Xero Shoes Nexus Knit – A BareTread Review
By Alin Ciocan | January 26, 2024
$109.99 AT THE TIME OF REVIEW
Barefoot Comfort
4.5/5
PRICE / VALUE
4.5/5
Style / Design
5/5
durability
4/5
Xero Shoes has become one of the leaders in the minimalist/barefoot shoe category with its focus on maximum comfort, flexibility, and promoting proper foot strength and mechanics. Some might say their approach is just good ol’ common sense.
The Nexus Knit is one of their latest athletic lifestyle offerings, featuring a stylish knit upper paired with their signature FeelTrue outsole. In this comprehensive review, I’ll cover the highlights and drawbacks of this unique model, plus share real-world testing insights.
Personal Take: This model has a unique feel that to me is very enjoyable, especially the part around the heel. You get the feeling that it hugs the foot like a glove—something that sets it apart from other barefoot running shoes I’ve tested.
Xero Shoes Nexus Knit Design & Construction
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The Nexus Knit represents Xero Shoes’ evolution into lifestyle-focused barefoot footwear. Unlike traditional minimalist shoes that often prioritize function over form, this model strikes an impressive balance between barefoot benefits and modern sneaker aesthetics.
- Breathable knit upper: Seamless construction reduces hotspots
- FeelTrue® outsole: 5.5mm stack height with flexible rubber compound
- Zero-drop design: Maintains natural foot positioning
- Wide toe box: Allows natural toe splay and movement
Technical Specs
Stack Height: 5.5mm
Drop: 0mm
Weight: ~7.4 oz (men’s 9)
Upper: Engineered knit
Outsole: FeelTrue rubber
The Nexus Knit Black Model Design
Out of the box, the black Xero Shoes Nexus Knit sneaker has a clean, minimal look that works for most outfits. The stretchy knit upper hugs your foot comfortably and promotes excellent breathability—a key advantage over traditional casual barefoot shoes with synthetic uppers.
It feels barely there, giving you that natural barefoot freedom but with enough underfoot protection for city walking and light activities. The flat sole keeps you balanced and connected to the ground as you walk. No flashy logos either, just sleek sporty style that doesn’t scream “barefoot shoe.”
Black vs. White: Which Should You Choose?
Black Model Benefits:
- Hides dirt and scuff marks better
- More versatile for business casual wear
- Works well with darker clothing palettes
- Less maintenance required
White Model Benefits:
- Cooler in hot weather conditions
- Classic, timeless aesthetic appeal
- Pairs well with athletic and casual wear
- Shows the knit texture details better
The Nexus Knit White Model Design
The Nexus White model reminds me of training for my first marathon in 2014. Back then I had a pair of Nike shoes that had a similar clean aesthetic to these but were, of course, nowhere near as beneficial as proper barefoot running shoes for natural movement and foot health.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Versatile. Good for the gym, running, walking and casual wear and more
Very comfortable knit upper that fits like a sock
Lightweight and breathable for all-day wear, you won’t feel this bad boy on your foot
Flexible sole allows natural foot motion. The Xero Sole that we all know and love
Sleek design, looks great on the foot
Cons
Can run small, may need to size up, especially for wide feet
May not provide enough stability for very dynamic workouts
Not much traction for rough outdoor terain but good enough for most cases
Although god for most use cases, doesn’t excel for anything in particular, it’s a Jack of all trades
A few people in the community have reported durability issues
This crisp all-white Xero Shoes Nexus Knit keeps it simple and sophisticated. The smooth knit upper flows seamlessly with no visible seams for that clean, minimal look that works equally well for gym sessions or coffee dates.
Even the laces match, crossing over the front to add some subtle texture. It’s eye-catching but in an understated way that doesn’t overwhelm. The curved sole profile is slim too, reducing bulk while maintaining the ground connection that makes barefoot shoes so effective.
So you get that authentic barefoot feel while still looking sharp. Whether you’re dressing casual or need something athletic yet stylish, this white Nexus Knit delivers. It’s got modern vibes but enough classic versatility to complete any outfit—much like other versatile options in our best barefoot walking shoes roundup.
So if you want a minimalist sneaker that’s sophisticated without trying too hard, this is it. Xero nailed the refined but functional design balance. Just don’t expect flashy colors or prominent branding—this shoe lets your natural style shine through.
