In the crowded shoe industry, it's tough for a brand to
stand out. They have to have a vision that's both original and appealing in
order to truly become a rising star. That's exactly why we love Chaco! This
brand's flagship styles—their infinitely adjustable Z Series of outdoor
sandals—have become legendary among footwear enthusiasts, who tout the Chaco
sandals' comfort at every opportunity. Read on to find out why Chaco sandals
are so popular!
Fit for Adventure: The Chaco Story
Before you head outdoors, whether it's to the local park or a camping destination, you need proper shoes on your feet. Shoes might just be the most important piece of gear you own—after all, you're not likely to get far without them. Outdoorsy folks realize that comfortable, well-fitting shoes that are suited to the terrain can make all the difference, and that's how Chaco was born.
In 1989, Colorado river guide Mark Paigan decided to create an "Ultimate Sport Sandal" that would set a new standard for comfort and durability. Paigan called his brand "Gecko" and ran the company out of his home in Paonia, Colorado. The company name has changed, but Paigan's innovative "one strap, one sole" design has endured. Chaco's signature Z Series sandals allow the strap(s) to wrap completely around the foot by passing through the midsole, ensuring a snug, fully customizable, 360° fit.
As Chaco evolved into the brand we know and love today, they continued to innovate while holding firm to their outdoorsy roots. Chaco lovers post snaps of all the wild places their Chacos take them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook using the hashtag #ChacoNation. Chaco's core customer is the nature lover, the adventurer, the person who would rather be out under the open sky than sitting around indoors. If that sounds like you, Chaco might be your new favorite brand!
How to Adjust Chaco Z Series Sandals
Because of the unique construction of these sandals, your first time adjusting the fit might be a bit of a challenge. Never fear, it's actually quite easy! When you're finished, you'll have a comfy, secure, personalized fit. Here, we're going to talk about the Chaco Z Series sandals that feature toe loops (like those profiled below), but if you have Chacos without toe loops, you'll just skip the steps that pertain to the short strap section that only crosses the big toe.
Loosen
1. You'll start by pulling up and forward on the buckle in order to loosen the buckle strap.
2. Then, pull and loosen the strap that runs diagonally across the instep from the ankle to the big toe.
3. Next, pull/loosen the small section of strap that helps form the toe loop.
4. Finally, pull the section that runs from the outside of the ball of the foot to the inside of the ankle. Your Chaco straps should be good and loose at this point.
Tighten
1. Slip your foot into the sandal. If you can, remain standing during this step for your ideal fit.
2. The Chaco website recommends the following mantra for tightening your sandals: Knuckle, toe, buckle! Start with tightening the short strap section across the "knuckle" of your big toe by pulling it towards the inside of your foot.
3. Next, tighten the instep strap that starts at the toe loop by pulling upward and toward the outside of your foot. This should pull the other half of the toe loop taut.
4. Pull outward on the strap that runs from the inside of your foot into the buckle so that the section from step 3 is tightened.
5. Lastly, pull the small strap end that is hanging from the buckle until the fit of your sandal is comfortable but snug.
Hot Chaco Styles
Most of Chaco's die hard fans are outdoor-minded men and women, but you don't have to be a woodland explorer to appreciate the comfort, style, and durability of Chaco's most popular Z Series styles. Here are some fan favorites you're sure to adore, no matter where you wear them!
Chaco Women's Z/2 Classic
Chaco Women's Z/2 Classic in Black and Wicker Mandarin. Also available in Bluebell, Prism Gray, and more.
The Chaco Z/2 Classic for women offers the instantly recognizable Chaco aesthetic with its crisscrossing single straps. The sandals in the Classic Series are beautifully simple, crafted from just 8 carefully chosen component parts. The Z/2 Classic's polyester webbing straps are fully adjustable and form a toe loop for a flattering look and enhanced forefoot control. An injection-molded ladder lock buckle secures the strap at the ankle. You'll love the podiatrist-certified LUVSEAT™ footbed, which provides all-day support and is contoured to fit a woman's unique foot shape. The Z/2 Classic has been treated with an antimicrobial application for odor control, so you can say goodbye to embarrassing foot odors. All this sits on a non-marking ChacoGrip™ rubber sole, which has a lug depth of 3mm and boasts exceptional traction on wet and dry surfaces. It's even vegan-friendly, with no animal materials in its construction. The Chaco Z/2 Classic is so comfortable and cool, you'll want to wear it everywhere!
Chaco Women's ZX/2 Classic
Chaco Women's ZX/2 Classic in Dagger and Danube Purple. Also available in Angular Teal, Apex Gray, and more.
Like the Z/2, the Chaco ZX/2 Classic is comprised of only 8 parts and has a secure toe loop. The difference? The ZX/2 has double straps crisscrossing the instep instead of a single strap, creating an eye-catching look without sacrificing Chaco's signature comfort and adjustability. You'll find the same polyurethane LUVSEAT™ midsole as in the Z/2, which provides anatomically contoured support and built-in odor control. The ChacoGrip™ outsole, crafted from non-marking rubber, will keep you on your feet in all conditions. The Chaco Women's ZX/2 Classic is the ultimate in stylish and dependable outdoor footwear.
Chaco Women's Z/Cloud X2
Chaco Women's Z/Cloud X2 in Rune Teal and Trillion Alloy.
So you've seen the tried-and-true Chaco sandal, the Chaco Z/2 Classic. You've admired the stylish Chaco ZX/2 Classic. Both are cute and cozy, but what if you want the next level of luxurious comfort? That's where the Chaco Z/Cloud X2 comes in. Just as the name suggests, the Chaco Z/Cloud X2 offers a dreamlike feel underfoot with its top layer of ultra-soft polyurethane cushioning. You'll love the Z/Cloud X2's pillowy softness from the moment you slip it on. Like the ZX/2 Classic, the Z/Cloud X2 features double straps across the instep in a variety of attractive colors and patterns. Of course, it also boasts the customizable fit, women's LUVSEAT™ midsole, antimicrobial odor control, and traction-enhancing wet/dry ChacoGrip™ outsole that Chaco Z Series sandals are known for. The Chaco Women's Z/Cloud X2 is the perfect sandal for those who love to pamper their feet!
Want more from Chaco? Check out all our men's and women's Chaco styles here.