VeryWell Fit Names Xero Shoes' Mesa Trail the Best Zero-Drop Shoe for Women
latest News
Best Xero Shoes Workout Shoes, According to Top Media
Media are constantly looking for the best workout shoes and spend months testing in the gym, at Boot Camp, and at CrossFit. Xero Shoes' workout shoes like the Prio Neo, Forza Trainer and Prio provide natural comfort for maximum performance, while feeling lightweight and breathable. Check out the list below of media's top-rated, best Xero Shoes workout shoes. Prio Neo CNN Underscored: Best Weightlifting Shoes “These are great for lifting and training on the gym floor — and for everyday use,” says Lauren Martin, a certified group fitness instructor in Colorado. Read More Men's Journal: Best Workout Shoes "Minimalist shoes aim to give users the most ‘barefoot’ experience possible without actually being barefoot. Xero is one of the more popular minimalist brands, and the Prio Neo is the brand’s most versatile shoe." Read More Livestrong: Best Barefoot Lifting Shoes "An evolution of the popular Prio, these barefoot lifting shoes from Xero Shoes combine gym functionality with athleisure style." Read More Sports Illustrated: Best Shoes for Circuit Training "The Xero Prio Neo is our pick as one of the best “barefoot” choices for circuit training because the shoes have a flexible, but stable, fit that allows full mobility while still supporting you from the bottom up." Read More Forza Trainer HEALTH Best in Fitness Awards 2023 Best Sneakers A favorite of ACE-certified fitness instructor Aimee Nicotera, she said "These help people actually feel the ground and give the toes lots of space." If you are a fan of strength training/weight lifting and CrossFit, these are worth trying... Read More Women's Health Sneaker Awards 2023 Best Weight Lifting Shoes with Added Support Like all Xero barefoot-style shoes, you feel one with the ground thanks to the thin and flat sole. What's more: “The Velcro strap right below the ankle helps me feel extra locked in and stable when strength training,” says Jacqueline Andriakos, Editor in Chief. Read More SELF: Best Weightlifting Shoes "This flat-soled sneaker also features a wide toe box, which should allow your toes to spread and bend freely for more balance." Read More Woman's World: Best Workout Shoes for Women Over 50 “The Prio Neo is a sleek performance training shoe that’s ready for action and all-day comfort,” Maria Pro says. “A moisture-wicking lining keeps your feet cool.“ Read More Prio HuffPost: Best Sneakers for Working Out "If you're looking for a good "barefoot" sneaker, online fitness instructor Bianca Russo recommended seeking brands that explicitly say their designs include a spacious toe box, so that your toes have the space to move and leverage their innate dexterity." Russo's favorite brand of barefoot-feeling shoes for working out and daily wear are from Xero." Read More Barbend: Best Cross-Training Shoes For barefoot enthusiasts, these minimalist workout shoes can be just the ticket thanks to their 0-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, thick and durable upper, and a removable insole that can allow for an even closer ground contact. Read More
Best Xero Shoes Sandals, According to Top Media
Media are constantly looking for the best sandals and spend months testing different types of sandals for hiking, walking, wearing casually and travel.Media rave about Xero Shoes' sandals, citing the lightweight, barefoot-inspired design and versatility as two of the key differentiators.Check out the list below of media's top-rated, best Xero Shoes sandals.GenesisVOGUE: 6 Summer Sandal Trends All Terrain Sandals"City dwellers or those who appreciate functional fashion will love these sporty rope sandals. Seen on the runways at Miu Miu, these hiking-inspired thongs have both technical components (an adjustable strap) and fashion relevance (Muiccia’s approval). You won’t ever have to worry about them slipping off, which despite their adventure-ready aesthetic, look surprisingly cool with a sundress."Read MoreWho What Wear: The Viral Sandals of 2024 Sporty Rope SandalsAs seen on celebs, influencers and the SS24 runways."The name says it all: These are made to be packed in your suitcase for your next adventure—beach