The Xero Prio has long been a favorite among minimalist footwear enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of comfort, durability, and versatility. Designed for those who crave a more natural connection to the ground without sacrificing performance, the Prio—one of Xero’s signature offerings—stands out in a crowded marketplace of athletic shoes. Whether you’re hitting the trails, training at the gym, or simply going about your day-to-day routine, this foot-friendly shoe promises to enhance your movement with its lightweight build, zero-drop platform, and wide toe box. In this Xero Prio shoe review, we’ll explore how this shoe lives up to its reputation, diving into its many foot-healthy design features, comfort level, and overall functionality to help you determine if it’s the perfect fit for your active lifestyle. We’ll also discuss the various activities for which it’s most well suited, assess its compatibility with other helpful footgear, provide thoughts on transitioning and sizing, and evaluate how it compares to its cousin, the Prio Neo.
Read on for our full review of the sportive Xero Prio!
Before we get rolling with this Xero Prio shoe review, though, an important caveat: In this article, we are reviewing the men's version of this shoe, which is what we recommend all users purchase (to ensure maximum toe box width). More info about men's vs. women's models and sizing suggestions for all will appear later in this article.
What Are the Main Attributes of the Xero Prio Shoe?
The Xero Prio stands out as a top choice for those who value performance, foot freedom, and a natural connection to the ground. Designed with minimalist principles in mind, the Prio offers a balance of innovative features that cater to a wide range of activities, from running and hiking to everyday movement. Whether you're looking for better foot alignment, enhanced flexibility, or lasting durability, the Prio delivers. Here are this barefoot athletic shoe’s key attributes (as we see them) that make it a versatile and reliable companion for active individuals:
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Wide Toe Box: One of the standout features of the Xero Prio is its wide toe box, designed to allow your toes to splay naturally with each step. This feature is a game-changer for those who value foot health and comfort, as it reduces pressure on your toes and allows for better balance and stability. Whether you're walking, running, or training, the roomier fit ensures that your feet remain relaxed and properly aligned, offering enhanced performance and reduced discomfort, especially during longer sports sessions or bouts of activity.
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Zero-Drop Platform: The Xero Prio incorporates a zero-drop platform, meaning there’s no height difference between your heel and your toes, which helps enable natural arch support. This design mirrors the natural position of the foot, promoting proper posture and alignment. Whether you’re an avid runner or just looking to improve your daily movement, the Prio's zero-drop platform enhances balance and reduces the risk of injury by supporting your body’s natural gait, giving you a more intimate connection with the ground.
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Flexible Sole: Flexibility is key when it comes to natural movement, and the Xero Prio’s flexible, 5.5 mm FeelTrue rubber outsole delivers on that promise. Crafted with lightweight materials and strategically placed flex grooves, the sole moves with you rather than restricting your foot's natural motion. This allows for greater agility and comfort, whether you’re sprinting on a trail or performing a strength training routine. This shoe adapts seamlessly to a variety of activities, offering a fluid and unrestricted experience that encourages proper foot mechanics.
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Lightweight Design: One of the prime attributes of the Xero Prio is its remarkably low overall weight. Weighing in at about 7.5 ounces per shoe, the Prio features a lightweight design that doesn’t compromise on durability or performance. This minimalist approach helps reduce fatigue, allowing you to move effortlessly, whether you’re tackling a long run or an intense workout. Its lightness gives you the freedom to feel as though you’re almost barefoot while still offering the sole protection needed for all-day wear and a diversity of activities.
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Durable Traction: When it comes to outdoor adventures or high-intensity workouts, traction is essential, and the Xero Prio’s durable rubber sole delivers just that. Engineered to provide a firm grip on various surfaces, from wet trails to gym floors, the Prio’s tread pattern ensures maximum stability and assurance with every step. With its tough, wear-resistant materials, this comfortable athletic shoe can withstand the rigors of both indoor and outdoor environments, making it an ideal choice for those who need reliable performance across varying terrain.
The Xero Prio possesses a thoughtful and well-rounded design that supports natural foot motion, promotes musculoskeletal health, and contributes to a more optimal running and walking gait. Its wide toe box, zero-drop platform, flexible sole, lightweight construction, and durable traction make it a standout option for those who prioritize both foot freedom and functionality. Whether you’re exploring new trails, improving your workout routine, or simply seeking all-day comfort, the Prio provides the kind of in-shoe environment needed to keep you moving with confidence.
What Activities Is the Xero Prio Shoe Suitable For?
