The Xero Press

Xero Shoes Unveils the X1 Barefoot Basketball Shoe

Xero Shoes Unveils the X1 Barefoot Basketball Shoe

NBA and WNBA Athletes and Performance Trainers Partner with the Brand (Broomfield, CO) March 6, 2025 – Xero Shoes reveals the X1, a barefoot basketball shoe worn in the NBA and WNBA. Designed with input from players and trainers and rooted in barefoot principles, the X1 will launch to consumers on March 26, 2025. The brand aims to redefine basketball footwear with an innovative “foot-forward” lightweight design to maximize performance and comfort.  Power forward Isaiah Stewart is the latest NBA athlete to sign with Xero Shoes and wear the X1 on the court this season. "I feel like I’m gaining a lot by switching from a standard basketball shoe,” said Stewart. “I feel very grounded. I play with a lot of force, strength and power, and the Xero Shoes X1 allow me to function as the human body should." The groundbreaking X1 shoe debuted in the NBA Playoffs in May 2024 on shooting guard Justin Holiday. WNBA center Temi Fagbenle will continue to wear the X1 during her 2025 season. Basketball trainers, Mike Guevara and Felix Flores, who train several NBA athletes with a focus on foot strength, have partnered with the brand to help players transition to, and get the most value from, the X1. “I’ve been wearing Xero Shoes on and off the court. My feet and ankles feel indestructible!” says Fagbenle. The X1 brings the brand’s iconic natural movement DNA to the court: a foot-shaped toe box for balance and stability, a low-to-the-court design for quick cuts and pivots, and a zero-drop heel for a powerful push-off. The X1’s minimal design is lightweight for more energy throughout the game. The women’s-specific version of the X1 used data from thousands of 3D foot scans to create a shoe that matches the anatomy of a woman’s foot.  “For years, athletes and trainers requested basketball shoes after seeing the benefits of barefoot training off the court,” says John Wadley, Xero Shoes VP of Product Development and a longtime basketball player. “Xero Shoes is not just stepping into the world of basketball, we are making a bold statement to evolve the sport by embracing footwear that enhances natural movement. Our goal is to give players more healthy games in a season and more seasons in a career.” Xero Shoes X1 Mid and X1 Low Basketball Shoe X1 Mid MSRP: $170 X1 Low MSRP: $160 Colorways: White, Black, Sunny Lime Men Sizes: 7-13, 14, 15, 16, 17 Women Sizes: 5-12, 13, 14 Weight (each shoe): 11.2 oz (men’s size 9), 9.8 oz (women’s size 7) Launch Date: March 26, 2025 Updates on Xero Shoes’ X1 release and more info is available at xeroshoes.com/basketball. ### MEDIA CONTACT Alexa Lampasona Xero Shoes PR Director alexa@xeroshoes.com  
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Best Xero Shoes Workout Shoes, According to Top Media

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
Read More Best Xero Shoes Workout Shoes, According to Top Media
Xero Shoes Becomes the Official Barefoot/Minimalist Training Shoe  of Select Training Programs at Life Time

Xero Shoes Becomes the Official Barefoot/Minimalist Training Shoe of Select Training Programs at Life Time

