Daylite Hiker EV – Women– On September 19th, 2019 we updated the sizing for the Women’s Daylite Hiker. We originally recommended a full size larger than your usual size prior to that date. We then recommended choosing 1/2 size larger after that date.* The Z-Trail’s are notoriously designed after running sandals worn by the “Tarahamura running people” of Mexico, that live their lives as runners. Keeping with the tradition, these shoes have only what is necessary – high performing soles and comfy yet high performing straps. The result is a minimalist, non-chunky design that looks a little better than a sleek pair of flip flops (think Havanians). Veracruz -The Veracruz sport sandal fits true to size. You can confirm your size with the printable templates below. Use the Z-Trail as a guide.* Xero Shoes tend to have a technical style first, though they have softened with recent models like Phoenix and the Aptos also reviewed here, and this one has no flowery additions. It’s functional and unassuming. That means you can put it with pretty much anything you want, but it won’t ‘dress up’ an outfit. These shoes are for trekking.

For me, the overall shape of the sandal was too narrow around the toe area and the toepost-less design of the Z-Trek requires anchor points for it’s webbing over and across your toes. Since the anchor points are placed high off the ground for durability, they form a wall of rubber to the left and right of your toes. This wall causes my big and pinky toes to squeeze and rub against the rubber inside of the sandal. The Pah Tempe, like other Unshoes sandals, has many different shapes to find the best fit, while the Z-Trek has only the two shapes—one for men and one for women. Both sandals have sizing templates online so you can print out and test with your feet on the floor. Currently, the Pah Tempe in its latest generation has six templates/shapes for each size.

For those that aren’t used to running in minimalist footwear, I highly recommend considering the transition to minimalist footwear, to lighten your bag and improve your health). All of our men’s shoes are wider than conventional men’s shoes. If you normally wear a larger size to get a wider fit in conventional shoes, you may not have to do that with Xero Shoes. From there, you then should set the middle part of the Z to a secure level across your feet. Don’t crush yourself, but there’s really no need for extra looseness here either. Xero Shoes has been using this sole for a couple of years and all shoes made with this material have a 5,000-mile warranty. Lena– The Lena fits true to size, however if you are between sizes, we recommend choosing the larger size. The natural cotton canvas can start out snug, and may require a brief break in period.*

Sizing is really important here (more about that below) because you need the strap to sit at a good place on your toes. I have to put virtually everything with a dress at least once. I even put the snow boots, Alpine, with a shiny skirt. Speak with a podiatrist about trying less built-up shoes if you think your problems might be related to your choice of shoes. You may need to ease into wearing minimalist footwear by starting off with very short distances. Overall you’ll need to listen to your body and see how it adapts to a change in footwear. The science behind the barefoot choice These shoes shine best in jungle and beachy areas where you often hike to a beach or waterfall. With these, you can jump right in and jump out to continue your hike without removing the sandal. Show me a pair of flip flops or hiking boots that can do that!Z-Trail EV– The Z-Trail EV sport sandal fits true to size. You can confirm your size with the printable templates below.* The primary difference between the Xero Z-trails and other sandals is the strapping system, which goes over the top of the foot instead of between the toes on all other shoes Meanwhile, the weight is not very noticeable and does not detract from their function. Anyone transitioning from a traditional Chaco-style sandal will find the Z-Trek incredibly lightweight and a breath of fresh air! By comparison, the Universal Orignal Teva sandal weighs 10 oz.

Update: Beyond this Xero Z trail review, I have also reviewed the Cassie shoe now. It’s a cute lifestyle shoe that is a functional version of the classic Mary Jane shoe. You might even be able to wear them to the office! Imagine a sport sandal that feels like you’ve simply glued a protective tire tread to your foot. Your feet are free and airy, they move and bend and flex. They can grip the ground as you hike. They’re as comfortable in the water — if [you’re] boating or fishing — as they are on land. They slide on and off in seconds, but hold securely no matter what you’re doing. The Z-Trek is our only sandal that fits larger than expected for many customers. For example, many customers who are a size 9 in the Genesis, Cloud and Z-Trail are a size 8 in the Z-Trek.

Find your new favourite footwear

Here are additional sizing recommendations — and size conversion charts — for our shoes and sandals: Women interested in exchanging their “gladiator sandals” for something functional enough to hike and run in