Best Barefoot Sustainable Running Shoes

Zelen is Xero Shoe’s first-ever sustainable road running shoe. Like all the footwear in the Xero Shoes range, it’s a barefoot shoe built for natural movement, and I’m excited to share my Zelen review with you today.

If you’re looking for sustainable running shoes made from biodegradable materials and recycled plastics, then look no further than the Zelen Athletic Sneaker.

Plus, it has all the features you want in minimalist shoes, such as a flexible, zero-drop sole and a foot-shaped toe box.

Watch the video below or continue reading for all the details.

(This post includes affiliate links for which I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you should you make a purchase)

Before I share all the details with you, I want to say a huge thank you to Xero Shoes for sending me a complimentary pair to test and review. I’m a big fan, and I have reviewed several pairs of their minimalist footwear. You’ll see links to those at the bottom of this post.

When I first discovered Xero Shoes, I was looking for a barefoot sandal made with sustainable materials. I purchased the Z-trail, which had all the barefoot features I was looking for. I didn’t find the sustainability features I was after. Still, I discovered that the company was doing some pretty incredible things in other areas, so I was happy to support them.

Now, I’m super excited that they have stepped up again and moved into sustainable footwear.  There’s so much to love about their first sustainable shoe, the Zelen.

Xero Zelen sustainable running shoes features and specs

I’ll start with the sustainability features:

• The breathable knit upper is made from recycled materials
• The sock liner is biodegradable and will keep you cool and comfy
• The FeelTrue sole is made from biodegradable rubber with the perfect grip for the road
• The webbing, laces, and mesh lining are all made from recycled rPET materials
• These eco-friendly running shoes are also vegan-friendly

You’ve also got these adjustable tension straps for just the right amount of support and stability. And finally, the Zelen only weighs an average of 7.8 ounces, so it’s a very lightweight minimal running shoe.

Like all Xero shoes, the Zelen is ethically manufactured and is a barefoot shoe designed to help you move naturally. Let me share the barefoot basics with you.

• The wide toe box fits a natural human foot shape and allows your toes to splay naturally
• The zero-drop design promotes a more natural posture
• With a stack height of just 7.5mm, you get maximum ground feel while still having the protection you need
• You’ve got total flexibility, so your feet can bend and flex as feet like to do
• No arch support to allow your foot muscles to work naturally

Find out more about these sustainable running shoes, including the latest prices, below.

Check out the latest prices for the Zelen barefoot shoe on the official Xero Shoes website

Why I love the Zelen sustainable running shoes from Xero Shoes

I reviewed these after I had worn them every day for a couple of weeks, including on a handful of jogs. Like several other Xero Shoes I have worn, they were instantly comfortable and didn’t require any “wearing in” as such. So I certainly didn’t get sore feet, blisters, or anything like that.

I love the look of the Zelen, and they’re my new favorite everyday shoe. They look great with a pair of jeans, and they’ve been super comfortable for any activity I’ve been doing. This includes walking to and from work, playing with my kids, pushing the little one down the road on her scooter, outdoor fitness sessions, etc.

The Zelen could be the best minimal running shoe made with sustainability in mind. They also make a fab all-around vegan workout shoe.

Other Xero Shoes Reviews

As I mentioned, I’ve done several other barefoot shoes reviews. Depending on what type of shoe you’re looking for, you may want to check out the following posts.

Wondering what the barefoot buzz is all about? Read about the benefits of barefoot shoes and my Terraflex interview with a podiatrist.

Find out more about these sustainable running shoes, including the latest prices, below.

Check out the latest prices for the Zelen barefoot shoe on the official Xero Shoes website.

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these recommended service provider links, like an insurance broker, or a travel agent, I may earn a commission – at no extra cost to you. [For my full disclosure, please see my DISCLAIMER page]