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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Penny Hoarder Affordable Hiking Boot

The Daylite Hiker is an Affordable Hiking Boot

Hiking boots can be expensive, but because Xero Shoes are designed without a midsole, we eliminate some of the cost while still retaining a technical, stellar hiking boot!Penny Hoarder features the Daylite Hiker as one of the best lightweight hiking boots on the market!

Prevention Names the Z-Trail as a Podiatrist-Recommended Sandal

Prevention Names the Z-Trail as a Podiatrist-Recommended Sandal

Prevention recommends Xero Shoes' Z-Trail as one of the best hiking sandals.If you want to hike with a sandal, which is great when you're ending your hike at a lake or crossing creeks, the Z-Trail can hold up to different terrain while retaining traction.People love the Z-Trail for the adjustable straps and the natural, foot-shaped design. With its flexible sole, you can feel the ground while hiking!

Xero Shoes' HFS is one of VeryWell Health's Best Shoes for Bunions

Xero Shoes' HFS is one of VeryWell Health's Best Shoes for Bunions

Bunions are a struggle for many people, and part of the reason is that our shoes aren't designed for our feet. That's part of what makes Xero Shoes so comfortable for every activity: our shoes have a wide toe box, non-elevated heel and foot-shaped design.Read more about why our HFS shoe was named one of the best walking shoes for people with bunions.

SELF Recommends Best Hiking Sandal from Xero Shoes

SELF Recommends Best Hiking Sandal from Xero Shoes

What Xero sandals made it into SELF's Best Hiking Sandals?Our Genesis sandal, known as our truly minimal sandal. Even though this sandal is the closest to barefoot you can get, our Xero Shoes' fan and a mountaineer, Chuck Garcia, has worn these on trips out and about in the Adirondacks. Our sandals are just super comfortable that you don't even realize you're wearing them!

Xero Shoes Named One of the Best Walking Shoes by Penny Hoarder

Xero Shoes Named One of the Best Walking Shoes by Penny Hoarder

 What's better than a comfortable walking shoe? A shoe that's affordable. And that's why Penny Hoarder picked Xero Shoes' Terraflex II as one of the 6 Best Walking Shoes.If you're looking for a hiking shoe that can still handle varying terrain, but isn't an ankle-height boot, the TerraFlex II is a great option. People love to travel with it as well!

Xero Shoes Fan Embraces Running after Cancer Diagnosis

Xero Shoes Fan Embraces Running after Cancer Diagnosis

Part of why we created Xero Shoes was because we wanted to make shoes that change people's lives. And for our Xero Hero and affiliate, Randy Kriell, our shoes were part of his transformation story.Randy's story was featured in his local hometown paper, Dayton Daily News: Cancer diagnosis leads man to embrace running in sandals, develop healthy lifestyle.If you rewind 10 years ago, Randy’s life was rocked by a cancer scare that led to radiation and countless surgeries. The next few years were a challenge as he healed. After reading Chris McDougall’s book, “Born to Run”, Randy was inspired by the Tarahumara Indians, the tribe the book was based on, and changed his lifestyle to mimic theirs. He laced up a pair of minimal sandals and started running, and hasn’t looked back. Randy took a cancer diagnosis and turned it into motivation to run. In August he turned 60, and he's run more than 80 “ultra marathons” in the past 10 years. “My life changed again when I bought these crazy looking sandals,” Kreill said. “I had to put them together and figure out how to lace them the best way.” The Xero Shoes DIY sandal, originally called “Invisible Shoes,” is what Kreill ordered and, after perfecting his lacing technique, he created a video, uploaded it to YouTube and ended up with close to 2,900 subscribers. And on his 50th birthday – Aug. 25, 2012 – he participated in a Triathlon at Caesar Creek State Park, running a full marathon in his new “invisible shoes.” “Wearing the sandals is a constant reminder to pick up my feet,” Kreill said. “I’ve learned how to run properly and use my core.” If Xero Shoes have changed your life like they did with Randy, share your review! We love to hear from our customers!

