Xero Shoes Ridgeway Review: A Barefoot Hiker’s Dream or Compromise?

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The Xero Shoes Ridgeway attempts to bridge the gap between minimalist footwear and traditional hiking boots – a challenge many barefoot enthusiasts have long grappled with. As someone who’s logged hundreds of miles in both barefoot shoes and conventional hiking boots, I was eager to put the Ridgeway to the test.

This review will cut through the marketing hype and give you a candid assessment of the Ridgeway’s performance, durability, and comfort.

Whether you’re a barefoot convert looking for more protection on challenging trails, or a traditional hiker curious about minimalist options, read on to discover if the Ridgeway delivers on its promises.

Pros and Cons

Key Specifications at a Glance

• Weight: 13 oz (368g) for men’s size 9, 11.5 oz (326g) for women’s size 7
• Stack Height: 8.5mm (5mm outsole + 3.5mm insole)
• Upper: Water-resistant treated canvas
• Sole: FeelTrue® rubber compound with aggressive lugs
• Price: $139.99 (as of July 2024)
• Zero-drop design
• Vegan-friendly materials

Comfort and Fit: A Toe-Liberating Experience

The standout feature of the Ridgeway is undoubtedly its wide toe box. As someone who’s suffered through countless hikes with cramped toes, this felt like a revelation. The anatomical design allows for natural toe splay, which I found crucial for maintaining balance on the uneven trails of the Lake District. If you’ve ever felt like your toes were imprisoned in traditional hiking boots, you’ll appreciate this immediately.

Fit-wise, I found the Ridgeway true to size for my UK 9 feet. However, I’ve heard from fellow hikers who needed to size up, especially when wearing thick socks. If you’re between sizes or plan on tackling some winter hikes, consider going up a half size.

The break-in period was minimal, with the boots feeling comfortable right out of the box. However, if you’re new to zero-drop footwear, be prepared for an adjustment period. During my first few hikes in Snowdonia, I experienced some calf soreness – a common issue when transitioning to minimalist shoes. My advice? Start with shorter hikes and gradually increase distance to allow your feet and legs to adapt.

Trail Performance: Putting the Ridgeway to the Test

Traction: Surprisingly Grippy

I’ll admit, I was initially skeptical of the Ridgeway’s relatively low-profile lugs. However, the FeelTrue® rubber compound has proven its worth across various terrains. Wet rocks in the Lake District and muddy slopes in Dartmoor posed no significant issues. That said, in extremely slippery conditions or deep mud, the traction doesn’t quite match that of boots with more aggressive tread patterns. It’s a trade-off between ground feel and absolute grip that barefoot enthusiasts will likely accept.

Water Resistance: Surprisingly Capable

The water-resistant canvas upper has kept my feet dry through shallow stream crossings and light rain – impressive for a barefoot-style boot. However, in heavy downpours or deep mud, water can seep in through the tongue area. It’s worth noting that some users have reported diminishing water resistance over time, though I haven’t experienced this issue in my six months of testing. For those tackling consistently wet conditions, you might want to explore dedicated barefoot water shoes.

Flexibility and Ground Feel: The Barefoot Sweet Spot?

The Ridgeway strikes an interesting balance between ground feel and protection. The flexible sole allows your foot to adapt to the terrain, enhancing proprioception. On most trails, this is a joy – you can feel the contours of the ground without discomfort. However, on very rocky paths in Snowdonia, you’ll feel more underfoot sensation than with traditional boots. This can be a pro or con, depending on your preferences and experience with barefoot footwear.

It’s worth noting that the boot’s flexibility also means less support on steep descents. I found myself missing the ankle stability of stiffer boots on some particularly gnarly downhill sections in the Lake District. If you’re used to rigid boots, this will require some adjustment to your technique. For more on the benefits and potential challenges of barefoot hiking, check out our guide on choosing the right barefoot shoes for hiking.