The Xero Prio is designed for a wide array of activities, making it an incredibly versatile choice for anyone with an active lifestyle. Its minimalist build and flexible sole make it ideal for running, particularly if you're into road running or prefer a more natural, barefoot-like experience. This shoe’s zero-drop platform and wide toe box also enhance comfort and alignment, making it perfect for those who engage in strength training, yoga, or cross-training. For outdoor enthusiasts, the durable traction and lightweight design offer solid performance on hikes, whether you're navigating rocky paths or wet conditions. Additionally, its breathable upper and accommodating nature make the Prio a great option for long walks or daily errands, offering all-day comfort without sacrificing style. Whether you’re sprinting, hiking, lifting, or simply walking around town, the Xero Prio adapts to a diverse range of movements with deftness and ease.
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What Foot Conditions Is the Xero Prio Shoe Suitable For?
The Xero Prio is well-suited for individuals with a variety of foot conditions, thanks to its minimalist design, ample toe space, and ability to foster more natural foot and body motion. Its wide toe box is particularly beneficial for those with bunions, hammertoes, and other kinds of crooked toes, as it allows your toes to spread naturally and reduces pressure on sensitive areas. The zero-drop platform and flexible sole (along with the wide toe box) also make it a great option for those with flat feet or ball-of-foot problems such as capsulitis, neuromas, and sesamoiditis. Additionally, this shoe, thanks to its foot-friendly design, may work well for those who wish to prevent or address problems like plantar fasciosis or shin splints. Whether you're dealing with common foot ailments or just seeking a more foot-health-positive shoe, the Xero Prio offers the right balance of comfort and flexibility to improve foot health and mobility for many sets of feet. As always, though, it’s important to consult your foot care provider to determine if this lightweight everyday shoe is right for you, your unique feet, and your specific foot health circumstances.
Do I Need To Transition to Wearing the Xero Prio Shoe?
With just 7.5 mm of total stack height between your foot and the ground, the Xero Prio is a truly minimalist, close-to-barefoot-style shoe, and we always recommend taking your time when transitioning to minimalist footwear. Unless you have exceptionally strong feet, we wouldn’t recommend the Prio as your first minimalist shoe. That said, if you’re interested in them as a lightweight, casual shoe for an active lifestyle, the proper transition period could yield great results. If you’re a runner who is used to heavily padded running shoes, you’ll probably want to take them for a few long walks and mild jaunts before you bolt out the door for your next PR or FKT attempt. This gradual transition allows your feet to slowly strengthen and adapt, reducing the risk of strain or injury. It’s important to listen to your body during this adjustment period—if you experience discomfort or fatigue, ease off and give your feet more time to adjust. Over time, the Xero Prio will help foster improved foot mechanics and strengthen the muscles that are often underutilized in traditional footwear, ultimately leading to better overall foot health and a more natural stride.
Is the Xero Prio Shoe Compatible With Other Helpful Footgear?
The Xero Prio works well in combination with Correct Toes toe spacers for most sets of feet, making it a solid choice for those seeking to improve toe alignment and foot function. The Prio's wide toe box provides ample room for the spacers to fit comfortably, allowing your toes to splay naturally—in true anatomical fashion—without feeling cramped. Together, the Prio and Correct Toes can provide even greater benefits for individuals with bunions and hammertoes, or for those who simply want to enhance foot and toe mobility. Also, the Prio's flexible sole, zero-drop platform, and lightweight design further complement Correct Toes by encouraging natural foot movement, promoting proper alignment with every step, and strengthening muscles that are often underutilized in conventional footwear. Whether you're recovering from a foot issue or striving for optimal foot function, using the Xero Prio and Correct Toes in concert can help you rehabilitate your feet and build a strong, stable foot foundation. Should you require a little more space to comfortably accommodate your Correct Toes, consider removing the included (optional) insole.
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The Xero Prio is highly compatible with a variety of footgear designed to enhance foot health, mobility, and overall performance. In addition to working well with Correct Toes, the Prio pairs nicely with Injinji toe socks, which help maintain natural toe separation while wicking away moisture for added comfort. Pedag metatarsal pads or Strutz Pro foot pads can also be easily used or worn inside the Prio to encourage proper foot mechanics and protect ball of foot structures. If you're looking to enhance sensory feedback and foot strength, you can use Naboso proprioceptive insoles within the Prio to stimulate nerve activation and improve movement awareness. Athletes may also benefit from pairing the Prio with Zensah compression leg sleeves to aid circulation and recovery during intense training. Additionally, using the Prio alongside BlackBoard and Human Locomotion training tools can help strengthen foot muscles, create a more responsive musculoskeletal system, and build a stronger, more resilient foundation from the ground up.
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What Size Xero Prio Shoe Should I Choose?
