Xero Shoes Sizing: A Barefoot Shoes Guide in 2025
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Getting the right Xero Shoes size can feel tricky, especially if you’re new to minimalist footwear. Nobody wants the hassle of returns!
You’re in the right place. This guide cuts through the confusion, giving you clear steps and up-to-date info to help you choose the perfect size for your Xero Shoes first time.
Quick Answer: What Size Should I Order?
For most people and most Xero Shoe models, the best starting point is to order your usual US shoe size. However, some models run differently, and accurate measuring is key. Read on for details!
Why Xero Shoes Sizing Can Be Different
Xero Shoes are designed to be “foot-shaped,” not “shoe-shaped.” This typically means:
- Wider Toe Box: More room for your toes to spread naturally.
- Minimalist Design: Less padding and structure than traditional shoes.
This means comparing them directly to your traditional running shoe size isn’t always accurate. Following these steps is the best way to get it right.
How to Find Your Perfect Xero Shoes Size: 3 Steps
Step 1: Accurately Measure Your Foot
Knowing your foot length in centimeters or inches is crucial.
- Place a piece of paper on a hard floor, right against a wall.
- Stand on the paper with your heel touching the wall.
- Mark the longest point of your foot (usually the big toe or second toe) on the paper.
- Measure the distance from the edge of the paper (wall side) to your mark.
- Important: Measure BOTH feet, as they might be different lengths. Use the measurement of your longer foot.
Step 2: Check the *Official* Xero Shoes Size Charts
Once you have your measurement, compare it to the size charts on the official Xero Shoes website. This is the most reliable source!
➡️ View Official Xero Shoes Men’s Size Chart
➡️ View Official Xero Shoes Women’s Size Chart
➡️ View Official Xero Shoes Kids’ Size Chart
(Note: Links open in a new tab on the official Xero Shoes site.)
Step 3 (Optional): Use Xero Shoes Printable Templates
If you’re between sizes or still unsure, Xero Shoes offers printable sizing templates for many models.
Printing these (make sure print scale is 100%!) and placing your foot on them can give you extra confidence in your size choice.
➡️ Find Xero Shoes Printable Templates Here
Xero Shoes Model-Specific Sizing (Updated [April, 2025])
While ordering your usual US size is often correct, some models fit differently. Here’s a quick reference based on current recommendations (always double-check the specific product page on XeroShoes.com before ordering!):
| Model (Alphabetical) | General Sizing Advice |
|---|---|
| Alpine (Boot) | Go UP 1/2 Size |
| Aptos (Casual Shoe) | True to Size |
| Denver (Boot) | True to Size (Leather may run slightly larger than Knit/Original) |
| Dillon (Casual Shoe) | True to Size |
| Forza Runner (Running Shoe) | Go UP 1/2 Size |
| Forza Trainer (Training Shoe) | Go UP 1/2 Size |
| Genesis (Sandal) | True to Size |
| Glenn (Casual/Dress Shoe) | True to Size |
| HFS / HFS II (Running Shoe) | Go UP 1/2 Size (Note: Sizing advice has changed over time!) |
| Kona (Casual Shoe) | True to Size |
| Mesa Trail / Mesa Trail II (Trail Shoe) | True to Size |
| Nexus Knit (Casual Shoe) | True to Size |
| Pagosa (Casual Shoe) | True to Size |
| Prio / Prio Neo (All-Around Shoe) | True to Size |
| Ridgeway (Hiking Shoe) | True to Size |
| Scrambler Low (Trail Shoe) | True to Size |
| Scrambler Mid/Low WP (Hiking Boot/Shoe) | Go UP 1/2 Size |
| Speed Force (Running Shoe) | Go UP 1/2 Size |
| Xcursion Fusion (Hiking Boot) | Go UP 1/2 Size |
| Zelen (Running Shoe) | True to Size |
| Z-Trail (Sandal) | True to Size |
| Z-Trek (Sandal) | True to Size |
Important: Sizing recommendations can change! I’ve linked to our reviews where available, but always double-check the specific product page on the official Xero Shoes website before ordering for the most current advice.
Other Important Sizing Tips
- Shoes vs. Sandals: Sandals (like Z-Trail, Z-Trek, Genesis) generally fit true to size more consistently than closed-toe shoes.
- Narrow Feet? Consider ordering the women’s equivalent size. A men’s US 7 is roughly the same length as a women’s US 8.5. Women’s models are typically built on a slightly narrower last.
- Wide Feet? Most Xero Shoes are naturally wider than conventional shoes. Stick to your measured size first, but check reviews for specific model width comments if you have exceptionally wide feet.
- Sock Thickness Matters: If you plan to wear thick socks (especially with boots like the Alpine or Denver), you might consider going up half a size from your measured fit.
- Material Stretch: Natural materials like leather (Denver Leather, Glenn) may stretch slightly with wear. Synthetics usually won’t.
What If I Get the Size Wrong?
Don’t stress! Xero Shoes has a good return and exchange policy. If your shoes don’t fit perfectly, you can usually exchange them for the correct size.
➡️ Learn about the Xero Shoes Return Policy here.
Conclusion: Finding Your Fit
Choosing the right Xero Shoes size comes down to accurately measuring your feet, checking the official size charts, and considering the specific model you want. Use this guide, trust the official charts, and you’ll be enjoying comfortable, foot-friendly shoes in no time!
FAQs: Xero Shoes Sizing
For many models, yes. Ordering your usual US size is the best starting point. However, several popular models (like HFS, Speed Force, Alpine, Xcursion Fusion, Forza) are known to run small, and Xero recommends going up half a size. Always check the specific model guidance on the official Xero Shoes website.
Yes. A men’s US size is typically 1.5 sizes larger than the equivalent women’s US size in length (e.g., Men’s 7 ≈ Women’s 8.5). Women’s models are also generally built on a slightly narrower last (shape). Use the correct Men’s or Women’s chart when measuring.
Unlike traditional shoes where you might want your toes near the end, with minimalist shoes like Xero, you ideally want about a thumb’s width (approx. 1-1.5 cm) of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. This allows your feet to move and splay naturally.
They are most helpful if your measurement falls between two sizes on the chart, or if you want visual confirmation before ordering. Ensure you print them at 100% scale (check printer settings) for accuracy.
