Xero Shoes 360 Review: The Ultimate Barefoot Cross-Trainer?

By Alin Ciocan | March 16, 2025

xero shoes 360 asphalt product photo

The Xero Shoes 360 is a versatile barefoot cross-training shoe that excels in multiple environments – from intense gym workouts to parkour, and even casual everyday wear. With its breathable mesh upper, durable 7mm FeelTrue rubber sole, and innovative Huarache-inspired tension straps, it offers the natural foot experience barefoot enthusiasts love while providing enough protection and grip for diverse activities.

$119.99 (Often on sale for $80-90 at various retailers)

Barefoot Comfort

4/5

PRICE / VALUE

4.5/5

Style / Design

5/5

durability

4.5/5

Barefoot Comfort

4/5

PRICE / VALUE

4.5/5

Style / Design

5/5

durability

4.5/5

Is the Xero 360 Right for You?

Answer a few quick questions to find your perfect barefoot shoe match

What’s your primary activity?

What’s most important to you?

Perfect Match

Xero 360 is Ideal for CrossFit & HIIT!

Xero 360 CrossFit Performance
  • Rope-grip reinforcements for climbing
  • Lateral stability for dynamic movements
  • Wide toe box for better balance
  • Zero-drop design for proper lifting form
Perfect Match

Xero 360 Excels for Court Sports!

Xero 360 Court Sports Performance
  • Exceptional grip on indoor surfaces
  • Support during lateral movements
  • Popular among pickleball players
  • Lightweight for quick reactions
Consider Alternatives

Better Options for Dedicated Runners

Xero 360 Running Limitations

While the 360 works for occasional short runs, dedicated runners should check out the lighter Xero HFS model instead.

Perfect Match

Excellent for Daily Wear!

Xero 360 Daily Use
  • Comfortable for all-day standing
  • Breathable upper prevents sweaty feet
  • Subtle styling works with casual outfits
  • Durable for everyday activities
Perfect Match

Superior Lateral Stability!

Xero 360 Stability Features
  • Huarache-inspired tension straps
  • Secure midfoot lockdown
  • Zero-drop platform for balance
  • Wide base for better stability
Good with Limitations

Balanced Ground Feel

Xero 360 Ground Feel

The 360 offers good ground feel with some protection. You can remove the insole for more sensation, or check out the thinner HFS for maximum ground connection.

Perfect Match

Outstanding All-Day Comfort!

Xero 360 Comfort Features
  • Breathable mesh prevents overheating
  • Lightweight design reduces fatigue
  • Wide toe box prevents pinching
  • Many users report pain relief

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The Anatomy of the Xero 360: What Sets It Apart

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360 next to multiple pairs of xero shoes

As someone who’s tested numerous barefoot shoes, I was excited to put the Xero Shoes 360 through its paces. The first thing that struck me was how intentionally designed this shoe is for cross-training specifically – not just another running shoe repurposed for the gym.

The 360 features a breathable mesh upper that provides excellent ventilation during intense workouts. After three solid months of testing, I’ve found this keeps your feet remarkably cool even during the most sweat-inducing sessions. The mesh is reinforced with strategic rubber overlays in high-wear areas, particularly around the toe box and midfoot.

A standout feature is the Huarache-inspired tension straps that wrap around your midfoot. These aren’t just for show – they provide a noticeable boost in lateral stability when changing directions quickly, something that’s crucial during activities like HIIT workouts or court sports.

Pros and Cons


Pros

Versatile performance across gym, court sports, and everyday use

Breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool during intense workouts

Lightweight design (approximately 9oz for men’s size 9)

Strategically placed rubber inlays for rope climbing and durability

Huarache-inspired tension straps provide excellent lateral stability

Cons

Mesh upper can be vulnerable to tearing with heavy abrasion

Runs slightly small – many users recommend sizing up half a size

Stiffness of the sole might require break-in time for some users

Insoles can occasionally slide or wrinkle during intense activities

Some users report squeaky soles on certain indoor surfaces

Man Training Wearing Xero Shoes 360

The heart of any barefoot shoe is its sole, and the 360 doesn’t disappoint. It features Xero’s signature 7mm FeelTrue® rubber outsole with an omni-directional tread pattern. This strikes a good balance – thick enough to protect against sharp objects but thin enough to maintain good ground feel. The zero-drop platform keeps your heel and forefoot at the same level, encouraging proper alignment throughout your kinetic chain.

