If you're still stuck cramming your feet into boots every time you go outdoors, you're making a big mistake.
Not only is it good for your feet to breath the fresh air and stretch in open spaces, it's also lighter-weight, and faster to slip on a sandal than it is to lace up a boot.
Sport sandals have always been popular among sailors, river rafters, and fishermen. However recent generations have seen their utility beyond just splashing around in the local watering hole.
These days, sport sandals are many people's footwear of choice for working in the yard, walking around the town, or heading out on a hike in the woods. That's because they are an incredibly diverse, lightweight, and comfortable option.
And any time you bring up sport sandals, someone is bound to bring up the age old question---Chacos vs Tevas...what are the best hiking sandals?
Which one is superior. It's such a longstanding disagreement among outdoor enthusiasts that today we're dedicating an entire buyer's guide to the topic.
Are you a Chaco man?
Or a Teva lady?
Or do you like to blur the lines and own a pair of each?
If you're not familiar with Chacos or Tevas, then this guide is going to be great.
We'll fill you in on all the history, specifications, and differences between these two famous brands. If you're ready go ahead and dive into our Tevas and Chacos reviews below.
By the end of this article, you're going to be an expert, and when it's Chacos vs Tevas, you'll know which side you're on.
Name | Image | Strap Material | Sole | Weight (Pair) | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chaco Z1 | Polyester webbing | ChacoGrip | 1 lb. 5.2 oz | See The Chaco Z1 | |
Chaco ZX2 | Polyester webbing | ChacoGrip | 1 lb. 5 oz | See The Chaco ZX2 | |
Chaco Z Volv | Polyester webbing | EcoTread | 1 lb. 2 oz | See The Chaco Z Volv | |
Teva Terra Fi 4 | Polyester webbing | Durabrasion Rubber | 15.4 oz | See The Terra Fi 4 | |
Teva Hurricane XLT | Polyester webbing | Spider Original rubber outsole | 12 oz | See The Hurricane XLT | |
Teva Original Universal | Polyester webbing | Rubber outsole | 10.8 oz | See The Original Universal | |
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Why Wear Sandals for Hiking, Travel & Everyday Wear?
Certainly, there will always be a place for hiking boots in any outdoor outfit. However, if you haven't added a sturdy pair of hiking sandals to your kit yet, you're missing out big.
That's because a good pair of hiking sandals can offer you so many feature s that hiking boots will simply never have.
[elementor-template id="1226464"]First off, they're lightweight, and easy to pack. You can stick them in the bottom of your bag, or hang them from a strap and you'll barely notice the difference.
Second, they let you tackle river crossings, or days on the lake or ocean with solid traction and comfortable support.
Lastly, no one wants to lace up their hiking boots in the middle of the night just to go pee. That's the worst! If you have a pair of Teva or Chaco sandals for wearing around camp, you can slip them on in no time and take care of all your midnight needs.
If you're not convinced of the utility of a pair of the best hiking sandals yet, read on. By the time you're done learning just how well-made and multi-purpose these sandals are, you'll be ordering your first, and possibly your last pair. That's because the best hiking sandals will last a lifetime.
What to Consider When Looking for the Best Hiking Sandals
Comfort & Fit
When you're picking the best pair of sandals for hiking and camping, you want them to be comfortable and well fit to your feet. You're likely to be spending hours or even days walking in these sandals. If they don't fit just right, you could develop blisters or other painful friction points.
No matter what side you're on in the Tevas vs Chacos debate, both are designed to be easy to adjust and extremely comfortable once you find the right pair. Your primary concern when finding a pair of backpacking sandals, is that they are the right length for your foot. The adjustable nature of the strapping systems that each of these companies use makes over-the-foot adjustment easy.
Type of Use
Depending on what you intend to do with your hiking sandals, you're going to favor a different model. Some are designed to be highly supportive and well padded for long distance travel. Hiking sandals like the Teva Hurricane XLT or the Chaco ZX2 are both designed for long days on the trail.
However, other outdoor sandals are designed to be lighter weight, lower cost, or lower profile and will pack less support, less weight, and likely a lower price tag.
Before you buy your pair of travel sandals, consider where you are most likely to wear them and how often?
Do you regularly find yourself at the beach? Or are you the type to take your hiking sandals into the mountains every weekend? Or are you just looking to replace your last pair of sandals with a high quality set, but don't intend to use them religiously? That's fine too.
