Chaco Mens Z/2 Classic Outdoor Sandal Review
Since their inception in 1989, Chaco has established a reputation for quality with their classic series of sandals. The Chaco Mens Z/2 Classic combines simplicity with functionality, comprising only eight essential components that contribute to its timeless appeal. This model, enhanced by a toe loop feature, provides extra forefoot control, ensuring stability during all your adventures.
The upper is crafted from polyester jacquard webbing, wrapping comfortably around your foot and threading through the midsole for a custom fit. This thoughtful design element, along with adjustable straps, allows you to tailor the sandal to your specific foot shape, enhancing overall comfort.
At the heart of the Z/2 Classic lies the LUVSEAT PU footbed, certified by podiatrists to offer exceptional support throughout the day. Coupled with the non-marking ChacoGrip rubber outsole, this sandal promises an excellent performance on various terrains, making it a reliable choice for outdoor activities.
Features
- Durable polyester jacquard webbing upper
- Adjustable high-tensile webbing heel risers
- Toe loop for secure fit
- LUVSEAT PU midsole for comfort and support
- Vegan-friendly construction
- Non-marking ChacoGrip rubber compound with 3mm lug depth
Pros
- Comfortable and supportive footbed
- Customizable fit with adjustable straps
- Durable and long-lasting materials
- Excellent traction on various surfaces
- Lightweight and easy to wear
Cons
- May take time to break in
- Limited color options available
- Price point may be higher than competitors
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Chaco Mens Z/2 Classic | Teva Men's Hurricane XLT2 | Sandgrens Men's Walking Sandal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Footbed Support | Podiatrist-certified LUVSEAT PU | Cushioned EVA foam | Leather with arch support |
| Traction | ChacoGrip rubber compound | Durabrasion rubber | Rubber outsole |
| Adjustability | Adjustable straps | Adjustable straps | Slip-on style |
| Material | 100% Polyester | Polyester webbing | Leather |
Detailed Review
The Chaco Mens Z/2 Classic is designed for those who seek reliability and comfort in their outdoor footwear. The adjustable straps are not only practical but also contribute to a personalized fit, making them suitable for different foot shapes and sizes. Whether you're hiking rocky trails, walking along sandy beaches, or simply enjoying a casual day out, these sandals perform exceptionally well.
The standout feature is undoubtedly the LUVSEAT PU footbed, which promotes proper alignment and cushioning, making them ideal for prolonged wear. Many users have reported significant comfort, even after hours of activity. The toe loop adds an element of security, ensuring that the sandal stays firmly in place, which is particularly beneficial when engaging in more dynamic movements.
As for durability, the materials used, including the ChacoGrip rubber compound, ensure that these sandals will last through numerous adventures. They provide solid grip, essential for navigating various terrains. However, it's worth mentioning that some customers have experienced a slight break-in period before the sandals feel perfectly comfortable.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a dependable and stylish outdoor sandal, the Chaco Mens Z/2 Classic should be high on your list. Its combination of comfort, adjustability, and durability makes it a worthy investment for anyone who loves spending time outdoors.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 4.5 | Exceptional support from the LUVSEAT PU footbed |
| Durability | 4.7 | Constructed with robust materials for lasting wear |
| Traction | 4.6 | Great grip on varied surfaces with ChacoGrip outsole |
| Style | 4.2 | Classic design, though limited color options |
| Value for Money | 4.0 | Higher price point, but worth the investment for quality |
User Reviews
This review doesn't deal with longevity because this is a new product that I've used for a few days.First, I have nerve irritation in my feet caused by a back problem that led to back surgery and a side effect of that back surgery is often nerve irritation like what I have. It can make one of my feet painful and hard to walk on. I bought my first pair of Chaco at the suggestion of a foot specialist because of the arch support and I can walk probably for a good hour or be on my feet for longer than that in a given day wearing this style sandal and I don't have issues with feet pain from nerve irritation. Actually the doctor suggested something else but another person told me these sandals are similar. I'm SO GLAD I gave them a try.These sandals, which to me are like wearing open shoes because of how they feel and how well they stay on the feet from the straps, have an arch support that's different than many shoes. Most arch support is only near the side of the foot. The arch support on these go deeper into the foot