You can loosen/tighten the straps on them as much as you like, and easily make them fit you perfectly. The outsole material is stiff and heavy but provides excellent support for long days on the trail. I really wasnt certain if I could hike this entire trail in my Z2s.
Kinda like when you pull the strings for the window blinds and you accidentally pull one harder than the other and get crooked blinds. Honestly, it was incredibly hard to make this decision. To test how the sandals performed for hiking, I spent two days hiking exclusively in Chacos. Hey Kay! When you buy something through one of the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. And I totally get it the double straps are super cute. It is a 6.7 mile trail with a total elevation gain of 2,437 feet. In the end, they are truly *so* similar, I probably couldve gone with either and wouldve been fine. You help support OutdoorGearLab's product testing and reviews by purchasing from our retail partners. In the past, we've also reviewed the Chaco Mega Z/Cloud that has a similar design but with wider strap material. Anyway thanks again and enjoy your Chacos .
The proprietary Chaco webbing weave keeps your foot secure during dicy scrambles and even maintains solid footing when you've gotten them wet after impromptu river crossings. As for climbers, many I know prefer the Z1s as a shoe for short approaches because its easier to take on and off at the crag. So, thank you!! No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. In this detailed comparison well be talking about materials, design, lug depth, sizing, variety and so much more, in order to help you find just the perfect pair for you! Enjoy your sandals and all the adventures you go on with them . The Volvis 20% lighter than the Classic sandal. What? All the sandals that have the toe loop are easily adjustable, just like the ones that lack this feature. I did throw the Z2s back on for the descent, and they performed fantastically, flexing underfoot and comfortably supporting my arch. Chaco sandals in general have either one, two, or three straps. The rest of the float went on without a hitch! Thats right, O ye of little faith. And you can find either option in both the Cloud and the Classic range. Unfortunately,sandals in neither range are available in half sizes. But when it comes to shopping for them, there are so many types of Chacos to choose from. Have you ever tried any of the Chacos that have nothing between the toes? So, if you can get over their awkward design, you will really enjoy these sandals. I only recommend products and services I myself use and LOVE and think youll love too. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. I even feel comfortable running short distances in them. There are different versions of these, but they all fall under the umbrella of the Z Series. And, to assure complete independence, we buy all the products we test ourselves. InterestingI will have to try on the ones with no toe strap then some time. For the first hike, I wore only the Z1s and for the second hike I wore only the Z2s. Especially if youre shopping on Amazon, where you can always find some sort of sale or discount we found thatboth the Classic and Cloud sandals start around $40 on Amazon. Those that have a single thick strap are usually much easier to put on and adjustand feel a bit more comfortable. However, the few times that we were required to scout or stop at a beach, the Lego Effect was fierce. At the same time, theCloud range has a MEGA model this features a single strap that is really thick,and it is something that you cant get in the Classic range. Voila! Its important to note that both of the shoes tested for this article had been extremely well broken in. I wanted to understand, what are all these weird words, letters, and numbers?? The total elevation gain is 2,333 feet. As much as I loved the pattern and design of the double straps, the other pair just felt a touch softer and more conforming to my feet. Thank you, all this information was very helpful! The EcoTread is a fairly new one as well, named for its sustainability and quality as a lightweight rubber compound made from 25% recycled rubber content for performance thats hard on the trail and easy on the environment.. I was more attracted to the design of the ZX/2s. This is a shame because a lot of us are between two sizes, and without that option, youre not going to get a pair that fits perfectly. I decided to research all of my options. I will never give away, trade or sell your email address. Hope that helps! But thats just part of their charm youre not buying these to strut around the town on a night out. (Its sort of frustrating that Chaco has different strap prints for every single model. Cloud and Classic are two ranges of Chaco sandals that are among their top sellers. Either way, in both pairs I ended up with an extra long tail dragging on the floor. I got my first pair (Z2) 13 years ago, I replaced them with the ZX2s but when those got destroyed I went back to the Z2s and they unfortunately got misplaced recently so im shopping for replacements and couldnt decide on which ones to get. Both the Classic and the Cloud range have single and double strap options. Sometimes Chaco uses letters, sometimes they use numbers, and sometimes they use names of rivers (lol). Chaco carries other shoes, including leather sandals, sandals without ankle straps, and even boots. In the world of car camping, these shoes are a delight. My socks were able to prevent any rubbing or blisters, despite the moderate trail length. We were all wearing Chacos the climbers, runners, cyclists, river rats and backpackers.
