Xero Shoes Mesa Trail II

A minimalist trail runner with great traction. It claims to be very durable, and has held up well so far.

Fit: They fit me well with a wide toe box. 

Comfort: Flexible and feels great right out of the box. 

Support: It's a minimalist shoe, so it's not going to have much support. 

Water Resistance: N/A

Traction: I've used it in snow and on a muddy hill with better than expected results. I have slipped a little, but I've even slipped in my metal studded VJs on some surfaces.

Temp Control: They are mesh with reinforced sections. I haven't felt like my feet were overheating in the summer. I've used them in snow and mud, but I know I'm going to get cold feet if I'm out in very cold or cold/wet weather for an extended time. 

Construction & Durability: It appears well made. Xero guarantees their footwear for 5000 miles, which is one of the reasons I got them. They are my go-to shoes when I need additional traction and don't need the additional cushioning or space of my Lone Peaks or the additional traction of my VJs. I've worn them for 82 miles of trail runs and hikes and they show minimal wear. I doubt they'll last for 5000 miles, though.

Conditions: I've used them in hot, cold, dry, wet, snowy, and muddy conditions. Trail runs up to 6 miles, and hikes up to 4 miles.

I'll use these when I'm running on smoother trails or most hikes. I'll use my Altra Lone Peaks when I need additional cushioning, or my wide Lone Peaks, if I'm going to be on an all day or multi-day hike. I'll use my VJs when orienteering, they hold well running on fallen trees and muddy areas (though they're annoying on pavement and large rocks.) I also use a pair of Xero Zelens as my road running shoes. Interestingly, the Mesa Trail II has a lighter claimed weight than the Zelens.

Background

As an orienteer, geocacher, and Scoutmaster, I find myself in forests at least once a week. I typically run 4 times a week, at least once a week in the woods.
I've had them for a year and used them on many runs and hikes, totaling 82 miles on trails and snow.

Having recently worn out several pairs of trail runners, I wanted something that should last longer.