Xero Scrambler Low EV Review (2025): Versatile Minimalist Trail Shoe
By Alin Ciocan | May 19, 2025
Xero Scrambler Low EV is the latest evolution of Xero’s popular Scrambler Low, featuring a new abrasion-resistant mesh upper for improved durability, paired with a grippy Michelin Fiberlite® outsole and a zero-drop, flexible sole that promotes natural movement.
$149.99 At the time of review
Barefoot Comfort
4/5
PRICE / VALUE
4/5
Style / Design
4/5
durability
5/5
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Xero’s Scrambler Low EV is exactly what the original Scrambler needed: a tougher, tighter mesh upper and a touch more under-foot padding without betraying the brand’s Live Feet First mantra.
The new 12–14 mm stack (insole in) cushions heel-strikes just enough for runners or golfers easing into minimalist footwear, yet the shoe still bends, twists, and talks back on every step.
Consider it your gateway to genuine ground-feel: more forgiving than ultra-thin sandals, yet far more “alive” than conventional, overbuilt trail tanks.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Tire-Like Grip – The Michelin Fiberlite outsole provides excellent traction on dirt trails, grass, and uneven terrain.
Breathable Upper – Mesh construction keeps feet cool and dries quickly after sweat or light rain.
Very versatile – it is equally good on trails, in the gym, for casual wear or on the golf course.
Ample cushioning, it is great for people looking to transition to barefoot shoes
Immediate Comfort – Minimal break-in needed; the anatomically shaped footbed and flexible upper feel like a “giant sock” from day one.
Cons
No Waterproofing – Great for dry trails and golf rounds, but not for puddles or rainy hikes.
Debris Ingress – The ungusseted tongue and low collar can allow pebbles and grit inside without a gaiter.
Upper Can Feel Coarse – Some users find the mesh slightly rough without socks.
Limited Color Range – Functional but not fashion-forward (mostly muted tones).
Slightly Heavy – At 9.2 oz (Men’s US 9), it’s heftier than many minimalist alternatives, which may slow purely speed-focused runs.
Xero Shoes Scrambler Low EV
$149.99 (approx. £150)
- Free shipping on orders over $75 (US) or £60 (UK)
- 5,000‑mile sole warranty applies to all Xero outsoles
Xero Shoes Scrambler Low EV: The Trail Shoe That Does More
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The Xero Scrambler Low EV marks a significant leap for the popular Scrambler line. By integrating a more durable monofilament mesh upper, a transition-friendly 12–14 mm stack height, and the proven Michelin® FibreLite outsole for tenacious grip, Xero has crafted a rare breed of barefoot shoe. This is a shoe that’s equally at home hammering out rocky miles on technical trails, providing a stable base for lifting in the gym, or comfortably walking 18 holes without the need for traditional spikes.
If you’ve previously found ultra-minimalist sandals too unforgiving, the Scrambler Low EV serves as the perfect bridge. It offers sufficient cushioning to tame hard-packed surfaces and absorb some impact, yet it retains the crucial flexibility to allow your foot to articulate naturally. As we often discuss in our Beginner’s Guide to Barefoot Shoes, this balance is key. Think of it as minimalism with well-placed protection – you get the defence where it counts, without unnecessary bulk elsewhere, promoting better balance and posture.
Trail DNA, Levelled-Up: Tougher and Grippier
The most noticeable upgrade is the upper. Now featuring a significantly denser monofilament mesh (reportedly 30% tighter and exhibiting 40% greater abrasion resistance in lab tests), it effectively armour-plates the shoe against trail debris without sacrificing too much breathability.
This enhanced durability means more confidence tackling overgrown paths. On the ground, the Michelin outsole, with its strategically placed 3mm multi-directional lugs and distinctive side-wall lugs, provides exceptional lateral bite – a feature often missing in minimalist designs. Whether it’s loose scree, damp roots, or granite slabs, the Scrambler Low EV offers impressive adhesion. The only surfaces where caution is advised are exceptionally polished wet rocks or slick metal grates.
Surprisingly Adept for Golf and Other Outdoor Pursuits
It’s a recurring theme in feedback from our community: the Scrambler Low EV performs remarkably well on the golf course. While many dedicated barefoot golf shoes exist, the Scrambler Low EV offers a unique blend of ground feel, stability, and all-day comfort that many golfers appreciate. Its zero-drop platform and flexible sole contribute to a more natural stance and weight transfer during the swing. However, do note it is not waterproof; for wet conditions, you might consider its sibling, the Scrambler Trail Low WP, or be prepared for damp feet.