Weight
One of the big advantages of wearing hiking sandals instead of boots is that they don't weigh nearly as much. That means less pounds to carry on the trail.
There's an old hiker's adage that says 'a pound on your feet is worth ten in your pack'. And it has an important meaning. Extra pounds on your back are easily carried, with the weight distributed across your spine. However, pounds on your feet will have a far greater impact ion your performance. That's because with every step you take, you are lifting those extra pounds as if they were weights in the gym.
If you're going to cut weight when you're hiking, your feet are a great place to start. Even if it's only a couple ounces less to carry. After a long day on the trails, you'll notice the difference.
Durability
This is where the Chacos vs Tevas debate gets a little heated.
There are a lot of great sandals out there that are comfortable or lightweight. However, both Tevas and Chacos are designed to be extremely durable. That's because the best hiking sandals are going to stand up to a lot of heavy use.
Both of these brands recognize that the serious outdoors type don't want planned obsolescence or short term solutions. All of the sandals that Teva and Chaco make are designed with the big picture in mind. They won't just stand up to heavy abuses, but are also designed to be modular and easy to repair, or resole so that they can continue being used for years.
Tevas or Chacos, which one's are more durable? Well, it's debatable, but in general, Chacos are sturdier and can stand up to more heavy-duty use. Chaco also offers the ReChaco your Chacos program for repairing old shoes. This gives them a big leg up over Tevas.
Packability
If you're used to taking hiking boots on the trail, you may have never even considered how packable your footwear could be. That's because hiking boots have no business being stuffed into a backpack. They'll just never fit.
However, any pair of Chaco or Teva sandals will flatten and pack quite easily into the bottom, top or even the outside of your bag. That way, if you like, you can even bring them along as an extra pair of footwear on your travels.
The most packable hiking sandals will be the more minimal options, unfortunately. That means less weight, but also fewer awesome features to keep your feet happy.
If you're looking for a high performance hiking sandal that is lightweight and extra easy to pack, check out the Chaco Z Volv. They are designed to pack in all the most important features for a high quality hiking sandal, yet weigh less and are more packable than other models.
Straps & Closure System
Each brand has their own signature strapping system. The big questions, Tevas vs Chacos comes down in a big way, to which strapping mechanism is more comfortable and supportive for you.
Chaco is famous for it's strap weaving pattern that adjusts to your foot. Just pull on each separate section of strap to tighten and loosen your sandals. Once you have them at the right fit, an easy slide of the buckle lets you in and out.
Teva takes a similar approach but utilizes high-quality, triangular plastic pieces to hold their signature style of strap. This creates a different, but also very comfortable fit. Tevas use Velcro adjustable straps to come on and off your foot. For some, this is a big reason they prefer Teva over Chaco.
This is where Teva and Chaco diehard fans disagree a little bit. Each of these signature strapping styles provides a different feel, and a different amount of adjustability.
Some people like to have control over fast adjustments on the trail, made easier by Tevas Velcro design. However, other's like their sandal to feel like a glove and mold to their footshape with less fuss on their part. That makes the Chaco ideal for them as the straps naturally adjust their tension to match the pressure applied by your foot.
Chacos vs Tevas straps is the type of difference best felt, not read. I suggest going to your local outdoors store or shoe store and trying on a pair of each. Let your feet decide.
Footbed & Stability
Both Chaco and Teva go to great lengths to design and manufacture high-tech insoles that provide a stable base of support for your foot. This enhances comfort, control, and safety on the trail.
In order to achieve this, each brand uses high tech materials for the footbed in their sandals. They are firm and may feel strange at first fit, however, the rubber is designed to compress and mold to your foot's shape over time. This means the perfect fit, custom made for your foot.
That's why it's especially important that you take the time to get a really comfortable fit right from the start. That way, your footbed will begin to mold to the perfect shape right from the start.
Sole & Grip
Both Teva and Chaco, have changed their sole rubber and grip pattern a number of times over the years. As material technology and design have improved, their sandals have evolved also.
No matter where you stand the Chacos vs Tevas debate, on both the sole is going to last you a long time. Particularly if you pick up one of the more robust models like the Chaco Z1 or the Terra Fi 4.
