Xero Shoes  Scrambler Low EV Shoes - Men's

I bought this shoe upon reading that the stack height is about 14-15.5mm; this is a somewhat rare range in stack height for shoes. Barefoot shoes tend to be 4-9mm. Minimalist shoes then often make a jump to the 19-25mm range (ie: Altra) but this is FAR too thick for me; not much ground feel and much stiffer shoes. The Scrambler Low EV as a result IMO fits a near perfect middle ground for those who can handle barefoot shoes but want just a bit more thickness for the trails. The stack height is also comparable to Bedrocks sandals. It can also fit a thicker insole for more cushion but volume is reduced and makes the shoe even more snug. Main nitpick so far: the shoe isn't exactly narrow but not very wide either, by barefoot standards. My Whitin trail shoes are wider at the toebox than these while still being snug in the right places but of course, preferences here vary by foot. The Scrambler isn't too tight, would prefer slightly wider in the toebox. The shoe itself is slightly wide, possibly not the most breathable out there as light doesn't seem to penetrate the weave much. Can't speak for longevity/durability. Compared to most shoes, it's very flexible but not as much as barefoot shoes. Great design, true black with a sleek appearance. Price seems a bit high but purchased on sale and if the durability matches, even better. Overall, a very basic no-frills minimalist trail shoe that can do road well since it's not a high squishy stack.

Don't believe the hype. And don't attempt wearing without an insole for that barefoot feel, that's how I got a case of plantar fasciitis that is the bane of my existence. As for 5,000 mile sole warranty, simply not true. Mine are worn through multiple layers of rubber in under 1,000 kilometers. Now they are slick bottom, slip sliding danger. I had better hopes for the Michelin soles, but after several pairs of Daylite Fusion hikers I can say that older product, while also not so long lasting, did seem to hold up better than these. I do like the light weight, and the wide toe box. I put in a sorbathane insole for cushion, and still have a light weight hiking shoe, but not one that can last more than a few hard weeks of hiking let alone a season. Your mileage may vary. I hike 20-30 km daily week after week in Shikoku Japan over mostly wet moldy concrete agricultural roads and mountain trails. These had good grip when new, this lasted only a few weeks however before they became a liability. Good for casual hiking, not through hikers. I'm going back to Salomon Speedcross shoes, which also last me under three months, but provide better grip even when nubs worn down.

Great zero drop shoes. I love the Michelin soles, they have great traction wet or dry. Ive owned them for over a year now and picked up a second pair in black because they're awesome.