Gear Review: Chaco Z1 Classic Sandals
Value Rating: 7
Durability Rating: 8
Overall Rating: 7.5
Location of Test: Western United States
Duration of Test: 4+ years
Product Name: Z1 Classic Sandals
Product Brand: Chaco
Best Use: The desert, beach, forest, mountains, and anywhere in between!
The Full Review:
The Z1 Classic by Chaco is the best sandal I have ever owned. It boasts a solid strap construction that is adjustable to your foot and durable over many years. The best part? If you ever tear your straps, you can send them to Chaco for strap replacement! I have worn Chacos over many years. I've hiked in them, ran with them, wore them casually, and even climbed vertical rock walls in them. They're a phenomenal sandal that stands the test of time. Although they seem somewhat bulky, you will come to realize that the extra rubber for the footbed is worth it. Even after standing in them all day, my feet never get sore. They're extremely comfortable, and I find myself wearing them over standard sneakers.
The biggest downside that I've found with Chacos is their weight. They're not suited to ultralight endeavors such as lightweight backpacking, climbing, and swimming. However, they make a great beach, desert, and casual wear sandal, and hike surprisingly well. They're comfortable, highly customizable (many different colors/designs of straps), and work with many different outfits. Indeed, if you're going for a "dad at a barbecue" look, all you need is some white tube socks and Chacos and voila! There you have it!
Although they can seem a little expensive, you will be very impressed with the amount of use and wear you will get with these sandals. Without a doubt, the Z1 Classic Chaco is one of the best sandals on the market.
The Good
The Z1 Classic Chaco is durable, customizable, versatile and comfortable.
The Bad:
The Z1 Classic Chaco is rather heavy, and not suited for weight oriented activities. The Chaco sole is good, but tends to slip on smooth and wet rock.
The Bottom Line:
The Z1 Classic Chaco is the best sandal for a huge rain of activities. Once you buy your first pair, you may be a customer for life!
The Full Review:
The Z1 Classic by Chaco is the best sandal I have ever owned. It boasts a solid strap construction that is adjustable to your foot and durable over many years. The best part? If you ever tear your straps, you can send them to Chaco for strap replacement! I have worn Chacos over many years. I've hiked in them, ran with them, wore them casually, and even climbed vertical rock walls in them. They're a phenomenal sandal that stands the test of time. Although they seem somewhat bulky, you will come to realize that the extra rubber for the footbed is worth it. Even after standing in them all day, my feet never get sore. They're extremely comfortable, and I find myself wearing them over standard sneakers.
The biggest downside that I've found with Chacos is their weight. They're not suited to ultralight endeavors such as lightweight backpacking, climbing, and swimming. However, they make a great beach, desert, and casual wear sandal, and hike surprisingly well. They're comfortable, highly customizable (many different colors/designs of straps), and work with many different outfits. Indeed, if you're going for a "dad at a barbecue" look, all you need is some white tube socks and Chacos and voila! There you have it!
Although they can seem a little expensive, you will be very impressed with the amount of use and wear you will get with these sandals. Without a doubt, the Z1 Classic Chaco is one of the best sandals on the market.
The Good
The Z1 Classic Chaco is durable, customizable, versatile and comfortable.
The Bad:
The Z1 Classic Chaco is rather heavy, and not suited for weight oriented activities. The Chaco sole is good, but tends to slip on smooth and wet rock.
The Bottom Line:
The Z1 Classic Chaco is the best sandal for a huge rain of activities. Once you buy your first pair, you may be a customer for life!