Theyre great for travel I would go so far as to say a must-pack travel shoe for any destination promising humidity plus outdoor adventure (Southeast Asia, anyone?). Andthe straps are actually kind of cute,especially if you go for a bright color or a cute print. For one thing, itsextremely soft and comfortable,which you will not get in any dress sandals you own. If you're already fond of Chacos and would like a sandal with no break-in period and greater comfort for extended use, we highly recommend the Z/Cloud.With one of the highest list prices in our lineup, the standout comfort and performance of the Z/Cloud certainly don't come cheaply. Home Blog Comparing Chaco Sandal Models: the Z/2 v ZX/2 Review. I felt the same way, thats why I wrote this. But hey, youve broken in a pair of hiking boots before! I originally planned to keep one pair and return the other after wearing them around the house, but my mom ended up wanting some Chacos after she saw mine and we happen to be the same size so we got to keep and test out both pairs. During this same hiking trip, my boyfriend Taylor wore his Z2s, which I believe to be more stable. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. The Z/Cloud is ousted only by its burlier brother, the Z/1 Classic, regarding overall stability. Beyond the presence or absence of the toe strap, there are very few differences between the Z1 and Z2. Thanks for your comment! Hi Eva, Yes I do the tucking thing too sometimes . They do have similar footbeds both of them are textured and soft, and both actually feature a Chaco LUVSEAT Footbed. I wanted to compare how well the Chacos would perform over slippery river rocks, on loose terrain and with a swift current. In addition to that, all of theCloud sandals have an extra 5mm of Cloud PU cushioning,which makes them remarkably soft and wearable straight out the box. Taylor has weird, gnarly endurance runner feet. They used to feature Vibram outsoles, which are extremely durable and sturdy. Taylor did not wear socks, nor did he receive blisters. They are very comfortable and I use them for long walks, hiking and in wet weather. I stuck with the Classic for durability but comfort is important too. When you look at the Chaco website, they have 69 sandals in the Cloud range and 57 in the Classic range. It providescontoured arch support,and it really helps you feel stable with every step you take. Most of this trail being granite rock and well-packed dirt, the walking was easy and I had no problems with traction. Thats what happened to my and my daughters Chacos too since both of us have kinda thin and narrow feet. Plus, they only look ugly becausetheir soles are so thick and chunky. The Engineer Mountain trail is highly trafficked and hard-packed, but the final pitches of the ascent are very slick and vertical. The layer of 5mm Cloud PU cushioning gives these an edge that the Classics just dont have, as it makes them super soft and comfy straight out of the box. I thought about this when reading your post! Hundreds of hours went into the research of these Chacos and hundreds more will be logged in the future, no doubt. I believe the footbed is the same as the Classic. We eddied out and climbed a moderately steep ridge while lugging the tubes. He also said that the longer strap happens with thinner feet (actually thats not the word he used, but I cant remember what his exact words). Our verdict: The Chaco Z2 is the best for hiking. Copyright 2022 by Expert World Travel. Similarities & Differences: A Closer Look, The Break-in Process & Finding the Perfect Fit, Here are instructions on how to un-stick your Chaco straps if they get stuck, 5 Best Ultralight Flashlights for Backpacking, 8 Best Ultralight Water Bottles & Containers for Backpacking, 8 Expert Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Your Sleeping Bag, I bought the Z2s since theyre more stable and better for hiking. Yay thats awesome to hear! Terrain included mud, sand, granite, concrete, and soft gravel. Ive heard the Cloud series is super comfortable, but your comment about durability also is a strong consideration, since I wear my Chacos everywhere, including hiking, traveling, and day-to-day activities. It take some adjusting in your hiking form to get used to. Before tightening the straps, I lugged my tube into the river and immediately bust my butt. Although the material is softer than other traditional Chaco models, the molded footbed provides plenty of support and stability.
So heres what I learned: When you shop for Chacos, one of the first things youll notice is there are a million different types of sandals in the Chaco Z collection. The footbed had slightly more give and the straps werent as rigid as on the ZX/2s. It features a very firm footbed with little criss-cross indentations on the surface for grip.
Since the Z2 is so form-fitting, I almost always needed to remove them to dump out the rocks. GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews. Both the Classic and the Cloud range now feature exclusively ChacoGrip outsoles. It is nearly the same as the Z/1 Classic but offers a softer footbed with slightly less stability. Throughout the testing process, the Z/Cloud performed well on various wet and dry surfaces. My name is Michelle but you can call me Mishvo. The bottom line is that both the Cloud and the Classic are great pairs of sandals. Eventually, the trail became too slick and the consequences of a fall too high. Strictly speaking, theres a bit more variety in the Cloud range. GearLab is reader-supported. This model features the same ChacoGrip rubber and tread pattern found on the traditional Z/1 Classic model. The Z/2s were softer all over. Im not sure I never tried on or owned the ZX/3s. Privacy | Cookies | Terms, Chaco takes a classic sandal and enhances it with a softer footbed material. There are dozens of sandals in either range, and you can get either pair in pretty much any print/color your heart desires. Ecotread is made of 25% recycled rubber. How do I know if Im wearing the right size of chacos? But lets not get ahead of ourselves lets talk about Chaco Cloud and Classic, and see which pair is overall the better choice! Walk in them, sweat in them, run through a stream or two. As you may know, the straps on Chaco sandals are actually all one strap. Well, Im here to help I will tell you about all the features of these two Chaco ranges in this detailed comparison, in order to help you decide which one is better for you. None of them mentioned that this self-tightening was due to their arches though (because I dont think they knew that was the reason). I still love the two strap look though, so Ill just deal with loosening them, hah. The downside of a softer footbed is that it gets worn out easier. Hi Neshama, thats SO good to know about getting the strap shortened I had no idea! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The sole is sturdy enough for sections where we need to walk and the shoe doesnt feel too heavy. Ive received the worst blisters on days where I hike long distance with wet or sweaty feet. They hug my feet tighter due to the toe loop. Id rather go barefoot than battle this all day. This to me seemed like possibly a difference in manufacturing plants?
