HFS Original or HFS II… Which One Is Right for Me?
Five years ago we launched the HFS road-running shoe, which became a huge favorite with barefoot enthusiasts for running and many other activities, as well.
Then a little over a year ago, we launched the updated HFS II.
Since many people owned both versions, we did a survey and asked which they liked better, the HFS Original or the HFS II…
And the clear winner was… both.
Survey results were 50/50 almost down to the number.
You spoke. We listened.
That’s right, the HFS Original is back!
But that brings up a question…
What’s the Difference Between the HFS Original and the HFS II?
HFS Original vs HFS II – Which Is For You?
Which HFS is right for you will depend on what you want from your running shoe…
HFS Original – For a More Barefoot Feel
If you want as little as possible between you and the road when you run, then the HFS Original is the shoe for you.
The HFS Original gives you:
- A closer connection to the ground
- A more responsive feel
- More ground feedback for more natural movement and agility.
When we designed the HFS II, we added a thin BareFoam™ layer to the sole for some extra protection.
If you’re a barefoot purist, or an experienced barefoot runner, this layer may be more than you want in your shoe. And indeed, some of our “most barefoot”Xero Shoes fans are the ones who asked us to bring back the HFS Original.
HFS II – An Extra Layer of Protection
The HFS II has that thin BareFoam™ layer to provide an added bit of protection. If you’re newer to barefoot running or just prefer a different balance between protection and ground feel, then the HFS II can be your go-to shoe, not just for running, but for pretty much any activity.
We also added a new, lugged tread tread to make the HFS IImore off-road friendly. If you do a mix of road and off-road running, then the HFS II may suit your needs better.
While the HFS II has a slightly thicker stack height than the HFS Original, its sole looks thicker than it actually is. We’ve wrapped the BareFoam™ layer, cup-like, around the upper, giving the HFS II the illusion of a thicker sole while staying true to our barefoot ethos.
Choose What’s Best for YOU!
The HFS Original and the HFS II both give you barefoot-inspired comfort and performance. They each look great on your feet. And they’re both built to last and backed by our 5000-mile sole warranty.
Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy the benefits of Xero Shoes’ barefoot-inspired DNA.
- Wider, foot-shaped toe box that lets your toes relax and splay.
- Zero-drop, non-elevated heel for natural posture, which your joints will appreciate.
- A thin, flexible sole that lets your feet bend, move, and feel the way nature intended.
- So lightweight you might forget you’re even wearing them.
Some people have asked if HFS means “Happy Face Shoe” or “Happy Feet Shoe” or something else. Whether you prefer the most barefoot feel possible or like the added protection that comes with a thin layer of BareFoam™, there’s an HFS that will give you happy feet and a happy face!