or otherwise."Read MoreWIRED: Best Barefoot Shoes for Minimalists "Modeled (somewhat) on the running sandal of the famous Tarahumara runners, the Genesis sandal was my first exposure to Xero Shoes. You buy either a DIY kit to make your own sandals or opt for the premade Genesis. These are fast becoming my favorite shoes."Read MoreGood Housekeeping: Best Barefoot Sandals "These minimalist sandals from Xero Shoes are the perfect choice for anyone who loves letting their feet breathe. They’re about as close to barefoot as it gets while still giving you some protection from the ground thanks to a thin rubber outsole."Read MoreSELF: Best Barefoot Hiking Sandals "If you’re ready to dive into the world of barefoot-style shoes (popularized by the running shoe world), Xero is one of the best budget-friendly brands to try, with lots of fans in the hiking community."Read MoreThe Modest Man: Best Barefoot Sandals "The Genesis combines elements of a flip-flop and a sandal, offering a practical barefoot sandal design."Read MoreZ-Trail EVGear Patrol: Best Sandal for Shorter Hikes "Weighing in at a scant 5.4 ounces, the Z-Trail EV is as light as a hiking sandal gets... The Z-Trail EV is best for shorter hikes and water activities, or for people who want a protected barefoot walking feel."Read MoreTravel + Leisure: Best Barefoot Sandals "For hikers and water sports enthusiasts looking for a trail sandal that doesn’t weigh you down, the Xero Shoes Z-trail EV Sandals for women and men are your answer. This minimal-yet-supportive shoe is built with a three-part underfoot construction... which offers just enough protection and rebound without losing the natural feel of the ground."Read MoreOutdoor Life: Best Ultralight Hiking Sandals "This barefoot sandal is the lightest sandal on our list at around 8 ounces.... Its shining qualities are freedom of movement, comfort, traction, and lightweight."Read MoreGearJunkie: Best Minimalist Hiking Sandals "Riding low and providing an absolutely grounded experience, these sandals take obvious cues from the huarache running sandals of the American Southwest and Mexico, and anyone who embraces the barefoot movement will immediately respect the idea behind them. "Read MoreHiConsumption: Best Zero Drop Hiking Sandals "For those who want a lightweight option without sacrificing any comfort or support, Xero Shoes’ Z-Trail EV Sandals are your best bet."Read moreField & Stream: Best Thru-Hiking Shoes for Camp "The Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV sandal has long been one of the best camp shoes for its lightweight design and comfort. ... after extensive interviews, the Z-Trail emerged as a resounding favorite for those valuing happy feet during well-deserved breaks."Read MorePackable Life: Best Barefoot Running Sandal "My pick for the best barefoot running sandal for those who don’t like ‘thong-style footwear’ is from Xero Shoes — the Z-Trail EV, a standard sandal style without frills and weight."Read MoreTreeline Review: Best Camp Sandal "Geared towards hikers, runners, and campers looking for a minimalist approach to the outdoors, Xero offers us a way to get just a little bit closer to nature with a zero-drop, barefoot feel."Read MoreField Mag: Best Ultralight Hiking Sandals "Xero Z-Trail sandals are super flexible and wildly light, with the comfort of a sportier sandal and lightweight packability of your old flip flops."Read MoreInsideHook: Best Ultralight Hiking Sandals "Xero sandals are incredibly lightweight and as close to barefoot hiking as you’ll get (without actually hiking barefoot). But their ultralight status doesn’t mean they skimp on comfort or performance."Read MoreH-Trail SandalStylecaster: Podiatrist-Recommended Beach Sandals "They’re designed to promote the natural movement of barefoot walking with a little protection, and the black color looks stylish.”- Recommended by Dr. Alissa Kuizinas, DPMRead MoreGearJunkie: Best Hiking Sandals "It’s tough to improve upon a classic, but Xero about nailed it with these new kicks. Testers loved the all-rubber outsole design that's nice and thin for a grounded feel. The 4x adjustments with a secure huarache strap system offer a connected feeling to the ground."Read MoreZ-Trek SandalOutdoors.com: Best Lightweight Water Shoes "The Z-Treks are the perfect packable sport sandals for a day hike or a backpacking trip and make a great lightweight camp shoe."Read MoreStylecaster: Podiatrist-Recommended Walking Sandals It’s a natural shape for people who have wide feet, and adjustable straps around the ankle provide heel stabilization. Another benefit is the 5,000 mile sole warranty, so you can get a lot of wear testing out of them.”- Dr. Stephen Bui, board-certified in sports medicine and podiatric surgeryRead More