so it feels different than wearing other shoes unless you're had shoes with a similar type arch support. It took me a few days to get used to it because it felt so different. Now? They feel very normal and the typical arch support type shoes feel uncomfortable to me and once again I can't walk very long in them.These newer ones have the same footbed as the older Chaco sandals I had, and the strap system is the same. And this gets us to the straps.Some people talk about how they will change as they walk. Yes this can happen. It can also be stopped very easily. You take a small piece of plastic, maybe two, and wedge that into the opening where the strap goes into the shoe. This will hold the strap in place. Next thing is, the entire system of straps in the front is a SINGLE strap, which means it's HIGHLY adjustable. And this is why it can shift some when walking, which can be fixed. I can get the straps on these new ones to feel VERY comfortable on my feet. No tight spots, no loose spots. The end of the strap goes through the buckle, where you pull the strap tight to hold to your foot, so with a bigger foot you have less strap hanging out, smaller feet you have a longer end hanging past the buckle.So, if the footbed fits your foot well, the straps will work to hold your foot in place more like a shoe than a sandal.I think most people after wearing these a few days and doing a bit of walking in them get used to them and they work well, but there will be some people whose feet have a bottom contour where these sandals won't be comfortable. You won't know the first day you wear them. It will take a few days and then you'll know because once again the arch support is pretty different than most shoes. To me they're a godsend.
These sandals are excellent, and that's coming from a person who typically doesn't like wearing sandals. The adjustability and firm fit are second to none, and the grip feels like a good hiking boot. Highly highly recommended.
I specifically bought these Chaco Z2 Classic Sandals for an overseas vacation that would entail hiking, swimming and city walking. They did not disappoint in their fit and functionality. I choose this version with the big toe loop vs. the version with the band that goes across the top of the foot because I felt this version provided more response during hiking. I was probably over-analyzing this part of the purchase but I've had similar sandal designs where the entire front of the sandal has folded under as a result of getting caught on an edge of step or a large rock/tree root on a trail. The Chaco footbed is very comforming and comfortable, even after a long day, and it's very solid rubber. Watch the video for the adjusment of the straps -it'll save you some frustration and will fine tune the fit. Thumbs up all around for this classic - I would recommend and buy again (but this pair is very well built so it may be awhile).
I bought them in size 11 after reading reviews that said if you are 10.5 order an 11.They arrived the night before I left the country for a trip where I would be walking 6-15km per day.My boots, shoes, and every other footwear that I own is 10.5. I put these sandals on and on the smallest fit they don't. My pinky toe was destroyed and bleeding (Blistered and tore repeatedly) while walking. My foot got blisters all over wear straps touched. I followed the videos on how to adjust straps correctly and my wife has a pair that fits great. The toe strap was uncomfortable, the shoe is longer than my boots. If I had to guess, I would think I was shipped a size 12 or 13 with an 11's tag. They look a bit clownish on my feet. I should have tried them before leaving the country, that's on me. I should have ordered in advance of my trip to leave room for mistakes.Mine are far too dirty after the first use to try to return for a different size, even if I could, I'm out of the US now and won't be back until the end of the return window.I understand it might be useful to get dimensions of the shoe, so that others can make informed decisions about it. I don't have them with me at the moment.For what it is worth, my wife ordered a half size up and hers fit perfect and she loves them.
True to size! Love these sandals have had a couple pairs now would definitely recommend for great arch support and durability.
This is my third pair of Chaco Z2's. My previous pairs lasted for about 5 years each before the outer sole started to separate. Chaco will re-sole your old ones for $50, but these new ones cost less than that!You need to get the straps adjusted perfectly for your foot, which takes some time and effort. So If they don't feel right to you at first, don't give up on them. Keep trying. When you get the straps adjusted just right, they don't slip or rub, and will hold your foot securely forever. Or for at least 5 years in my experience LOL. One other thing; for me they tend to run large. I normally wear size 12, but with a Chacos I need to wear an 11.