When choosing your size in the Xero Prio, the best approach is to order your regular US shoe size, as the brand designs its footwear to align with standard sizing for a consistent fit. The Prio features a wide toe box and a minimalist design, allowing your toes to spread naturally for optimal comfort and performance. This natural fit is especially beneficial for those transitioning to barefoot-style footwear, as it promotes better alignment and foot function over time. If you plan to wear the Prio with Correct Toes, Injinji toe socks, or additional footgear, sticking with your regular size (or perhaps going a half size up) will usually ensure ample room for proper toe splay and alignment. Additionally, the flexible upper material adapts to different foot shapes, making the Prio a great option for a wide range of users. For those unsure about sizing, Xero offers additional sizing charts and info on their website, which can be helpful for confirming your size before ordering. If you’re still unsure of your best size or are on the fence between sizes, consider ordering a couple of sizes and then returning the size that doesn’t fit as well for a refund (this way, you’ll be almost guaranteed to get your best size right away).
How Do Men’s vs. Women’s Versions of the Xero Prio Compare?
Xero’s women’s models are manufactured a bit narrower relative to their men’s options. At Natural Footgear, we recommend that women order the men’s version in the Xero Prio to maximize the available toe box space and achieve a more accommodating fit. Because Xero recommends that you order your normal US shoe size in this model, we recommend that women simply order a size and a half down from their normal size in the men’s version. For example, if you normally wear a women's US size 8 shoe, consider ordering a 6.5 in the men's Xero Prio instead. This sizing approach ensures that you get the same great barefoot feel while giving your toes the room they need to spread naturally. Additionally, some women find that the men’s version provides a better fit when wearing Correct Toes or thicker socks, as it prevents any unnecessary impingement on the toes. Also, if you're a woman who has relatively wide feet or who prefers a little extra space for comfort, opting for the men’s version can be a particularly good choice to ensure an optimal fit.
Does the Xero Prio Shoe Have Good Traction?
The Xero Prio offers impressive traction, making it a reliable choice for a variety of athletic and everyday activities. Designed primarily for road running, gym workouts, and dynamic sports like tennis and pickleball, the Prio features a chevron-patterned tread that provides a secure grip on smooth and textured surfaces alike. During testing, we put the Prio through its paces with burpees, lateral jumps, and other high-intensity exercises, and at no point did we feel unstable or experience foot slippage. While the sole is not aggressively lugged like a trail shoe, its grippy and durable rubber compound ensures confident footing during quick pivots, sprints, and multidirectional movements. Whether you're training indoors, running on pavement, or engaging in active daily wear, the Xero Prio delivers a well-balanced combination of traction, flexibility, and ground feel. For those who frequently switch between different activities, the Prio’s reliable traction makes it a versatile option that adapts seamlessly to a range of movement patterns and surfaces.
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How Long Does the Xero Prio Shoe Take To Wear In?
The Xero Prio is one of the few athletic shoes that feel comfortable right out of the box. While they do mold slightly to your natural foot shape over time, they maintain their signature barefoot feel from the very first wear. When we first tested them during workouts and runs, we experienced no blisters, hotspots, or discomfort—something that can’t always be said for other athletic shoes. Over time, the flexible upper softens further, adapting to the contours of your foot for an even more customized fit. The sole also becomes more fluid with use, enhancing its already excellent ground feel, which is one of the reasons these shoes are a top choice for minimalist runners. Unlike traditional running shoes that often require a lengthy break-in period, the Prio allows you to hit the ground running—literally—without hesitation. That said, and as we’ve already discussed above, if you're new to minimalist footwear, it's still wise to ease into wearing them to allow your feet and lower legs time to adjust to the natural movement mechanics they promote.
How Does the Xero Prio Compare to the Xero Prio Neo?
The Xero Prio and the Xero Prio Neo share the same commitment to natural foot movement, but they cater to slightly different preferences in terms of design and feel. The original Prio is a slightly more rugged, do-it-all minimalist shoe with a secure, reinforced upper and a bit more structured fit, making it an excellent choice for high-intensity training, road running, and all-around active use. The Prio Neo, on the other hand, refines the design with a sleeker, more modern aesthetic and an even lighter, more breathable upper that enhances comfort for casual wear and warm-weather activities. Both models feature a zero-drop platform, a flexible sole, and a roomy toe box for natural toe splay, but the Neo offers a more streamlined profile with a softer feel, appealing to those who prioritize lightness and flexibility. While the original Prio may feel more robust and appropriate for dynamic movements, the Prio Neo offers an even freer, barely-there sensation that makes it an excellent athleisure option for all-day wear. Ultimately, choosing between them depends on whether you prefer the slightly more rugged versatility of the original Prio or the ultra-light, refined comfort of the Prio Neo.
Are There Any Additional Considerations for This Shoe?
