The Xero Blog

Some people love the feeling of sand between their toes.Others. Not so much.Same thing with stand up paddle boarding. Some love to SUP bare footed. Others want a bit of protection, especially if they're somewhere that they have to jump off onto a less-than-ideal surface (think coral, or rocks, or ewwy-gooey things ;-) ).We've heard from Xero Shoes customers who wear their sandals on their boards. Others just use them to get to and from the water (stick 'em in your pocket when you're on the board).Similarly, we've got a bunch of sea kayakers, canoeists, and rafters who've taken their Xeros on some pretty sweet water.You, too?Send us your photos and let's see.

Okay, it doesn't get more minimal than this (hence the name).Arguably, this is even more minimalist than the Ultra-Minimalist Hitch since there's no knot.Our first customer service manager, Bill Babcock, came up with this idea, and he uses it for running 100+ miles/week.To make this style, you'll need 2 "Crow Beads" (available at any craft store):First, a few tying tips and notes:Tying the Lace knot:This is the knot we most commonly use, especially with our 100% polyester laces. The "Lace Bead":This is the smallest "knot" you can make for your Xero Shoes. Tying a Figure-8 knot:If you have our original laces with the nylon core, you'll want to use this knot. Lacing tips:The basic running sandal tying patternUber-Ultra Minimal to the Max StyleStep-by-Step instructions coming soon!

Raymond Mack developed this nice thong styleOnce you get the tension just right, you slip 'em on and off in a second. People use this tying style for everything from walking to running marathons.First, a tying tip:Lacing tips:Raymond's Double-Thong Tying StyleSince there's exposed lace under your foot, I recommend coating that part of the lace with Shoe Goo for added protection.Step-by-Step instructions coming soon!