Xero Shoes Women's Z-Trek Packable Sport Sandal Review (2026)

What it is

The Xero Shoes Women's Z-Trek is the women's version of Xero's packable barefoot sandal, sized and shaped for narrower feet with straps described by Xero as about 4 millimeters thinner than the men's model. It shares the same 6.0 millimeter FeelTrue sole and zero-drop, foot-shaped platform used across the Z-Trek line, and Xero's own listing notes a weight in the same light range as the men's version once adjusted for the smaller size. The sandal is designed to fold nearly flat, which is the main reason it appears on one-bag and packable sandal lists rather than being marketed as a primary walking shoe.

Features and specs

Straps are made from smooth, tubular rPET nylon webbing, and the fully adjustable strap system lets the wearer fine-tune tension across the instep and around the heel and ankle. The sole uses the same dual-direction chevron tread as the men's Z-Trek, built for grip on wet boat decks, rocks, and sandy trails rather than just flat sidewalks. Xero's sizing guidance says the women's Z-Trek runs about half a size large, so the brand suggests sizing down if between sizes, and printable sizing templates are available on Xero's site to check fit before ordering. Available sizes run from 5 to 11 in US women's sizing according to Xero's listing.

Build and materials

The narrower fit and thinner webbing are the main build differences from the men's Z-Trek, intended to better match typical women's foot width and ankle proportions rather than just shrinking the men's pattern. Xero's care instructions call for hand washing with warm water and mild soap followed by air drying, the same as the rest of the Z-Trek line, since the foam sole is not built for machine washing or high heat. The same 5,000 mile sole warranty that covers the men's Z-Trek applies here, giving the sandal a durability backing that is unusual among lightweight packable sandals sold by other brands.

Value

Priced the same as the men's Z-Trek at roughly 60 dollars according to Xero's site, the women's version delivers the same packability and sole warranty in a fit built for narrower feet, which is worth the price for travelers who found the men's or unisex sizing too wide or bulky through the ankle and instep. Compared with a cushioned sport sandal from Teva or Chaco, the Z-Trek is lighter and folds smaller, better suiting one-bag carry-on packing, though it trades away plush comfort for that packability. Travelers who plan to walk for hours on hard city streets on a typical sightseeing day may get more overall value from a more cushioned sandal instead.

Who should buy it

This sandal fits travelers who want the lightest, most packable second pair of shoes for beach days, showers, boat trips, and easy trails, particularly those who need a narrower fit than the men's or unisex Z-Trek offers. It is a good match for warm-weather, multi-stop itineraries where minimizing packed volume matters more than all-day cushioning. Travelers who need arch support or plan extended walking on pavement may find the thin, minimal sole tiring over a full day and should consider a cushioned alternative. As with any barefoot-style shoe, expect a short adjustment period before the flat, zero-drop platform feels natural.

Frequently asked questions