Xero Shoes Scrambler Trail Low WP Review: Waterproof Barefoot Hiking Tested

First Impressions: A True Waterproof Barefoot Shoe?

Being both a barefoot shoe enthusiast and someone who lives in the notoriously wet UK, I was skeptical when I first heard about the Scrambler Trail Low WP. Could a shoe really deliver both genuine waterproofing and the natural movement that barefoot shoes promise? After three months of testing in everything from light drizzle to heavy downpours and stream crossings, I can confidently say: Yes, it actually works.

Opening the box, I was immediately impressed by the build quality. The Black/Asphalt colorway I chose has a sleek, understated appearance that works equally well on trails and in casual settings. At 9.8 oz (277g) per shoe, they’re substantially lighter than traditional waterproof hiking shoes while still feeling robust enough for serious trail use.

Key Specifications

Before diving deeper, let’s look at the essential specs:

Pros and Cons

• Weight: 9.8 oz (277.2g) per shoe for men’s size 9
• Stack Height: 10.5mm total (including 5.5mm outsole + 3.5mm removable insole)
• Waterproofing: XeroTex® membrane with gusseted tongue
• Upper: Durable ripstop with welded overlays
• Outsole: FeelTrue® rubber with aggressive lugs
• Design: Zero-drop, wide toe box, flexible sole
• Materials: 100% vegan-friendly
• Warranty: 5,000-mile sole warranty
• Price: $149.99 / £149.99

Fit and Comfort

As someone with UK size 9 (US 10) feet, I found the Scrambler Trail Low WP runs true to size. I ordered my regular size and got a perfect fit with room for my toes to spread naturally. The toe box deserves special mention – it’s genuinely foot-shaped rather than tapered like conventional shoes, allowing your toes to splay for better balance and natural foot function.

The midfoot provides secure lockdown through the traditional lacing system, while the heel cup prevents unwanted movement without feeling restrictive. This balance of security and freedom is crucial for technical terrain where foot slippage can cause blisters or injury.

One clever design element is the gusseted tongue, which serves dual purposes: enhancing waterproofing and preventing debris from entering the shoe. It requires slightly more effort when putting the shoes on but pays dividends on the trail.

Break-in period was minimal—I experienced no hot spots or discomfort from the first wear. After about 10km of hiking, they felt completely molded to my feet. The interior lining feels smooth against the foot whether wearing socks (my preference for hiking) or going barefoot inside them.

Waterproofing Performance

The XeroTex® waterproof membrane is the star feature of this model, and I’ve thoroughly tested it in the UK’s notoriously wet conditions. My experiences included:

• Several rainy day hikes with extensive puddle navigation
• Morning walks through wet, dewy grass
• Light stream crossings
• Winter slush and snowmelt conditions

Throughout these scenarios, my feet remained completely dry. The gusseted tongue and well-designed upper prevented water ingress even during extended exposure to moisture. The seams showed no sign of leaking, even after repeated wetting and drying cycles.

However, there are limitations to any waterproof shoe. During one particularly deep stream crossing (above ankle height), water eventually entered from the top. Once water gets in, the same membrane that keeps moisture out also keeps it in, resulting in longer drying times than non-waterproof models. This is an inherent trade-off with all waterproof footwear rather than a flaw specific to the Scrambler Trail Low WP.

For extremely wet conditions or frequent deep water crossings, you might consider the Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport which drains and dries quickly instead of trying to keep water out.

Trail Performance

Traction

The aggressive lug pattern on the Scrambler Trail Low WP provides excellent grip across various surfaces:

• Dry trails: Superb grip on packed dirt, gravel, and rocky surfaces
• Wet terrain: Good traction on muddy trails, though caution is still needed on particularly slick surfaces
• Urban environments: Comfortable and secure on pavement and concrete

I was particularly impressed with the shoe’s performance on wet rocks and muddy inclines—areas where many barefoot shoes struggle due to their typically minimal outsole patterns. The lugs on the Scrambler Trail Low WP are substantial enough to provide confidence-inspiring grip without compromising flexibility.

Ground Feel and Flexibility

Despite the waterproof membrane and slightly thicker construction, ground feel remains surprisingly good. While it’s not as sensitive as ultra-minimal options like the Xero Genesis sandals or the non-waterproof Mesa Trail, it strikes a reasonable balance between protection and sensory input.

You can feel variations in terrain underfoot, maintaining the proprioceptive feedback that barefoot shoes are known for. The zero-drop platform encourages proper biomechanics, allowing for natural foot movement and midfoot/forefoot striking rather than heel striking.

Flexibility is impressive for a waterproof shoe. You can still roll the shoe into a ball (though with slightly more resistance than non-waterproof models), and the sole moves naturally with your foot rather than fighting against it. This flexibility is crucial for preserving the natural foot movement that barefoot enthusiasts value.

Breathability and Temperature Management

Waterproof membranes typically reduce breathability, and the Scrambler Trail Low WP isn’t immune to this physical limitation. However, compared to other waterproof hiking shoes I’ve tested, these perform admirably in this regard.

