If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page. However, there is initial evidence to suggest walking and running in minimalist shoes can increase the size (hypertrophy) of the intrinsic foot muscles beyond normal (Ridge et al. You still receive high-quality feedback from the flexible sole, just with the benefit of a little added protection. Whether you’re wanting a barefoot shoe for running, lifting, or CrossFit, there’s likely a Xero Shoes model for you.

HFS II - Women - Xero Shoes HFS II - Women - Xero Shoes

When exploring barefoot shoes for cross-training, you’ll want to look into models that can do a little bit of everything. The midfoot overlays are thicker than the last version and do a great job of locking the foot down without being overbearing.

DPT/Footwear Science: B ( Midfoot straps lockdown the foot well while still providing an anatomic fit. So let’s jump into the post and find out the major differences between the two barefoot shoe brands and which brand would be the best for your twinkle toes! The take-home message here is that if you are currently running in a zero drop shoe with >20mm of stack height, be careful if you want to try a very low stack shoe like the HFS. Featherweight and breathable is a winning combination for road runners, who often spend hours with their feet against heat-absorbing pavement — the choice to opt for white outsoles (at least in this colorway) also helps fight the heat.

Xero Shoes HFS Review - A True Barefoot Feel? | Barefoot Run Xero Shoes HFS Review - A True Barefoot Feel? | Barefoot Run

Though not as bomber as other models we've tested, the HFS is still reinforced in key spots to improve durability and increase longevity. To run in the HFS, a runner should have at least 60 degrees of 1st MTP extension and be able to do 20-25 single leg calf raises. Note, that a lot of Xero Shoes work well for lifting such as the 360, Zelen, HFS, and Prio, but the Speed force is taking the edge here for two key reasons. If you have significant stability needs, this either may not be appropriate for you or will be something to ease into to see if your body can tolerate it. Sizing aside, some serious advancements in tech and comfort are evident in this new kid on the block.After all this talk of their lightweight airiness, you may be surprised to find that the HFS is actually one of the heavier shoes in this review.

Xero Shoes HFS Review | As Minimal As You Can Get Xero Shoes HFS Review | As Minimal As You Can Get

For racing flats we ensure that we have completed intervals, a tempo or steady state run as well as a warm-up and cool down in each pair prior to review. If you have a history of stress fractures, peroneal and/or posterior tibialis discomfort (as well as other foot pathology), it is wise to consult with your coach, physiotherapist and/or a trained shoe fitting professional prior to extended usage of this class of footwear. In addition, with the TPU overlaying the lacing system as opposed to being exposed, the shoe has a much more streamlined look than its older cousins.They are so comfortable even though they could actuality be a little bit smaller in the heel for me. I always wore the high dollar Asics, Brooks and even OnClouds etc that helped for a few days but after the cheap insoles wore out my body was back in pain, tremendous lower back pain, sciatic hip pain, ankle pain as well. If you want to remove the insole or use your own custom insole, then you should be fine doing so in most Xero Shoes. However, this is so much less shoe here than others on the market that still weigh far less, even maximalist racing shoes. The patented FeelTrue rubber outsole provides a direct line of feedback between the ground and your feet.