Chris McDougall Wears Xero Shoes on Good Day New York

Chris McDougall Wears Xero Shoes on Good Day New York

So many of us were inspired by Christopher McDougall‘s book, “Born to Run.” In fact, it sparked the barefoot, natural running movement. We’ve always been a big fan of Chris’, and it turns out, he’s a big fan of ours, sharing several social media posts about wearing Xero Shoes. We're working with Chris and Eric to promote BTR2 and help people discover how to run joyfully!August 29th, Chris and his co-author and coach, Eric Orton, set off to promote the sequel, Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide.They're stopping in multiple cities across the US, joining local running groups to teach free running form clinics, using tips from the new book.Before their first stop in Harlem, NYC, Chris and his wife Mika joined Good Day New York to share of the best running form drills.Check Out Tour Dates in NYC for Christopher McDougall's Born to Run 2 Tour "We get conditioned to buy shoes with cushion for fashion, but we forget that our feet are designed to run naturally. Just get all that obstruction out of your way, and let your feet respond. These shoes are specifically designed to feel the ground. They're called Xero Shoes, and they're as close to zero as you can get." Check out the cities that Chris and Eric are visiting: Full details on his Born to Run 2 Tour

Forbes Chooses Xero Shoes' Naboso Trail as Best Hiking Sandals

Forbes Chooses Xero Shoes' Naboso Trail as Best Hiking Sandals

Forbes Vetted names Xero Shoes' Naboso Trail as one of the "Best Minimalist Hiking Sandals"!In a roundup of  The 12 Best Hiking Sandals For Fairweather Treks, our Naboso Trail tops the list as the lightest sandal out there, at only 5.4 ounces each."...This model not only offers a super thin, highly flexible outsole, but also the stimulating action of a Naboso insole. So as you hike in a more natural, grounded way, the bottoms of your feet receive some pleasant attention. If you’re not a fan of sandal thongs and think you could get on board with the idea that less is more, this is the perfect option."The stimulation of the Naboso Trail comes from its proprioceptive insole, created by Dr. Emily Splichal, a podiatrist committed to natural movement and the benefits barefoot.In addition to this hiking shoe, our Z-Trail sandal is a great hiking sandal. Or for a closer-to-barefoot experience, hike in our Z-Trek sandal. 

Inc 5000

Xero Shoes Makes the Inc. 5000 for the Sixth Time, Ranking No. 2,114

(Broomfield, CO) August 16, 2022 – Inc. announced that Feel the World, dba Xero Shoes, is No. 2,114 on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. Xero Shoes’ experienced a three-year revenue growth of 282.5 percent.“We're thrilled to be named on the Inc. 5000 for the sixth year in a row, thanks to the hard work from our growing number of employees and the passion from our customers who have discovered the comfort, health benefits, and FUN of Xero Shoes,” says Steven Sashen, CEO and Co-Founder of Xero Shoes.  The list represents a one-of-a-kind look at the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent businesses. Facebook, Chobani, Microsoft, Patagonia, and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000.The companies on the 2022 Inc. 5000 have not only been successful, but have also demonstrated resilience amid supply chain woes, labor shortages, and the ongoing impact of Covid-19. During this time, Xero Shoes hired key executives including Shaun Araham, Director of Product Management; Tom Curran, Director of Sales; and Jody Eichler, VP of Digital, who bring an array of experience to propel Xero Shoes’ rapid expansion in both DTC and wholesale businesses sales expansion and support digital and creative marketing efforts. In 2021, the Company grew 46 percent year-over-year, with annual net revenue of $33.6 million. Xero Shoes also launched xeroshoes.eu website to meet the growing demands in the European market.“Despite the economic roadblocks, we’re proud of our company’s continued growth and ability to rise above multiple challenges as we provide our customers with innovative footwear that changes lives,” says Lena Phoenix, President and Co-Founder of Xero Shoes.###About Xero ShoesFounded in 2009, Xero Shoes manufactures comfortable, lightweight, performance and casual footwear built with a “foot-first design”. The company’s mission is to help people experience the comfort and benefits of barefoot-inspired footwear that lets them move naturally so they can “Live Life Feet First”. Co-founder and CEO, Steven Sashen, started Xero Shoes out of necessity after discovering that running barefoot solved years of running injuries, but that being actually barefoot wasn't ideal in many situations. Xero Shoes launched in December 2009, in the EU in November 2021 and now has a complete line of casual and performance shoes, boots, and sandals that customers ages 2-92 in 97 countries wear for almost any imaginable occasion and activity.  Xero Shoes is the footwear partner for two USA National Teams - USA Artistic Swimming and USA Archery.  Sashen, along with co-founder and President, Lena Phoenix, appeared on ABC's hit reality-business show, Shark Tank, where they turned down a $400,000 offer from Kevin "Mr. Wonderful" O'Leary. 