During moderate temperature hikes (10-20°C/50-68°F), my feet remained comfortable without excessive sweating. On warmer days (above 25°C/77°F), heat buildup became noticeable after extended activity. This is typical of all waterproof footwear and should be expected.

The moisture-wicking liner does an excellent job managing internal humidity, but for hot summer hikes, I’d recommend a more breathable non-waterproof option like the standard Xero Shoes Scrambler Low or Mesa Trail II.

Durability and Construction

After approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) of mixed use, the Scrambler Trail Low WP shows minimal signs of wear. The reinforced toe cap, heel counter, and strategic overlays protect high-stress areas effectively.

The outsole lugs have maintained their integrity with little visible wear, suggesting the 5,000-mile warranty Xero offers isn’t just marketing hyperbole. The ripstop upper material has resisted abrasion well, even after encounters with rocks and brush.

The waterproof membrane continues to perform as expected with no degradation in function. Seams remain intact with no separation or fraying visible.

The lacing system deserves special mention—the round laces stay tied securely and haven’t shown signs of wear. This might seem like a minor point, but anyone who’s had to replace worn laces mid-hike will appreciate this durability.

Versatility and Everyday Use

One of the Scrambler Trail Low WP’s greatest strengths is its versatility. While designed primarily as a trail shoe, I’ve worn it for:

• Technical day hikes across varied terrain
• Urban walks in rainy weather
• Travel days requiring all-day comfort
• Light outdoor work
• Casual everyday wear

The neutral styling (especially in the Black/Asphalt colorway) makes these acceptable for casual environments and everyday wear. Unlike many hiking shoes that scream “outdoor gear,” these blend in well in multiple settings.

As one reviewer put it: “Whether tackling rugged trails or strolling through the office, these shoes perform beautifully.” This versatility adds significant value, essentially providing multiple shoes in one. If you’re traveling and can only pack one pair of shoes, these would be an excellent choice that can handle varied activities and weather conditions.

Comparison to Similar Models

To provide perspective, here’s how the Scrambler Trail Low WP compares to other popular barefoot hiking options:

Model	Waterproof?	Weight	Stack Height	Price	Best For
Scrambler Trail Low WP	Yes	9.8oz/277g	10.5mm	$149.99	Wet weather hiking
Xero Scrambler Low	No	7.8oz/221g	10.5mm	$119.99	Dry weather trails
Xero Mesa Trail II	No	8.2oz/232g	~8.5mm	$119.99	Fast-paced trail running
Vivobarefoot Tracker FG	Yes	12.5oz/354g	~8mm	$240	Cold weather, ankle support
Xero Daylite Hiker	No	10.2oz/289g	~10mm	$129.99	Ankle protection, dry conditions

The Scrambler Trail Low WP strikes an excellent balance between protection and barefoot feel. It’s heavier than non-waterproof options but provides essential weather protection. Compared to the Vivobarefoot Tracker, it’s significantly lighter and more affordable while still offering waterproofing.

Who Should Buy the Scrambler Trail Low WP

The Xero Shoes Scrambler Trail Low WP is ideal for:

• All-weather hikers who need protection from wet conditions without sacrificing barefoot principles
• Barefoot enthusiasts seeking a waterproof option without compromising natural foot mechanics
• Transitioning hikers looking to move from conventional to barefoot footwear while maintaining some protection
• Travelers wanting a versatile shoe that performs in multiple environments and conditions
• UK and Northern European walkers who frequently encounter rain and wet trails (particularly valuable in our climate!)

This shoe may not be the best choice for:

• Hikers in consistently hot, dry climates (where breathability is more important than waterproofing)
• Ultra-minimalist purists seeking maximum ground feel
• Those requiring significant arch support (though transitioning to barefoot footwear can help strengthen foot muscles)
• Budget-conscious shoppers (the Whitin barefoot trail runners offer a more affordable, though less durable, alternative)

The Final Verdict

After extensive testing in varied conditions, I can confidently say the Xero Shoes Scrambler Trail Low WP delivers on its promises. It successfully bridges the gap between barefoot philosophy (natural movement, foot-shaped design, zero drop) and practical hiking requirements (waterproofing, traction, protection).

At $149.99/£149.99, it represents a significant investment, but the versatility and durability make it worthwhile for regular hikers in wet environments. The ability to serve as both a dedicated trail shoe and casual daily wear option in inclement weather adds considerable value.

From my perspective as someone who’s tested dozens of barefoot shoes across multiple terrains and climates, the Scrambler Trail Low WP earns a solid 4.4/5 stars. It’s not perfect—no shoe is—but it excellently fulfills its intended purpose while staying true to barefoot principles.

For anyone seeking a waterproof barefoot hiking option that doesn’t compromise on natural foot mechanics, the Scrambler Trail Low WP deserves serious consideration.

Have you tried the Xero Shoes Scrambler Trail Low WP or have questions about its performance? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below!

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