New footwear sponsor brings natural performance and comfort to training and fitnessBroomfield, CO (June 18, 2024) – As the world of fitness training continues to evolve, so does overall understanding of footwear’s impact on performance and natural movement. It’s with this at the forefront that today, Xero Shoes announced a new relationship with Life Time, the nation’s premier healthy lifestyle brand as the official barefoot/minimalist footwear of its Dynamic Personal Training and Alpha Signature Group Training programs.This new partnership introduces Xero Shoes’ natural comfort and performance to Life Time’s team of more than 3,500 Dynamic Personal Trainers and Alpha Coaches with the goal of inspiring and educating Life Time members on the benefits of minimalist shoes as part of their training programs and classes.Xero Shoes are crafted to mimic a natural, barefoot experience during workouts, designed with wider, foot-shaped​ toe boxes and zero-drop, flexible soles. According to Dr. Sarah Ridge’s research, walking in minimalist shoes has been shown to build foot strength as much as doing an 8-week foot strengthening exercise program.“We’re thrilled that Life Time recognized how Xero Shoes can help their team of Dynamic Personal Trainers, Coaches and members perform better and experience the benefits of natural movement both in and out of the gym,” says Xero Shoes Co-Founder Steven Sashen. “Life Time and Xero Shoes are bringing our shared communities together and, emphasizing positivity, health, and life-changing footwear.”As part of the relationship, Life Time members will have the opportunity to participate in events at select clubs to test a variety of Xero Shoes styles to understand the benefits and differences these shoes may provide for their desired goals. These events will showcase the shoes' unique features and educate attendees on the advantages of embracing natural movement in their fitness routines.“Given the expertise and experience of our Dynamic Personal Trainers, they recognize the benefits of training in a minimal shoe, and we couldn’t be more excited to work with the best in category, Xero Shoes, as trainers and to share with our clients,” said Ryan Sonnenburg, Vice President of Personal Training at Life Time. “We can’t wait to see how our clients increase their own performance and output as they incorporate Xero into their routines.”Details of the agreement were not disclosed. For more information on Life Time personal training programs and Alpha Signature Group Training programs, visit www.lifetime.life.# # #About Xero ShoesBorn in Boulder, Colorado, in 2009, Xero Shoes continues to revolutionize the footwear industry by offering innovative barefoot shoes, boots, and sandals. Crafted with the Xero Shoes’ DNA – wider, foot-shaped toe boxes and zero-drop, flexible soles, they are designed to mimic the natural, barefoot experience. Xero Shoes has more than 1.5 million loyal customers globally in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. From mountain trails to urban jungles, Xero Shoes help you... Live Life Feet First™. ​For more information, visit www.xeroshoes.com or follow @xeroshoes.About Life Time®Life Time (NYSE: LTH) empowers people to live healthy, happy lives through its portfolio of more than 170 athletic country clubs across the United States and Canada. The health and wellness pioneer also delivers a range of healthy way of life programs and information via its complimentary Life Time app. The Company's healthy living, healthy aging, healthy entertainment communities and ecosystem serve people 90 days to 90+ years old and is supported by a team of more than 39,000 dedicated professionals. In addition to delivering the best programs and experiences through its clubs, Life Time owns and produces nearly 30 of the most iconic athletic events in the country.
Read More Xero Shoes Becomes the Official Barefoot/Minimalist Training Shoe of Select Training Programs at Life Time

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Xero Shoes Expands Operations, Moves to a New Office in Broomfield, CO

Xero Shoes Expands Operations, Moves to a New Office in Broomfield, CO

Xero Shoes Expands Operations, Moves to a New Office in Broomfield, COBroomfield, CO (November 11, 2023) - Xero Shoes, a natural footwear brand, moves to a new office location in Broomfield, Colorado to support the brand’s growth and market traction. The new office address is 320 Interlocken Parkway, Suite 100, Broomfield, CO 80021.At 15,615 sq. ft., the new office is more than double the size of Xero Shoes’ previous location, which measured 7,316 sq. ft. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the company's journey. Net revenue from January 1 through June 30, 2023, increased by 24 percent over the prior year for US and Europe. The additional space accommodates the growing team: Xero Shoes now has 96 full-time employees in the US and EU.Xero Shoes' commitment to providing natural, foot-shaped, comfortable footwear has led to substantial growth in recent years. Xero Shoes opened its first customer-facing retail store in April 2023 at 11777 East 55th Ave. Suite 101, Denver, CO 80239. In January 2022, the brand expanded to a 86,200 sq. ft warehouse, six times larger than the former.###

How should you pick the best weightlifting shoe?

