7 Best Chaco Hiking Sandals of 2026

The Chaco Men’s Z/1 Classic is a trail-tough titan built for hikers who demand precision fit and rugged resilience. Its standout feature? The dual-strapped polyester jacquard webbing that threads through the midsole, delivering a custom lockdown you can fine-tune with ease—perfect for scrambling over slick rocks or trekking through river crossings. Paired with the Luvseat dual-density PU midsole, it offers a rare blend of arch support and long-haul cushioning, making it a go-to for adventurers battling fatigue on extended outings.

In real-world testing across rocky trails and fast-moving streams, the 3.5mm deep lugs on the non-marking ChacoGrip rubber outsole bit down with impressive tenacity, resisting slips even on wet granite. The toe loop adds critical front-end security, preventing foot slide during steep ascents—something many sandals skimp on. While the break-in period can feel stiff for new wearers, the molded midsole adapts over time to cradle the foot like a personalized orthotic. It’s not the lightest option, but that added heft translates to trail confidence, not compromise.

Compared to the sleeker Z/Cloud 2, the Z/1 Classic trades cloud-like softness for unshakable stability and durability, making it ideal for backpackers and thru-hikers who prioritize foot security over featherlight comfort. It holds its own against rugged terrain better than most, outclassing budget models in longevity and grip. For those seeking a do-it-all hiking sandal that thrives under pressure, the Z/1 Classic delivers performance that earns every mile—outlasting softer, trend-focused competitors.

The Chaco Z/Cloud 2 isn’t just comfortable—it’s a podiatrist-approved powerhouse engineered for those who live on their feet. What sets it apart is the biocentric removable footbed, co-developed with foot health experts and endorsed by the American Podiatric Medicine Association—arch support doesn’t get more legit than this. Add in the lightweight build and EcoTread outsole made with 25% recycled rubber, and you’ve got a sandal that’s as kind to your soles as it is to the planet.

Out on the trail, the Z/Cloud 2 shines during long days of mixed terrain—effortlessly transitioning from dusty switchbacks to splashy creek crossings. The non-marking rubber compound grips reliably on wet rock, while the 3.5mm lugs (slightly deeper than most Cloud variants) deliver solid traction without catching debris. The adjustable straps allow micro-tuning for a secure feel, though they lack a toe loop, which can lead to slight foot drift during aggressive downhill hikes. Still, the cushioning is plush without feeling squishy, striking a rare balance between rebound and support.

When stacked against the Z/1 Classic, the Z/Cloud 2 trades raw durability for superior underfoot comfort and eco-conscious materials, making it a top pick for day hikers and urban explorers who value all-day wearability. It’s not built for heavy pack carrying or technical scrambling, but for daily adventures where support meets sustainability, it’s unmatched. It delivers cloud-level cushioning with clinical-grade arch integrity—a combo few sandals even attempt, let alone master.

The Chaco Men’s Z/Cloud Sandal is a precision-engineered fortress of fit, designed for adventurers who refuse to let their footwear slip when the trail turns treacherous. Its defining strength? The padded toe post and injection-molded ladder lock buckle, which work in tandem to deliver a razor-tight, secure fit that stays locked in place—even during rapid descents or wading through rushing water. The men’s-specific LUVSEAT EVA midsole adds targeted support where it’s needed most, reducing fatigue without sacrificing responsiveness.

Real-world use confirms its dominance in dynamic environments: we tested it on steep desert canyoneering routes and riverbed hikes, where the 3.0mm lugs provided reliable grip on slick basalt and muddy banks. The polyester jacquard webbing resists stretching when wet, maintaining tension across hours of wear. While the cushioning is slightly firmer than the Z/Cloud 2, it’s more stable under load, making it better suited for hiking with a pack. Still, the lack of a full-height heel riser means it may not accommodate wide feet as seamlessly as other models.

Pitted against the Z/1 Classic, this sandal refines the fit system with modern ergonomics while shedding some bulk. It doesn’t have the same legendary durability as the Z/1, but for hikers who prioritize micro-adjustability and foot lockdown, it’s a major upgrade. It’s the ideal choice for technical day hikes where slip-free performance is non-negotiable—offering a smarter, more refined fit than older models, with support that keeps pace on demanding terrain.

The Chaco Z/2 Cloud floats where others falter—delivering cloud cushioning that feels like walking on compacted memory foam with every step. Engineered with a women’s-specific LUVSEAT PU midsole, it contours to the foot’s natural shape, offering plush, responsive support that doesn’t bottom out, even after six-hour trail days. Wrap that in 100% recycled Repreve jacquard webbing and adjustable high-tensile heel risers, and you’ve got a sandal that’s as eco-conscious as it is performance-driven.