Consider it a rite of passage to achieve those epic Z tan lines. The river was running at around 800-850 cfs for both days, perfect conditions for tubing. It looks like Chaco is phasing out the Yampa sandal, but you might find some on sale or secondhand. The Z/Cloud is a comfortable and refreshing update to the classic Chaco sandals that many people already know and love. And this makes sense since I have pretty narrow feet I think. In order to truly test the Z1 and Z2 Chacos, the plan was simply to go out anddo. I noticed I had to adjust the toe loop over my bunions every time I put on the single strapped sandals. The store where i bought my pair did it for me. I dig the strap system because its fairly easy to adjust once you do get them broken in. All of the sandals in this range feature an additional layer of cushioning, for extra comfort. Size down in wide might be the answer then. Are you a river rat or a mountain bum? Berne Broudy from Backpacker Magazine described the Pro series well as: A sole that bites into micro nooks and crannies underfootin and out of wateralmost as well as a climbing shoe, and is even more durable than previous models.. The good news is that the sandals will be entirely adjustable, regardless of the number of straps they have. I was clearly curious enough about the different Chaco models to dig into their different features, but even then I had a hard time choosing between the single strapped toe-looped sandal and the double-strapped toe-looped sandal.
If the uppers were one of your main concerns, then youre going to have a hard time deciding because they are virtually the same. Copyright 2020 Michelle Vogel | All Rights Reserved |, Comparing Chaco Sandal Models: the Z/2 v ZX/2 Review. Bear in mind that this includes variety with mens and womens sandals, straps, toe loops, and widths. This describes the incredible ease with which a pebble can painfully wedge itself between your foot and your Chacos. Occasionally, I experienced what I refer to as the Lego Effect. Let the straps flex, stretch and pull. But theyre still pretty comfortable. Hi Kayla, Im so glad to hear this was helpful! That is one reason you would have the extra long tail when you tighten them. The first trip I took my Z1s on was a 16-day sailing trip through British Columbia. I usually wear kids size 3 but they dont offer the toe strap version in kids sizes so I went with the womens 5 in reg width, I dont seem to have a super long tail after adjusting them but the strap around my toes are always loose, Hi Ana, You should be able to tighten the strap around your toe since its all one continuous strap. You can always tighten them if you find them a bit big, and its better to have a little extra space than a sandal thats too small. the toe strap!. And they are great for hiking, walking, trekking, light climbing, and pretty much anything else. The high arches may not please every foot type, but that's par for the course with Chaco.
The classic Chaco straps allow for a precise custom fit, though they can be a little tedious to work with. The softer and lighter midsole material makes this sandal slightly less stable than its classic Chaco counterpart. I write about travel and the digital nomad lifestyle to inspire others to pursue the lifestyle thats right for them. The first month of owning a pair of Chacos may not be very fun. Our experts test thousands of products each year using thoughtful test plans that bring out key performance differences between competing products. The Chaco Z/Cloud is only slightly different than its sibling, the Chaco Z/1 Classic. How do you know which Chacos are best for me? For me, I own both pairs of Chacos and I use both of them pretty equally. Z1 vs. Z2: Which Is Best for Water Activities? Our verdict: The Chaco Z1 is the best for tubing and other water activities. Its a bit of an art trying to get all the strap sections just right, and I definitely found it was more of a challenge with the ZX/2s. I keep my toe strap flattened down but its nice to have it accessible. . Agh yeah that sounds super annoying but Im glad you found a pair that work well. Let me know if you have any ideas. Thanks for the helpful information and detailed review of the ZX/2 vs. Z2! There areloads of options for both men and women, so this shouldnt play a big part when it comes to choosing the perfect pair of sandals for you. Bomber construction, coupled with a guarantee to repair or replace blow-outs, makes this shoe a valuable footwear investment in the long run. You can handle virtually any terrain in them from sandy beaches to rocky mountainsides. If theres an X, that means the strap is either double or triple (the only one with three straps is the ZX/3 Classic and it just doesnt make sense why its named the way it is. But I remember trying on the size smaller and it being far too small. Got feedback?
