuls”. GREAT JOB, and you didn’t give the farm a way.

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      I’m not sure we even let them set foot on the farm, let alone give it away ;-)

  • Jessica

    There’s an error in your shopping cart at the moment; wanted to make sure you’re aware, as it’s unfortunately preventing check-out:

    “Sorry, it seems that there are no available shipping methods for your state. Please contact us if you require assistance or wish to make alternate arrangements.”

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      I know… and it’s intermittent and doesn’t affect everyone :-(

      Give us a call — 303.447.3100 or 800.499.8880. We’ll be in on Sunday Feb 3rd and, as always, M-F, 9-5 MT.

  • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

    a) you can wear these on any surface

    b) concrete is not a problem.

    c) You may want to read this, regarding “support”: http://xeroshoes.com/flat-feet-high-arches-and-running-barefoot/

  • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

    Many doctors recommend being barefoot as a cure for plantar fasciitis… the reason: when you walk barefoot and land more flat-footed, you actually use the arch when it’s “pre-loaded” and in a strong position.

    I’ll be writing about this more in the near future.

  • http://www.facebook.com/Peaceluvinveggie Nicole Morrow-Milewski

    I have never been able to wear a proper running shoe because my feet burn, tingle and go numb. I’ve had custom made shoes done for me at Nike and NOTHING has worked. I wear flip flops year round and I live in Chicago. These sound right up my alley. I’m beginning to run again on my treadmill but I always have issues with shin splints. Could these help? I’m also wondering if any of your shoes are vegan. Look forward to hearing from you. Peace and Love!!

    • http://raamdev.com Raam Dev

      I used to get shin splints all the time and could never run more than 4 miles. I started wearing huaraches 2 years ago, I haven’t had shin splints even once, and I’ve been able to run 10-20 miles at a time (non-stop) without any pain!

  • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

    Ah, the internet and the ability to leave hit-and-run anonymous opinions. ;-)

    FWIW, we were there for ALL the reasons someone with a business like ours goes on that show: for an investment, an accelerator, and attention.

    We didn’t “take a spot away” from anyone because it was the decision of the network, the studio, and the production company that we were on the show.

    And, yes, our product is rubber and lace — but a high-performance rubber that was designed by the former lead designers from Nike and Reebok that will outperform any other rubber you can buy commercially.

    And wearing this bit of rubber an string has changed the lives of thousands of our customers — (we’ll have the reviews on our site soon… until then, check out http://www.facebook.com/xeroshoes )

    • Wes

      Steven – it was a nice presentation, and you have a great, fairly priced product and a strong brand image. However, I do agree with the sharks that you are overvalued at this point, though I think you are certainly worth more than the quoted $800k based on your growth over the past few years.

      It sounds like you guys are overwhelmed and a bit unsure of what to do next. From a marketing perspective you guys may want to consider focusing your various efforts on niche markets rather than calling your product the end all solution to everything related to moving on your feet (I know you want to change the world, but it isn’t very realistic). For example, I’m involved in the CrossFit community (which is growing rapidly), and I think putting a well-put together marketing mix (i.e. funny or interesting YouTube video, targeted ads and professional endorsement) in front of a more defined community could help you grow quicker, and will simplify things a bit for the two of you. Keep at it!

      • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

        Thanks Wes.

        While our grand plan is the elimination of flip-flops from the planet (replacing them with Xeros, of course), we know that’s not the way to do it ;-)

        We agree with you and have plans in place that I think you’d agree with.

        BTW, the industry experts and footwear/outdoor VCs we consulted with thought our valuation was low. Plus, that was our first offer… we weren’t stuck to it… but we didn’t get a reasonable counter.

        What most people don’t realize is that when I countered with 10%, that was a 20% drop in our valuation (from $5M to $4M). How far might we have gone? Depends on who was bringing what to the table… but, again, we didn’t get that chance.

        And, of course, we wonder how people would have talked about us if we had made a deal ;-)

        FWIW, there have been a number of businesses on ST that were at a similar growth stage, who had similar valuation metrics, who got deals.

        And we have friends in our niche who’ve gotten valuations MUCH higher than ours… before they even had a prototype of a product!