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

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

Xero Shoes Launches New Barefoot Shoes for Running, Hiking and Casual Wear

Xero Shoes Launches New Barefoot Shoes for Running, Hiking and Casual Wear

Broomfield, CO (August 22, 2023) – Barefoot shoe brand, Xero Shoes, just launched eight new styles: two updated running shoes, two trail runners, a workout trainer, a waterproof hiking boot, a men’s casual moccasin, and a faux wool slipper. Now with more than 45 styles, Xero Shoes adds styles for every occasion to meet the growing demand, as worldwide searches for "barefoot shoes" have steadily risen since 2021, currently at “peak volume” according to Google Trends. “The talented designers on our team developed our brand into a full-fledged line that appeals to the masses,” says VP of Product Development, Shaun Aharam. “Our Chief Product Officer, Dennis Driscoll, established the foundation of our Xero Shoes’ DNA, which prioritizes natural movement, and with his guidance, we've maintained this focus while incorporating creative design elements.”Xero Shoes’ new styles will be 20+ percent off during the launch sale from August 22 through September 5. Shop and buy at xeroshoes.com/fall23sale in the US and xeroshoes.eu/fall23sale in Europe.Xero Shoes’ Fall/Winter lineup includes updates to bestsellers and new styles:RUNNING SHOES Scrambler Low – An ultra-lightweight trail runner, unparalleled lightness and flexibility are guaranteed by the fiberlite technology in the Michelin sole. HFS II - An evolution of the best-selling road running shoe, with a more aggressive tire tread-inspired outsole for comfort. Mesa Trail WP – A waterproof version of the best-selling trail shoe, Mesa Trail. This version keeps your feet dry on cold or wet runs in a surprisingly lightweight package. Speed Force II – The “closest-to-barefoot” racing flat. Co-founder and Masters All-American sprinter, Steven Sashen, uses this for training, racing, and everyday wear. WORKOUT/ATHLEISURE SHOE Nexus Knit – Provides comfort and style to wear for workouts and everyday activities, with a premium knit booty design that’s sleek, stylish, and breathable. HIKING BOOT Ridgeway – A waterproof mid-height hiking boot with a classic, retro look that strips away every bit of unnecessary weight and stiffness. CASUAL SHOES Pagosa – This slipper is light as a feather, the vegan-friendly synthetic wool keeps you cozy in cool weather. The collapsible heel lets you wear it as a slide if you like. Kona – A coastal-style slip-on moccasin for men, made with lightweight, breathable chambray cotton. As Xero Shoes’ founders and co-CEOs, Steven Sashen and Lena Phoenix discussed on the “How I Built This” podcast, the brand may have started with just a “barefoot running sandal kit” in 2009, but now has a cult-like following of people who never want to wear anything other than the brand’s lightweight, comfortable, foot-shaped shoes, boots, and sandals.Xero Shoes distinguishes itself from other brands by prioritizing natural comfort through a foot-first design. This includes a wider, foot-shaped toe box, a non-elevated “zero-drop” heel, a flexible sole that allows feet and toes to bend and move naturally and that’s so durable it’s backed with a 5,000-mile sole warranty.###

Xero Shoes Makes the Inc. 5000 for the 7th Time

Xero Shoes Makes the Inc. 5000 for the 7th Time

Your browser does not support the video tag. NEW YORK, August 15, 2023 – Inc. revealed today that Xero Shoes ranks No. 1,861 on the 2023 Inc. 5000, its annual list of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The prestigious ranking provides a data-driven look at the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent, entrepreneurial businesses. Xero Shoes' had a three-year revenue of 302 percent. Co-CEO Steven Sashen said, "We're thrilled to be honored again and couldn't do it without our dedicated employees, who go above and beyond: whether they're designing natural footwear, servicing our customers, marketing our products, or picking and shipping boxes of shoes." As Co-CEO Lena Phoenix said on the "How I Built This" podcast earlier this year, "We have an evangelical customer base that is eager to grow with us, and we're excited to see what's next." The Inc. 5000 class of 2023 represents companies that have driven rapid revenue growth while navigating inflationary pressure, the rising costs of capital, and seemingly intractable hiring challenges. Among this year’s top 500 companies, the average median three-year revenue growth rate ticked up to an astonishing 2,238 percent. This year’s Inc. 5000 companies have added 1,187,266 jobs to the economy over the past three years. ###

SELF Sneaker Award: Xero Shoes Forza Trainer

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.

