Deckers x Lab X-Scape Baja Sneakers Review

If you managed to catch me on an “off” day at any point in the past year, chances are I was wearing my beloved Croc Crush Clogs. A long-time Croc denier, I stepped into the platform clogs and never looked back. They’re supremely comfortable, easy to take care of, and perfect for wet weather, too. I’ve been on the hunt for an everyday sneaker that combined all of my favorite parts of Crocs and kept coming up short. That is until I discovered Deckers x Lab.

The innovative footwear company recently released its latest sneaker, the X-Scape Baja ($69), and sent me a pair to test out. I’ve been wearing these kicks for a few weeks, and here’s what I think.

What is the Deckers x Lab X-Scape Baja sneaker?

Deckers is the business behind some of the most popular footwear brands around, including Ugg, Teva, Sanuk, and Reviewed favorite, Hoka. Deckers x Lab is the innovation branch of the brand, working on the cutting edge of design, textile and material development, and fashion tech.

The X-Scape Baja sneaker is Deckers x Lab’s foray into making a shoe that’s not only comfortable and attractive, but also functions as a water shoe. The sneakers are made from breathable and waterproof sugarcane IM-EVA (read: Bio-based plastic) material, and feature holes along the upper for easy drainage, along with a Sorona polyester knit tongue and non-wicking laces. The shoes are designed to offer protection, comfort, and versatility whether you’re wandering city streets, setting out to fish on the river, or just visiting the waterpark with the family.

The X-Scape Baja is available in men’s whole and half shoe sizes 3.5 to 14 and women’s whole and half shoe sizes 5 to 15.5. The shoe is currently available in white, black, and beige colorways, and costs $69.

X-SCAPE BAJA

This stylish sneaker is easy to maintain and super comfortable.

$69 at Deckers x Lab

What I like about the Deckers x Lab X-Scape Baja sneaker

They’re comfortable

Priority number one when it comes to sneakers is that they’re comfortable and supportive. The X-Scape Baja requires zero break-in period, and I wore these for hours from day one without any pain or discomfort. Although the insole is relatively flat, they were supportive of my high arches. These kicks are true-to-size, and my size 10 sample fit like a dream.

It may take some time to get used to wearing a shoe made from molded plastic (the aforementioned Crocs helped me get past this very quickly), but the X-Scape Baja is flexible and easy to move in. Though I wouldn’t recommend the sneaker for long runs, it’s a great option to get around while you’re in recovery.

They’re versatile

Admittedly, I’m not what you would call an outdoors enthusiast. I love inside (a lot). But whenever I had to brave the elements and step out in the rain, I reached for these shoes and never regretted it. They drain easily, stay clean with little effort, and don’t leave me with that squishy wet shoes feeling. Although I didn’t visit any pools or water parks this summer, I suspect that they’d be outstanding water shoes for days spent at the theme parks.

What I don’t like about the Deckers x Lab X-Scape Baja sneaker

The heel is a bit clunky

One of Deckers x Lab’s style signatures is a fishtail shape on the back of their heels. It’s certainly a unique design element, though I’m personally not a fan. Although a chunky stacked sole is still stylish and fashion-forward, there’s something about the winged shape that looks a bit dated. That being said, it wouldn’t be a dealbreaker for me with this shoe. It’s still an outstanding, versatile sneaker.

Is the Deckers x Lab X-Scape Baja sneaker worth it?

Yes

I loved wearing my X-Scape Baja’s. They’re not just comfortable, they’re useful. Whether you’re buying them as recovery shoes for your cardio-heavy days, water shoes for your next hike, or just casual sneakers for the day-to-day, you won’t go wrong with these stylish and innovative shoes.

X-SCAPE BAJA

This stylish sneaker is easy to maintain and super comfortable.

$69 at Deckers x Lab