        Valuation, as you know, is truly in the eye of the guy with the checkbook ;-)

  • http://twitter.com/RaDragon Raciel D

    I disagree; I think Shark Tank experts are clueless about the Barefoot running phenomenon. If you have read Born to Run (as most of the runners/ultrarunners I know have), you would have known about these huaraches. No one is twisting your leg to buy these shoes, even if you are a “lifetime” runner, but I’m personally going to try them out as I’m curious to see how they compare to the Vibram FiveFingers (I have two KSO’s — the retired pair has 306 miles and my current pair has 270 miles on them).

  • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

    Thanks for the kind words, Ron.

    They are “Sharks,” you know ;-) (we didn’t take it personally… and we have good answers for every seeming objection)

  • Eva

    Hi Angi, I too have suffered from plantar fascitis so now I wear Chaco sandals with arch support. Check them out – they are awesome. However, I am going to buy a pair of these Xeroshoes for my five-fingers-wearing trainer at the gym – I think he’ll really like these for summer wear and for an alternative for his long-distance running :-)

  • GoXeroShoes

    As soon as a saw you on ST I turned to my mom and said “Can I have a pair for my birthday please??”

  • Jeff Sararas

    2/3 through Born to Run right now, what a coincidence to see you on the Shark Tank! I was planning to try the Vibram FiveFingers – only because I didn’t know of any alternatives. How do they compare to your Xero Shoes?

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      Hi Jeff,

      Check out http://www.xeroshoes.com/compare — in short: Xeros are lighter, more barefoot, don’t smell, fit, can be customized, are less expensive, have a 5,000 mile warranty, and you don’t look weird in them ;-)

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      Hi Jeff,

      Check out http://www.xeroshoes.com/compare — in short: Xeros are lighter, more barefoot, don’t smell, fit, can be customized, are less expensive, have a 5,000 mile warranty, and you don’t look weird in them ;-)

  • onstagebabe04

    I saw you guys on Shark Tank and I loved the idea. I’m not a runner by any means, but I would go barefoot everywhere if businesses didn’t have that pesky “no shoes, no shirt, no service” rule. I wear flip flops year round because I hate having my feet confined. I ordered a pair and I can’t wait to get them.

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      No need to be a runner to enjoy Xero Shoes! :-)

  • Hayley

    I bought my Xero shoes last May. After Shark Tank my family is now intrigued. It would be nice if they would listen to me when I say these shoes are the way to go, but if seeing your product on t.v. was enough to change their mind than I will take it! Great show! Great shoe!

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      Well, just think of Shark Tank as your backup ;-)

  • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

    Great idea, Elliott!

  • http://www.facebook.com/rich.bailey84 Rich Bailey

    Steven,
    Recently caught the SharkTank episode with you and your company’s product. I am an avid runner and proud to live in Colorado myself (formerly Boulder until last August). I did have a question before trying your product. I have flat feet and have not found anyone with experience as a flat-footed runner with the barefoot or almost barefoot experience; has your product been used by flatfooted runners?
    Thanks for any information and best of luck with your product!
    Rich Bailey

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      Hi Rich,

      Well, *I* am a formerly flat-footed person. For my whole life, until I was 46, I had crazily flat feet. After being barefoot for a few months, I developed arches!

      They’re not super high (that’s genetic), but they’re there. When I get out of a pool, my footprint looks like, well, A FOOT! It used to look like a paddle.

      The basic idea is that when you USE your feet, you can strengthen the arches.

      If you post on Facebook (www.facebook.com/xeroshoes), I know you’ll find other stories of flat-footed (or formerly flat-footed) runners who have gotten rid of their orthotics and support.

    • http://www.facebook.com/crispin.ranjo Crispin Ranjo

      Rich, I started walking barefoot about 3 years ago and have been wearing xeroshoes most of the time since May. I’ve been running with them for about 25 to 35 miles/week. I ran 4 half marathons, hiked a 14er, a 13er and guess what? I’m flatfooted. I maybe the first person to claim Steve’s 5k warranty.

  • Rob

    Angi,

    too suffered from plantar issues and wearing the Xero Shoes completely cured my issues. I used to deal with lots of foot pain and now every shoe I own is Zero-Drop and the Xero Shoes are my go to shoe year round. I can run or walk in them and as you get used to wearing them your foot ails simply go away. Start slow and you will love them! Once you develop a fore-front strike in your running and walking you will be amazed.

    Enjoy!

