If you’re in the market for a pair of durable and comfortable sandals, then you should definitely consider the Chacos Z1 and Z2. These two sandals are some of the most popular and long-lasting sandals on the market, and have been beloved by outdoor adventurers for years. In this article, we’ll be exploring the differences between these two sandals and helping you decide which one is right for you.
| Chaco Z1 | Chaco Z2 |
|---|---|
| Adjustable straps | LUVSEAT footbed |
| PU midsole | PU midsole with added arch support |
| Non-marking ChacoGrip rubber outsole | Non-marking ChacoGrip+ rubber outsole with increased slip resistance |
| Men’s sizes 4 – 13 & Women’s sizes 5 – 14 | Men’s sizes 6 – 15 & Women’s sizes 5 – 11 |
Answer: The Chaco Z1 sandal features adjustable straps and a PU midsole with a non-marking ChacoGrip rubber outsole, available in men’s sizes 4 – 13 and women’s sizes 5 – 14. The Chaco Z2 sandal features a LUVSEAT footbed, PU midsole with added arch support, and a non-marking ChacoGrip+ rubber outsole with increased slip resistance, available in men’s sizes 6 – 15 and women’s sizes 5 – 11.
Chacos Z1 Vs Z2: Comparison Chart
| Features | Chaco Z1 | Chaco Z2 |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Material | Polyester jacquard webbing | Polyester jacquard webbing with synthetic leather trim |
| Insole | 2mm Polyurethane | Luvseat™ dual-density PU footbed |
| Midsole | ChaPU™ | ChaPU™ |
| Outsole | Non-marking ChacoGrip™ rubber | Non-marking ChacoGrip™ rubber |
| Toe Protection | Yes | Yes |
| Support | Lightweight | Lightweight, supportive |
| Adjustability | Pull-through webbing | Pull-through webbing & buckle |
| Weight | 8.6 oz. per pair | 9.5 oz. per pair |
Chaco Z1 Vs Z2: A Comparision
Chaco is a popular sandal brand known for its rugged, outdoor-inspired designs and superior quality. The Chaco Z1 and Z2 are two of the brand’s most popular models. Both features a unique webbing system, adjustable straps and supportive footbed, but there are some key differences that make the Z2 a better choice for more demanding adventures.
Upper Materials
The upper material of the Z1 and Z2 are made of polyester jacquard webbing. The Z1 has a softer, more flexible webbing that forms to the foot over time. The Z2 has a more rigid webbing that gives the shoe more support and durability. The Z2 also has a synthetic heel cap for additional stability.
Sole Unit
The Chaco Z1 features a non-marking rubber outsole, while the Z2 features a Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole with a Luvseat PU footbed. The Megagrip rubber provides more traction and stability on wet and dry surfaces, while the Luvseat PU footbed is designed to provide maximum comfort and arch support.
Adjustability
Both the Z1 and Z2 feature an adjustable webbing system, but the Z2 has an additional hook-and-loop closure system that provides a more secure fit. The Z2 also has a pull tab at the heel for easier on and off.
Weight
The Chaco Z1 weighs in at 10.3 ounces, while the Z2 weighs in at 11.7 ounces. The Z2 is slightly heavier due to the additional features, such as the synthetic heel cap and Vibram Megagrip rubber sole.
Protection
The Chaco Z1 offers basic protection against the elements, while the Z2 features a waterproof upper and a Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole that provides increased protection against wet and dry surfaces. The Z2 also has a synthetic heel cap for added stability.
Durability
The Chaco Z1 is designed with a more flexible webbing that forms to the foot over time. The Z2 is designed with a more rigid webbing that provides extra support and durability. The Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole and synthetic heel cap of the Z2 also provide increased durability.
Cost
The Chaco Z1 is the more affordable option, with a price tag of around $100. The Z2 is slightly more expensive, with a price tag of around $110. The extra cost is due to the additional features and increased durability.
Chacos Z1 Vs Z2 Pros & Cons
Pros of Chacos Z1
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Highly durable
- Excellent traction
- Multiple color options
Cons of Chacos Z1
- Limited arch support
- Not ideal for wide feet
Pros of Chacos Z2
- Highly supportive
- More cushioning
- Excellent arch support
- Multiple color options
Cons of Chacos Z2
- Heavyweight
- Less traction on wet surfaces
Which is Better – Chacos Z1 Vs Z2?
After careful consideration, it is clear that the Chacos Z2 is the better option out of the two. The Z2 offers superior comfort, better arch support and a secure fit, making it the more reliable shoe for all types of activities.
