When I first purchased the Xero Shoes Scrambler Trail Low Waterproof (men’s and women’s), I actually thought it was the successor to the original Scrambler Low, which was one of my favorite running shoes despite having some durability issues with the upper.
However, as soon as I took them out for a run, I realized something was different. They felt a little stiff and didn’t feel quite right for a running shoe. It turns out this is not a running shoe, but a barefoot hiking shoe. While you can definitely do some scrambling or running in them, I wouldn’t recommend making this your primary running shoe. So I quickly switched to hiking and backpacking usage, taking the Scrambler Trail Low shoes on multiple trips into the Colorado backcountry.
Scrambler Trail Low Waterproofing and Durability
As a hiking shoe, this has proven to be a surprisingly durable minimalist option. It features a laminate upper that provides good protection around the foot.
The waterproofing is the real deal. I can tell you it works because I’ve been in and out of creeks, and the water went over the shoe with no problem. I even overflowed the laces at one point, and somehow the tongue—which is a little thicker than on other shoes—kept the water out. Whether the tongue is treated or I just got lucky, I’ve done it multiple times and stayed dry.
Scrambler Trail Low WP Lugs and Traction
The lugs on this model seem more durable than the ones on my original Scramblers, which featured a sole made by Michelin. While this new sole doesn’t have the Michelin branding, it seems tougher as the Michelin lugs wore off quickly. These lugs are in much better shape after some serious use on rugged terrain.
The traction profile is good for general use, they are neither highly aggressive nor too conservative. So, good for typical trail conditions and sticky enough on most “scrambly” surfaces.
There is a caveat regarding traction. I’ve noticed that with a lot of Xero Shoes (and Lems), the rubber doesn’t seem to grab as well under cold or wet conditions. That is something you need to think about based on where you hike. For the typical gravelly, high-desert conditions I encounter, they have been really good.
Fit and Features
True to the brand, this is a zero-drop shoe, meaning the heel-to-toe drop is nice and flat. It is still flexible, but definitely firmer than a lot of other Xero Shoes. It also includes a gaiter hook if you want to use gaiters.
My main complaint is the laces. They use a rounded boot lace, which I find doesn’t stay tied very well. I prefer when they use a flatter or granulated lace, but the lace itself is at least durable.
The Verdict
If you are looking for a backcountry shoe, this is a solid contender. Because it offers protection and doesn’t feel quite as minimal as other models, I don’t feel like these wipe out my Achilles or calves. This makes it a good choice for an entry-level shoe if you are looking to work your way into zero-drop footwear.
If you need even more water protection, you might consider the mid-height boot version of this shoe, the Scrambler Trail Mid Waterproof (men’s and women’s). But if you are looking for a tough, low-cut hiking shoe, definitely try one of these on.
