The Xero Shoes Z-Trek II Sandal are a lightweight, zero-drop sport sandal designed for barefoot enthusiasts, travellers, and outdoor adventurers who want maximum ground feel with minimal bulk. As an evolution of the original Z-Trek, this updated version refines the strap system, improves comfort, and maintains the brand’s commitment to natural movement. In this detailed review, we’ll explore its design, materials, performance, and real-world usability to help you decide if it’s the right sandal for your lifestyle.
Design and Materials
The Z-Trek II is built around Xero Shoes’ signature FeelTrue® sole, a 6mm rubber platform that offers excellent ground feel while protecting your feet from sharp terrain. The sole features a dual-direction chevron tread, providing reliable grip on varied surfaces—from wet pavement to dusty trails.
The upper uses smooth tubular nylon straps, now made from rPET recycled materials, offering a softer feel and improved sustainability. The strap system is fully adjustable, allowing for a customised fit across the forefoot, heel, and ankle. The design eliminates the need for bulky buckles or rigid components, keeping the sandal flexible and low-profile.
The sandal is 100% vegan, and the materials are chosen for durability and comfort. The construction is simple but effective, with reinforced stitching at stress points and a footbed that moulds slightly over time for a personalised fit.
Fit and Comfort
The Z-Trek II is designed to accommodate medium to wide feet, with a generous toe box that allows your toes to spread naturally. The zero-drop sole encourages proper posture and alignment, making it ideal for barefoot-style walking, hiking, or casual wear.
The strap system is intuitive and secure. Once adjusted, the sandal stays in place without rubbing or slipping. The heel strap includes a small elastic segment that adds flexibility and helps maintain tension during movement.
In real-world use, the Z-Trek II feels light and unobtrusive. The sole is flexible enough to roll up for packing, yet firm enough to handle uneven terrain. While it doesn’t offer arch support or cushioning, that’s intentional—this is a minimalist sandal designed to let your feet move naturally.
Performance and Versatility
The Z-Trek II excels in a variety of environments:
- Urban commuting: Lightweight and breathable, perfect for warm-weather city travel.
- Beach and water use: Quick-drying materials and grippy sole make it suitable for wet conditions.
- Hiking and trails: Offers solid traction and ground feel for light to moderate terrain.
- Travel and backpacking: Rolls up small, weighs little, and works as a camp shoe or primary footwear.
While not designed for technical hiking or heavy loads, the Z-Trek II performs well on gravel paths, forest trails, and uneven ground. The tread pattern provides decent grip, though it may struggle on slick, muddy surfaces.
For running, opinions are mixed. Some barefoot runners appreciate the freedom and flexibility, while others find the lack of lateral support limiting. If you’re planning to run in them, consider your terrain and foot strength.
Durability and Maintenance
The FeelTrue® sole is built to last. Users report hundreds of miles of use with minimal wear, and the rubber compound resists abrasion well. The straps are durable and hold up to repeated adjustments, though fraying can occur over time with heavy use.
Cleaning is simple—just rinse with water and let air dry. The sandals don’t retain odour, and the materials don’t degrade with exposure to sun or saltwater.
One minor issue is that the footbed can become slippery when wet, especially if your feet are sweaty or sandy. This is common among minimalist sandals and can be mitigated by adjusting the straps for a tighter fit.
Comparisons and Alternatives
Here’s how the Z-Trek II compares to other minimalist sport sandals:
| Model | Weight | Sole Thickness | Strap System | Best Use Case | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xero Shoes Z-Trek II | ~180g | 6mm | rPET tubular nylon | Everyday, light hiking | £43–£60 |
| Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV | ~240g | 10mm | Multi-layer webbing | Trail use, more cushioning | £65–£80 |
| Luna Sandals Mono Winged | ~200g | 11mm | Winged performance | Trail running, hiking | £90–£120 |
| Bedrock Cairn Adventure | ~215g | 14mm | Hook-and-loop + buckle | Technical terrain | £100–£130 |
| Shamma Cruzers | ~170g | 5mm | Leather + velcro | Road and trail running | £80–£110 |
The Z-Trek II stands out for its balance of affordability, packability, and ground feel. It’s not the most cushioned or technical sandal, but it’s one of the most versatile for everyday use and minimalist travel.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- Excellent ground feel with 6mm zero-drop sole
- Lightweight and highly packable
- Fully adjustable strap system
- Vegan and made with recycled materials
- Durable and easy to clean
- Suitable for a wide range of activities
Cons:
- Footbed can be slippery when wet
- Limited cushioning for long hikes
- Not ideal for technical terrain or heavy loads
- No arch support (by design)
Final Verdict
The Xero Shoes Z-Trek II is a thoughtfully designed minimalist sandal that delivers comfort, flexibility, and durability in a lightweight package. It’s ideal for barefoot enthusiasts, travellers, and outdoor lovers who want a sandal that moves with them—whether they’re walking city streets, hiking forest trails, or lounging at camp.
While it’s not built for extreme terrain or long-distance running, it excels in everyday use and light adventure scenarios. Its eco-conscious materials, secure fit, and natural feel make it a standout choice for those seeking freedom for their feet without compromising on function.
If you’re building a modular travel kit or transitioning to barefoot footwear, the Z-Trek II is a smart, affordable entry point into minimalist sandals.