Media Name Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport as the Best Water Shoes
When you're shopping for water shoes, you want a pair that's lightweight, durable, easy-to-drain and quick-drying.Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport is regularly reviewed by outdoor experts at media outlets as one of the best water shoes on the market. Why? It's Quick Drying – Water pours out of the open-mesh design It's Easy to Pull On or Off – Speed lacing system for easy on and off It's Grippy on Varying Terrain – A responsive, flexible sole features a trail running shoe tread design It's Lightweight – Average weight of each shoe is 6.8 oz (Men's size 9) and 5.8 oz (Women's size 7) But don't take our word from it! Read on to see what media have to say.Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport Outdoor LifeThe Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport scored highly in grip, drainage, and stability, making it ideal for hikers who prefer a water shoe that lacks a traditional support structure. Read More HICONSUMPTIONLow on cushion but still high on comfort, the Xero Aqua X Sport is one of the best water shoes we tested. We loved the overall look as well, which doesn’t expose your skin underneath too much while still draining and drying quickly. Read More GearJunkieBest Water Shoes for Running:We love this water shoe because it fits well and the fit can be dialed in with a low-profile set of elastic laces. The shoe’s tops are open mesh, making them light and breathable....Finally, the Xero Aqua X Sport packs up very small and, if traveling, won’t take up a lot of room in your bag. Read More Robb ReportSome of our favorite water shoes appear like sneakers at first glance, and that’s never a bad thing to have handy in your beach bag. Read More Outdoor Gear LabThese high-performing water shoes have great drainage and versatility, are lightweight, and have superb traction... The Xero Aqua X Sport will serve your needs on and off the water while feeling like there is barely anything on your feet. Read More US NewsThe Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport is a top choice for women looking for water shoes for the beach, water sports, fishing, hiking, and more. The FeelTrue sole of these shoes is made from a durable rubber material to offer traction on multiple terrain types, making these shoes a suitable option to wear outside of the water as well. Read More The InertiaBest Women's Water Shoes: Thanks to the mesh upper, nonabsorbent tongue, and toe guard drainage holes, these shoes dry out quickly, which is exactly what we want in a water shoe. The Aqua X Sport provides a barefoot feel and experience while keeping feet nice and covered. Read More GearJunkieBest of the Rest:The design immediately fit snugly and comfortably against her feet with one point of adjustment — the quick lace system, which worked great to snatch up the foot shape.The low-profile design made it easy to squish the pair in a backpack and contributed to the overall lightweight design. Read More Field & StreamBest Men's Water Shoes:Xero Shoes make some of the best footwear for wide feet on the market today and the Aqua X provides some of the best comfort. Read More Best ProductsBest to Pack for a Cruise:Lightweight and packable, these versatile shoes are designed for wet, humid conditions in the great outdoors. They’ll protect your feet on any active excursion, whether you’re exploring a remote rocky beach or hiking through waterfalls. Read More AP BuylineBest Women's Water Shoes:These shoes, with adjustable speed laces and an adjustable midfoot strap, are comfortable, sustainable and durable. Read More The InertiaBest Water Shoes for Swimming:Designed for optimal performance in water sports. Excellent grip and flexibility. Quick-draining and lightweight. Read More Section HikerBest Camp Shoes:...They’re astonishingly lightweight and packable. It has a breathable mesh upper with a quick-dry lining, non-absorbent tongue, toe guard drain holes that help you quickly shed water, and a perforated self-draining insole, so it’s barely any heavier wet than dry. Read More Yachting WorldBest Kayak Shoes:Xero Aqua X Sport are brilliant option for people who mix up their paddling with a range of other water-based activities. Read More Aqua X Sport SHOP NOW