Grip pattern is something that people don't always agree on. Personally, I've always thought that Chacos had a more durable and sticky grip. However, Teva sandals have been known to last for years and years and many people swear by their unique triangular grip patterns.
There are a couple of minimal models which sacrifice some of the durability in the sole in exchange for lighter weight. That will mean a shorter lifespan for your shoe though.
Break-in Period
In my experience, most pairs of Chacos will take a little bit longer to break in than Tevas. That's because their rubber is a bit thicker and firmer than that which Teva uses.
This can be a big deal if you're buying a new pair of sandals for your trip this weekend. Breaking in a new pair of shoes, even if they're sandals, on the trail can be a real pain.
So if you're in the store gearing up for a big trip this week and you're asking yourself Chacos or Tevas? Go with the Tevas. A pair of Chacos will take a little longer to feel and fit the way they should.
Sandal Lifespan
Both Tevas and Chacos will last for years as long as you're not hacking at them with your new machete or melting them by your campfire at night. The more robust models can easily stay trail-ready for five years of use.
However, everything wears out, and this is one arena where Tevas vs Chacos results in a big difference.
Teva does offer a limited one year warranty. That means that if there are manufacturer defects that come up in the first year of use, you're covered. However, that does not mean they will resole, or repair teva sandals once they're wearing out. That will be up to you. Fortunately, Teva's are designed to be simple and easy to fix yourself. After all, the first pair was made out of scraps on the side of a river.
Chaco, however, design their sandals to last for an incredibly long time, and also have a pipeline set up for helping you repair your old chaco sandals.
After many years, if your straps, buckles, or soles are starting to wear out, send your trusty sport sandals back to Chaco. You can get your own custom repair job done, rather than buying a fresh pair. That way you keep your comfortable foot-molded insole, yet can make your sandals almost like new again.
They won't do it for free, but it's a heck of a lot cheaper than a new pair of sandals, and it helps keep waste out of the landfill.
Value
Which one is the better value---Chacos or Tevas? That's the question that's really on all of our minds.
I've said it before, value is a combined measurement of the overall quality, longevity, and utility of a product. When you are trying to find the best value around, you need to consider three specific questions relative to your lifestyle.
Will you be happy with this product? Will it be comfortable, useful, and specialized to your needs? Does it have all the features you want, and do you like it?
Will the product last a long time? Is it easy to repair when it breaks? The best backpacking sandals in the world might be a pretty bad value if they only last one season of hiking. When it comes to Chacos vs Tevas, we'll cover longevity and repair specifically. One brand is a clear winner when it comes to sustainable practice.
How much does the product cost? Once I've considered the utility and longevity of a product, than I look at the price. Because after all, when it comes to outdoors gear, if it's not just right for me and built to last, I don't care how cheap it is, it's not the right gear for me.
When you consider all three of these factors together, you start to get a picture of the overall value of a piece of gear.
So Tevas or Chacos, which one is the better value? That depends on you and what you use them for. For me, I spend more time in the mountains and value the ethic of Chaco, so I've been a Chaco supporter for a while now. However, you live a different life than me and will have to make your own call.
Chacos Reviews
What Are Chacos?
Simply put, Chacos are designed to be an all around durable travel sandal. Capable of both long hikes in the backcountry and casual strolls through town, these heavy duty sandals are designed to keep up with the adventure wherever it takes you.
Chacos come in a variety of style. Although they may all look similar, each is made specifically for a different use, or user preference. All Chacos, however, are made with a thick, durable sole and Chaco's signature strap pattern.
You can choose from double, or single strap models, several sole styles, as well as the most hotly debated feature-- toe loop or no toe loop.
Chacos aren't designed like every other sandal out there either. Everything about them is designed to be durable, highly functional, and comfortable-- even after hours of trail use.
They use extremely high quality materials and design their sandals with heavy use in mind. The straps are not stitched to the sole of the sandal, but rather, run directly through the sole in one continuous band. This enhances adjustability, as well as the longevity of your shoe.
When comparing Chacos vs Tevas each sandal has a lot of features that set one another apart. But the main features of Chacos that you'll notice right away are the Z-strap pattern, burly sole, and single buckle.
What Are the Different Models of Chaco Sandals?
Strap Options - Chaco Z1 vs Z2
Chaco straps are a big part of the secret to this hiking sandal's success. However, there's more than one way to strap a Chaco...so to speak.