    Rob

  • Karen C

    Steven… I’m so excited!!!! I just bought a pair of your 6mm shoes with extra laces. Six years ago, I had a pair of random unknown or no name super thin flip flops that were so comfortable, I stopped wearing my running shoes for walks, jogs and runs around the park. I would show up to workout with friends and they just got used to the idea that I was just weird about my shoes. I just couldn’t explain why or how it felt, just that my feet were so satisfied with the barefoot feel. When my random shoes finally died after a couple years of abuse, I went on a quest to find another pair. Whenever I saw a shoe that had the slightest possibility of working, I would buy it… but to no avail. If your shoes are what I think they will be, my quest is finally over!!!! My husband is hoping my feet won’t be so rough all the time since I’m always barefoot. :)

    On a side note, I’m so happy you turned down Mr. Has Tons Of Money Yet Not So Wonderful With People. No need to sell your ‘sole’! Just get enough walking billboards like me and you’ll kill it!

    Will let you know how it works out!

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      Can’t wait to hear what you experience with the “pro” version of what you’ve been playing with ;-)

  • MorganC

    I’m reading “Born to Run” right now and seeing your shoes got me soo excited! I was literally hitting my boyfriend yelling “Its like that tribe in Mexico!” Good luck!

  • Christine Kim

    I AM SO EXCITED about your product!!!! I got shin splints in college from running, and now have been told that my feet go inward when I run if that makes sense. Can’t wait to try your product. The sharks were delusional when they didn’t see your company’s potential.

  • Deb

    I saw you on Shark Tank and I can honestly say that I have never walked away from that show as mad as I was that night. I think these are great, I went right to your site and ordered a pair and I think the Sharks were idiots to dismiss your product like that. Their loss!! I can’t wait to get them and start using them. I am a runner, walker, hiker and also do yoga. I can think of so many situations where these will be awesome to have. Thank you!

  • John A

    Steven,

    I just saw the Shark Tank episode about your Xero Shoes. Here’s a question for you. I am diabetic and I have diabetic neuropathy in both feet and legs. Have you had any feed back from people who have this condition who have purchased your shoes? Wearing sneakers, running shoes, etc. after a bit becomes very uncomfortable. I was just wondering if anyone who had purchased your shoes and is diabetic has given you any feed back. Thanks.

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      John,

      We’ve had a lot of diabetics asking about our shoes since the show. I don’t, though, have feedback from anyone yet.

      The best thing I can say (since, obviously, I can’t give medical advice or make health claims), is that if you think you’ll be okay essentially barefoot… but with protection and the freedom of natural movement, that’s what we provide.

      Or, if you like the IDEA of flip-flops, but want something much better (see http://www.xeroshoes.com/notflipflops), that’s what we have.

  • Ritan3

    why does it say ‘special sale’? what’s so special?

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      It *WAS* a special sale that went on for a week after the show aired.

      Now we’re back to our regular low prices, which includes our 5,000 mile warranty.

  • Cheryl

    This is the first time I went to buy something after watching shark tank. You made the right choice! My daughter, now 15, has hated shoes all her life and wears flip flops when she has to. I’m thrilled to find something better for her feet. My husband and I are also getting a pair. You two are awesome!

  • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

    We’ve thought about all of those. There are times they’re great… and times they’re not. We have a few new products coming out that may need some crowdsource funding. We’ll see.

    Thanks for the tip/reminder.

  • Anthony

    I have Morton’s neuroma, which flares up when I’m barefoot. Do you have any experience with clients who deal with this condition?

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      Hi Anthony,

      Sorry, I don’t.

      What you may want to experiment with is HOW you land when your barefoot. Try different “foot strikes” — midfoot, flat footed, forefoot — and see if that makes a difference for you.

      (keep in mind, of course, that I’m not a doctor and can’t make medical diagnoses or give medical advice)

  • Rose H.

    I think the Shark Tank guys were silly not to fund you guys, but unlike some of the other commenters, I’ll still watch the show, because it gives exposure to great ideas like yours, that I otherwise would never know about!
    However, as a couple of people have noted below, yours has been the only product I’ve seen on the show that I actually went and purchased — I think it is a very marketable product! My mom and uncle are both into the barefoot running thing, and I’ve read part of “Born to Run” – it was really interesting. There is a rapidly growing market there…. I hate wearing shoes, and can’t wait to get yours and try them out!

    • http://www.xeroshoes.com/ Steven Sashen

      Thanks so much, Rose. We’ve been overwhelmed with the post-Shark Tank response. Lena and I took a few days off about a month before the show aired, knowing that after it aired it would be quite a while until we could do that again ;-)