Key Specifications

Fit and Comfort: Finding Your Perfect Match

The Xero 360 sizing has been a topic of debate among users, and after my experience, I understand why. While Xero officially recommends ordering your usual size, I found the fit to be slightly snug. If you have wider feet or prefer a roomier toe box, I’d suggest sizing up by half a size.

The toe box is marketed as “wide,” and while it’s certainly wider than conventional athletic shoes, it’s not the widest in the barefoot market. For context, it feels similar to the Xero Prio but not quite as spacious as models from brands like Lems. That said, it still allows for good toe splay for most foot shapes.

Inside the xero shoes 360
Xero Shoes 360 has a removable insole

One of the 360’s clever features is the removable 3.5mm insole. This simple addition makes the shoe much more adaptable to different preferences:

  • Keep the insole in: For a slightly more cushioned feel during longer wear
  • Remove the insole: For maximum ground feel during lifting or skill work

The Huarache-inspired straps provide an excellent lockdown around the midfoot, which I found particularly beneficial during lateral movements. Unlike some barefoot shoes that can feel sloppy during side-to-side motion, the 360 maintains a secure fit without constricting your foot’s natural movement.

Performance Across Disciplines: Jack of All Trades?

Gym and CrossFit Performance

In the weight room, the 360 feels like it was built for the job. The flat, zero-drop platform creates a stable base for lifts, while the thin sole allows you to “grip” the floor with your feet during deadlifts and squats. I noticed improved balance and connection to the ground compared to cushioned training shoes.

For CrossFit-style workouts, the 360 really shines. The rope-grip rubber inlays on the toe box perform admirably during rope climbs, preventing the dreaded slip and protecting the mesh upper from abrasion. During box jumps and burpees, the shoes felt secure and responsive, with enough protection to buffer repeated impacts without dampening ground feel.

One minor issue to note: some users report that the removable insoles can occasionally slide or wrinkle during intense activities like deadlifts. I experienced this once during a particularly sweaty workout, but repositioning the insole fixed the problem immediately. If this becomes recurring, a small dab of double-sided tape can secure the insole permanently.

Xero Shoes 360 outsole

Court Sports and Agility Work

Switching to court sports, I tested the 360s during several pickleball sessions and a few casual basketball games. The omni-directional tread pattern provides exceptional grip on indoor courts—I noticed the rubber compound actually “squeaks like crazy” on hardwood, just like premium basketball shoes do. The tension straps deliver crucial lateral stability during quick direction changes.

xero shoes 360 side

For pickleball, they were nearly perfect – lightweight enough for quick movements while providing enough support for lateral lunges. In fact, pickleball emerges as one of the most popular use cases among 360 owners, with many competitive players switching exclusively to these shoes for their court feel and stability. However, be aware that aggressive pivoting on hard courts can accelerate wear on the sole’s pivot points – something to consider if you’re playing multiple times per week.

Surprisingly, the 360s have developed a small but dedicated following among basketball players looking for barefoot options. Former collegiate players have reported success using them for competitive play, noting they’re among the first minimalist shoes sturdy enough to handle the lateral movements and pivots required on the court.

xero shoes 360 back

What impressed me most was the balance between court feel and protection. During spin moves and direction changes, I could sense exactly where my foot was contacting the floor, improving my body awareness and control—a proprioceptive advantage that conventional basketball shoes with thick cushioning simply can’t provide.

Parkour and Obstacle Training

Though not marketed specifically for parkour, the 360 has found fans in this community for good reason. The combination of ground feel, grip, and durability makes it well-suited for urban navigation. During wall runs and precision jumps, I could feel the surface beneath me while still having adequate protection.

xero shoes 360 outdoors parkour
The 360 is a good candidate for parkour

The rubber reinforcements around the toe and sides proved their worth during wall climbs, protecting the mesh from scrapes that would quickly destroy less reinforced shoes. If parkour or obstacle course racing is your primary activity, these shoes deserve serious consideration.

