Xero Shoes Pagosa Review: Are These the Best Barefoot Slippers for You?
By Alin Ciocan | October 7, 2024
The Xero Shoes Pagosa is a lightweight and versatile slip-on shoe designed to provide barefoot comfort and warmth in cooler weather. Featuring a collapsible heel, faux-wool upper, and flexible 4mm FeelTrue™ rubber sole, the Pagosa can be worn as both a cozy house slipper and a casual shoe for errands or outdoor activities.
REVIEWED AT $62.99 (DISCOUNTED FROM $69.99)
Barefoot Comfort
5/5
PRICE / VALUE
4/5
Style / Design
4.5/5
durability
4/5
Last Updated on October 24, 2024
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As a barefoot shoe enthusiast always on the lookout for versatile footwear, I was intrigued when Xero Shoes released the Pagosa in late 2023. Designed with the work-from-home crowd in mind but promising much more, I’ve put these slippers through their paces over the past few months. From cozy mornings to yoga sessions, quick errands, and even airport travels, the Pagosa has been my constant companion. Now, I’m ready to share my in-depth review of this innovative barefoot slipper.
Pagosa: Key Specifications and Features
- Weight: Incredibly light at 6 oz (170g) for men’s size 9
- Upper: Cozy faux wool (100% vegan-friendly)
- Sole: 4mm FeelTrue® rubber compound for excellent ground feel
- Heel: Innovative collapsible design for versatile wear
- Toe Box: Spacious design for natural toe splay
- Price: Currently on sale for $62.99 (originally $69.99)
Comfort and Fit: A Barefoot Dream
The Pagosa’s standout feature is undoubtedly its exceptional comfort. The moment you slip them on, you’ll notice the generous toe box, allowing for natural toe splay. As someone who’s struggled with cramped toes in conventional slippers, this feels like a revelation. The faux wool upper provides a cozy embrace without overheating, striking a perfect balance for year-round indoor comfort.
Sizing can be tricky, as some users find they need to go up a half size, especially if planning to wear with socks. I found my usual size comfortable, but it’s worth considering sizing up if you’re between sizes or prefer a roomier fit. This is particularly important if you plan to use them for travel or all-day wear.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Versatile collapsible heel design allows for both slipper and shoe wear styles.
Lightweight construction makes them ideal for all-day wear and travel.
Easy slip-on design with good traction, suitable for various indoor and light outdoor activities.
Excellent for work-from-home, yoga, and as comfortable footwear for elderly users.
Exceptional comfort with cozy faux-wool upper and wide toe box for natural foot movement.
Cons
Limited color options restrict style choices and indoor/outdoor pair differentiation.
Faux-wool upper may lack breathability, potentially causing overheating or sweaty feet.
Sole can be noisy on certain smooth surfaces, potentially bothersome in quiet environments.
Toe box width might not accommodate all foot shapes, particularly very wide feet.
Some users prefer natural wool for its superior moisture-wicking and sustainability properties.
The collapsible heel is a game-changer, allowing you to wear the Pagosa as a slip-on or a more secure slipper. This versatility is perfect for those quick transitions from lounging to running out for errands, and it’s especially useful for airport travel.
Performance: From Home Office to Airport Terminal
In the home office setting, the Pagosa truly shines. The zero-drop design promotes natural posture, which I found beneficial during long hours at the desk. The flexible sole allows for subtle foot movements, keeping circulation active even when seated for extended periods.
Surprisingly, the Pagosa excels as a barefoot yoga shoe. The grippy sole provides stability in standing poses, while the wide toe box allows for natural toe spread in balancing postures. The breathable upper keeps feet comfortable during more active sequences, though for hot yoga, you might still prefer going barefoot.
One unexpected benefit I discovered was the Pagosa’s suitability for air travel. Their slip-on design makes them a breeze to take off and put on at security checkpoints. The lightweight construction means they won’t weigh down your carry-on, and their comfort makes them ideal for long flights or airport layovers.
For elderly users or those with mobility issues, the Pagosa offers a blend of comfort and practicality. The easy slip-on nature (thanks to the collapsible heel) and stable sole provide security and ease of use. If you’re interested in learning more about barefoot options for seniors, check out our guide on barefoot shoes for elders.
Durability and Materials: Built to Last?
After several months of daily wear, the Pagosa has held up impressively well. The faux wool upper maintains its shape and coziness, while the FeelTrue® rubber sole shows minimal signs of wear. The collapsible heel, which I initially worried might be a weak point, has proven durable and continues to function perfectly.
While the vegan-friendly materials are a plus for many, some users have expressed a preference for natural wool for its moisture-wicking properties. In my experience, the faux wool performs admirably, but it’s worth noting that it may not manage moisture quite as effectively as natural fibers in very warm conditions or for those prone to sweaty feet.
One minor drawback I’ve noticed is that the sole can be a bit noisy on certain smooth surfaces. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s something to be aware of if you’ll be wearing them in quiet environments.
Price and Value: A Barefoot Bargain
At its current sale price of $62.99 (down from $69.99), the Pagosa offers exceptional value. When you consider its versatility – from home office to yoga studio to airport terminal – the price point becomes even more attractive. The durability I’ve observed suggests these will last, further enhancing their value proposition.
However, it’s worth noting that the limited color options might restrict style choices for some users, particularly those who want to differentiate between indoor and outdoor pairs.
The Verdict: Is the Pagosa Right for You?
After thorough testing, the Xero Shoes Pagosa proves to be a versatile and comfortable barefoot slipper that excels in multiple settings. It successfully bridges the gap between home comfort and light outdoor use, making it an excellent choice for barefoot enthusiasts seeking a do-it-all shoe.
The Pagosa is particularly well-suited for:
- Work-from-home professionals seeking all-day comfort
- Yoga and light exercise enthusiasts
- Frequent travelers looking for comfortable, easy-to-remove airport shoes
- Elderly individuals or those with mobility issues looking for a secure, easy-to-wear option
- Barefoot newcomers wanting a comfortable transition shoe
However, the Pagosa may not be ideal for everyone. If you need a shoe for wet conditions, have particularly wide feet, or strongly prefer natural fibers, you might want to explore other options. Additionally, if you’re sensitive to noise from footwear, the potential squeaking on smooth surfaces could be a concern.
In conclusion, the Xero Shoes Pagosa offers an impressive blend of comfort, versatility, and barefoot design principles. Its current sale price makes it an even more attractive option for those looking to experience the benefits of minimalist footwear in their daily lives. While it may have a few minor drawbacks, the Pagosa’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a solid choice for a wide range of users.
Have you tried the Xero Shoes Pagosa? Share your experiences in the comments below!
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