Home All Items Men's HFS – Lightweight Road Running Shoe

Xero Shoes HFS – Lightweight Road Running Shoe

4.5 
Based on 1007 user reviews

Men's Sizing:

79% "Felt true to size"

Based on 163 user reviews

Women's Sizing:

69% "Felt true to size"

Based on 134 user reviews

The Xero HFS is a lightweight running shoe suitable for running and working out. It's made of vegan-friendly materials with a Huarache-inspired design.

Most suitable for:

Running and working out

Minimal Meter:

Pretty good minimalist standards

What does it mean?

Manufacture Short Description

Set your feet free!

Buying Options

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  • Men's
  • Women's
Xero Shoes logo From 119$ See deals
Amazon logo From 124$ See deals
Zappos logo From 119$ See deals
Xero Shoes logo From 119$ See deals
Amazon logo From 124$ See deals
  • Review
  • Description

Review Summary

The Xero HFS is a lightweight running shoe for men and women. These shoes are meant for runs and workouts on roads or gyms, but not for the rough trails. While they don’t have much sole grip, they make up for it in flexibility to help your feet grip the surface you run or workout on. With its minimal support and thin soles, the shoe can encourage natural movement on your feet.

  • PROS
  • It offers great lightweight breathability and comfort
  • Zero drop and provides the adequate ground feel
  • Versatile design that you can use for walks, runs, weightlifting, or even casual use
  • Dons a Huarache-inspired design for style
  • Superb traction made for roads and tracks
  • The Xero HFS comes with a removable insole for extra cushioning if needed
  • CONS
  • The shoes’ mesh uppers aren’t as durable as other parts of the shoes, tearing them apart from intense use.
  • The Xero HFS is not meant for long trail runs, as it can do numbers on the outsole.

Detailed Review

Check out the complete review! Tested and reviewed by Randy Kreill.

The Xero HFS is well-loved among those looking into barefoot running and training because its many features encourage a better ground feel. It has enough flexibility and a zero-drop design to improve your posture while keeping you agile and balanced. It also has a Huarache-inspired design that Xero is known for with its other models, looking attractive and stylish. 

Materials

The Xero HFS is made with vegan-friendly materials. Most Xero Shoes are not made of animal materials because the company believes in “Environmentally Intelligent” designs to help the planet. Not only are some of their shoe models made of vegan or renewable materials, but their minimalist designs use fewer materials compared to traditional footwear. They also have simpler designs with no midsole layers, which don’t require as much energy during the manufacturing process. 

These lightweight shoes feature a stack height of 8.5mm, which is a bit higher than your typical barefoot shoe. However, without the 3mm high-density EVA foam insole, you get 5.5mm of FeelTrue rubber, which encourages a better and truer feel of the surface. The 3mm removable insole is a nice option if you are still transitioning to going barefoot or needing a little cushioning for protection. 

Xero shoes also offer a 5,000-mile warranty on shoes that have FeelTrue outsoles, including the Xero HFS. This means that if you wear their FeelTrue outsoles down to less than 1mm thick at the heel or ball of your foot, then Xero can replace your shoes with the same model at 60% off its listed retail price. Take note that the program only covers the heel of the shoe and not the edges.

As for its overall design, the Xero HFS is reinforced in vital areas for better durability and a longer lifespan. The outsole has a stiffer rubber under the shoe’s outside heel and big toe, which receive the most impact and wear out quicker. With the stiffer rubber, the impacted area stays strong and won’t wear out quickly.

Performance

Xero HFS reviewers described the traction of the Xero HFS as exceptional, as it is designed with an outsole design inspired by tire treads. It also has v-shaped directional lugs, reversing the pattern at the front of the forefoot. You get more of a natural running form since the grip originates in the toes and not on the heel’s lug pattern.

The Xero HFS’ outsole design makes it for both the road and trail. The lugs have proper traction for braking as you go downhill or when on steep and loose terrain. With that said, these aren’t the best shoes for the off-trails and are more suitable to use on paved and gravel roads. Xero HFS reviews say that off-trail surfaces are rough on the shoe’s outsoles, with the rubber wearing out after a dozen miles or so. On the other hand, running on roads is a bit friendlier and will help the sole’s longevity. 

