Xero Shoes Mesa Trail WP Review

With 4.5 out of 5, these fully waterproof trail shoes are among my favorites for the purpose. Their secure and adjustable fit will support your feet thoroughly throughout any adventurous journey. I’ve been wearing them for over a year, and these sneakers are designed to meet your expectations. Here is what I can tell you about my impressions of the model’s functionality.

These shoes have been included in such ratings as Best Hiking Shoes, Best Waterproof Shoes, Best Non-Slip Shoes, Shoes for Wide Feet, Barefoot Lifting Shoes, and Best Wide Toe Box Shoes. Check them out to familiarize yourself with not less impressive models from other barefoot manufacturers in the market.

Key Takeaways

In my hands-on experience, they support natural movement without overwhelming your feet. The upper materials are breathable and waterproof, which keep your feet dry, comfy, and warm, regardless of the change of the weather outdoors. I also tested the pair’s efficiency for gym training — a natural toe splays improves grip and promotes a wider range of motion with greater stability and safety in mind. These sneakers are ideal for mixed-terrain adventures.

Pros:

• A thin and flexible sole that allows for a nice ground feel without sharp pain
• Zero-drop for natural foot alignment
• With a wide toe box
• A secure and convenient-to-use lacing system
• A custom fit that stays snug even on an eight-mile trail run
• Flexible, lightweight, and durable, but with a well-balanced and sturdy structure

Cons:

• They may feel warmer on sunny days than other Xero Shoes models — not as breathable as non-waterproof alternatives in comparison
• No slip-on function
• A slight break-in period is needed
• While these are slip-resistant, the model may be time-consuming in terms of cleaning; mud and dirt easily cling to the tread of the shoe

Style & Design

I love the Mesa Trail series from the brand, but this version has been my favorite so far. A waterproof silhouette for casual wear in the budget-friendly cost range — what can be better? Xero Shoes has always done a great job in creating barefoot silhouettes for casual wear and trekking, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

The wide-toe-boxed design is much appreciated, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution:

• The cut is clean and sleek — no visual clutter or cumbersome fits on your feet.
• They tend to be true to your size. The width of the shoe might be a problem for clients with larger feet, though. While they allow for a natural toe splay, these sneakers may not be spacious enough for extra-wide feet.

Fit & Traction

Xero Shoes Mesa Trail WP is available in sizes from 6.5 US to 15 US. The pair’s aesthetic profile features sport-style vibes — not a perfect match for smart-casual wear. I love putting them on whenever I walk my dog — slip-resistant, even on wet grass. The upper canvas holds up well against shallow puddles without leaks and other hazards.

I don’t wear them sockless. In terms of comfort, moisture-wicking socks are the best. They also contribute to the air flow in the shoe. The waterproof membrane goes strong, but it does feel that some ventilation is sacrificed for the sake of dryness and warmth.

Comfort & Seasonality

Although the design isn’t additionally reinforced, it has survived through countless meetings with rocks and debris during my trekking and hiking adventures. The lugs aren’t as good as new, but they are extremely close — the grip doesn’t degrade the longer I wear these shoes. Xero Shoes Mesa Trail WP features a foam layer of 3.5 millimeters, which adds to the overall comfort.

While they bend pretty easily, these sneakers for trail running and casual walking aren’t the most flexible footwear across markets. I kind of like this sturdiness: without compromising a ground feel, it lets me feel in full control of my movement. It also works for year-round usability of the model.

Durability & Maintenance

Xero Shoes Mesa Trail WP is built for multi-season use — so far, so good:

• Despite its pretty affordable price, lace eyelets and other design elements don’t “give up” under pressure — no wear and tear signs after months spent on various trail routes.
• The quality of the sole adhesion is excellent.
• There are no cracks anywhere on the shoe, either.

The waterproof upper should be cleaned thoroughly, and the same goes for the outsole. I did put them in the washing machine and the dryer once, but manual care is a better option. My shoes survived that experience, but that might not be the case in other instances. The moisture-wicking lining keeps the shoe dry, preventing unpleasant odor buildup. However, you should air dry the pair thoroughly to minimize the related risks.

How to Choose the Best Trail Shoes: Xero Shoes Edition

Whether this pair can be a perfect match depends on your needs:

• Confirm the right sizing — these shoes for men are available in a wide range of sizes. Although cases when they fit snugger than expected are quite rare, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Understand your foot type first to see whether this spacious toe box is too roomy for your liking.
• Assess terrain needs — lug depth matters. Check if the target offer works for technical or more amateur-oriented trails. I have tested it on multiple terrains, and the results have been satisfactory so far.
• Check the climate fit — these are best for cold and wet weather conditions. If it’s too hot or too dry in your area, they might seem lacking in terms of breathability.
• Waterproofing vs. flexibility — the waterproof membrane has several benefits, but it does make the structure feel a bit sturdy and somewhat cumbersome.

Final Verdict: Are Xero Shoes Mesa Trail WP Worth It?

I am happy to recommend this model for anyone who is interested in multi-faceted functionality with a budget-friendly price range. At Xero Shoes, this pair of waterproof shoes for trail runners is designed with barefoot movement and foot health in mind. In real trail conditions, they can perform at an A+ level. Before placing your order, please check all the potential pitfalls I’ve highlighted in this review — they aren’t one-size-fits-all footwear for men.

Have you ever tested Xero Shoes products? What’s your impression of those in comparison with Xero Shoes Mesa Trail WP? Welcome to the comment section for an experience exchange session.