Minimalist footwear is all the rage lately. Particularly in the fitness community, in which lightweight foot conforming (and in some cases, even toe-conforming) shoes are catching. What began as a very niche product for an obscure community has now become practically mainstream. As we learn more about how the foot was "designed" to operate naturally, we also learn more about making footwear that is conducive to those natural mechanics. And Xero shoes is doing just that.
The footwear at Xero is "barefoot inspired," and minimalistic. Meaning the experience of wearing these shoes mimics that of wearing nothing at all. Whether you're running on the trail, or taking a leisurely walk down the beach, your feet will move naturally, unencumbered by thick soles or oddly shaped inserts. But don't worry, that doesn't mean you have to subject your poor feet to the perils of the outdoors, or develop hobbit-esque calluses. The shoes at Xero offer just enough protection to shield your delicate soles from the rocks, burrs, and other prickly things, whilst still allowing your feet to move naturally, and to bend, flex, and hug the ground as they were meant to. It's the best of both worlds.
Xero shoes are ideal for low impact activities like yoga, resistance training, and walking. But many designs are also specifically tailored for more high impact sports like running. And while the shoes have made their name in the fitness world, Xero also offers a full line of minimalist designs for everyday wear. Whether you're at the office or lounging around at home, there's a Xero shoe that will help you get around more naturally. They even have minimalist leather boots. I'll bet you didn't even know that was thing. They have a large variety of styles, colors, and patterns. Whatever occasion you're going minimal for, and whatever your style preferences, you'll find a look to satisfy in both regards.
The quality at Xero is top notch. And the brand is quickly becoming one of the most popular in the market. What began as a grass-roots family business, saw a meteoric rise in popularity after the owners appeared on Shark Tank. The brand took off, and is now one of the top competitors in the minimalistic footwear space. Don't worry though, it hasn't gone to their heads. The brand still has that personalized feel to it. You can even check out biographies of the owners and most of the employees on the website. The customer service at Xero is excellent. The brand really has local business vibes to it. But they're no mom and pop. If you're looking for minimalist footwear, Xero is one of the most popular, and one of the best brands in the space.
Check them out. Your feet will thank you.