The Xero Shoes Hfs Ii Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Xero Shoes HFS II is a versatile minimalist shoe designed for various activities. It is particularly suited for users seeking a reliable option for both road running and light trail use due to its effective grip on multiple surfaces.

Lab testing revealed that the Xero Shoes HFS II offers notable traction, supported by its grippy outsole. However, it was recorded as heavier than average for its category, which may impact some users' experience during extended wear.


Pros

  • Anatomical toebox for natural toe splay
  • Real minimalist design
  • Reasonably priced
  • Versatile for roads and light trails
  • Amazing at gym workouts
  • Ultra-flexible and easy to pack
  • Full-length outsole coverage
  • Superior ground feel
  • Promotes feet strength

Cons

  • Midsole lacks energy return
  • Heavier than most minimalist shoes
  • Durability still needs improvements

Key Features

    Natural Movement Design: Emphasizes barefoot and minimalist principles with a wide toe box for natural splay. Lightweight Performance: Weighing only 8.3 oz (Men's size 9), this shoe is designed for performance on the road. Supportive Fit: Features a breathable mesh upper with moisture-wicking lining that keeps your feet dry. Added Protection: Utilizes welded overlays for durability and an internal tensioning strap system to ensure a secure fit. Durable Traction: Equipped with dual chevron lugs to provide excellent grip on various surfaces.

Specifications

    Origin: Imported Sole Material: Rubber Outer Material: Textile & synthetic Inner Material: Mesh

Xero Shoes Hfs Ii Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Xero Shoes HFS II Xero Shoes Prio Xero Shoes Speed Force II Merrell Vapor Glove 6
Price $120 $90 $110 $90
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 8.6 oz / 244g 9.8 oz / 279g 6.7 oz / 189g 5.6 oz / 159g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 1.0 mm 0.4 mm 0.1 mm 0.0 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Firm - - -
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small - - -
Toebox durability Decent Good Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Bad Bad Decent Decent
Outsole durability Decent Decent Decent Decent
Breathability Breathable Warm Breathable Moderate
Width / fit Narrow Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Wide Wide Wide Wide
Stiffness Moderate Flexible Flexible Flexible
Torsional rigidity Flexible Flexible Flexible Flexible
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Flexible Flexible Flexible
Heel lab Heel brand 13.1 mm 12.2 mm 10.6 mm 7.6 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 12.1 mm 11.8 mm 10.5 mm 7.6 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season Summer All seasons Summer All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 44% Top 7% Top 32% Top 47%
Popularity Bottom 25% Bottom 34% Bottom 13% Top 43%