Scrambler Mid II WP vs Scrambler Trail Mid WP for Men
By Barefoot Shoes | Minimalist Footwear | Xero Shoes | Published: 2026-10-16
Category: Comparisons
Compare the men's Scrambler Mid II WP and women's Scrambler Trail Mid WP on waterproofing, sole, fit, and price to choose the right minimalist mid boot for wet trails.
Quick answer
If you need a men's waterproof mid boot for mixed terrain, choose the Scrambler Mid II WP: its Michelin Fiberlite sole and 100% waterproof internal membrane suit rugged, wet hikes. The Scrambler Trail Mid WP is a women's boot, so men should look to the Scrambler Mid II WP for the closest fit and feature match. Both are lightweight, minimalist mid boots, but the Scrambler Mid II WP is the only one built on a men's last.
What actually differs between these two mid boots
The Scrambler Mid II WP for men is a mid-height hiking boot with a 100% waterproof internal membrane and a flexible Michelin Fiberlite sole. That combination targets wet, uneven ground where you want protection without a stiff, heavy platform. The Scrambler Trail Mid WP for women uses a waterproof XeroTex membrane and a lugged rubber outsole. Both are lightweight and breathable, but the sole construction and intended fit differ, which changes how each feels on the trail.
Waterproofing: two membranes, one goal
Both boots keep water out, but they use different membrane systems. The Scrambler Mid II WP relies on a 100% waterproof internal membrane, while the Scrambler Trail Mid WP uses a waterproof XeroTex membrane. In practice, both are designed to handle wet grass, puddles, and light rain. Neither is a rubber boot, so prolonged submersion or deep stream crossings will still let water in over the collar. Choose based on fit and sole preference rather than expecting one membrane to dramatically outperform the other.
Sole and underfoot feel
The Scrambler Mid II WP's Michelin Fiberlite sole is flexible and lightweight, which supports a more natural foot movement on mixed terrain. The Scrambler Trail Mid WP uses a lugged rubber outsole for trail grip. If you prioritize ground feel and flexibility, the Michelin sole on the Scrambler Mid II WP is the clearer match. If you want a more traditional lugged tread pattern, the Scrambler Trail Mid WP offers that, though it is only available in women's sizing.
Fit and sizing reality
The most important difference is the last. The Scrambler Mid II WP is a men's boot; the Scrambler Trail Mid WP is a women's boot. Men should start with the Scrambler Mid II WP in their usual Xero Shoes size. Women who want the Scrambler Trail Mid WP should also start true to size. Because these are different lasts, a man cannot simply size up in the women's model and expect the same fit. If you are a man set on the Scrambler Trail Mid WP, treat it as a unisex option only if the women's width and volume work for your foot, and expect a different fit through the heel and instep.
Trade-offs to weigh
- Men's fit vs women's fit: The Scrambler Mid II WP is built on a men's last; the Scrambler Trail Mid WP is built on a women's last. They are not interchangeable by sizing alone. Men should default to the Scrambler Mid II WP unless they have already confirmed a women's fit works for them.
- Michelin Fiberlite sole vs lugged rubber outsole: The Scrambler Mid II WP uses a flexible Michelin Fiberlite sole for a more natural underfoot feel. The Scrambler Trail Mid WP uses a lugged rubber outsole for trail grip. Choose the Michelin sole for flexibility and ground feel; choose the lugged outsole for a more aggressive tread pattern.
- Waterproof membrane type: The Scrambler Mid II WP has a 100% waterproof internal membrane; the Scrambler Trail Mid WP uses a waterproof XeroTex membrane. Both handle wet conditions but neither is submersible. Do not expect either boot to keep feet dry in deep water; they are designed for rain, puddles, and wet trails.
Product facts
- Scrambler Mid II WP - Men: 100% waterproof internal membrane; flexible Michelin Fiberlite sole; lightweight and breathable construction; mid-height boot design. This is the men's option, so it fits a men's last and pairs waterproof protection with a flexible, grippy sole for wet, mixed terrain.
- Scrambler Trail Mid WP - Women: Waterproof XeroTex membrane; lightweight and durable build; lugged rubber outsole for trail grip; mid-height boot design. This is a women's boot, so men should only consider it if the women's fit works for them; the lugged outsole suits those who want a more traditional trail tread.
- Scrambler Trail Low WP - Women: Waterproof XeroTex membrane; lightweight and durable design; lugged rubber outsole for trail traction; available in Dove / Asphalt. A lower-cut women's alternative for hikers who want less ankle coverage and the same waterproof trail focus.
Which should you choose?
Best for
- Men who want a waterproof mid boot for wet, mixed-terrain hikes
- Hikers who prefer a flexible Michelin Fiberlite sole and a natural underfoot feel
- Anyone who needs a men's-specific fit in a minimalist mid boot
Not for
- Men who need a women's-specific last (choose the Scrambler Trail Mid WP only if the women's fit works for you)
- Hikers who want a traditional lugged rubber outsole (consider the Scrambler Trail Mid WP if the fit allows)
- Anyone expecting a fully submersible boot for deep water crossings