Running Capabilities

While the 360 isn’t designed as a running shoe, I tested it on several 5K runs to gauge its capabilities. For short distances on roads, it performs adequately – certainly better than most cross-trainers. The flexible sole allows for natural foot movement, and the lightweight design doesn’t weigh you down.

XERO SHOES 360 ROLLED FLEXIBLE
The Xero Shoes 360 is Flexible

However, for dedicated runners or longer distances, I’d still recommend a purpose-built model like the Xero HFS or Prio. The 360’s slightly thicker sole and cross-training features add weight that becomes noticeable after a few miles.

Everyday Versatility

One unexpected strength of the 360 is its excellence as an all-day shoe. The breathable upper and comfortable fit make it suitable for extended wear, whether you’re running errands or standing at work. The athletic styling is subtle enough to pair with casual clothes without looking out of place.

What’s particularly impressive is how surprisingly lightweight the 360s are despite their robust appearance. As one user aptly put it, “They’re way lighter than I expected. For a kind of bulky looking shoe with all sorts of materials and extrusions going on, it visually looks kind of heavy. It’s not. They’re light af.” This weight-to-structure ratio engineering is a hidden achievement that becomes apparent only when you pick them up.

For those new to barefoot shoes, the 360 could serve as an excellent “one shoe solution” while you build foot strength and decide which specific activities you want more specialized barefoot shoes for.

Durability: Will They Go the Distance?

Xero backs their 360 with an impressive 5,000-mile sole warranty, which reflects their confidence in the durability of the FeelTrue rubber outsole. After three months of regular use across various activities, my pair shows minimal wear on the soles, suggesting they’ll indeed have a long lifespan.

Even after a few months, the 360 still looks almost new

However, the mesh upper tells a different story. While it’s held up well during standard gym use, it has shown vulnerability during more abrasive activities. After several parkour sessions, I noticed some fraying where the mesh meets the rubber overlays – nothing catastrophic, but worth monitoring.

This is a common trade-off with breathable mesh uppers: they provide excellent ventilation but typically don’t match the durability of solid leather or synthetic uppers. The strategic rubber reinforcements help, but they can’t completely eliminate wear in high-abrasion scenarios.

For general cross-training and gym use, durability shouldn’t be a concern. For activities that involve frequent contact with rough surfaces (extensive trail running or obstacle races), you might see faster deterioration of the upper.

Comparing the 360: Where It Stands in the Barefoot Landscape

Understanding how the 360 compares to other options helps place it in context. Here’s how it stacks up against some close competitors:

Within the Xero Family

Compared to the Xero HFS, the 360 is slightly heavier with a marginally thicker sole. The HFS excels as a road running shoe with its lighter build, while the 360 offers more lateral stability and features specific to cross-training. In user discussions comparing the two, many note that the 360 feels more structured and protective while the HFS provides a more minimalist feel overall. The 360 is also considered more durable than the HFS, especially in the upper, but offers slightly less ventilation and flexibility.

The Xero Prio can be seen as the foundation upon which the 360 builds. The 360 incorporates enhanced grip, more robust construction, and better lateral support, making it more capable for intense training sessions. Most users find the 360 more durable than the Prio, especially the upper and sole. It also provides more cushioning with its thicker sole, which can be seen as a benefit for hard surfaces but slightly reduces ground feel compared to the Prio. Interestingly, there are mixed reports about toe box width, with some finding the 360 wider than the Prio and others experiencing the opposite.

Another option is the Xero Forza Trainer, which offers even greater lateral stability and midfoot lockdown than the 360, making it particularly well-suited for heavy weightlifting. The 360 strikes a more versatile middle ground. If pure lifting performance is your goal, the Forza might be preferable, but the 360 delivers better all-around functionality across various activities.

Against Other Barefoot Brands

When compared to the Merrell Vapor Glove, the 360 typically offers a slightly wider toe box but also a thicker sole. The Vapor Glove provides a more pronounced ground feel with its thinner sole, while the 360 delivers more protection and features specific to training.