Either way, the Z/2s did feel ever so slightly more comfortable to me because of this. Sandals with two straps are a little bit more stylish, but wont always be the most comfortable option if you have high arches and big feet they might cut into your skin and make you sore. The Classic, unfortunately, lacks this cushioning. However, I chose this hike in the Z2s for a reason. This is excellent for all of you that have wide feet and find regular sandals to have extremely narrow footbeds. If youre looking for a pair of sandals suitable for your next vacation, you should look no further than Chaco. Our Editors independently research, test, and rate the best products.
Both of the shoes we tested are part of the Classic Pro model, though you can now purchase the Z1 and Z2 with ChacoGrip or EcoTread (see below). On average, the sandals are between $80-100, and thats what youre going to usually spend on them.
Likewise, both Chacos can be custom ordered to fit a wider foot.
Thats mostly what it boils down to. Anything with a 1 has no toe loop, and anything with a 2 or 3 has a toe loop (although, again, the three in the ZX/3s seems to refer also to the number of straps so its incredibly confusing). They are alsoreally similar when it comes to design and color variety. These things were staying on my foot no matter what. Just that the Cloud is the better choice for people that normally struggle with sore feet or need that extra support. No problem with sliding. So I ordered both and put them to the test. Yeah I had the exact same problem which is why I wanted to write this post in the first place. I think when most people pick out a pair of Chacos, they arent as concerned with the functional differences between the models as they are with the differences in aesthetics. Learn how your comment data is processed. I was able to explore the differences between the Chaco Z/2 and Chaco ZX/2Classics. All in all, the Z/2 and ZX/2 fit and feel was almost exactly the same for me. It personally doesnt bother me at all to have something in between my toes. They are alsoslightly cheaper,as its easier to find a pair of Classic Chacos that have been heavily discounted. This way I can still adjust the straps if I need to in the future, but its tucked away while Im wearing them! They work great, but what I didnt realize is that, with all the straps involved, you really have to get a good fit if you want to avoid getting blisters. As you could imagine, the Z2s more complex straps are more difficult to un-stick. ), so Im currently deciding between getting a pair of ZX/2 Classic versus the Cloud. You might give it a try so that you can see for yourself. Themain differences in these are in the strap design and cushioning. Once past the initial learning curve, the webbing loop can be adjusted to accommodate the nuanced features of your foot. Wow! Both ranges are pretty similar when it comes to the variety of designs. It was a bit brisk outside so I donned a pair of hiking socks with my Z1s. Also, if you looked closely, you could see that the footbed of the single strapped sandals didnt have as much of a shine as the footbed of the double-strapped ones. The traction on this shoe just wasnt cutting it on the steep and slick gradient. What was even the difference between the Classics and the Pros? Chaco says this model was designed with river guides and whitewater athletes in mind.
I was specifically looking for the difference between Z/2s and ZX/2s it feels like this article was written just for me haha. I find it a bit irritating, as I have sensitive skin, and more often than not the loop causes blisters. To test the Chaco Z1 sandals on the trail, we hiked the classic Mist Trail loop in Yosemite National Park. I have two pair of the no-toe loop and they do not slide. You can pull them to adjust the straps to your feet. The toe loop is known to self-tighten in the ZX/2s on people with high arches. The Yampa is a smoother-looking and lighter sole. So much for optimized wet traction. I read the reviews on Amazon for both models and noted that the reviews for the ZX/2s featured a lot more people complaining of the toe loop self-tightening. My mom now has the ones from this post and says she has this problem sometimes :/ But anyways enjoy your new Chacos, I hope you get to go on lots of adventures with them . Thanks so much! Would you say that the ZX/2s are the same as the ZX/3s? However,the Cloud range has sandals with prices well over $100, and the Classic just doesnt. Plus, I didnt have any issues with adjusting the straps or the weird self-tightening toe loop. Ahhhhh. The footbed is one of the reasons why we love Chaco sandals. But bonus They will probably form fit to your feet a lot quicker! I havent figured out how to remedy this yet. Plus, go look at other brands that make these sporty sandals. The Cloud series of Chacos features softer, lighter soles to provide more comfort during extended use outings. Hi Donna, Correct, I find the single strap one does not tighten on the toe as I wear them. It takes a certain amount of patience, commitment, grunting and tugging to achieve your perfect fit. I just tuck the tail up into the ankle strap. This is especially important if you want to wear these near the beach, or if you get caught in the rain while youre out exploring the great outdoors. Here are directions from Chaco about this https://www.chacos.com/US/en/strap-adjuster/#/. In addition to that, the outsoles are verysturdy, and they will provide you with more than enough traction in your adventures. No ads. It is said to be the most optimized sole engineered to date, designed for extreme conditions and wet traction. ! Travis defended.
One thing that makes Chacos awesome is thatthey are adjustable. Also, I do not wear thongs because I find them uncomfortable between my toes, so Im tempted to avoid the toe strap versions altogether. Cant decide between Chaco Cloud and Classic sandals? While some may prefer a sandal with more independent points of adjustment, our testers remain convinced that the Chaco system can provide a highly-customized fit. We set off with ease and the general activity of floating was without problems.