Outdoor Life: It's Time to Give Barefoot Shoes a Try
Discover the benefits of barefoot shoes with Outdoor Life's comprehensive guide, "It's Time to Give Barefoot Shoes a Try". Learn from experts like Dr. Irene Davis and Scott Socha about foot dynamics and fit, explore design insights from John Wadley of Xero Shoes, and gain practical tips on transitioning to barefoot shoes for a more natural gait and stronger foot muscles. Plus, find out why the Xero Shoes HFS II comes highly recommended by editor Laura Lancaster.Read on to hear from experts about: How modern footwear changes foot dynamics with stack height, arch support, and heel lift, with insight from Dr. Irene Davis, a renowned expert in biomechanics. How your shoes should fit in the toe box and why you should avoid stiff soles, as Pedorthist Scott Socha shares. How Xero Shoes VP of Product Development John Wadley highlights the difference in the design of barefoot shoes vs modern shoes. Tips from Ultrarunner and top running coach Eric Orton on running in barefoot shoes. And actionable tips from all these experts to help you transition to barefoot shoes in your daily life. And if you're sold, check out the Best Barefoot Shoes article by Outdoor Life's editor Laura Lancaster, who shared why you should consider getting a pair of barefoot shoes and her top picks.Benefits include: Zero Drop: Equal heel and forefoot height for natural biomechanics. Wide Toe box: Allows natural toe splay for balance and propulsion. Flexible Sole: Enables a free, uninhibited gait cycle. Low Stack Height: Varied thickness, promoting ground feel. No Arch Support: Dr. Irene Davis, says, "the arch has 10 muscles in 4 layers “that help to control the defamation of the arch to provide that control of your foot.” Arch support in shoes inhibits these muscles from controlling your foot as it pronates and supinates during the gait cycle and, over time, weakens them. Barefoot shoes do not have arch support, so that these muscles are uninhibited, and can strengthen over time and function naturally." And according to Xero Shoes VP of Product Development, John Wadley: "The body knows what it’s doing,” said Wadley. “Once you get the shoe out of the way, the body will control movement.”Laura's pick for the most comfortable barefoot shoe: Xero Shoes HFS II. "Xero shoes are designed to fit a wider range of the feet actual humans have... As a gear reviewer, I’m constantly swiveling around to see what people have on, including their shoes... I’m constantly surprised when I catch sight of the logo (the only true tell-tale sign). If you’re looking to try barefoot shoes, but don’t want to rock your whole aesthetic, then Xero is the way to go."
Best Xero Shoes Hiking Boots, According to Top Media
Outdoor gear reviewers and media are constantly looking for the best hiking boots, and spend months testing different brands on varying terrain. Media rave about Xero Shoes' hiking boots and shoes, citing the lightweight design, wide toe box and zero-drop sole as some of the key differentiators. Check out the list below of media's top-rated, best Xero Shoes hiking boots. HICONSUMPTION: Scrambler Mid II WP "Surprisingly comfortable despite the thinner sole, the Xero Scrambler Mid II is a grippy, lightweight hiking boot that recently got improvements in terms of style and performance." Read More Sports Illustrated: Scrambler Mid "While they have minimal cushioning, these shoes also have an extremely flexible sole. This allows your feet to flex and move as they would outside of the shoe, making it a great choice for technical trails." Read More Outdoor Life: Scrambler Mid "I was impressed with just how little I