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, ethical running shoes, eco-friendly running shoes, recycled running shoes, AND a minimal running shoe then look no further than the Zelen.
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 barefoot shoes. You’ll see links to those at the bottom of this post.

When I first discovered Xero Shoes, l was looking for a sustainable barefoot sandal. I purchased the Z-trail, which had all the barefoot features I sought. 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.
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 sole is biodegradable with the perfect grip for the road
- The webbing, laces, and mesh lining are all made from recycled materials
- These eco friendly running shoes are also vegan friendly

You’ve also got these adjustable tension straps to have 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.
Zelen barefoot shoe features
- There’s a wide, foot-shaped toe box to allow your toes to splay naturally
- The zero-drop design promotes a more natural posture
- With a stack height of just 7.5mm, you get the ability to feel the ground while still having the protection you need
- And you’ve got total flexibility, so your feet can bend and flex as feet like to do
Find out more about these sustainable running shoes, including the latest prices, below.
Zelen barefoot shoe (US Store)
Zelen barefoot shoe (EU store)

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.
- Terraflex II trail shoe review (also released for spring and summer 2022)
- Terraflex barefoot shoe (a performance-based minimalist shoe, designed for the trail
- Z trail hiking and running barefoot sandal
- Jessie ultra-thin minimalist sandal
- Cassie minimalist shoe (Mary Jane style barefoot shoe)
- Kid’s Prio (the “everything” barefoot shoe for kids)
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.
Zelen barefoot shoe (US Store)
Zelen barefoot shoe (EU store)
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]
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