The Z2 also provides better waterproof protection with its abrasion-resistant webbing. This makes it a great option for those who are looking for a shoe that can handle the elements. The Z2 also has an adjustable toe strap which is great for those who have a wider foot or need a bit more room.
One of the best features of the Z2 is its lightweight construction. This makes it a great option for those who need a shoe that is light on the feet but still provides plenty of support. The Z2 also has a great design which makes it a stylish choice for any occasion.
Overall, the Chacos Z2 is the better option for anyone looking for an all-purpose shoe. It provides superior comfort and arch support, waterproof protection, and a lightweight design. Here are three reasons why the Z2 is the better choice:
- It provides superior comfort and arch support.
- It is waterproof and abrasion-resistant.
- It is lightweight and stylish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chacos Z1 and Z2 are amongst the most popular sandals from the brand and choosing between them can be tough. To make your decision easier, we provide the answers to some of the commonly asked questions about these sandals.
What are the main differences between the Chacos Z1 and Chacos Z2?
The Chacos Z1 and Z2 are similar in design, however, they have some key differences. The Chacos Z1 has a more traditional look with a single strap across the foot, while the Chacos Z2 has a more modern look with two straps across the foot. The Chacos Z1 also has a slightly narrower footbed, which may be better for those with narrower feet. The Chacos Z2 has a wider footbed, which may be more comfortable for those with wider feet.
In terms of comfort, the Chacos Z1 is slightly more padded and has more cushioning, while the Chacos Z2 is slightly less padded and has less cushioning. The Chacos Z1 also has more arch support, which may be better for those with higher arches. The Chacos Z2 has less arch support, which may be better for those with low or flat arches.
Which Chacos model is better for outdoor activities?
The Chacos Z1 is generally better for outdoor activities due to its more traditional design and higher arch support. The Chacos Z1 also has better traction due to its rubber outsole, which gives it more grip on slippery surfaces. The Chacos Z2, on the other hand, has a more modern design and less arch support, which may be better for those who primarily wear the sandals for casual activities.
The Chacos Z1 is also more durable due to its full-grain leather construction, which makes it more resistant to wear and tear. The Chacos Z2 is made of synthetic materials, which makes it less durable and more prone to damage. The Chacos Z1 also has a more secure fit due to its single strap, while the Chacos Z2 has two straps, which can be less secure.
What is the difference between the Chacos Z1 and Chacos Z2 in terms of colors and designs?
The Chacos Z1 and Chacos Z2 both come in a variety of colors and designs. The Chacos Z1 is available in both solid colors and two-tone designs, while the Chacos Z2 is only available in solid colors. The Chacos Z1 also has more vibrant colors, while the Chacos Z2 has more subtle colors.
In terms of design, the Chacos Z1 has a more traditional look with a single strap across the foot, while the Chacos Z2 has a more modern look with two straps across the foot. The Chacos Z1 also has a slightly narrower footbed, which may be better for those with narrower feet. The Chacos Z2 has a wider footbed, which may be more comfortable for those with wider feet.
How do the Chacos Z1 and Chacos Z2 compare in terms of price?
The Chacos Z1 and Chacos Z2 are both mid-priced sandals, with the Chacos Z1 being slightly more expensive than the Chacos Z2. The Chacos Z1 typically retails for around $90, while the Chacos Z2 retails for around $80. Both sandals offer good value for money and are made with high-quality materials, so either option is a great choice.
In terms of features, the Chacos Z1 is slightly more expensive due to its more traditional design and higher arch support. The Chacos Z2, on the other hand, is slightly cheaper due to its more modern design and less arch support. The Chacos Z1 also has a more secure fit due to its single strap, while the Chacos Z2 has two straps, which can be less secure.
Which Chacos model is better for people with wide feet?
The Chacos Z2 is generally better for people with wide feet due to its wider footbed. The Chacos Z2 also has two straps across the foot, which gives it a more secure fit and may be more comfortable for those with wide feet. The Chacos Z1, on the other hand, has a slightly narrower footbed and a single strap, which may not be as secure or comfortable for those with wide feet.
In terms of cushioning, the Chacos Z2 is slightly less padded and has less cushioning than the Chacos Z1. The Chacos Z2 also offers less arch support, which may be better for those with low or flat arches. The Chacos Z1, on the other hand, has more padding and cushioning, as well as more arch support, which may be better for those with higher arches.
In conclusion, the Chacos Z1 and Z2 sandals offer two great options for anyone looking for a comfortable and versatile sandal. The Z1 offers superior support and stability, while the Z2 provides a more lightweight and flexible feel. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and individual needs. Whether you’re looking for an everyday sandal or something for more adventurous activities, the Chacos Z1 and Z2 sandals offer something for everyone.
