Xero Shoes Z Trail Review: The Best Barefoot Sandal for Hiking

If you’re looking for a minimalist, lightweight sandal that can handle trails, water crossings, and everyday wear, the Xero Shoes Z Trail is a top contender. Designed for barefoot enthusiasts, these sandals offer ground feel, durability, and comfort—but are they right for you?

In this in-depth review, we’ll cover:
✔ Key features & design (barefoot benefits, materials)
✔ Real-world testing (hiking, water performance, durability)
✔ Fit & comfort (sizing, strap adjustments, long-term wear)
✔ Pros & cons vs. competitors (Bedrock Cairn, Luna Sandals)
✔ Who should (and shouldn’t) buy them

By the end, you’ll know if the Z Trail is the perfect minimalist sandal for your adventures.

. Overview: What Are the Xero Shoes Z Trail Sandals?

Specs at a Glance

• Price: $89.99 (affordable for a performance barefoot sandal)
• Weight: 8 oz per sandal (men’s size 9)
• Thickness: 10mm sole (5mm tread + 5mm base)
• Drop: Zero-drop (promotes natural foot movement)
• Best For: Hiking, backpacking, water sports, everyday wear

Key Features

✅ Vibram®-inspired sole (durable & grippy)
✅ Adjustable straps (secure fit for active use)
✅ Lightweight & packable (great for travel)
✅ Machine washable (easy to clean)

. Barefoot Design & Performance

Ground Feel & Flexibility

The Z Trail offers a balance of protection and ground feedback:

• 10mm total thickness (thinner than Chacos, thicker than Shamma Sandals).
• Flexible enough to roll up but sturdy for rocky trails.

Compared to other barefoot sandals:

• More cushion than Earth Runners (better for long miles).
• Less rigid than Bedrock Cairns (more natural movement).

Traction & Grip

• “FeelTrue®” rubber sole performs well on wet rocks, mud, and trails.
• Not as aggressive as Vibram Megagrip (slightly slippery on slimy surfaces).

Water & Quick-Drying Performance

• No water retention (unlike foam sandals like Tevas).
• Straps dry quickly (ideal for river crossings).

. Fit & Comfort: Do They Stay Secure?

Sizing & Adjustability

• Runs true to size (follow Xero’s sizing guide).
• Three adjustable straps (heel, ankle, toe) for a custom fit.
• No toe post (unlike Luna Sandals)—better for wide feet.

Break-In Period

• Minimal break-in needed (straps soften over time).
• Some users report initial strap rubbing (fixes with adjustment).

Long-Distance Comfort

• Great for day hikes (tested on 10+ mile trails).
• Thin sole may fatigue feet on ultra-long hikes (better suited for trained barefoot users).

. Durability: How Long Do They Last?

• Sole lifespan: 5,000+ miles (Xero’s warranty).
• Straps: Resilient but can fray if snagged.
• Compared to competitors:
  • More flexible than Bedrock Cairns (but slightly less rugged).
  • More durable than Shamma Sandals.

. Pros & Cons vs. Competitors

Pros

✔ Lightweight & packable (easy to carry in a backpack).
✔ Affordable (cheaper than Bedrock or Luna Sandals).
✔ Adjustable fit (works for wide/narrow feet).
✔ Good grip for trails & water.

Cons

❌ Less ankle support than Chacos (not ideal for heavy loads).
❌ Thin sole may not suit everyone (takes adaptation).
❌ Straps can loosen over time (needs occasional re-tightening).

Z Trail vs. Top Competitors

Winner?

• Best barefoot option: Z Trail (best value).
• Most durable: Bedrock Cairn.
• Most cushioned: Chaco Z/Cloud.

. Who Should Buy the Z Trail?

Buy Them If…

✔ You want a minimalist, lightweight hiking sandal.
✔ You prefer barefoot-style flexibility & ground feel.
✔ You need a water-friendly, quick-drying option.

Skip Them If…

❌ You need arch support or cushioning (try Chacos).
❌ You hike mostly on sharp, rocky terrain (Bedrocks are tougher).
❌ You prefer a toe loop design (consider Earth Runners).

. Final Verdict: 9/10

The Xero Shoes Z Trail is one of the best minimalist sandals for hikers, travelers, and barefoot enthusiasts. It’s affordable, durable, and versatile, though it requires some adjustment if you’re new to zero-drop footwear.