I have a pretty average if not flat-ish arches, and I did notice that one of the double-strapped sandals straps around my toe seemed perpetually too tight no matter how many times I loosened it.
Kinda like when you pull the strings for the window blinds and you accidentally pull one harder than the other and get crooked blinds. Honestly, it was incredibly hard to make this decision. To test how the sandals performed for hiking, I spent two days hiking exclusively in Chacos. Hey Kay! When you buy something through one of the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. And I totally get it the double straps are super cute. It is a 6.7 mile trail with a total elevation gain of 2,437 feet. In the end, they are truly *so* similar, I probably couldve gone with either and wouldve been fine. You help support OutdoorGearLab's product testing and reviews by purchasing from our retail partners. In the past, we've also reviewed the Chaco Mega Z/Cloud that has a similar design but with wider strap material. Anyway thanks again and enjoy your Chacos .
The proprietary Chaco webbing weave keeps your foot secure during dicy scrambles and even maintains solid footing when you've gotten them wet after impromptu river crossings. As for climbers, many I know prefer the Z1s as a shoe for short approaches because its easier to take on and off at the crag. So, thank you!! No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. In this detailed comparison well be talking about materials, design, lug depth, sizing, variety and so much more, in order to help you find just the perfect pair for you! Enjoy your sandals and all the adventures you go on with them . The Volvis 20% lighter than the Classic sandal. What? All the sandals that have the toe loop are easily adjustable, just like the ones that lack this feature. I did throw the Z2s back on for the descent, and they performed fantastically, flexing underfoot and comfortably supporting my arch. Chaco sandals in general have either one, two, or three straps. The rest of the float went on without a hitch! Thats right, O ye of little faith. And you can find either option in both the Cloud and the Classic range. Unfortunately,sandals in neither range are available in half sizes. But when it comes to shopping for them, there are so many types of Chacos to choose from. Have you ever tried any of the Chacos that have nothing between the toes? So, if you can get over their awkward design, you will really enjoy these sandals. I only recommend products and services I myself use and LOVE and think youll love too. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. I even feel comfortable running short distances in them. There are different versions of these, but they all fall under the umbrella of the Z Series. And, to assure complete independence, we buy all the products we test ourselves. InterestingI will have to try on the ones with no toe strap then some time. For the first hike, I wore only the Z1s and for the second hike I wore only the Z2s. Especially if youre shopping on Amazon, where you can always find some sort of sale or discount we found thatboth the Classic and Cloud sandals start around $40 on Amazon. Those that have a single thick strap are usually much easier to put on and adjustand feel a bit more comfortable. However, the few times that we were required to scout or stop at a beach, the Lego Effect was fierce. At the same time, theCloud range has a MEGA model this features a single strap that is really thick,and it is something that you cant get in the Classic range. Voila! Its important to note that both of the shoes tested for this article had been extremely well broken in. I wanted to understand, what are all these weird words, letters, and numbers?? The total elevation gain is 2,333 feet. As much as I loved the pattern and design of the double straps, the other pair just felt a touch softer and more conforming to my feet. Thank you, all this information was very helpful! The EcoTread is a fairly new one as well, named for its sustainability and quality as a lightweight rubber compound made from 25% recycled rubber content for performance thats hard on the trail and easy on the environment.. I was more attracted to the design of the ZX/2s. This is a shame because a lot of us are between two sizes, and without that option, youre not going to get a pair that fits perfectly. I decided to research all of my options. I will never give away, trade or sell your email address. Hope that helps! But thats just part of their charm youre not buying these to strut around the town on a night out. (Its sort of frustrating that Chaco has different strap prints for every single model. Cloud and Classic are two ranges of Chaco sandals that are among their top sellers. Either way, in both pairs I ended up with an extra long tail dragging on the floor. I got my first pair (Z2) 13 years ago, I replaced them with the ZX2s but when those got destroyed I went back to the Z2s and they unfortunately got misplaced recently so im shopping for replacements and couldnt decide on which ones to get. Both the Classic and the Cloud range have single and double strap options. Sometimes Chaco uses letters, sometimes they use numbers, and sometimes they use names of rivers (lol). Chaco carries other shoes, including leather sandals, sandals without ankle straps, and even boots. In the world of car camping, these shoes are a delight. My socks were able to prevent any rubbing or blisters, despite the moderate trail length. We were all wearing Chacos the climbers, runners, cyclists, river rats and backpackers.