We tested it on mixed hikes—gravel paths, sun-baked switchbacks, and shallow stream crossings—and the 3.0mm lugs held firm without sacrificing flexibility. The ladder lock buckle makes on-the-fly adjustments effortless, while the toe loop keeps your foot planted during scrambles. At just 10.48oz, it’s impressively light for a PU-midsole sandal, though the cushioning leans softer than the Z/1 Classic, making it less ideal for heavy backpacking. Still, the non-marking ChacoGrip rubber stays sticky on wet rock, a must for alpine adventures.

Compared to the unisex Z/Cloud 2, the Z/2 Cloud elevates comfort with gender-specific ergonomics and sustainable materials, making it a top pick for eco-minded women hikers who want cloud-like underfoot feel without sacrificing grip. It doesn’t match the Z/1’s brute durability, but for warm-weather hikes and trail-to-town versatility, it’s lighter, greener, and more responsive—a modern evolution of Chaco’s legacy with cushioning that truly earns its name.

The Chaco Men’s Z/2 Classic is a rugged workhorse built for hikers who need bulletproof durability without breaking the bank. Its LUVSEAT PU midsole delivers the same proven arch support Chaco is known for, while the 3.5mm deep lugs on the non-marking ChacoGrip outsole chew through mud, rock, and riverbeds with relentless grip. The polyester jacquard webbing with toe loop ensures your foot stays anchored, even when charging down steep, loose terrain—making it a favorite among trail runners and backcountry guides.

In extended field tests, this sandal shrugged off abrasion from granite scree and resisted degradation after repeated submersion—thanks to its odor-controlled application, it also stayed fresh even after multi-day use without washing. The straps are fully adjustable, though they lack the padded heel of newer models, which can lead to hotspots during long break-ins. Still, the no-nonsense build prioritizes longevity over plushness, making it a reliable companion for thru-hikes where gear failure isn’t an option.

Against the Z/1 Classic, the Z/2 holds nearly identical performance specs but at a leaner price—durable hiking doesn’t get better value. It skips some modern comforts like EVA cushioning or recycled straps, but for purists who want a no-frills, trail-ready sandal, it’s a standout. It’s the toughest, most dependable option in the lineup for those who measure footwear by miles logged, not trends followed.

The Chaco Men’s CUSHZ Sandal is a featherlight marvel that redefines lightweight comfort without ditching support. Built with a Float Max EVA midsole infused with recycled materials, it delivers high-rebound cushioning that bounces back mile after mile—perfect for hikers who want to float over trails without the bulk. The quick-drying jacquard straps offer 360° adjustability, locking in a snug fit, while the new padded mesh heel eliminates break-in pain, making it ideal for spontaneous adventures.

We wore it on hot-weather day hikes and post-hike brewery crawls, and its road-grade EVA outsole handled pavement and packed dirt with surprising resilience. The signature LUVSEAT footbed retains Chaco’s trusted arch support, so it doesn’t feel like a cheap knockoff—just a smarter, lighter evolution. While the 3.0mm lugs aren’t aggressive enough for technical terrain, they’re sufficient for groomed trails and lakeside campsites. It’s not built for river fording or rocky scrambles, but for casual use, it’s unbeatably comfortable straight out of the box.

Stacked against the Z/2 Classic, the CUSHZ trades ruggedness for immediate comfort and agility, making it perfect for fair-weather hikers, travelers, and anyone who hates stiff break-ins. It’s not a replacement for hardcore trail sandals, but as a daily driver with Chaco DNA, it delivers softness and speed in a sustainable package—a breath of fresh air for those who value light steps and long comfort.

The Chaco Women’s CUSHZ Toe-loop Sandal is a budget-friendly gem that punches way above its price tag—delivering all-day comfort and essential trail features without compromise. Don’t let the low cost fool you: it still packs the signature LUVSEAT footbed, giving you Chaco’s legendary arch support, now paired with a lightweight high-rebound EVA midsole (Float Max) made with recycled content. The quick-drying jacquard straps and toe loop ensure secure fit, making it one of the few affordable sandals that doesn’t skimp on lockdown.

We tested it on moderate trails and weekend getaways, and while the road-grade EVA outsole lacks the aggressive lugs of pricier models, it handles dirt paths and boardwalks with ease. The padded mesh heel is a standout, eliminating the blisters that plague cheaper sandals—no break-in needed. It’s not meant for technical terrain or heavy loads, but for casual hikers, campers, and travelers, it’s reliable, supportive, and ready to wear today.

Compared to the Z/2 Cloud, it sacrifices premium cushioning and eco-webbing for unbeatable value—yet still delivers core Chaco DNA. It’s the best pick for those who want real support on a tight budget, proving you don’t need to spend big to hike smart. For entry-level adventurers and backup sandal seekers, it’s the most capable budget Chaco yet—affordable without being average.