Durability: Standing Up to the Challenge

After 200+ miles of use, I’m pleased to report that the Ridgeway is holding up well. The upper shows no signs of delamination, and the sole wear is minimal. The most noticeable wear is on the fabric loop at the heel, which has frayed slightly. While long-term durability remains to be seen, initial signs are promising, especially considering the lightweight construction.

Aesthetic and Design: Retro Charm Meets Modern Performance

The Ridgeway features a retro-inspired look that sets it apart from many modern hiking boots. Available in traditional brown and a bolder blue option, the boot offers a stylish appearance that transitions well from trail to casual wear. This vintage aesthetic, combined with the minimalist design, makes it an attractive option for those who want a boot that performs on the trail but doesn’t look out of place in town. If you’re curious about other stylish barefoot options, our guide to barefoot dress shoes might interest you.

Environmental Impact: A Step in the Right Direction

Xero Shoes uses vegan-friendly materials in the Ridgeway, which is a plus for environmentally conscious hikers like myself. However, detailed information about their sourcing and manufacturing processes is limited. There’s room for improvement in transparency here, and I’d like to see more comprehensive sustainability reporting from Xero in the future. For those particularly interested in eco-friendly footwear, you might want to explore our article on the health and environmental benefits of barefoot shoes.

Value for Money: How Does It Stack Up?

At $139.99, the Ridgeway is competitively priced in the barefoot hiking boot market. Here’s how it stacks up against some popular competitors:

Feature	Xero Ridgeway	Vivobarefoot Tracker FG	Lems Boulder Boot
Price	$139.99	$240.00	$135.00
Weight	13 oz (M9)	14.8 oz	10.9 oz
Waterproof	Water-resistant	Yes	No (water-resistant)
Materials	Vegan	Leather	Leather/Vegan options

Considering its features and performance, the Ridgeway offers good value, especially if you prioritize a water-resistant barefoot boot. For a deeper dive into affordable options, check out our guide on the best affordable barefoot shoes in the UK.

Who Is the Ridgeway For?

• Barefoot enthusiasts looking for a more rugged, water-resistant option
• Hikers curious about transitioning to minimalist footwear
• Those seeking a versatile boot for varied terrains and weather conditions
• Hikers who prioritize ground feel and natural foot movement
• Anyone dealing with foot issues who needs a wider toe box

Who Should Look Elsewhere?

• Hikers who prefer maximum cushioning and support
• Those tackling extremely technical terrain or carrying very heavy loads
• Hikers unwilling to adapt their gait and hiking style to minimalist footwear

Room for Improvement

While the Ridgeway impresses in many areas, there’s always room for improvement:

• Enhanced waterproofing around the tongue area
• More robust heel pull tab
• Additional color options
• Improved transparency about manufacturing and sustainability practices

The Verdict: A Capable Compromise for Barefoot Hikers

The Xero Shoes Ridgeway is a capable and versatile barefoot hiking boot that successfully balances ground feel with protection. Its wide toe box, flexible sole, and lightweight design make it a joy on most trails, while the water-resistant upper adds versatility for wet conditions.

However, it’s not without its compromises. The flexible sole and minimal design mean less support and protection than traditional hiking boots, which may be a dealbreaker for some. And while the traction is generally good, it doesn’t excel in extreme conditions.

For barefoot enthusiasts or those looking to transition to minimalist footwear, the Ridgeway is an excellent option. It offers a taste of barefoot hiking without throwing you completely in at the deep end. Just remember, if you’re new to barefoot shoes, start slow and listen to your body as you adapt. For more tips on making the switch, check out our guide on transitioning to barefoot shoes.

In the end, the Ridgeway has earned its place in my hiking kit. It’s not perfect, but for the right hiker, it could be a game-changer on the trail.

Final Score: 4.3/5

Remember, this review is based on my personal experience and foot shape. Your mileage may vary, so if possible, try before you buy or purchase from a retailer with a good return policy.

Have you tried the Xero Shoes Ridgeway? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!

For more barefoot shoe reviews and guides, be sure to explore our other articles here on BareTread. Happy trails!