Theyre great for travel I would go so far as to say a must-pack travel shoe for any destination promising humidity plus outdoor adventure (Southeast Asia, anyone?). Andthe straps are actually kind of cute,especially if you go for a bright color or a cute print. For one thing, itsextremely soft and comfortable,which you will not get in any dress sandals you own. If you're already fond of Chacos and would like a sandal with no break-in period and greater comfort for extended use, we highly recommend the Z/Cloud.With one of the highest list prices in our lineup, the standout comfort and performance of the Z/Cloud certainly don't come cheaply. Home Blog Comparing Chaco Sandal Models: the Z/2 v ZX/2 Review. I felt the same way, thats why I wrote this. But hey, youve broken in a pair of hiking boots before! I originally planned to keep one pair and return the other after wearing them around the house, but my mom ended up wanting some Chacos after she saw mine and we happen to be the same size so we got to keep and test out both pairs. During this same hiking trip, my boyfriend Taylor wore his Z2s, which I believe to be more stable. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. The Z/Cloud is ousted only by its burlier brother, the Z/1 Classic, regarding overall stability. Beyond the presence or absence of the toe strap, there are very few differences between the Z1 and Z2. Thanks for your comment! Hi Eva, Yes I do the tucking thing too sometimes . They do have similar footbeds both of them are textured and soft, and both actually feature a Chaco LUVSEAT Footbed. I wanted to compare how well the Chacos would perform over slippery river rocks, on loose terrain and with a swift current. In addition to that, all of theCloud sandals have an extra 5mm of Cloud PU cushioning,which makes them remarkably soft and wearable straight out the box. Taylor has weird, gnarly endurance runner feet. They used to feature Vibram outsoles, which are extremely durable and sturdy. Taylor did not wear socks, nor did he receive blisters. They are very comfortable and I use them for long walks, hiking and in wet weather. I stuck with the Classic for durability but comfort is important too. When you look at the Chaco website, they have 69 sandals in the Cloud range and 57 in the Classic range. It providescontoured arch support,and it really helps you feel stable with every step you take. Most of this trail being granite rock and well-packed dirt, the walking was easy and I had no problems with traction. Thats what happened to my and my daughters Chacos too since both of us have kinda thin and narrow feet. Plus, they only look ugly becausetheir soles are so thick and chunky. The Engineer Mountain trail is highly trafficked and hard-packed, but the final pitches of the ascent are very slick and vertical. The layer of 5mm Cloud PU cushioning gives these an edge that the Classics just dont have, as it makes them super soft and comfy straight out of the box. I thought about this when reading your post! Hundreds of hours went into the research of these Chacos and hundreds more will be logged in the future, no doubt. I believe the footbed is the same as the Classic. We eddied out and climbed a moderately steep ridge while lugging the tubes. He also said that the longer strap happens with thinner feet (actually thats not the word he used, but I cant remember what his exact words). Our verdict: The Chaco Z2 is the best for hiking. Copyright 2022 by Expert World Travel. Similarities & Differences: A Closer Look, The Break-in Process & Finding the Perfect Fit, Here are instructions on how to un-stick your Chaco straps if they get stuck, 5 Best Ultralight Flashlights for Backpacking, 8 Best Ultralight Water Bottles & Containers for Backpacking, 8 Expert Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Your Sleeping Bag, I bought the Z2s since theyre more stable and better for hiking. Yay thats awesome to hear! Terrain included mud, sand, granite, concrete, and soft gravel. Ive heard the Cloud series is super comfortable, but your comment about durability also is a strong consideration, since I wear my Chacos everywhere, including hiking, traveling, and day-to-day activities. It take some adjusting in your hiking form to get used to. Before tightening the straps, I lugged my tube into the river and immediately bust my butt. Although the material is softer than other traditional Chaco models, the molded footbed provides plenty of support and stability.
So heres what I learned: When you shop for Chacos, one of the first things youll notice is there are a million different types of sandals in the Chaco Z collection. The footbed had slightly more give and the straps werent as rigid as on the ZX/2s. It features a very firm footbed with little criss-cross indentations on the surface for grip.
Since the Z2 is so form-fitting, I almost always needed to remove them to dump out the rocks. GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews. Both the Classic and the Cloud range now feature exclusively ChacoGrip outsoles. It is nearly the same as the Z/1 Classic but offers a softer footbed with slightly less stability. Throughout the testing process, the Z/Cloud performed well on various wet and dry surfaces. My name is Michelle but you can call me Mishvo. The bottom line is that both the Cloud and the Classic are great pairs of sandals. Eventually, the trail became too slick and the consequences of a fall too high. Strictly speaking, theres a bit more variety in the Cloud range. GearLab is reader-supported. This model features the same ChacoGrip rubber and tread pattern found on the traditional Z/1 Classic model. The Z/2s were softer all over. Im not sure I never tried on or owned the ZX/3s. Privacy | Cookies | Terms, Chaco takes a classic sandal and enhances it with a softer footbed material. There are dozens of sandals in either range, and you can get either pair in pretty much any print/color your heart desires. Ecotread is made of 25% recycled rubber. How do I know if Im wearing the right size of chacos? But lets not get ahead of ourselves lets talk about Chaco Cloud and Classic, and see which pair is overall the better choice! Walk in them, sweat in them, run through a stream or two. As you may know, the straps on Chaco sandals are actually all one strap. Well, Im here to help I will tell you about all the features of these two Chaco ranges in this detailed comparison, in order to help you decide which one is better for you. None of them mentioned that this self-tightening was due to their arches though (because I dont think they knew that was the reason). I still love the two strap look though, so Ill just deal with loosening them, hah. The downside of a softer footbed is that it gets worn out easier. Hi Neshama, thats SO good to know about getting the strap shortened I had no idea! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The sole is sturdy enough for sections where we need to walk and the shoe doesnt feel too heavy. Ive received the worst blisters on days where I hike long distance with wet or sweaty feet. They hug my feet tighter due to the toe loop. Id rather go barefoot than battle this all day. This to me seemed like possibly a difference in manufacturing plants?