Real-World Performance & Durability
What I Found After 3 Months
After putting these through daily wear including walking, light jogging, and casual activities, the Nexus Knit holds up well overall. The knit upper shows minimal signs of wear, and the FeelTrue outsole maintains its grip and flexibility.
- Excellent: Breathability and foot temperature regulation
- Good: Overall construction quality and comfort
- Adequate: Traction on wet surfaces
- Needs improvement: Some reported durability issues with heavy use
Community Feedback
The barefoot community has mixed experiences with durability. While many users report excellent longevity, some have noted premature wear in high-stress areas, particularly with intensive daily use.
Pro Tip: Like most barefoot shoes, rotating between multiple pairs can significantly extend the life of each pair by allowing materials to recover between wears.
Overall, the Xero Shoes Nexus Knit appears to be a well-constructed minimalist sneaker that balances durability with the lightweight, flexible design barefoot enthusiasts expect. The knit upper is reinforced in key areas to enhance durability, while the FeelTrue outsole has a proven track record for long-lasting performance across Xero’s entire lineup.
However, as with any shoe, individual experiences may vary depending on factors such as usage patterns, foot type, gait mechanics, and activity level. For context on what to expect, check out our guide on transitioning to barefoot shoes to ensure you’re getting the most from your investment.
How the Nexus Knit Compares
| Feature | Nexus Knit | Xero Shoes Prio Neo | Vivobarefoot Primus Lite 3.5 | Xero Shoes 360 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stack Height | 5.5 mm | ≈5.5 mm + 3 mm insole | 4 mm outsole (6‑7 mm w/ insole) | 8 mm outsole + 3.5 mm insole |
| Upper Material | Knit mesh | Engineered mesh / synthetic | 81 % recycled polyester mesh | Engineered mesh + rubber inlays |
| Style Focus | Lifestyle / casual | Athleisure / gym | Training / all‑round | Cross‑training / court |
| Price (MSRP) | $109‑119 | $99‑109 | $160 | $119‑130 |
| Best For | Daily wear, light workouts | Gym, short runs, all‑day comfort | Max ground feel training | CrossFit, HIIT, lateral moves |
Final Verdict & Recommendations
The Xero Shoes Nexus Knit is a stylish and comfortable addition to the barefoot shoe market that successfully bridges the gap between minimalist function and mainstream appeal. Its breathable knit upper, flexible FeelTrue outsole, and versatile design make it an attractive option for those seeking a minimalist sneaker that seamlessly blends performance and aesthetics.
While it may not excel in any one specific area compared to more specialized options like dedicated barefoot hiking shoes or ultra-minimal running shoes, the Nexus Knit is a reliable all-rounder that caters to a wide range of activities and preferences.
If you’re looking for a barefoot shoe that looks great, feels amazing, and promotes natural foot function without screaming “minimalist footwear,” the Xero Shoes Nexus Knit is definitely worth considering. For those new to barefoot shoes, be sure to read our beginner’s guide to make the most of your transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most users find the Nexus Knit runs true to size, but Xero Shoes generally recommends going up a half size if you’re between sizes. The knit upper does stretch slightly with wear, so a snug initial fit often becomes perfect after breaking in.
While the Nexus Knit can handle light jogging and short runs, it’s primarily designed as a lifestyle shoe rather than a dedicated running shoe. For serious running, consider Xero’s HFS or Prio models, or check out our guide to the best barefoot running shoes.
The knit upper can be gently hand washed with mild soap and water. Remove the insoles first and air dry completely. Avoid machine washing or harsh chemicals that could damage the knit material or affect the shoe’s shape.
The Nexus Knit features a seamless knit upper for enhanced breathability and a sock-like fit, while other Xero lifestyle shoes like the Aptos use traditional materials. The Nexus Knit is also more focused on casual wear versus athletic performance.
Yes, the Nexus Knit accommodates wide feet well thanks to its stretchy knit upper and Xero’s naturally wide toe box design. However, those with very wide feet might want to consider Xero’s wider-specific models or size up for optimal comfort.
Yes, the Nexus Knit comes with removable 2mm insoles. Many barefoot enthusiasts remove these for a more minimal ground feel, but they can be kept for additional cushioning during the transition period or for extra comfort.
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