The Vibram FiveFingers V-Train represents a more extreme approach to barefoot training with its individual toe pockets. This design can enhance proprioception and grip, but many users find the traditional shape of the 360 more accessible and versatile for various settings.

For those prioritizing maximum toe space, the Lems Primal 2 offers an even wider toe box than the 360. However, the 360 generally provides better performance features for athletic activities, making it the superior choice for dedicated training.

Unconventional Uses and Biomechanical Benefits

Beyond the expected applications, I’ve discovered some surprising situations where the 360 excels:

Indoor rock climbing approaches: The grippy sole and flexible design make it excellent for navigating to and from climbing walls, though you’ll still change into proper climbing shoes for the actual climbs.

Basketball and competitive court sports: As mentioned earlier, the 360 has found an unexpected following among basketball players seeking barefoot options. The reinforced upper and multi-directional traction pattern transfer effectively to pivoting and spin maneuvers on the court.

Martial arts training: For disciplines that allow footwear or transition movements between different surfaces, the 360 provides good grip while maintaining proprioception.

Parkour and obstacle training: The combination of ground feel and durability makes these shoes popular among traceurs (parkour practitioners) who need reliable grip and foot awareness for technical movements.

Gardening and yard work: The durable sole protects from most hazards while the breathable upper keeps feet cool during outdoor labor. Just be aware they’re not waterproof for wet conditions.

Many users also report significant biomechanical benefits after transitioning to the 360, including:

  • Enhanced proprioception during complex movements: The ground-feel characteristics provide heightened sensory feedback, contributing to more precise movement control and body awareness during athletic maneuvers.
  • Natural foot strengthening: The minimalist design engages intrinsic foot muscles and stabilizing ankle structures more actively during movement, potentially developing greater resilience to injury over time.
  • Reduced knee pain during squats and lunges due to improved alignment from the zero-drop platform
  • Enhanced balance in yoga poses and standing exercises thanks to improved ground connection and natural toe splay
  • Significant pain relief in multiple areas: Numerous users report dramatic reduction or complete elimination of foot, knee, hip, and back pain after switching to the 360s. Those suffering from plantar fasciitis and foot neuropathy have experienced particular improvement, sometimes after years of discomfort with conventional shoes.
  • Improved posture during standing activities from the neutral foot positioning

What’s striking about these health benefits is how consistently they’re reported across different user groups, from casual wearers to competitive athletes, suggesting the biomechanical advantages of the 360’s design extend well beyond athletic performance.

Practical Tips and DIY Customization

Based on my extensive testing and research into user modifications, here are some practical recommendations for getting the most from your Xero 360s:

Sizing Strategy: If between sizes, go up rather than down. The snug fit means many users benefit from a half-size increase from their normal shoe size.

Breaking Them In: While they’re comfortable from day one, allow about 1-2 weeks of regular wear for the sole to fully flex and conform to your movement patterns.

Lacing Techniques: Experiment with different lacing methods to fine-tune the fit. For wider feet, try “window lacing” to create more room across the toe box.

Wet Surface Strategy: Apply a light coat of beeswax to the outsole to slightly improve wet traction, though this won’t fully resolve the grip limitations on slick surfaces.

Insole Customization: Consider keeping the stock insole for high-impact activities and removing it for lifting and skill work to get dual functionality from one shoe.

DIY Drop-in Midsole Mod: For those needing additional cushioning for high-impact activities while maintaining the wide toe box, the 360 can accommodate drop-in midsoles from other shoes. Basketball players have discovered that midsoles from Kobe basketball shoes fit perfectly in the 360, creating a hybrid shoe that balances barefoot principles with sport-specific protection. This modification is particularly valuable if you’re transitioning to barefoot shoes but still need occasional cushioning for certain activities.

Court-Specific Break-in: If using the 360s for basketball or court sports, gradually acclimate your feet to landing and cutting movements before full-intensity play. The minimalist design requires proper adaptation to avoid strain on unprepared foot muscles.

The Verdict: Are the Xero Shoes 360 Right for You?