thought about it on everything from muddy trails to road walks. And unlike traditional hiking boots, it’s still exceptionally flexible, bending with the foot as you roll through your stride." Read More The Inertia: Ridgeway "It’s incredibly lightweight, and sports a wide toe box that really allows the foot to stretch as you go about your day." Read More Field & Stream: Scrambler Mid "The Scrambler has an extremely large toe box that will allow your feet to flex naturally over a variety of terrain. " Read more Forbes: Xcursion Fusion "As one of the lightest hiking boots on the market, its minimalist design and flexible sole make it feel like you're wearing nothing at all—a common theme among Xero Shoes’ featherlight footwear offerings." Read More Footwear News: Xcursion Fusion " This barefoot shoe from Xero gives you that super natural feeling while still protecting the feet." Read More Matador Network: Ridgeway "These minimalist boots prioritize a close-to-the-ground experience, allowing for increased flexibility and agility compared to traditional hiking boot. Despite their minimalist design, the Ridgeways are surprisingly adept at handling varied terrain. " Read More
Best Barefoot Xero Shoes, According to Media
Barefoot shoes provide a natural, foot-shaped design that allows toes to spread and feet to relax while allowing you to feel the ground beneath you. Media rave about Xero Shoes' barefoot shoes, citing the lightweight design, wide toe box and zero-drop sole as some of the key differentiators. Check out the list below of media's top-rated, best Xero Shoes barefoot shoes for walking, casual wear and more. WIRED: Prio Neo Best All-Around Shoe - Prio Neo: "They're trim, light, flexible, and well ventilated, making them good for a run, but they're also nice enough to wear around town as a casual shoe." Travel + Leisure: Prio Best Overall - Prio: "These barefoot “cross trainers” from Xero Shoes can be used for running and working out, but they’re also perfect for walking." NBC SELECT: Dillon Best Wide Toe Box - Dillon: "These shoes have a wide toe box with soft, flexible upper materials. They are flexible in the sole, bend well at the toe joint and offer enough cushioning to be comfortable even on hard surfaces.” ELLE: Kelso Best Wide Toe Box - Kelso: "This sneaker stands out for its spacious toe box, offering a stylish solution for those seeking both flair and functionality." Good Housekeeping: Tari Best Boots - Tari: "Who said barefoot shoes can't be stylish or worn in colder months? If you're looking for barefoot boots, this pick from Xero Shoes features a zero-drop heel that allows your foot to bend and flex as you walk around." Forbes: Sunrise Best Lightweight - Sunrise: "They’re the one item in my bag that, as a self-proclaimed over-packer, I never have to question because they take up so little space.. Plus, they feel like a dream on bare skin, so socks are optional." Marathon Handbook: Scrambler Low Comfortable Pick - Scrambler Low: "The shoe is breathable and perfect for running or hiking on the road or gravel paths... Overall a great shoe if you are looking for a comfortable and versatile minimalist shoe." Modest Man: Genesis Budget Pick - Genesis: "The Genesis combines elements of a flip-flop and a sandal, offering a practical barefoot sandal design." Sports Illustrated: Prio Neo Best Barefoot Running Shoes - Prio Neo: "The design is meant to be slipped into seamlessly, such that Xero claims some users even forget they’re wearing the shoes. ...if you’re looking for a simple zero drop shoe to walk around in daily, these are a great choice." Outdoor Gear Lab: Prio Prio: "An attractive minimalist shoe that's comfortable on or off the trail."
A Barefoot Winter Boot Review in -20° F
https://youtu.be/aMrFn8GwLU8?si=CRUN3_nXdEjhv-mQBorn To Run 2 Co-Author and Xero Shoes partner, Eric Orton put the Alpine to the test in harsh Wyoming winter conditions, with temperatures dipping to -20 °F. "The Alpine is the perfect balance of performance and protection, and I've been searching for a boot like this for the last 20 years." Learn more about The Alpine from Xero Shoes, our discover our full selection of barefoot winter boots.DISCOVER THE ALPINE
How should you pick the best weightlifting shoe?
