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Most of this evolution occurred during a time when we weren’t even wearing shoes. So it makes sense that wearing a minimal shoe with a zero drop should feel more comfortable to us. If I was designing a shoe, I too would start from this very basis of thought.
- The tread on the sole of the Xero TerraFlex is not wildly aggressive.
- While they’re rugged, I was disappointed with the relative lack of durability compared to my expectations .
- Then we’ve added a lugged sole for grip (5mm FeelTrue® sole base with 4mm lugs), and embedded 3mm of BareFoam™ inside the sole for extra protection and comfort.
- As such I opted for the UK 6.5 instead (US 8.5.) These were a better fit and because of the wider toe box, my feet had plenty of room to flex and move.
As I mentioned earlier, I can feel every rock or twig through the sole of the shoe, so I am not sure that I would choose to wear them on rockier terrain until my feet have toughened up. I don’t feel like I am there yet, but I have a trip in the Sierra’s coming up and I plan to take them along to see how they do. TerraFlex Hiking Shoe – Photo Courtesy of the Xero Shoe WebsiteXero Shoes was founded by Steven https://bookkeeping-reviews.com/ Sashen and his wife Lena Phoenix in 2009. The idea came to Steven after getting back into running and reading the book Born to Run. I would offer more, but there is a great video and story on the Xero Shoes website that does a great job explaining their story. Xero Shoes offers Sport Sandals, shoes and boots, and Huaraches with a foot shaped design and minimal materials to mimic barefoot walking.
Features Xero shoes TerraFlex II Trail Running Shoes
However, slip on shoes would not be up to the hiking conditions I encounter so it is just part of the game. I bought the TerraFlex II a few months ago and found them super comfortable for my wide feet. While they’re rugged, I was disappointed with the relative lack of durability compared to my expectations . After 4.5 months of trail running between 3-6hrs a week there are holes around the toes through the outer mesh, and now holes are appearing in the inner mesh too.
- This strapping system allows Xero Shoes to fit many different foot shapes and achieve a great lockdown for both wide and narrow feet.
- I think I will stick to using them on soft trails that are mostly dry.
- The sole also has a fairly aggressive tread with raised Vs that are widely spaced, almost like a soccer cleat but not quite that aggressive.
- We have tried them on a long trip, and they were ‘not optimal’.
- This seems to be on the low end of the trail shoe category in today’s world and these are way worth that price!
Its soft upper and low to the ground construction still gives the flexibility and sensory feedback that many minimalist runners and hikers crave. For anyone who hasn’t worn minimalist shoes before, I’d recommend slowly transitioning into them—increasing the amount you wear them over time. So overall, the Terraflex is an ideal shoe for hikers and trail runners. It got a great grip, really comfortable and gives you that sensory, close to the earth experience.
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I tried 2 other shoes from Xero in the same order as the Terraflex 2 . The other shoes were sized men’s EU 41.5 and US 8 and fit perfectly well, however, the Terraflex model fit me in a Size US 9, Xero Shoes Terraflex Review EU 42. One other thing to note is that the sizing for EU shoes is different for Xero. In most shoes I’ve come across, a men’s US8 converts to an EU 42, whereas with Xero it converts to an EU 41.
I already choose to wear zero drop footwear so that didn’t really changes things for me. I had the luxury of trying on a 9, which is my normal size and a 9.5 and as their website recommends the 9.5 was the better fit of the two shoes. The toe box is wide with plenty of room to wiggle my toes. If you’re asking yourself “What are the best hiking shoes? Or “What are the best minimalist shoes for trail hiking and running?
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Both pairs were Men’s, but Terraflex II is not wide enough… Most people find our size recommendation gives them a proper fit, but just in case, we have a free exchange program for all EU orders. Whether you’re out on a run, trying out a new trail, or hitting the gym, you’ll love the Prio’s combination of freedom and protection. Unrestricted access to all 2,300+ articles, gear reviews, skills, stories, and more. Geoff, please post some feedback on what you think of the Nimble shoes once you get them.
What is special about Xero shoes?
Xero Shoes are made with your comfort and feet in mind. They promote natural foot function and allow your toes to splay properly during walking. Since there is no added support or cushioning in these shoes, they allow you to feel where your feet are landing and adjust accordingly if needed.
They have non-elevated “zero-drop” soles for proper posture. Many argue about that but at its core, a minimalist shoe mimics the natural shape of the foot, allowing it flex and move as it was designed to. They also provide a closer sensory connection to the ground. Your foot can feel the terrain while still having enough sole to protect it from what may be on the ground. The Kelso is a retro “court style” shoe that’s meant to be a cross between an active and lifestyle shoe.
