Bottom Line
With a low stack height, zero drop design, minimal cushion, and natural foot shape, the Xero Shoes Scrambler Trail Low WP targets barefoot and minimalist hikers who need protection in wet hiking conditions.
Due to the minimalist design, this shoe will require some adjustment time for those used to traditional hiking shoes with higher drop heights, more stability features, and thicker cushion. However, for those already hiking in barefoot-styled footwear, this shoe won’t require much break-in time. While this shoe offers excellent ground feel, it also limits underfoot protection from sharp rocks and other trail obstacles you may encounter.
Though we found the waterproofing technology to be both extremely effective and breathable during winter rainy hikes in Northern California, the upper material felt a bit stiff. We also noted some discomfort at the toe joints. However, depending on the volume and length of your foot and how it sits in the shoe, this may not be as noticeable.
We were also a bit disappointed with the traction on the outsole when hiking during a rainstorm. Although it performed adequately on dry terrain, it lacked grip, leaving us with heavy mud-caked feet at the end of a sloppy trail. However, we were impressed with the durability of these shoes, especially given the lightweight minimalist design.
Overall, if you are in the market for a waterproof barefoot/minimalist hiking shoe, then it is worth trying this one out. Though if you’re looking for something with more cushion and support, we have other options in our women’s hiking shoes gear guide.
How We Tested
We hiked through state parks in Northern California during the wet winter months. Taking this shoe out during rainstorms, we thoroughly tested the effectiveness of its waterproofing and traction in wet conditions.
Quick Specs
Xero Shoes Scrambler Low Trail WP
Solid Minimalist Hiking Shoe
CleverHiker Rating: 4.1/5.0
Price: $150
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 3.2 oz.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0 mm
Pros
- Natural foot shape
- Excellent ground feel
- Breathable
- Perfect for minimalist runners & hikers
Cons
- May not provide enough cushion
- Does not shed mud well
Comfort
The Xero Shoes Scrambler Low Trail WP is a great pick for those who prefer barefoot and minimalist hiking footwear and plan on adventuring in wet weather. These shoes offer a low stack height of 11.5 mm; while they enhance ground feel, they also provide less protection from rocks and other trail obstacles underfoot.
Due to the lack of cushion, these shoes may not be the best option for those in need of more support features and comfort when crossing technical and rocky terrain.
While the shoes fit the natural contours of your foot, we were a bit disappointed with the feeling of the upper material. While hiking, the stiff material creased at the toe joints, creating an uncomfortable bunching.
Traction
While hiking in wet weather, we were a little disappointed with the traction on these shoes. The FeelTrue rubber was slippery in mud and over wet rocks, not giving us the confidence we desired in inclement conditions. This was especially confusing for waterproof shoes.
However, the outsole was much grippier in dry conditions and features larger lugs, made with thick rubber, that will likely last a long time over many miles of use.
Weight
The Xero Shoes Scrambler Trail Low WP is one of the lighter hiking shoes in our lineup – partly due to its minimalist design. We clocked a pair on our scale at 1 pound, 4 ounces. This makes it one of the lightest pairs in the lineup.
Durability
With their thick rubber outsole and polyester textile upper, these shoes are incredibly abrasion and snag-resistant, with the ability to tackle a variety of terrains. Although a bit stiff and thick, the upper material is very durable and likely to have a long lifespan, though the shoes don’t have the same natural appearance as those made of leather.
We found no wear and tear after use, and all the seams appeared to be sealed tightly for protection from the elements.
Weather Resistance
We were impressed with the performance of the XeroTex 2-layer waterproof membrane. When hiking in wet and rainy weather, our feet stayed comfortable and dry. Water beaded and rolled off without absorbing into the upper material. The Xero Shoes membrane is also incredibly breathable, and our feet never overheated while hiking due to the moisture-wicking liner.
However, due to how low the shoe sits on your ankle, you’ll want to be careful when puddle hopping and creek crossing.
Should You Buy the Xero Scrambler Low Trail WP?
The Xero Shoes Scrambler Low Trail WP is designed for barefoot and minimalist hikers who want enhanced ground feel, while also being protected from the elements.
With its zero-drop platform, low stack height, and minimal cushion, this shoe targets a niche group of adventurers. Those who need more protection underfoot, desire more stability features, and plan on carrying heavy loads or tackling long distances over technical terrain will likely want to consider other hiking shoes in our gear guide.
This shoe is a great value if you are in the market for a minimalist design and find the fit and sizing to work well for your individual foot shape, where the upper material hugs your foot well and does not cause discomfort where your foot bends.
What Other Women’s Hiking Shoes Should You Consider?
If the Xero Shoes Scrambler Trail Low WP doesn’t provide the level of comfort and support you are searching for, check out our full list of the best women’s hiking shoes for more options to consider. Below are some specific models that are a great place to start, that also offer a more natural fit!
Altra Lone Peak 9 Review: If you desire a zero-drop shoe with a natural foot shape, but want more cushion and protection than the Xero Shoes, check out the classic Altra Lone Peak. This newer model provides enhanced durability and an updated responsive cushion for hikers and trail runners alike.
Topo Ultraventure 4 Review: While not a zero drop shoe, the Topo still offers a low drop height at 5mm, but with a higher stack height for increased cushion and protection, and also a wider toe box for larger feet.
Saucony Peregrine 15 Review: The Saucony is another lower drop shoe and is a great option for those with narrower feet who need a snugger fit. This shoe is also incredibly light and breathable – though if weather protection is important to you, you may want to consider shoes with waterproofing or at least a thicker upper material.
