 Mild aqueous zinc ion batteries, ZiBs, are rapidly advancing due to their low cost and high energy density, but they face several technical and scientific challenges. Dendritic growth, hydrogen evolution, and corrosion can all impede the performance of ZN anodes, while the underlying mechanisms are often neglected or misunderstood. Several strategies have been proposed to address these problems, such as modifying the interface between the anode and electrolyte, using structured anodes, alloying the anode, intercalating the anode, using liquid or non-liquid electrolytes, and improving the separator. Future research should focus on understanding the underlying mechanisms of dendritic growth, hydrogen evolution, and corrosion, as well as exploring novel strategies to improve the performance of ZN anodes.