We offer this model by request only. This means we don't stock them on our shelves, but if you use our restock alert system to let us know you're looking for them we'll try to bring them in for you (subject to availability).
Get the foot-stimulating benefits of Naboso Prioproception technology with the summertime freedom of Xero's best-selling Z-Trail sandal.
The Naboso sandal has a unique sole with three layers:
The bottom has Xero's FeelTrue® rubber for great grip and abrasion resistance. The middle layer of TrailFoam™ provides an incredible amount of force absorption and protection. The footbed is a Naboso 1.5 Technology layer that stimulates your feet.
The sole still maintains enough flexibility to allow for natural movement and ground-feel!
Skin has a relationship to movement, and that includes the bottom of your feet. We find that our customers who spend time barefoot build up literally tougher skin over time, in addition to being more familiar with tactile input in that area of the body. The Naboso footbed may feel more mild if you incorporate a lot of texture into your movement rich lifestyle. The opposite is true for those who are used to extremely cushioned shoes and very little sensory input on the soles of the feet, your skin may be more sensitive at first.
If you find the sensation intense at first, you can work up to wearing these starting with wearing them for a short time while sitting, gradually increasing wear time and standing time as you feel comfortable doing so. Playing with texture is another way to get used to this, and we recommend doing so as your feet have tons of nerve endings for a reason: they send information to your brain that helps you navigate as you move through the world!
This classic looking adventure sandal is tough enough for trails and will enrich your movement time through the whole summer, whether you're sliding them on for a long walk or just to run to the store. They dry quickly if you get them wet, and once you get the straps set to the shape of your feet they are super convenient to don and doff. Set it and forget it!
New to Minimal Shoes?
Our customers seem to find these polarizing as a transition option. Some people find the stimulation from the Naboso textured footbed helps them in their transition, while others find it overstimulating at first. For most though, it's just a matter of getting used to a new sensation, and they become quite comfortable after a few wears.
The Naboso sandals have a high amount of ground feedback and a medium amount of cushioning, so they are somewhat forgiving while navigating unnaturally hard surfaces like pavement. If you've never worn minimal shoes or sandals before, check out the Z-Trail EV for comparison.
We recommend these to folks who are looking to develop a stronger understanding of their body's relationship to gait, balance, and space.
Sizing and Fitting Notes
W = women's sizes: thinner straps and slightly less wide, M = men's sizes: thicker straps and wider. A women's size 9.5 is roughly equal in length to a men's 8 (1.5 sizes' difference for conversion).
This model tends to fit true to size. Xero makes these in whole sizes only, so if you normally take a size that ends in point five, round up to avoid toes hanging off the edge (if you normall take a 9.5, order a 10).
The Z series of sandals from Xero including the Naboso sandal, Z-Trek, and Z-Trail EV, are all very easy to adjust to get a secure fit for almost any volume or shape of foot.
If you have any sizing questions we're happy to help.