After thoroughly testing the Xero Shoes 360 across numerous activities and analyzing hundreds of user reviews, I can confidently make these recommendations:

The 360 is ideal for you if:

  • You want one versatile barefoot shoe for various activities
  • Cross-training and functional fitness are your primary focus
  • You’re a pickleball, tennis, or court sports enthusiast seeking better ground feel
  • You value lateral stability during dynamic movements
  • You’re transitioning to barefoot shoes and need something adaptable
  • You participate in rope climbs or obstacle-type training
  • You have foot, knee, or back pain that conventional shoes haven’t helped
  • You need a breathable shoe for hot weather or sweaty activities

Consider alternatives if:

  • You primarily run long distances (look at the Xero HFS instead)
  • You have exceptionally wide feet (consider Lems or Altra)
  • You frequently train on wet surfaces or in very muddy conditions
  • You need maximum ground feel for specialized activities (consider thinner-soled options)
  • You’re looking for winter footwear (the mesh upper isn’t ideal for cold conditions)
  • You require maximum durability for daily aggressive court pivoting (sole may wear faster)

Transition Safely to the Xero 360

Barefoot shoes activate muscles that have been dormant in conventional footwear. A gradual transition helps prevent injury and discomfort. Follow this timeline for best results.

1

Week 1: Introduction

30-60 minutes per day of light activity in your Xero 360s. Focus on walking, standing, and getting used to the feel.

⚠️
Expect mild foot fatigue as unused muscles activate
Pay attention to your walking form – land midfoot, not heel
2

Weeks 2-3: Building Time

Gradually increase to 2-3 hours per day. Add light gym activities like machine work and controlled movements.

⚠️
Watch for signs of overtraining (arch pain, excessive fatigue)
Begin foot strengthening exercises (toe spreads, short foot)
3

Weeks 4-5: Daily Integration

Wear for half day periods. Begin incorporating more dynamic movements including light jumping and lateral movements.

⚠️
Reduce volume if you experience persistent discomfort
Minimize heel striking during walking and movement
4

Weeks 6-8: Activity Expansion

Can now wear all day if comfortable. Begin integrating into CrossFit, court sports, or other activities.

⚠️
Still limit high-impact activities to shorter durations
Remove insole for lifting to increase stability & ground feel

2-3 Months: Full Integration

By now, your feet should be well-adapted to barefoot movement. Full activity level with your Xero 360s.

💪
Continue foot strengthening exercises for ongoing benefits
🏆
Enjoy improved proprioception and natural movement!

Essential Foot Strengthening Exercises

Toe Yoga

Lift your big toe while keeping other toes down, then reverse. 3 sets of 10 reps each.

Short Foot

Shorten foot by drawing ball toward heel without curling toes. Hold 5 seconds, 10 reps.

Toe Spreading

Spread toes as wide as possible, hold for 5 seconds. 10 reps, 3 times daily.

Marble Pickup

Use toes to pick up marbles and place in a bowl. 10-15 marbles per session.

Ready to start your barefoot journey with the Xero 360?

Get Your Xero 360s Now

Final Verdict

The Xero Shoes 360 manages to hit a sweet spot in the barefoot shoe market. It’s not the absolute specialist for any single activity, but rather an impressive generalist that performs admirably across a wide range of uses. Its thoughtful design elements – from the tension straps to the rope-grip reinforcements – show that Xero truly considered the needs of cross-trainers and functional fitness enthusiasts.

With its balance of ground feel, protection, and stability, plus the impressive 5,000-mile sole warranty, the 360 represents excellent value. While the mesh upper’s durability could be improved and wet-surface performance leaves something to be desired, these limitations are outweighed by the shoe’s versatility and overall performance.

The overwhelmingly positive user feedback—especially regarding comfort, pain relief, and multi-activity performance—reinforces my own experience. For barefoot enthusiasts seeking a dependable training companion or those looking to venture into natural movement with a shoe that won’t limit their activities, the Xero Shoes 360 earns a strong recommendation. It’s a worthy addition to any barefoot shoe collection and could easily become your go-to shoe for most active pursuits.

Have you tried the Xero Shoes 360? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.

xero shoes 360 asphalt product photo

How barefoot

Price / value

Style / design

durability

OVERALL RATING
4.5 / 5