Xero Shoes Men's Z-Trek Packable Barefoot Hiking Sandal Review (2026)

What it is

The Xero Shoes Men's Z-Trek is a minimalist, zero-drop sandal built around a thin FeelTrue sole and an adjustable strap system, designed specifically to be packable for travel and outdoor use. Xero Shoes markets it as a barefoot-style sandal, meaning it has almost no cushioning or arch support and instead aims to let the foot move and flex naturally. According to Xero's own product page, the sole measures 6.0 millimeters thick and the sandal weighs about 7.2 ounces in a men's size 9, making it one of the lighter packable sandals a one-bag traveler could carry as a spare pair alongside sneakers or hiking shoes.

Features and specs

The straps are made from smooth, tubular nylon webbing sourced from recycled plastic, described by Xero as rPET material, and the fully adjustable lacing system lets the wearer tighten or loosen the fit across the top of the foot and around the ankle. A dual-direction chevron tread pattern on the sole is built for grip on wet rocks, boat decks, and dirt trails rather than just flat pavement. Xero backs the sole with what it calls a 5,000 mile sole warranty, a durability claim not commonly offered by mainstream sandal brands. Xero's sizing notes say the Z-Trek runs about half a size large, so buyers are advised to size down if between sizes, and the brand offers printable sizing templates to check fit before ordering.

Build and materials

Because the sole is only 6 millimeters thick, the Z-Trek folds flat enough to fit into a side pocket or the gap beside shoes in a carry-on, which is the main reason it shows up on packable sandal lists. Xero's care instructions call for hand washing with warm water and mild soap, then air drying, rather than machine washing, since the foam sole and nylon webbing hold up better without agitation. The zero-drop, foot-shaped design means there is no elevated heel and a wide toe box, which is a deliberate barefoot-shoe design choice rather than a traditional cushioned sandal footbed. Xero offers free exchanges on US orders, which helps offset the risk of ordering a size that does not fit.

Value

At Xero's listed price of about 60 dollars, the Z-Trek costs more than basic flip-flops but less than many cushioned sport sandals from brands like Teva or Chaco, and the 5,000 mile sole warranty adds long-term value that a cheap packable sandal cannot match. For one-bag travelers, paying a bit more for a sandal that genuinely folds flat and weighs a bit over seven ounces can be worth it if it replaces a bulkier second pair of shoes. Buyers who need more cushioning for long days on hard pavement may not get full value from the minimal sole, since comfort here depends on adapting to a barefoot-style feel rather than getting instant plush support.

Who should buy it

The Z-Trek suits travelers who already like or are willing to try minimalist, barefoot-style footwear and want the lightest, most packable second pair of shoes for beach days, showers, river crossings, or easy trails. It is a strong fit for warm-weather, multi-stop itineraries where packing space matters more than all-day cushioning. Travelers who need structured arch support or plan to walk for hours on hard city pavement may find the thin sole tiring and should consider a more cushioned sandal instead. Anyone new to barefoot shoes should expect a short adjustment period before the minimal sole feels comfortable for extended wear.

Frequently asked questions