Are there still any problems with XBee Shield, that was described in comments 2 years ago?
I mean this: http://www.sparkfun.com/products/9976
Also stupid question – do i need to solder pin headers to this shield or it can work with unsoldered pins? 
The schematic at that link you posted shows the incorrect design with the diode in series with data.
As you said, why, 2 years later, is this schematic and design unchanged? It’s fundamentally wrong.