The Scrambler Low EV: At home on the fairway.
Golf Enthusiast’s Advantage
The low-profile tread won’t chew up greens, yet the zero-drop stance keeps you centered through a full swing. Swap spikes for toe-splay and feel the turf working with you, not against you. Perfect for walking all 18 holes with improved ground feedback and natural balance.
Fit & Feel
Wide toe-box? Check. High interior volume? Also check.
Great for orthotics or thick winter socks. Low-volume feet can lock heel lift with a runner’s knot or padded insoles. With the 3.5 mm insole removed you’ll feel pebbles; with it in place you can cruise 20 km days bruise-free.
Ultimate Xero Trail‑Shoe Comparison
Find the best barefoot trail companion with side-by-side lab & field testing from BareTread.
Scrambler Low EV
(This Review) Versatile
| Features | (This Review) Versatile | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Specifications | |||
| Weight (M US 9) | 9.2 oz (261 g) | 9.8 oz (277 g) | 7.8 oz (221 g) Lightest |
| Stack Height | 12–14 mm | 10.5 mm | 8.5 mm |
| Outsole Material | Michelin® FibreLite | FeelTrue® Rubber | FeelTrue® Rubber |
| Lug Depth | 3.5 mm | 3.5 mm | 3.5 mm |
| Performance Characteristics | |||
| Waterproof | No | Yes (XeroTex) | No |
| Drainage / Drying | |||
| Breathability | |||
| Ground Feel | |||
| Protection | |||
| Terrain Performance | |||
| Rocky Terrain | |||
| Muddy Trails | |||
| Sandy / Soft Trails | |||
| Urban / Pavement | |||
| Design & Fit | |||
| Upper Material | Monofilament Mesh | Waterproof Ripstop | Engineered Mesh |
| Temperature Range (°C) | 0 – 25 | 5 – 20 | 5 – 30 |
| Durability | |||
| Best Use Case | |||
| Best For | 🏔️ Rocky & All-round | 💧 Wet-weather Hiking | 🏃♂️ Trail Running |
| Ideal Activities | Hiking, scrambling, golf | Rain-hiking, stream crossings | Trail runs, fast hikes |
Trade-Offs to Know
No shoe does everything. Here’s what you give up to get that flexibility and ground feel:
- No rock plate — sharp talus demands careful footing.
- Mesh drinks heavy rain; dries fast but stays soggy in cold temps.
- Lugs wear quicker on asphalt; save them for trail, gym or turf.
Verdict: The Scrambler Low EV is the most versatile barefoot shoe we’ve tested in 2025 being cushier than a sandal, livelier than a traditional trail runner, and tough enough to span rocky ridgelines, barbell platforms and the back nine without a shoe change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mostly yes. People with average–wide feet report a TTS fit, but the shoe’s high interior volume means low-volume or very narrow feet may need thicker socks or a runner’s knot for lockdown.
A men’s US 9 tips the scale at roughly 9.2 oz / 261 g, making it one of the lightest trail models with a Michelin outsole.
No. The abrasion-resistant mesh is breathable and quick-drying but will let water in; choose the Scrambler Trail Low WP if you need a membrane.
Including its removable 3.5 mm insole, total stack is ≈ 12–14 mm, enough cushion for newcomers while preserving ground feel.
The Michelin Fiberlite outsole uses 3 mm multi-directional lugs (plus side-wall lugs) that grip dirt, roots and grass extremely well; metal grates remain slick.
Yes, extended road use will flatten the small lugs faster than trail-only mileage, though the FeelTrue® rubber itself is long-lasting and covered by Xero’s 5,000-mile outsole warranty.
Absolutely. The 3.5 mm insole pops out in seconds, giving more ground feedback or extra space for orthotics.
Yes, all materials in the Scrambler Low EV are 100 % animal-free.
A front gaiter hook is built in; there’s no rear Velcro trap, so strap-style gaiters or a DIY heel patch work best.
The Low EV rides higher (12–14 mm vs. 11 mm), adds more under-foot protection and side-wall lugs, but is heavier and a touch less flexible than Mesa Trail II.
How barefoot
Price / value
Style / design
durability