February 26, 2003
Ready for Spring: Chaco Sandals!
First entry in the new category of "Product Recommendations".....for Chaco Sandals.
Many of you are familiar with Teva's and other knock-off water sandals, but you may have never heard of this company - unless you've been out West and seen the popularity of this footwear.
And for good reason....
When I started travelling out West this past year I saw many intrepid travellers and outdoors people wearing them. As I needed something to replace my Teva-knockoffs that were falling apart, I talked to a lot of people about them.
Every person had something positive to say about them -- no negative comments at all! So my mind was made up, Chaco's were definitely in my future. My next stop at a major mall found a retailer who carried them...but let me warn you, they aren't cheap upfront....
The very next day I was headed to the NW String Summit - an outdoor bluegrass festival in the hills of Oregon. A place which turned out to be a perfect proving ground for my new purchase, as it rained hard for the next 24 hours and it was a huge camping mud-hole. The Chaco's were the perfect shoe for this environment (and as I soon found out, most environments).
They have excellent traction, a very comfortable footbed, and straps which are exceedingly comfortable. As with any sandal, you may have a minor rub point for the first day or two, but that will subside in no time. Amazingly, I can run through tough terrain at full speed with these puppies on - just try that with your average Teva. No way! I'd be sporting a twisted ankle if I tried such exploits....
Final word: yes, they are expensive upfront (around $80-100), but they have a very long life built into them. Replaceable strap (which I can't imaging having to do anytime soon) and replaceable Vibram soles -- on a sandal! Vibram soles are usually only found on high end hiking and mountaineering boots....
BTW, I own the Z1 model with the aggressive Terreno outsole. No strap between the toes either. :)
Posted by answerguru at February 26, 2003 11:55 AM