What Shoes Did WIRED Pick for Beach Running? Xero Shoes

What Shoes Did WIRED Pick for Beach Running? Xero Shoes

Two times in one month, two Xero Shoes are featured in WIRED! They ask, Want to Run on the Beach? Start With the Right Shoes.Experts recommend you're better off NOT running barefoot in the sand, and that's a good thing because our barefoot-inspired shoes give you the protection you need while still allowing your feet to bend, move and flex naturally.Xero Shoes' Aqua X Sport and Z-Trail are listed as the Best for Minimalists WIRED calls the Aqua X Sport the ultimate water shoe, thanks to its superior breathability... All the holes along the sides and toe box means it does fill with sand like nobody’s business, but that also gives you breathability for your feet.   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.      

The Running Shoe that USA Today Recommends from Xero Shoes

The Running Shoe that USA Today Recommends from Xero Shoes

Check out the Zelen, Xero Shoes' "sustainable" shoe mentioned in USA Today's "YES! Weekly Shopper"  

Xero Shoes Expands Executive Team with Industry Veterans to Drive Rapid Expansion

Xero Shoes Expands Executive Team with Industry Veterans to Drive Rapid Expansion

Shaun Aharam, Tom Curran, and Jody Eichler bring decades of experience in product management, sales, and digital marketing to top-performing minimal shoe company Broomfield, CO (July 7, 2022) – Xero Shoes, a leading provider of natural movement footwear, announces the hiring of three seasoned industry professionals to join the Company’s leadership team. Shaun Aharam, Director of Product Management; Tom Curran, Director of Sales; and Jody Eichler, VP of Digital bring an array of experience to propel Xero Shoes’ rapid sales expansion and support digital and creative marketing efforts. “We're thrilled to have people with this level of talent joining our team and accelerating our growth,” says Steven Sashen, CEO of Xero Shoes. “With their combined sales, marketing, and creative expertise, we look forward to helping more people discover the comfort, health benefits, and FUN of Xero Shoes.”Shaun Aharam is a curious creative with a background as a Creative Director and Product Designer for Khul, Nautica, Oscar de la Renta, Ralph Lauren, Target Corporation, and The North Face. At Xero Shoes, he joins as Director of Product Management, where he will lead product design and development. “I have a passion for design and storytelling, and this mindset allows me to ground the product in practicality and purpose, with the intention to always create something new,” says Aharam. “My position with Xero Shoes allows me to align my personal passions of wellness and fitness with decades of industry experience.”Tom Curran joins Xero Shoes as the Director of Sales and will oversee Xero Shoes’ rapid expansion in the U.S. wholesale channel and international marketplace. Tom built up an impressive sales portfolio at Newton Running, where he grew into the role of VP of Sales at Newton Running.“I’ve been involved in the natural footwear industry for more than 12 years, and with Xero Shoes continually expanding their lifestyle and performance footwear, I look forward to pursuing new avenues for sales and distribution,” says Curran. “We’ve seen the adoption of minimalist footwear grow and I’m looking forward to developing strong retail and distribution partnerships.”Jody Eichler, Xero Shoes’ new VP of Digital brings more than 20 years of experience in digital marketing where she’s led interactive, full-scale B2B and B2C campaigns. She’s a pioneer in the SEO field and her marketing tactics have improved campaigns and led to increased sales leads.“Now more than ever, digital marketing is pivotal to scaling a successful brand,” says Eichler. “We already have a loyal fan base of repeat customers that really love their Xero Shoes and interact with us through the web, email, and social media. I’m eager to help amplify Xero Shoes’ strategic marketing efforts with next-level, digitally connected brand interactions and customer-centric marketing journeys.”Xero Shoes plans to make more strategic hires over the next year to meet customer demand and industry growth in the minimalist footwear industry. In 2021, the Company grew 45% year-over-year, with annual net revenue of $33.5 million.###About Xero ShoesFounded in 2009, Xero Shoes manufactures comfortable, lightweight, performance and casual footwear built with a “foot-first design”. The company’s mission is to help people experience the comfort and benefits of barefoot-inspired footwear that lets them move naturally so they can “Live Life Feet First”. Co-founder and CEO, Steven Sashen, started Xero Shoes out of necessity after discovering that running barefoot solved years of running injuries, but that being actually barefoot wasn't ideal in many situations. Xero Shoes launched in December 2009, in the EU in November 2021 and now has a complete line of casual and performance shoes, boots, and sandals that customers ages 2-92 in 97 countries wear for almost any imaginable occasion and activity.  Xero Shoes is the footwear partner for two USA National Teams - USA Artistic Swimming and USA Archery.  Sashen, along with co-founder and President, Lena Phoenix, appeared on ABC's hit reality-business show, Shark Tank, where they turned down a $400,000 offer from Kevin "Mr. Wonderful" O'Leary.