#1 on this list
Z/1 Classic
Chaco
The Chaco Z/1 Classic is the benchmark heavy-duty hiking sandal against which all other trail sandals are measured. Built around an ultra-dense polyurethane LUVSEAT footbed, this sandal behaves more like a low-cut boot chassis than a flip-flop. For backpackers carrying loaded packs over uneven terrain, the rigid arch support and torsional stability prevent foot fatigue in a way soft foam midsoles simply cannot match. Its signature continuous-strap harness feeds through the midsole, letting you customize tension across your entire foot with a single pull of the ladder-lock buckle. Once you dial in the fit, your foot remains locked to the footbed, eliminating lateral slippage during steep descents and swift water crossings. The ChacoGrip rubber outsole features deep, broad lugs that bite into hardpack dirt and wet river stone reliably. The trade-offs are weight and break-in time. The dense polyurethane makes this one of the heaviest sandals on the market, so it is cumbersome if you only plan to lash it to your pack as a camp shoe. The footbed is unyielding at first and requires several shorter outings to break in, while fine sand can occasionally jam the internal strap channels. **Highlights** - Continuous pull-through polyester webbing strap system for a dialed, custom fit - Dense, podiatrist-certified LUVSEAT polyurethane footbed with aggressive arch contouring - Durable ChacoGrip non-marking rubber outsole with deep trail lugs - Open-toe design easily accommodates socks on chilly nights in camp - Fully resolable and repairable through the factory ReChaco program **Watch-outs** - Heavy and bulky to carry as an ultralight camp shoe - Stiff polyurethane requires a noticeable break-in period - Silt and fine grit can seize up the internal webbing channels
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#2 on this list
Hurricane XLT2
Teva
The Teva Hurricane XLT2 hits the sweet spot between trail-capable support and camp-ready lightness. Unlike the rigid, heavy platform of a traditional Chaco, the Hurricane uses a thick EVA foam footbed supported by an integrated nylon shank. This delivers immediate, out-of-the-box cushion that dampens rocky impacts without feeling like dead weight on your feet or strapped to the outside of your pack. Security comes from Teva's time-tested three-point hook-and-loop strap system across the toes, instep, and heel. Padded neoprene patches sit beneath the rear strap junction, preventing the blister-inducing friction on your Achilles tendon that plagues simpler strap sandals. Underneath, the Durabrasion rubber outsole features well-spaced triangular lugs that shed mud easily and provide dependable grip across loose scree and wet boulders. The trade-off comes down to long-term longevity. The softer EVA footbed will compress and pack out faster under heavy pack weight than high-density polyurethane. The hook-and-loop closures also demand occasional maintenance, as trail burrs, mud, and sand can reduce the Velcro's grip over time. For day hikes, river trips, and all-around camp comfort, it remains one of the most versatile sandals you can buy. **Highlights** - Cushioned EVA foam footbed with contoured heel cup and arch support - Integrated nylon shank provides torsional rigidity across rocky ground - Three-point hook-and-loop adjustment system for fast, straightforward tensioning - Padded heel strap eliminates hot spots against the Achilles tendon - Durabrasion rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs for mixed terrain **Watch-outs** - EVA footbed compresses and packs out faster than polyurethane - Velcro straps can lose grip when clogged with mud, silt, or plant debris - Offers less arch support than structured Chaco models
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Z/1 Classic | Hurricane XLT2 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight per pair | 32 oz / 907 g (Men's size 9) | — |
| Footbed | LUVSEAT dual-density polyurethane | — |
| Outsole | ChacoGrip non-marking rubber (3.0mm lugs) | — |
| Upper | Continuous polyester jacquard webbing | — |
| Toe style | Open toe (no toe loop) | — |
| Repairability | Resolable and re-webbable via ReChaco | — |
| Approximate Weight | — | 10.2 oz / 289 g per sandal (men's 9) |
| Midsole Material | — | Contoured EVA foam with nylon shank |
| Outsole Rubber | — | Durabrasion rubber with triangular lugs |
| Upper Webbing | — | REPREVE recycled polyester |
| Closure Style | — | Three-point hook-and-loop system |
| Arch Profile | — | Moderate contoured arch |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Z/1 Classic
- Unmatched arch support and torsional stability for backpacking under load
- Continuous pull-through webbing allows a completely customized fit
- Dense polyurethane footbed will not pack out or lose its shape over time
- ChacoGrip outsole provides dependable traction on wet rock and loose trails
- Fully resolable and repairable through the factory ReChaco program
- Heavy and bulky if carried exclusively as a secondary camp shoe
- Unforgiving polyurethane platform demands a deliberate break-in period
- Silt and river grit can jam the internal strap adjustment channels
Hurricane XLT2
- Immediate out-of-the-box comfort with zero break-in period required
- Integrated nylon shank provides stable torsional support on rocky trails
- Padded heel strap prevents Achilles chafing and blisters during long walks
- Noticeably lighter and easier to pack than heavy polyurethane sandals
- EVA footbed will compress and pack out faster under heavy pack loads
- Hook-and-loop straps require maintenance when clogged with silt or burrs
- Open-toe layout leaves digits exposed to trail debris and loose rocks
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.