5 Best Chaco Water Sandals of 2026

Step into cloud-like resilience with the Chaco Women’s Zcloud 2—where rugged trail-ready design meets surprising softness underfoot. The adjustable high-tensile webbing and injection-molded ladder lock buckle deliver a secure, personalized fit that stays locked in place, even on slippery river rocks or sandy switchbacks. With its toe loop for enhanced stability and quick-drying polyester jacquard straps, this sandal tackles water crossings and hot pavement with equal confidence, making it a go-to for adventurers who refuse to compromise on support.

During real-world testing across coastal hikes, urban commutes, and backpacking trips, the Zcloud 2 proved its mettle with consistent arch support and zero break-in time. The midsole strikes a smart balance—firm enough for stability on uneven terrain, yet forgiving after eight-hour trekking days. Whether navigating wet riverbeds or walking city blocks, the outsole’s 3mm lugs offer dependable traction, though deep mud can cling slightly between treads. It’s not the lightest model in the Chaco lineup, but the durable construction ensures it won’t quit after a season of hard use.

Compared to the newer CUSHZ models, the Zcloud 2 trades some cushioning for proven longevity and a more dialed-in fit system. It’s ideal for hikers, travelers, and outdoor educators who need a sandal that performs in dynamic environments without frequent adjustments. While the CUSHZ offers a bouncier ride, the Zcloud 2 delivers superior long-term structural integrity and better heel hold—making it the preferred choice for technical trails over plush comfort.

Meet the cloud-walk revolution in water sandals—the Chaco Women’s CUSHZ Toe-Loop, where Float Max EVA midsole technology redefines what ‘light and cushy’ feels like on your feet. Engineered with recycled-content EVA foam, this sandal delivers an ultra-plush ride without sacrificing responsiveness, making it perfect for those who spend hours on their feet—whether at the beach, on a boardwalk, or exploring European cobblestones. The 360-degree adjustability from quick-drying jacquard straps ensures a locked-in fit, while the new padded mesh heel eliminates chafing during long strolls.

In performance tests, the CUSHZ stood out for its immediate comfort—no break-in needed, even on day-one hikes over 10 miles. The lightweight road-grade EVA outsole handled pavement, packed dirt, and wet rocks with impressive grip, though it showed minor slip on algae-covered stones. At just 6.8 ounces per sandal, it’s one of the most featherlight models in Chaco’s lineup, yet still maintains the brand’s signature arch support through the LUVSEAT footbed. It’s not built for heavy backpacking, but for casual adventurers and urban explorers, it’s nearly flawless.

When stacked against the Zcloud 2, the CUSHZ wins on softness and weight, but sacrifices a bit of trail precision and long-term durability. It’s the best pick for travelers, beachgoers, and anyone prioritizing step-in comfort over rugged trail dominance. While the Z/1 Classic lasts longer, the CUSHZ offers a modernized upgrade in cushioning and breathability—a true evolution for Chaco fans who want plushness without losing identity.

The Chaco Men’s CUSHZ Toe-Loop isn’t just comfortable—it’s a game-changer for all-day wear, blending high-rebound Float Max EVA with Chaco’s legendary LUVSEAT support in a refreshingly modern package. With recycled-material midsoles and quick-drying polyester straps, this sandal is built for eco-conscious adventurers who demand both sustainability and performance. The 360-degree adjustability locks in a custom fit, while the padded mesh heel eliminates the heel rub that plagues so many outdoor sandals—making it a top contender for city-to-trail versatility.

On real-world terrain—from weekend hikes to festival days—the CUSHZ delivered consistent comfort without compression set, even after repeated heavy use. The lightweight EVA outsole provides excellent shock absorption on hard surfaces, though it lacks the aggressive lug pattern needed for steep, muddy ascents. It excels on dry trails, urban sidewalks, and sandy shores, but isn’t the best bet for technical backcountry routes. Still, for a sandal that transitions seamlessly from river crossings to rooftop bars, it’s unmatched in balance.

Next to the classic Chaco Z/1, the CUSHZ is softer, lighter, and more breathable, though it doesn’t match the Z/1’s decade-long lifespan. It’s the ideal choice for men who want Chaco-level support without the stiffness—perfect for college students, festival-goers, and warm-weather commuters. While the original Chaco sandals dominate in durability, the CUSHZ takes the crown for daily comfort and modern materials, offering a smarter fit for lifestyle-focused users.

Built like a backcountry tank, the Chaco Men’s Chaco Sandal (Z1-style) is the ultimate tool for those who demand rugged reliability in the wildest environments. The polyester jacquard webbing wraps through the midsole, creating a one-with-the-foot connection that doesn’t loosen, even after days of river fording and scrambling. With a non-marking EcoTread outsole featuring 3mm lugs and 25% recycled rubber, it bites into wet rock and loose gravel with tenacious grip—making it a favorite among river guides and trail rangers.

In field testing across alpine streams and desert canyons, this sandal proved nearly indestructible—no strap stretch, no sole delamination, and zero foot fatigue thanks to its dual-density PU midsole. It handles extreme conditions with ease, though the firmness means it requires a short break-in period. The toe loop keeps everything secure in fast currents, but the lack of heel padding can cause minor irritation during long pavement stretches. Still, for technical outdoor use, few sandals match its precision and longevity.

Compared to the cushion-focused CUSHZ, this model is less forgiving on city streets but far superior in raw performance on technical terrain. It’s not the most comfortable for casual wear, but for backpackers, climbers, and outdoor professionals, it’s the gold standard. While the CUSHZ wins in softness, this Chaco sandal dominates in grip, durability, and trail control—a true workhorse built for abuse.

The Chaco Women’s Z/1 Classic is the original blueprint of outdoor sandals, and after decades, it still sets the bar for unmatched durability and no-nonsense performance. Its simple polyester jacquard webbing system, threaded through a robust polyurethane footbed, creates a sandal that ages like fine leather—only getting better with miles. Designed for multi-season abuse, it laughs at sharp rocks, resists water damage, and maintains structural integrity longer than nearly any competitor, thanks to Chaco’s legendary build quality.

In long-term use, the Z/1 shines on extended backpacking trips and river expeditions where gear failure isn’t an option. The dual-density LUVSEAT midsole offers excellent arch support, though the firmness demands a 2–3 day break-in. It excels in water—draining quickly and resisting odor thanks to inherent odor-control properties in the materials. However, the rigid feel makes it less ideal for urban walking or casual wear, where softer EVA models outshine it in comfort.

Stacked against the plush CUSHZ, the Z/1 is less forgiving but more enduring—a sandal built to last 10+ years with proper care. It’s perfect for thru-hikers, outdoor guides, and minimalists who value longevity over immediate softness. While newer models offer more cushion, none match the Z/1’s legendary toughness and repairability, making it the ultimate choice for those who measure performance in years, not seasons.