Fit and Sizing

Xero recommends getting half a size higher for a more accurate and comfortable fit when discussing sizing. The mesh upper makes it a bit snugger, hence why users should order half a size up.

A few Xero HFS reviewers have mentioned experiencing a tight fit the first time they tried the shoes on, but after loosening their shoelaces and using it a few times, the shoes felt better.

How It Feels

What’s beneficial about the Xero HFS is how it’s more athletically inclined. It has the zero-drop feature Xero shoes are known to have, encouraging a more natural fit, motion, and feel. While it may look a bit bulky and have a substantial build, the shoes are flexible and provide more freedom of movement. Its flexion improves one’s ground feel as well, so it’s much easier to flex and propel through the toes.

The Xero HFS has a wide toe box with an airier feel, significantly better than the Xero Prio. Thanks to the double-layer mesh, a thin liner around the ankle helps wicking moisture away from the feet. Combine the wide toe box and liner; then, you have improved breathability to run or exercise comfortably, even during hot days.

It also features a double-mesh upper that doesn’t have much TPU or reinforcements, giving it a lighter feel and better swing weight. The shoes are both lightweight and breathable, making them optimal for runners. 

That said, these shoes are actually a bit heavier compared to other barefoot minimalist trainer shoes. It’s still significantly lighter than conventional shoes and still has a more natural feel.  

Final Call: Is It the Best Barefoot Training Shoe?

The HFS Xero has a low-profile sole with a wide toe box, suitable for weightlifting and running.

We can’t conclude that it’s the absolute best, but it’s definitely a versatile shoe that meets most requirements barefoot trainers and runners desire. You can use it running on roads and tracks, as well as workouts in the gym. Furthermore, the Xero HFS has stellar flexibility, lightweight, breathable uppers, spacious toe boxes, along with no conventional support points on the outsole. But if you have just begun your journey towards barefoot training or running, there is a removable insole to help with the transition.

Expert Reviews

  by 

Expert reviews

User reviews:

FAQ

How comfortable is the shoe?

The shoes are flexible, molding to your feet and toes. Its upper mesh allows better breathability, and you can feel the difference between the ground feel and airiness compared to non-minimalist shoes. The moisture-wicking material in the shoes is slightly rough to the touch, but it keeps sweat away while keeping socks in place if you plan to use it.

Is the shoe breathable?

Yes, the shoes are breathable with their upper mesh and moisture-wicking inners.

Since this is a running shoe, is there enough cushioning?

Since this is a running shoe, is there enough cushioning? This is a minimalist shoe, so don’t expect much cushioning compared to traditional shoes. However, it does have a 5.5mm sole with a removable 3mm insole if you need extra cushioning, which is adequate. You may experience some discomfort if you’re new to minimalist running, but it diminishes over time.

Is the Xero HFS lightweight?

Compared to other minimalist shoes for running and exercise, the Xero HFS is a lightweight road running shoe. This gives it a more ground feel, along with improved comfort, almost as if you were running barefoot.

Besides running, how else can I use the Xero HFS?

The Xero HFS is versatile. You can use it in various settings, such as running, walking, weightlifting, bodyweight training, and even casual wear if you like to rock the athletic style.

Does the shoe look good?

Yes, the shoes look attractive! They take on a Huarache design that isn’t only eye-catching but also promotes a secure fit. The shoes look athletic, which is great for those going on a run or wanting a sporty look while running errands in the city.

Specs

Brand Xero Shoes
Model HFS - Lightweight Road Running Shoe
Product Type Shoes
Activity Type Gym, Running, Training
Terrain Road
Eco Friendly Vegan
Design ,Shoes,Casual
Materials Mesh, Rubber, TPU
Season Warmer, Warmer Weather
Sole Attributes Enhanced Grip, Enhanced Traction
Water Protection Breathable
Weight men's 193g, women's 164g
Heel Toe Drop 0mm

Manufacture Short Description

Set your feet free!

Manufacture Full Description

Check out the complete review! Tested and reviewed by Randy Kreill.

Product Description

A new lightweight, breathable mesh upper, a new tire tread-inspired sole, a silky moisture wicking lining made with “37.5” material, protected tension straps… put all of that together for your new favorite road running shoe, the HFS.

