Xero Scrambler Low EV Review: Scramblin’, Ramblin’ Man

Introduction to the Xero Scrambler Low EV

JOHN: I got the Scrambler Low EV right before the snow hit the East Coast earlier this year — perfect timing! I’d been itching for a new shoe to bunker down in and enjoy the wintery weather, and suddenly I had one.

But before we get to that, I have to address some drama. I won’t get too into the nitty-gritty, but I will say that it’s impressive to watch Xero navigate troubled waters. It’s still treating shoes the same way it has since the start and hasn’t backpedaled or compromised in the name of capturing new customers. In fact, what it does is simple: It makes natural-feeling sandals and shoes.

The big selling point for the Scrambler Low EV is that runners who use sandals or minimal road shoes will be able to run trails where they need more protection for their feet. I know a lot of veteran ultra runners who exclusively use sandals, but there are some gnarly trails on the East Coast, and they have to opt for shoes at times. You know the trails I’m talking about— when you’re having panic attacks thinking about sliding down briar-infested Rat Jaw feet first, going down Devil’s Pass in the Catskills in the pouring rain when everything is slippery, the last six miles of the Wild Oak Loop on tired legs and whatever else is in your nightmare scenario.

This is the minimalist shoe for those conditions, so let’s dive in.

What we like about the Xero Scrambler Low EV

JOHN: Is it a boot? Is it a trail shoe? Is it a fashion shoe you wear with your kids to the coffee shop? Yes, to all of that. The Scrambler Low EV doesn’t mess around and unapologetically does not deviate from what it is. It offers more protection options than sandals and minimal road shoes but keeps the barefoot natural feel intact. At 9.2 oz for a US M9, the Scrambler Low EV is also ridiculously light.

The abrasion-resistant upper is a great shield against the elements. It offers excellent protection from sticks, rocks, and briars, and it runs true to size. I wear a US M11.5, and it was extremely comfortable. In some ways, the Scrambler Low EV feels like a giant sock. Nothing rubbed my feet, especially into longer runs. This shoe drained well and did a fantastic job keeping dirt out of the shoe.

The Michelin FiberLite sole is solid. I ran in the ice, snow, and sloppy conditions we got hit with on the East Coast, and the Scrambler gave me confidence out there, and my feet felt great. This shoe also looks good and will transition to a work shoe once I’ve beat it up more.

What we don’t like about the Xero Scrambler Low EV

JOHN: This isn’t so much of a full complaint but more of a warning that plays against the overall functionality of the Scrambler Low EV: You have to be careful where you step. I mean, this is true of any minimalist shoe, but everything hurts worse when you have less underfoot. Honestly, just put some extra thought into where you step, and always ask yourself where a good landing spot might be. I’d say to start with some easy trails first, just in case you want to get a good feel for the shoe before you set off.

Also, while I’d say that any Xero shoe can benefit your rotation, it’s not so easy to just grab a pair and go. If you’re extremely accustomed to the current status quo of running shoes, you may not entirely jive with what Xero is going for. I’m still going to stop short of saying this shoe is not for everyone, but it’s going to be a tricky fit for some. Because of its functionality I do feel that anyone can find a purpose for the Scrambler, work shoe, hiker, runner, or a mix of different activities.

Final thoughts on the Xero Scrambler Low EV

JOHN: If you haven’t run in the Xero Scrambler Low yet, I highly encourage you to try it — especially if you’re disenfranchised with the current state of zero-drop shoes. Xero is a really cool company, and it absolutely believes in what it’s doing, backing each pair of shoes with a 5,000-mile warranty. I’ve used the Scrambler Low EV on everything from training runs to mountain adventures, and I’m sure you could use it as a more casual hiker, too.

Honestly, Xero, to me, is one of a kind. You’ll find shoes here and there that look like what Xero is doing, like the Topo ST-4 that I reviewed, but Xero is after an experience that other shoes can’t fully replicate. The Scrambler Low EV allows minimalist runners to play in rugged areas that would normally feel off-limits, and I love it for that. In slightly different words, Xero is a lot like The Warriors from the 1979 action movie. They don’t take their vests off for nobody and stay true to their principles.

You can pick up the Xero Scrambler Low EV for $150 from REI by using the buttons below.