The Xero XT Max is made for movement and as a barefoot training specialist, I was ready to take them to the gym for some serious testing.
Xero shoes have been around since 2009 with the sole goal of allowing the foot to move naturally. The minimal design features wide, foot shaped toe boxes, zero drop and flexibility that allows the foot to bend and flex just like a bare foot.
We keep telling you not to strength train in your max cushioned running shoes. Studies continue to support that for weight lifting transitioning to barefoot footwear may build foot strength, improve balance, and restore the sensory feedback your body needs to move well.
If you’ve been looking to for a gym shoe, let’s talk about why the Xero XT Max might be a good option.
Who Is It Good For?
- Wide Feet: Nice wide foot shaped toebox and narrower heel for a secure fit.
- Heavier Runners: These will be great for any body shape or size when using for strength training.
- Long Runs: Not unless you love to run in a minimalist zero drop shoe. This one is for short bursts and strength training.
- Front of the Pack: Again, not really for much running. But will get great for those speedsters building muscle.
If you’re looking to connect your feet to your movement in the gym in the most natural way possible, the Xero XT Max shoe is for you. This shoe would be a great choice for anyone with wider feet who wants an adjustable, yet secure fit. Some people suffering from plantar fasciitis or achilles issues might find some relief in wearing a zero drop, less cushioned shoe.
However, with any zero drop, minimalist type of footwear make sure you ease into wearing them. Too much time in them too soon could lead to some foot and lower leg issues or make existing issues worsen. 
Xero Shoes XT Max Overview
I tested these shoes out with burpees, body weight movements, squats, lunges, deadlifts and single leg movements. I taught a body conditioning class that includes weightlifting and lateral, or side to side movements, in addition to mobility.
Before slipping my feet into these shoes, I tested the flexibility of the shoes by giving them the “fold” test, which they passed with ease.
When first trying on the shoe, you’ll notice the quick lock laces which make the shoes easy to put on, adjust the tension for a secure fit and take off. There is also a little band to tuck the locking system into so the laces stay put during your workout.
The shoe offers nice lateral support and the sole of the shoe was grippy enough to feel secure without any “catchy feeling” from larger lugs or grooves.
My feet were able to flex, bend, activate and balance throughout my workouts. They’re lightweight, breathable and grippy enough on the wood and rubber flooring in the gym.
As a minimalist strength training shoe, this one is pretty nice looking and it functioned as good as it looked in all of my workouts.
The shoes had just enough cushion to keep the landings comfortable and felt quite stable on my feet.
The outsole is very durable and showed hardly any scuffs or wear after a few workouts and has a 5,000 mile sole guarantee.
Overall, I liked the feel of these shoes on my feet. The fit was stable and there was just enough cushion to keep my feet comfortable on harder surfaces. As a Barefoot Training Specialist, this shoe is a very smart choice for most weight lifters. Activating the feet is integral to activating the core and, often overlooked, stabilizers in the feet and ankles.
Xero Shoes XT Max Specifications
- Brand: Xero Shoes
- Usage: Lifting Shoes
- Weight: 7.5 oz men’s size 9/6.4 oz women’s size 7
- Stack height: 11mm with the insole and 7.5mm without the insole
- Heel Drop: Zero drop
- Colors: In women’s they are available in white/blue lolite, black/white, and vivid purple. In men’s they are available in Xero blue and black.
- Available in wide: No, instead they feature a foot shaped design with a wide toe box
- Available at xeroshoes.com for $139.99
Quick Take
Pros
- Flexible, grippy sole
- Great for barefoot training
- Lightweight and breathable
Cons
- Forefoot could be too wide for some
- Rounded toe box can feel short
Xero Shoes XT Max Fit
The quick-lock laces make this shoe feel secure through all movements required in a full body workout, including lateral movements and plyometrics. Just enough cushion and just the right amount of ground feel. The toe box is roomy and they do fit true to size but for some, the rounder toe box can feel short.
This shoe may not be the best choice for someone with a narrow foot, although the lacing system would be in favor of getting a snug fit if needed.
Despite the wider toe box my foot felt secure in every movement and I could really engage the muscles in my feet in movements like squats, deadlifts, and one legged movements requiring balance.
Along with being lightweight they are also breathable with a flexible mesh material. I know many weight lifters who don’t wear socks with these “barefoot” styles of shoes so this is a thoughtful feature.
The insole is also removable for those who want even less of a barrier between their feet and the ground. I personally did not test this out since I prefer to wear socks, especially if I am teaching a class.
Xero Shoes XT Max Feel
This shoe feels light and airy on the feet. It’s very flexible and well ventilated.
If wearing these shoes with the insoles, they have just enough cushion when landing a plyo move and the zero drop allows the foot to engage and feel the ground when walking or lifting.
There is no heel counter but there is some padding around the heel collar and the material is not too stiff in this area. This shoe is a smart choice for the gym.
Our team has tested a variety of lifting shoes, here’s a few other similar shoes:
Overall, if you are lifting and want to focus on that important foot strength, these are a great option for you. Secure, comfortable and extremely flexible.Similar Shoes to the Xero Shoes XT Max
Our Verdict
What to read next?
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