Consider it a rite of passage to achieve those epic Z tan lines. The river was running at around 800-850 cfs for both days, perfect conditions for tubing. It looks like Chaco is phasing out the Yampa sandal, but you might find some on sale or secondhand. The Z/Cloud is a comfortable and refreshing update to the classic Chaco sandals that many people already know and love. And this makes sense since I have pretty narrow feet I think. In order to truly test the Z1 and Z2 Chacos, the plan was simply to go out anddo. I noticed I had to adjust the toe loop over my bunions every time I put on the single strapped sandals. The store where i bought my pair did it for me. I dig the strap system because its fairly easy to adjust once you do get them broken in. All of the sandals in this range feature an additional layer of cushioning, for extra comfort. Size down in wide might be the answer then. Are you a river rat or a mountain bum? Berne Broudy from Backpacker Magazine described the Pro series well as: A sole that bites into micro nooks and crannies underfootin and out of wateralmost as well as a climbing shoe, and is even more durable than previous models.. The good news is that the sandals will be entirely adjustable, regardless of the number of straps they have. I was clearly curious enough about the different Chaco models to dig into their different features, but even then I had a hard time choosing between the single strapped toe-looped sandal and the double-strapped toe-looped sandal.
If the uppers were one of your main concerns, then youre going to have a hard time deciding because they are virtually the same. Copyright 2020 Michelle Vogel | All Rights Reserved |, Comparing Chaco Sandal Models: the Z/2 v ZX/2 Review. Bear in mind that this includes variety with mens and womens sandals, straps, toe loops, and widths. This describes the incredible ease with which a pebble can painfully wedge itself between your foot and your Chacos. Occasionally, I experienced what I refer to as the Lego Effect. Let the straps flex, stretch and pull. But theyre still pretty comfortable. Hi Kayla, Im so glad to hear this was helpful! That is one reason you would have the extra long tail when you tighten them. The first trip I took my Z1s on was a 16-day sailing trip through British Columbia. I usually wear kids size 3 but they dont offer the toe strap version in kids sizes so I went with the womens 5 in reg width, I dont seem to have a super long tail after adjusting them but the strap around my toes are always loose, Hi Ana, You should be able to tighten the strap around your toe since its all one continuous strap. You can always tighten them if you find them a bit big, and its better to have a little extra space than a sandal thats too small. the toe strap!. And they are great for hiking, walking, trekking, light climbing, and pretty much anything else. The high arches may not please every foot type, but that's par for the course with Chaco.
The classic Chaco straps allow for a precise custom fit, though they can be a little tedious to work with. The softer and lighter midsole material makes this sandal slightly less stable than its classic Chaco counterpart. I write about travel and the digital nomad lifestyle to inspire others to pursue the lifestyle thats right for them. The first month of owning a pair of Chacos may not be very fun. Our experts test thousands of products each year using thoughtful test plans that bring out key performance differences between competing products. The Chaco Z/Cloud is only slightly different than its sibling, the Chaco Z/1 Classic. How do you know which Chacos are best for me? For me, I own both pairs of Chacos and I use both of them pretty equally. Z1 vs. Z2: Which Is Best for Water Activities? Our verdict: The Chaco Z1 is the best for tubing and other water activities. Its a bit of an art trying to get all the strap sections just right, and I definitely found it was more of a challenge with the ZX/2s. I keep my toe strap flattened down but its nice to have it accessible. . Agh yeah that sounds super annoying but Im glad you found a pair that work well. Let me know if you have any ideas. Thanks for the helpful information and detailed review of the ZX/2 vs. Z2! There areloads of options for both men and women, so this shouldnt play a big part when it comes to choosing the perfect pair of sandals for you. Bomber construction, coupled with a guarantee to repair or replace blow-outs, makes this shoe a valuable footwear investment in the long run. You can handle virtually any terrain in them from sandy beaches to rocky mountainsides. If theres an X, that means the strap is either double or triple (the only one with three straps is the ZX/3 Classic and it just doesnt make sense why its named the way it is. But I remember trying on the size smaller and it being far too small. Got feedback?
Either way, the Z/2s did feel ever so slightly more comfortable to me because of this. Sandals with two straps are a little bit more stylish, but wont always be the most comfortable option if you have high arches and big feet they might cut into your skin and make you sore. The Classic, unfortunately, lacks this cushioning. However, I chose this hike in the Z2s for a reason. This is excellent for all of you that have wide feet and find regular sandals to have extremely narrow footbeds. If youre looking for a pair of sandals suitable for your next vacation, you should look no further than Chaco. Our Editors independently research, test, and rate the best products.
