#2 on this list
Z/Cloud
Chaco
Chaco's Z/Cloud sandals are built for situations where camp life looks less like quiet lounging and more like wading rocky riverbanks, portaging canoes, or scrambling over granite slabs. Featuring a signature continuous-strap webbing system and a soft, dual-density polyurethane midsole, the Z/Cloud takes the burly chassis of the classic Chaco platform and adds a cushioned top layer that softens direct impact under tired feet. This is the choice for backcountry travelers who demand real stability and underfoot protection from their camp shoe. If you need a shoe capable of technical stream crossings, moderate day hikes without your primary boots, or wet-weather camp chores, the Chaco platform delivers. Reviewers regularly praise the non-marking ChacoGrip rubber outsole for its sticky grip on wet river stones, making it a staple among river guides and canyon backpackers. The primary drawback is heft. Tipping the scales at roughly 1 pound 14 ounces for the pair, the Z/Cloud is far too heavy and bulky for traditional ultralight backpacking. Additionally, the polyester webbing straps absorb water and take several hours to fully dry, meaning you may have damp straps resting against your feet when stepping out of the tent in the morning. **Highlights** - Dual-density PU midsole with soft top-layer cushioning - ChacoGrip rubber outsole excels on wet, slippery rock - Continuous pull-through strap system offers fully customized fit - Podiatrist-certified LUVSEAT footbed provides substantial arch support - Extremely durable construction lasts multiple seasons **Watch-outs** - Heavy and bulky in a backpack (nearly two pounds) - Webbing straps stay damp for hours after submersion - Breaking in the footbed and strap routing takes time
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#3 on this list
Leadville Pacer
Luna Sandals
The Luna Sandals Leadville Pacer answers the call of backpackers who want the terrain competence of a rugged sandal without the brutal weight penalty of traditional river footwear. Weighing in at 8.9 ounces per pair, these minimalist sandals pack completely flat against the inside or outside of a pack frame. They utilize a firm, low-profile Vibram outsole that delivers surprising grip across loose dirt and river rocks while preserving ground feel. Designed with roots in barefoot running, the Leadville Pacer caters to hikers who prefer zero-drop footwear and unconstrained foot mechanics around camp. The climbing-grade webbing and padded heel strap anchor your foot securely, preventing the forward foot slippage common to cheap foam flip-flops. Outdoor testers frequently point out that the materials shed water almost instantaneously, making them an excellent choice for wet crossings followed by immediate camp setup. Because they feature a minimalist sole with virtually zero arch support, they demand adapted feet. Hikers accustomed to supportive, high-cushion footwear may find that walking over sharp stones around camp produces foot fatigue. Furthermore, the traditional thong-style toe post prevents wearing standard camp socks unless you carry split-toe socks or don the sandals barefoot in cool conditions. **Highlights** - Lightweight design at 8.9 ounces per pair - Low-profile Vibram outsole provides dependable outdoor traction - Barefoot-style, zero-drop footbed allows natural foot splay - Non-absorbent strap system dries almost instantly - Packs completely flat inside or strapped to a pack **Watch-outs** - Thong toe-post design requires toe socks in cold weather - No arch support and minimal cushion on sharp terrain - Premium price point for an open-air minimalist design
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Z/Cloud | Leadville Pacer |
|---|---|---|
| Weight per Pair | 1 lb. 14.1 oz. | — |
| MSRP | Around $105 | — |
| Midsole | Dual-density LUVSEAT polyurethane | — |
| Outsole | Non-marking ChacoGrip rubber compound | Low-profile Vibram rubber |
| Upper Material | Polyester jacquard webbing | — |
| Arch Profile | High, structured contour | — |
| Weight Per Pair | — | 8.9 oz |
| Drop | — | 0 mm (zero-drop) |
| Closure | — | Continuous webbing with padded heel |
| Approximate Price | — | $125 |
| Design Style | — | Minimalist thong-style sandal |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Z/Cloud
- Dual-density PU midsole softens foot impact without sacrificing arch support
- ChacoGrip rubber provides exceptional traction across wet, slick surfaces
- Continuous pull-through webbing delivers a precise, fully customized fit
- Extremely durable construction supported by official resoling services
- Substantial weight and bulk make it inefficient for ultralight packing
- Polyester webbing absorbs moisture and takes several hours to air dry
- Prominent arch support may feel uncomfortable for campers with flat feet
Leadville Pacer
- Exceptionally flat profile packs effortlessly into tight backpacks
- High-traction Vibram outsole provides dependable grip on wet rocks and dirt
- Hydrophobic materials dry almost instantly after water crossings
- Anchored webbing harness prevents foot drift on steep or uneven terrain
- Thong toe post prevents wearing conventional hiking socks in cold weather
- Zero-drop, minimal cushion sole requires prior foot conditioning
- Premium price point for a minimalist open sandal design
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.