When considering the Xero Prio, it’s important to approach it with the right mindset—this isn’t just another sneaker; it’s an invitation to move differently. Designed with a minimalist ethos, the Prio prioritizes freedom of movement, natural biomechanics, and foot-strengthening benefits. However, as with any specialized footwear, there are key aspects to consider to ensure it aligns with your needs and expectations. From terrain suitability to fit nuances and the transition to minimalist wear, understanding these factors will help you make the most of what the Prio has to offer. Here, then, are some considerations to keep in mind before lacing up:
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Use on Technical Trails: To reiterate, the Xero Prio is designed with a minimalist philosophy, emphasizing natural foot movement and flexibility. While this makes it a fantastic option for road running, casual wear, and gym workouts, it may not provide the kind of sole protection needed for highly technical trails. However, this also means the Prio encourages better foot proprioception and strength development—something that rigid, heavily cushioned trail shoes can often inhibit. If you're tackling rough terrain, pairing the Prio with mindful foot placement and a gradual adaptation period could actually enhance your trail-running technique.
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Potential Heel Slippage: Some users have noted that the Prio's heel cup runs slightly wide, which might lead to minor heel slippage, particularly for those with narrow feet, though we ourselves did not find this to be a major issue. While this can be an initial concern, it also highlights one of the shoe’s key benefits: An unrestrictive, natural fit that avoids the rigid, constrictive feel of traditional athletic shoes. Many wearers have found that adjusting the lacing system, experimenting with different sock thicknesses, or adding a Pedag tongue pad can help dial in a more secure fit, allowing for improved comfort while preserving foot freedom of motion.
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Not Ideal for Cold Weather: With its breathable mesh upper and lightweight materials, the Prio shines in warmer climates, keeping feet cool and comfortable. However, in colder weather, it may not offer the insulation needed to keep toes warm. That said, this makes it an excellent layering shoe—pairing it with thermal socks or waterproof overshoes can extend its usability year-round in certain climates. And for those who embrace barefoot-style footwear, the increased toe splay it permits can actually help improve circulation, keeping feet warmer than you might expect in cooler conditions.
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Toe Box Could Be Wider for Some: The Prio already offers considerably more toe room than conventional athletic shoes, allowing for natural toe alignment and improved balance. However, individuals with exceptionally wide feet may still find it a bit snug throughout the forefoot. Those needing extra width might consider sizing up a half size, removing the included (optional) insole to create some additional space for the foot, or using a tool such as the FootFitter Shoe Stretcher to spot-stretch the shoes in helpful locations. Of course, most sets of feet do well in the Prio without any changes or modifications required.
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Transition Period May Be Required: If you're new to minimalist footwear, switching to the Xero Prio may require an adjustment period as your feet strengthen and adapt to less artificial “support.” While this could initially cause some muscle soreness, it's actually a sign that your feet and lower legs are waking up, engaging in ways that conventional shoes often prevent. Approaching the transition gradually—starting with shorter wear times and progressively increasing activity—allows your body to adjust naturally, ultimately leading to stronger, healthier feet and a more natural gait.
Choosing the right shoe is about more than just fit—it’s about finding a design that complements your movement and lifestyle. The Xero Prio challenges conventional footwear norms, encouraging a more natural and intentional way of moving. While it may require some adaptation time and isn’t a perfect fit for every scenario, its benefits far outweigh its limitations for those seeking freedom, flexibility, and a closer connection to the ground. By understanding its nuances—whether it’s tailoring the fit, adapting to minimalist movement, or layering for different climatic conditions—you can make an informed choice that aligns with your needs. For those willing to embrace its design philosophy, the Prio offers not just comfort but the potential for stronger, more resilient feet in the long run.
Xero Prio Shoe Review: In Summary
The Xero Prio stands out as one of the most thoughtfully designed athletic shoes for those seeking a more natural, foot-strengthening experience. Beyond its versatility for running, weight training, and everyday movement, this wide toe box shoe truly embodies the minimalist footwear philosophy—allowing feet to function as they were meant to. Paired with tools like Correct Toes, the Prio can aid in foot realignment and strength, while its flexible, zero-drop sole encourages better posture and a more efficient stride. In the gym, they provide the stability needed for lifts while engaging the muscles often neglected in traditional footwear. More than just a performance shoe, the Prio is a tool for long-term foot health. It’s no surprise that they remain one of Xero’s best-selling models, with many users happily returning for another pair after years of wear. For those looking to transition to a minimalist shoe that supports natural movement and enhances foot strength, the Prio is a solid, well-rounded choice.
The Xero Prio scores 4.4 (out of 5) on the NFAR scale, which puts it in the “excellent” range for foot-healthiness.
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Founded in 2009 as a small, boutique company manufacturing DIY sandals, Xero Shoes has since become an industry staple in the minimalist footwear market, producing a wide variety of ready-made sandals and closed-toe shoes and boots in both the athletic and casual footwear spheres. With the thoughtfully designed HFS, Xero has shown how attention to detail can improve barefoot-style running and athletic shoes, providing an option for both competitive and...
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