Xero Scrambler Trail Mid WP Review

Barefoot Boots for Mud, Markets and Everything in Between

Barefoot footwear tends to divide opinion quicker than asking whether pineapple belongs on pizza or whether a Defender is better than Wrangler. Some people swear by it whilst others think it looks like you've accidentally left the house wearing oversized slippers.

The Xero Scrambler Trail Mid WP boots sit firmly in the barefoot camp, but unlike many minimalist shoes, they actually look like proper outdoor boots rather than something designed exclusively for yoga instructors and ultra-marathon runners.

After spending a good few months in the Xero Scrambler Trail Mid WP boots, both on muddy dog walks with Lilly the Mud Life dog, and during less glamorous adventures involving shopping centres and exhibition halls, I've come away pleasantly surprised.

First Impressions

Straight out of the box, the first thing that strikes you is just how light they are. If you're used to traditional walking boots from brands like Salomon, Merrell or Scarpa, you'll probably pick one up and wonder if they've forgotten to put half the boot in the box.

The design is modern without looking overly technical, and the wider toe box immediately stands out. Unlike conventional boots that often squeeze your toes together like commuters crammed onto a Northern Rail service, these allow your feet to spread naturally.

The Scrambler Trail Mid WP is built around Xero's barefoot philosophy, meaning minimal cushioning, a flexible sole and a zero-drop design where your heel and forefoot sit at the same height.

That sounds terrifying if you've spent years in heavily cushioned footwear, but the transition is surprisingly straightforward.

Sizing: Go Up a Size

One thing worth mentioning immediately is sizing.

Both myself and Muddy Madam have a pair and ended up needing a full size larger than normal.

I'm usually a size 11 but found the size 12 fitted perfectly. Muddy Madam normally wears a size 7 and likewise found the size 8 spot on.

If you're ordering online, I'd strongly recommend considering sizing up unless you have an opportunity to try them on first. Once we'd gone up a size, the fit and comfort was excellent.

Walking Around Markets, Shows and the NEC

Outdoor footwear reviews often focus exclusively on mountain footpaths and remote wilderness. The reality is many of us spend just as much time wandering around country shows, Christmas markets, camping exhibitions and the endless concrete floors of the NEC. Or at least we do.

In fact, a full day at the NEC can sometimes leave your legs feeling more battered than a day green-laning, and this is where the Xero boots really surprised me.

Because they're so lightweight, your feet don't feel fatigued after hours of walking. The flexible sole encourages natural movement, and the roomy toe box means your feet don't feel trapped by the end of the day.

Standing around chatting at trade stands for hours is rarely exciting, but these boots remain comfortable throughout.

They're also discreet enough that you don't look as though you're about to summit Ben Nevis whilst browsing camping gadgets and overpriced coffee.

Mud, Rocks and Proper Outdoor Use

Of course, readers of The Mud Life are probably more interested in what happens when the tarmac disappears.

The good news is the Scrambler Trail Mid WP performs impressively well in all conditions.

The sole provides more grip than you'd expect from such a flexible design. Muddy woodland paths, wet grass, rocky riverbeds and uneven terrain were handled confidently.

The barefoot construction gives excellent ground feel, allowing you to sense what you're walking on far more than traditional boots. On rocky terrain, this can actually improve balance and foot placement, I’m told.

Scrambling over rocks feels natural and controlled, while steep muddy paths never felt particularly sketchy.

The flexibility also makes driving easier than many bulky walking boots. Whether you're behind the wheel of your 4x4 heading to a campsite or navigating a muddy pay-and-display car park, pedal feel remains excellent.

Waterproof Performance

The "WP" stands for waterproof, and thankfully it isn't just marketing fluff.

During wet weather dog walks, muddy puddles and waterlogged lanes, the boots kept feet dry without issue.

Now, let's be realistic. No mid-height boot is going to save you if you march straight into a stream up to your knees because you've convinced yourself it's shallower than it looks. We've all done it.

For normal British outdoor conditions, however, waterproof performance is very good.

Breathability is decent too. Waterproof footwear can sometimes turn your feet into a mobile sauna, but these remain comfortable even during longer walks.

The Downsides

I couldn’t find any, though the biggest adjustment could be the minimalist sole.

If you're coming from heavily cushioned walking boots, you'll definitely notice the difference initially. Your feet and calves need a little time to adapt. Some people will absolutely love the connected feel; others may prefer more cushioning for long-distance walking.

For most of the summer I’ve been wearing flip-flops, so having a minimalist sole didn’t bother me in the slightest.

Protection is another consideration. The sole is tougher than it feels, but you're naturally more aware of sharp rocks and stones than you would be in traditional boots with thick midsoles.

The ankle support is also lighter than many conventional walking boots. That's intentional and fits the barefoot philosophy, but those wanting maximum support may find them less reassuring.

And finally, as already mentioned, sizing appears slightly small. Definitely consider going up a size.

Verdict

The Xero Scrambler Trail Mid WP boots offer something genuinely different in a market full of very similar-looking walking boots.

They're exceptionally lightweight, comfortable for everyday use, surprisingly capable off the beaten track and waterproof enough for typical British adventures.

Whether you're wandering around the NEC, exploring a muddy woodland path, walking the dog across a soggy field or heading out for a weekend camping trip, so far they’ve cope admirably with whatever gets thrown at them.

They won't suit everyone. If you want maximum cushioning and traditional boot support, look elsewhere.

But if you're curious about barefoot footwear and want a boot that combines natural movement with genuine outdoor capability, the Scrambler Trail Mid WP deserves serious consideration.

Just remember to order a size up. Trust me, it'll save you having to explain to the delivery driver why he's collecting another box of boots from your house a few days later.

Website: Xero Shoes UK - Xero Scrambler Trail Mid WP

Price: £160.00