Xero Shoes Scrambler Low EV Trail Runner Review

The updated Scrambler Low EV from Xero Shoes is a trail runner that builds on a popular and well-established minimalist design, bringing in a more rugged outsole and a more debris- and abrasion-resistant upper. 

Xero Shoes’ motto is “Live Feet First,” and the brand has been designing and championing minimalist shoes for over 15 years. Their product range has grown from basic huarache-style sandals to runners, casual shoes, and now highly developed trail shoes.

Xero Shoes Scrambler Low EV At A Glance

<br>MSRP: $149.99
Weight: 7.4 oz per shoe (women’s 7)
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0 mm
Lugs: 3 mm
Stack: 11.5 mm
Upper: Plastic mesh weave
Outsole: Michelin Fiberlite Sole with embedded TrailFoam layer

Men’s Xero Scrambler here.

Intended Use

The Scrambler Low EV was developed as an ultralight, high-performance hiking and trail running shoe. It’s suited for trail runs, technical hikes, and scrambling through rocky terrain. 

In general, minimalist shoes like the Scrambler have less cushioning, a wider toe box, more flexibility, and no lifted heel. Folks who enjoy wearing minimalist shoes often talk about being able to feel the ground more fully below their feet, and also having more space for their feet and toes to spread out. 

Circumstances of Use

I’m very comfortable with wearing minimalist and zero-drop shoes and wore the Xero Scrambler almost exclusively for weeks on end. I put these shoes through their paces, wearing them for miles of urban walking, cycling, and hiking.

Fit

The Xero Shoes Scrambler Low EV fits true to size with a roomier-than-average toe box that lets your toes spread out. The midfoot also has more space than the average shoe, while the heel cup provides a comfortable and secure fit. The zero-drop heel and minimal profile improve awareness of the terrain beneath you, all while providing enough stability and flexibility for a wide array of activities.

Features

Abrasion and debris resistant mesh upper: As an improvement on the previous model, the Scrambler Low EV features a more solid toe guard and stronger mesh on the upper.

Michelin Fiberlite sole: Xero shoes has collaborated with tire-maker Michelin to develop a thin sole that incorporates strength, flexibility, and lightness.

Breathable and moisture-wicking: The Scrambler Low EV features a breathable mesh upper and a moisture-wicking lining that allows airflow and quick drying on hot, sweaty days.

Zero drop minimalist design: All Xero shoes are minimalist in design with no heel lift and a wider, more naturally foot-shaped toe box. The sole of the shoe sits fully flat against the ground without any toe spring. There isn’t any arch support for a more barefoot feel.

Lightweight: The Scrambler Low EV is incredibly light, weighing less than many sandals. With a thinner sole, these shoes can feel like you’re barely wearing anything on your feet.

Grippy lugged outsole: Inspired by mountain bike tires, the lugged outsole sheds mud and debris and features an incredible grip on all types of terrain.

Gaiter hook: An attachment at the base of the shoelaces makes it easy to hook a gaiter on for more protection against trail debris and adverse weather conditions. 

Vegan friendly: The materials used in the Scrambler Low EV are 100% free of animal products. 

Xero Shoes Scrambler Low EV Pros

Durable

Xero Shoes designs its footwear to be long-lasting. The lower part of the upper mesh is all welded, with some extra-thick protection over the toe, across the heel, and on both sides of the midfoot. The mesh is a really tight weave with a thick and strong-feeling fabric frame and liner. The sole of the shoe incorporates a layer of Xero Shoes’ TrailFoam, which helps provide a bit of extra comfort underfoot.

My shoes still look brand new after weeks of continual wear. There aren’t any marks on the welding or any tears in the mesh.

Strong Grip

I don’t think I’ve ever had shoes that provided the incredible traction that the Scrambler Low EV has. Xero Shoes collaborated with Michelin tires to create a sole inspired by mountain bike tires that solidly grips even the slipperiest log in the forest. Clambering up slick granite’s no problem for these shoes. The lugs reach around to cover the sides of the outsole to give even more traction on uneven terrain.

5000-Mile Outsole Guarantee

Xero Shoes backs their shoes with a 5000-Mile Sole Warranty. If the soles wear down to less than 1 mm thick at the ball of the foot or the heel, they’ll replace them for 60% off the full retail price. They also provide a 24-month warranty against any manufacturing defects.

I took advantage of the sole warranty with my first pair of Xero sandals. It was an easy process and I felt great supporting a company that wants their shoes to last much much longer than the average 500 or so miles of most other trail runners.

Shoelaces

It’s not often that I highlight shoelaces on a shoe review, but these ones are worth noting. I’m a chronic double-knotter, and even then, my shoelaces often come undone. These laces are thick and sturdy, and for the first time ever, they stay tied with only a single overhand knot. They’re also a really good length, allowing me to use the extra lacing holes to create a heel lock. 

Xero Scrambler Low EV Cons

Insoles

All Xero Shoes come with a very basic sock liner insole. It offers minimal extra protection and isn’t long-lasting. As expected for a minimalist, barefoot-style shoe, the insole doesn’t provide any extra support in the instep or heel. However, the Scrambler Low EV is roomy enough to replace the insole with a thicker, more supportive one as needed.

Minimalist Shoes Aren’t for Everyone

Everyone’s feet are different, and not all folks are able to wear minimalist shoes like the Scrambler Low EV without additional pain or discomfort. Even if you’re comfortable in zero-drop shoes, the Scrambler Low’s thin sole and minimal support may not suit your needs. It’s worth noting that many people who transition to minimalist shoes often experience some soreness in their calves and hamstrings as their muscles stretch out to accommodate a flatter foot. 

Overall

Xero Shoes Scrambler Low really surprised me with its comfort and capabilities. While it looks like a basic running shoe, it has incredible grip, amazing durability, and offers me a chance to hike “barefoot” with some solid protection. These shoes are great for folks who prioritize weight savings and prefer being able to feel the ground beneath their feet.

Shop the Women’s Xero Shoes Scrambler Low EV

Shop the Men’s Xero Shoes Scrambler Low EV

Comparable Shoes

Topo Athletic Pursuit 2 Trail Shoes

MSRP: $145
Heel-to-toe drop: 0 mm
Stack: 28 mm

Altra Superior 7 Trail-Running Shoes

MSRP: $120
Heel-to-toe drop: 0 mm
Stack: 21 mm

Merrell Trail Glove 7 Trail-Running Shoes

MSRP: $120
Heel-to-toe drop: 0 mm
Stack: 14 mm

The Xero Shoes Scrambler Low EV was donated for purpose of review