SELF recommends their top 10 picks, including Xero Shoes Forza Trainer, a 2023 SELF Sneaker Award winner.Experts back up the benefits of a zero-drop, minimal sneaker.Podiatric Surgeon Dr. Jared Gremillion, DPT, says "Stability is key for weightlifting footwear. Shoes made with sturdy materials and a stiff, wide sole will contribute to that grounded feeling you want while strength training."Check out the picks: https://www.self.com/gallery/best-weightlifting-shoes SHOP THE FORZA TRAINER
Doctors of Running Reviews Xero Shoes HFS II
What does a physical therapist say about Xero Shoes newest HFS II?Dr. Matthew Klein, PT, conducted a thorough review of the HFS II from the lens of an expert in biomechanics, and you won't want to miss what he says:"The HFS II, like the HFS I, is my go-to all-day shoe. I have enjoyed these for their wider toe box, anatomic fit, solid security and having just enough cushioning while maintaining a high level of flexibility. The durability is awesome and the level of flexibility is exactly what I would want in a minimal shoe. The improved midfoot security is also a great step in the right direction and as mentioned I have had zero issues during movements in a variety of planes of motion.Read the full review which includes research and expert recommendations of how to wear these Xero Shoes at www.doctorsofrunning.com/2023/09/xero-hfs-ii-review-2023.html
SELF Sneaker Award: Xero Shoes Forza Trainer
45 Testers 44 Brands 160 Shoes And.... Xero Shoes' Forza Trainer is a winner for the 2023 SELF Sneaker Awards as the Best Weightlifting Sneaker. Why SELF loves it: "The most minimal shoe on this list, the Xero Forza Trainer focuses on one thing and one thing alone: keeping you stable and comfortable. As it should: Weightlifting shoes are usually best without any added fluff, to keep you close to the ground and provide more power and control through the foot. This shoe ticks all those boxes. It also has a midfoot strap for a more custom fit, ensuring you stay secure and stable." One tester said: “I love that these shoes can snug down to my personal preference: They can fit like a glove or loosen up depending on the activity. They’re extremely light and easy to throw in my gym bag or bring along on a trip. Perfect for all of my weightlifting workouts.”Learn more about barefoot shoes for weightlifting.
Z-Trail EV in Wired, Gear Patrol, and Today.com
Z-Trail EV Men SHOP Z-Trail EV Women SHOP Z-Trail Kids SHOP WIRED picks the Z-Trail EV as the 'Best for Minimalists' in their Beach Running GuideHere's what WIRED had to say about the most minimal shoe on the beach running guide:"The Z-Trail EV made our best overall spot in our best barefoot shoes guide, and WIRED product writer Scott Gilbertson calls them the best shoes he’s ever worn. Compared to other shoes, there’s hardly any material on them, so you can barely feel them when you’re running."Gear Patrol names Z-Trail EV as one of the "Best Hiking Sandals'Named as the "Best for short hikes", here's what editor Hayley Helms had to say:"Weighing in at a scant 5.4 ounces, the Z-Trail EV is as light as a hiking sandal gets. It eschews thick straps, extra padding and oversized buckles but it drops most of its weight by using a super-thin 10-millimeter sole...The Z-Trail EV is best for shorter hikes and water activities, or for people who want a protected barefoot walking feel."Today.com listed the "Best Walking Sandals" and recommends the Z-Trail EVPodiatrist Dr. Alissa Kuizinas recommends the Z-Trail EV as the best pick for hikers and it's no surprise why:These shoes are equipped with quick-dry webbing straps crafted from recycled water bottles. Additionally, the brand says the shoes' zero-drop heel design promotes proper posture, balance and agility, while the flexible sole bends and flexes with each step.
SHAPE: Best Zero-Drop Shoes are Xero Shoes' Mesa Trail II
SHAPE names Xero Shoes' Mesa Trail II as the best zero-drop shoes overall!Why We Like It: Great for trail running, hiking, and off-road roaming, the Xero Mesa Trail II is the ultimate adventure buddy.It's Worth Noting: The toe-box is intentionally wide to allow your toes to spread and grip the ground. It may be too wide for folks with narrow feet.So what is a zero-drop shoe? Podiatrist Dr. Alissa Kuizinas says, “The benefit of zero-drop shoes compared to shoes with a heel drop is that they allow your foot to function and move from its natural position— which means you’re walking or moving as efficiently as possible."And Xero Shoes' partner, Christopher McDougall, loves these shoes as well: “The first time I wore Mesa 11s, I ran ten miles of trails and waded two creeks before arriving home and forgetting I had them on,” he says. “That’s how rugged they are, yet comfortable.” READ MORE
Find the Shoe That Moves Like You Do.
Take the Quiz
Want to Win a $100 Xero Gift Certificate?
Click Here!Popular Reads