Both of the shoes we tested are part of the Classic Pro model, though you can now purchase the Z1 and Z2 with ChacoGrip or EcoTread (see below). On average, the sandals are between $80-100, and thats what youre going to usually spend on them.
Likewise, both Chacos can be custom ordered to fit a wider foot.
Thats mostly what it boils down to. Anything with a 1 has no toe loop, and anything with a 2 or 3 has a toe loop (although, again, the three in the ZX/3s seems to refer also to the number of straps so its incredibly confusing). They are alsoreally similar when it comes to design and color variety. These things were staying on my foot no matter what. Just that the Cloud is the better choice for people that normally struggle with sore feet or need that extra support. No problem with sliding. So I ordered both and put them to the test. Yeah I had the exact same problem which is why I wanted to write this post in the first place. I think when most people pick out a pair of Chacos, they arent as concerned with the functional differences between the models as they are with the differences in aesthetics. Learn how your comment data is processed. I was able to explore the differences between the Chaco Z/2 and Chaco ZX/2Classics. All in all, the Z/2 and ZX/2 fit and feel was almost exactly the same for me. It personally doesnt bother me at all to have something in between my toes. They are alsoslightly cheaper,as its easier to find a pair of Classic Chacos that have been heavily discounted. This way I can still adjust the straps if I need to in the future, but its tucked away while Im wearing them! They work great, but what I didnt realize is that, with all the straps involved, you really have to get a good fit if you want to avoid getting blisters. As you could imagine, the Z2s more complex straps are more difficult to un-stick. ), so Im currently deciding between getting a pair of ZX/2 Classic versus the Cloud. You might give it a try so that you can see for yourself. Themain differences in these are in the strap design and cushioning. Once past the initial learning curve, the webbing loop can be adjusted to accommodate the nuanced features of your foot. Wow! Both ranges are pretty similar when it comes to the variety of designs. It was a bit brisk outside so I donned a pair of hiking socks with my Z1s. Also, if you looked closely, you could see that the footbed of the single strapped sandals didnt have as much of a shine as the footbed of the double-strapped ones. The traction on this shoe just wasnt cutting it on the steep and slick gradient. What was even the difference between the Classics and the Pros? Chaco says this model was designed with river guides and whitewater athletes in mind.
I was specifically looking for the difference between Z/2s and ZX/2s it feels like this article was written just for me haha. I find it a bit irritating, as I have sensitive skin, and more often than not the loop causes blisters. To test the Chaco Z1 sandals on the trail, we hiked the classic Mist Trail loop in Yosemite National Park. I have two pair of the no-toe loop and they do not slide. You can pull them to adjust the straps to your feet. The toe loop is known to self-tighten in the ZX/2s on people with high arches. The Yampa is a smoother-looking and lighter sole. So much for optimized wet traction. I read the reviews on Amazon for both models and noted that the reviews for the ZX/2s featured a lot more people complaining of the toe loop self-tightening. My mom now has the ones from this post and says she has this problem sometimes :/ But anyways enjoy your new Chacos, I hope you get to go on lots of adventures with them . Thanks so much! Would you say that the ZX/2s are the same as the ZX/3s? However,the Cloud range has sandals with prices well over $100, and the Classic just doesnt. Plus, I didnt have any issues with adjusting the straps or the weird self-tightening toe loop. Ahhhhh. The footbed is one of the reasons why we love Chaco sandals. But bonus They will probably form fit to your feet a lot quicker! I havent figured out how to remedy this yet. Plus, go look at other brands that make these sporty sandals. The Cloud series of Chacos features softer, lighter soles to provide more comfort during extended use outings. Hi Donna, Correct, I find the single strap one does not tighten on the toe as I wear them. It takes a certain amount of patience, commitment, grunting and tugging to achieve your perfect fit. I just tuck the tail up into the ankle strap. This is especially important if you want to wear these near the beach, or if you get caught in the rain while youre out exploring the great outdoors. Here are directions from Chaco about this https://www.chacos.com/US/en/strap-adjuster/#/. In addition to that, the outsoles are verysturdy, and they will provide you with more than enough traction in your adventures. No ads. It is said to be the most optimized sole engineered to date, designed for extreme conditions and wet traction. ! Travis defended.
One thing that makes Chacos awesome is thatthey are adjustable. Also, I do not wear thongs because I find them uncomfortable between my toes, so Im tempted to avoid the toe strap versions altogether. Cant decide between Chaco Cloud and Classic sandals? While some may prefer a sandal with more independent points of adjustment, our testers remain convinced that the Chaco system can provide a highly-customized fit. We set off with ease and the general activity of floating was without problems.
I have a pretty average if not flat-ish arches, and I did notice that one of the double-strapped sandals straps around my toe seemed perpetually too tight no matter how many times I loosened it.