Xero Shoes Partners with Team Novo Nordisk through 2024

Xero Shoes Partners with Team Novo Nordisk through 2024

 Xero Shoes Partners with Team Novo Nordisk through 2024Barefoot-inspired Footwear Benefits both Athletes and Staff(Broomfield, CO) August 8, 2023 –  The world’s first all-diabetes professional cycling team, Team Novo Nordisk, has partnered with Xero Shoes as their official off-bike footwear.Cyclists wear rigid sport-specific shoes while riding, but off the bike comfortable footwear that allows for a natural range of motion in the feet and toes could benefit riders. For example, according to Dr. Sarah Ridge’s research, walking in minimalist shoes has been shown to build foot strength as much as doing an 8-week foot strengthening exercise program. Xero Shoes’ wider, foot-shaped toe boxes and flexible soles could help with active recovery, whether that’s for riders after a day of training or racing, or for their support staff who are on their feet all day.“We’re extremely pleased to be working with Xero Shoes,” said CEO and Co-Founder of Team Novo Nordisk, Phil Southerland. “Xero Shoes are an up-and-coming American brand and with their ethos and the thought that goes into their whole design and manufacturing process, it’s a perfect partnership for Team Novo Nordisk.”"We're thrilled to help Team Novo Nordisk not only perform better on their bikes by integrating our footwear into their lives but also to spread their inspiring message of resilience and determination," says Xero Shoes CEO, Steven Sashen.Adds Southerland, “It’s important for us as a team to work together with partners who share our goal not only to inspire, educate and empower but also to stay true to the natural aspects of performance and we feel that Xero Shoes will be a great fit for us.”With a shared commitment to promoting health, wellness, and athletic achievement, Xero Shoes and Team Novo Nordisk aim to redefine what is possible.Team Novo Nordisk’s only US athlete, Logan Phippen, has raced on the team for the past seven years, two years at the WorldTour level with the pro team and five years on the development team. Phippen was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at 24, and with the guidance of his medical team, was back on the bike within a week.###ABOUT XERO SHOESXero Shoes was founded in 2009 on the floor of a corner of a spare bedroom by husband and wife co-founders Steven Sashen and Lena Phoenix, offering a simple “DIY sandal making kit”. Today the company offers a complete line of 39 casual and performance shoes, boots, and sandals. Xero Shoes has customers ranging in age from 2-92 in 97 countries who wear their shoes for every occasion and activity. Xero Shoes’ barefoot-inspired designs let your feet function the way nature intended while giving you the protection and style you’re looking for. The company’s mission: Providing the comfort and benefits of natural movement footwear so people can “Live Life Feet First”.   ABOUT TEAM NOVO NORDISKTeam Novo Nordisk is a global all-diabetes sports team of cyclists spearheaded by the world’s first all-diabetes professional cycling team. In 2012, Phil Southerland, co-founder and CEO of the team, and global healthcare company Novo Nordisk came together to create Team Novo Nordisk, based on a shared vision to inspire, educate, and empower people around the world affected by diabetes and promote a healthy and active lifestyle. For more information, visit www.teamnovonordisk.com. 

Z-Trail EV in Wired, Gear Patrol, and Today.com

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: 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

Robb Report: Best Water Shoes includes Xero Shoes' Aqua X Sport

Robb Report: Best Water Shoes includes Xero Shoes' Aqua X Sport

Robb Report's "10 Best Water Shoes" features Xero Shoes' Aqua X Sport as the "Best Sneaker-Style Water Shoes". Author Beau Hayhoe writes, "Some of our favorite water shoes appear like sneakers at first glance... Xero Shoes uses a drainable mesh upper in a vivid blue, then sets it atop its proprietary FeelTrue rubber sole for flexibility and grip—great for any terrain. Even better are the quick-dry liners and non-absorbent tongue that gives it a super-lightweight feel underfoot." Read More

Marathon Handbook Reviews: Xero Shoes' Born to Run Shoe

Marathon Handbook Reviews: Xero Shoes' Born to Run Shoe

Are we really born to run barefoot? Marathon Handbook's Paul Freary, aka "The Running Shoe Guru", does a deep dive review of our new Born to Run Mesa Trail shoe.Watch the review to learn about: what makes a natural shoe the barefoot running experience why you should run in a minimal shoe and recommendations to get started WATCH THE REVIEW

Well + Good: Best Barefoot Sandals

Well + Good: Best Barefoot Sandals

Xero Shoes' Jessie makes the list of Well + Good's "Best Barefoot Sandals". Xero Shoes' Jessie is a fashionable woman's sandal that pairs well with your favorite outfit. Two experts advocate the benefits of barefoot: “Your foot has everything it needs to support and cushion itself…When you contain it in a shoe, you start to lose some of the function of the foot. We need to let our feet move the way our feet are adapted to move.” -Dr. Irene Davis, Phd and researcher at USF “Unlocking that natural movement of barefoot sandals can strengthen not only your foot, but boost balance and offer benefits all the way up your spine.”-Dr. Emily Splichal, Podiatrist Read More