Summary by Jessica Phan
Xero Shoes has earned a reputation for its sleek, minimalist sneaker designs tailored specifically for runners and fitness lovers. However, with the Dillon Leather (men’s and women’s) shoe, they’ve stepped into the world of casual lifestyle footwear and I was curious to see how they handled that transition.
I recently tried the Dillon Leather shoe and was pleased with the result. True to Xero Shoe’s minimalist principles, this shoe delivers comfort and flexibility in a laid-back, everyday style. As a long-time fan of their designs, I had high expectations—and after wearing the Dillon Leather shoe for a while, I can confidently say it fits right into the Xero family, just with a more stylish, casual twist.
Here’s my take after putting it to the test.
Dillon Leather Design & Construction
The Dillon Leather is a step away from the more performance-oriented designs Xero Shoes is known for. But even with this change, the shoe doesn’t stray far from the minimalist philosophy that makes the brand so popular. It still features the signature zero-drop sole and flat heel-to-toe design, which keeps my foot in a natural position.
Dillon Leather Wider Toe Box
One thing that stood out to me was the wide toe box. If you’re familiar with minimalist shoes, you know how important this is for allowing your toes to spread out naturally. That extra space made the Dillon Leather feel comfortable right from the start, and I appreciated the freedom it gave my feet. I normally wear a 2E (wide) and these shoes fit well.
Upper Materials
The leather material gives the shoe a more refined and stylish look compared to traditional athletic footwear, making it a great option for those who need a casual yet functional shoe for day-to-day wear. This is a good barefoot shoe for the office!
However, the leather may require some maintenance to keep it looking fresh, especially around areas that bend with movement. It’s not clear if the creasing will break in or lead to some deterioration. Update: after a few months wearing the shoes, the shoe has softened up without cracking, but I’m still not 100% confident it couldn’t.
Dillon Lacing System
One of my favorite features of the Dillon is the flat laces. Unlike the round laces on some other Xero Shoes that I’ve always found peculiar, these laces stay tied and provide a secure fit without constantly needing readjustment. The reinforced eyelets also ensure that the laces stay intact over time, adding to the shoe’s overall durability.
Comfort & Performance
Comfort is definitely a highlight with the Dillon Leather. Coming from a zero-drop shoe background, I was happy to find that this minimalist lifestyle shoe version still offers the flexibility and comfort I’m used to.
Versatility
As a lifestyle shoe, the Dillon Leather is perfect for all kinds of casual outings. Whether it’s running errands, meeting friends, or just walking around town, these minimalist lifestyle shoes work well for everyday wear. I enjoyed how it’s versatile enough to wear on a variety of occasions, without compromising on comfort or the barefoot lifestyle shoe design.
Who is the Dillon Leather Shoe For?
Ideal for:
- Minimalist footwear lovers who want a comfortable, stylish shoe for casual wear
- Those transitioning from athletic shoes to a more minimalist lifestyle shoes
- People who want a durable and functional shoe for day-to-day activities like walking, running errands
Not Ideal for:
- Runners or athletes who need more cushioning and support during intense physical activities
- People who are used to traditional work or dress shoes with more structure
- Those needing a shoe specifically designed for extreme outdoor conditions
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Comfortable with a wide toe box and minimalist design
- Stylish leather construction suitable for casual settings
- Flexible and breathable, offering a barefoot lifestyle shoe experience
Cons:
- Leather upper requires maintenance to keep it looking fresh
- Less flexible than sportier Xero Shoes models
- Not ideal for intense outdoor use or conditions
Final Thoughts
The Dillon Leather Shoe (men’s and women’s) is a great option if you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish casual shoe that still offers the minimalist benefits of Xero Shoes. While it’s not built for intense athletic use, it’s perfect for everyday wear and maintaining that connection to a natural foot movement.
If you’re looking for a shoe that blends comfort, style, and flexibility, the Dillon Leather might just be the perfect fit.