Of course, we know you’ll do much more than just run down your favorite roads in the HFS (and we can’t wait to see pics of where it takes you and what you do in it!)

Why “HFS?”

Well, it could be for the “Highly Flexible Sole” that lets your foot move naturally, or the face you’ll make when you put it on — “Happy Face Shoe” — or way you run it it with a “High Frequency Stride”, or what you exclaim when you put it on and feel the comfort and light weight: “Holy ___ ___!”

There are as many possible answers as there are things you’ll do in the HFS.

Why you’ll love the HFS

  • Natural FIT — a wide toe box lets your toes spread, splay, relax, and function naturally.
  • Natural MOTION — the HFS is flexible enough to let your feet bend, move, and flex the way, well, that feet are supposed to. The “XERO-drop” design (non-elevated heel) allows for proper posture, and it’s built low to the ground for balance and agility.
  • Natural FEEL — the HFS has a 5.5mm FeelTrue® rubber sole to give you the right combination of protection plus ground-feedback, so your brain knows how to move your body optimally. Also, you can remove the 2mm insole, for a closer-to-barefoot experience that lets you Feel The World®.
  • Light weight — so light, in fact, you could forget you have them on. A men’s 9 is about 6.8 ounces (each).
  • Huarache-inspired design — the adjustable instep and midfoot straps are not just eye-catching but functional, giving you a secure and comfortable fit.
  • Vegan-friendly materials — No animal products are used in the HFS
  • 5,000 mile sole warranty — like all Xero Shoes, the HFS is backed with a 24 month manufacturer’s warranty and a 5,000 mile sole warranty.

Slip on your new HFS, head out on your next adventure, and Live Life Feet First!

  • Description
  • Review

Manufacture Full Description

Check out the complete review! Tested and reviewed by Randy Kreill.

Product Description

A new lightweight, breathable mesh upper, a new tire tread-inspired sole, a silky moisture wicking lining made with “37.5” material, protected tension straps… put all of that together for your new favorite road running shoe, the HFS.

Of course, we know you’ll do much more than just run down your favorite roads in the HFS (and we can’t wait to see pics of where it takes you and what you do in it!)

Why “HFS?”

Well, it could be for the “Highly Flexible Sole” that lets your foot move naturally, or the face you’ll make when you put it on — “Happy Face Shoe” — or way you run it it with a “High Frequency Stride”, or what you exclaim when you put it on and feel the comfort and light weight: “Holy ___ ___!”

There are as many possible answers as there are things you’ll do in the HFS.

Why you’ll love the HFS

  • Natural FIT — a wide toe box lets your toes spread, splay, relax, and function naturally.
  • Natural MOTION — the HFS is flexible enough to let your feet bend, move, and flex the way, well, that feet are supposed to. The “XERO-drop” design (non-elevated heel) allows for proper posture, and it’s built low to the ground for balance and agility.
  • Natural FEEL — the HFS has a 5.5mm FeelTrue® rubber sole to give you the right combination of protection plus ground-feedback, so your brain knows how to move your body optimally. Also, you can remove the 2mm insole, for a closer-to-barefoot experience that lets you Feel The World®.
  • Light weight — so light, in fact, you could forget you have them on. A men’s 9 is about 6.8 ounces (each).
  • Huarache-inspired design — the adjustable instep and midfoot straps are not just eye-catching but functional, giving you a secure and comfortable fit.
  • Vegan-friendly materials — No animal products are used in the HFS
  • 5,000 mile sole warranty — like all Xero Shoes, the HFS is backed with a 24 month manufacturer’s warranty and a 5,000 mile sole warranty.

Slip on your new HFS, head out on your next adventure, and Live Life Feet First!

Expert reviews

User reviews:

Specs

Brand Xero Shoes
Model HFS - Lightweight Road Running Shoe
Product Type Shoes
Activity Type Gym, Running, Training
Terrain Road
Eco Friendly Vegan
Design ,Shoes,Casual
Materials Mesh, Rubber, TPU
Season Warmer, Warmer Weather
Sole Attributes Enhanced Grip, Enhanced Traction
Water Protection Breathable
Weight men's 193g, women's 164g
Heel Toe Drop 0mm
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