The big question is toe loop or no toe loop? The Chaco Z1 and ZX1 sandals do not have a toe loop.
Both the Chaco Z2 and ZX2 models come with a toe loop. That means extra control, however can be really uncomfortable for some people.
The other difference you will find is between Chaco Z and ZX models. The Z models come with a solid webbing strap, laced in Chaco's signature pattern through the sole. The ZX models have a split (but still one piece) strap over the front foot to provide extra form fitting capability. The ZX models are designed more as a Women's sandal, and marketed as such.
Chaco's latest addition to their lineup is their Women's Chaco ZX3 sandal that features three straps.
Sole Options
When it comes to the heart and soles of your Chacos, there are really three main option: Colorado, Terreno, and Chacogrip.
Your Chacos probably already have one of these three soles on them. These are also what Chaco will put back on should you ever abuse your Chacos so much they need resoling.
All three work great, but each has it's own special features and price. The biggest decision you need to consider is to go with Chaco Grip vs Vibram soles and ultimately where you will be wearing your sandals.
Colorado is a non-marking Vibram® TC-1 compound. It is lightweight and thinner than other soles but provides great surface area. Plenty of good grip in wet conditions.
Terreno is also a non-marking Vibram® TC-1 compound. The primary difference between these two soles is the lug depth, essentially the thickness of the tread. Terreno has 4.5mm of lug whereas Colorado only has 3mm. That means Terreno is a bit heavier, but optimal for better traction and durability in the mountains.
ChacoGrip is Chacos proprietary new super-sole, and they are great. They are a high tech and custom made material that maximizes non slip and durable traction technology. All in all, this is the best way to deck out your Chacos. When it comes to Chaco Grip vs Vibram, both are hands down great soles, but I'd put my bet on Chaco Grip as the best all-around performer.
What Are Chacos Made Of?
The secret to Chacos long term success is in their high-quality materials and simple, easy to repair design. After all, that's what makes them some of the best hiking sandals on the market today.
The straps, or rather- the single strap that forms the signature style of Chacos, is made of polyester. It is simple, durable, and non-stretching. The strap is woven through the sole of the sandal to create one continual looping system which adjusts to each part of your foot independently.
The strap is buckled with one, simple, injection molded ladder-style buckle. It's simple and works just like you would think.
Chaco soles are made out of Chacos proprietary Chacogrip. It is specially manufactured to maximize grip in wet conditions as well as durability and traction. It's incredibly tough, and can stand up to years of regular use.
Directly underfoot, you'll find Chacos patented LUVseat technology. It's made from Polyurethane. Unlike cheap foam-based materials, it won't over compress with time and wear out. This footbed molds to your foot and then provides stable, comfortable cushioning.
Where Are Chacos Made?
Chaco was founded in 1989 by whitewater rafting guide, Mark Paigen. He saw the need for durable, water-friendly footwear that was comfortable and sustainable. That led him to open the first Chaco manufacturing facility in Paonia, Colorado.
In 2008 the factory in Paonia was closed and manufacturing was briefly moved to China. However, in 2009, the brand was acquired by Wolverine World Wide and manufacturing was moved back to the USA at the Wolverine home base in Rockford, Michigan.
Not only are Chacos sustainably made, but they are also 100% manufactured in the USA. Unless you own a lucky pair from their brief time in China!
This gives Chaco a clear leg up in the competition of Chacos vs Tevas, as Teva's manufacturing is done in Asia and Central America.
Are Chacos Waterproof?
Although most people think of Chacos as a waterproof sandal, the truth is that they are considered water-friendly, but aren't actually waterproof. That's because the material of your Chacos will absorb water. However, that's no big deal.
Because they are designed to absorb and then expel water and are fast to dry, Chacos make great river shoes. After all, that's what they were originally designed to do.
Are Chacos Good for Hiking?
There are two answers to this classic question, are Chacos good for hiking? The answer is 'YES! and YES!' for two good reasons.
First, they are incredibly supportive and comfortable, and can sustain walks of a decent distance before you remember you're wearing sandals.
Certainly, they are no replacement for hiking boots, and will not support your ankles for long trips in the mountains.
However, they make excellent camp sandals and are easy to pack. So, no, they won't replace hiking boots in your repertoire, unless you're a strict dayhiker. But they will become an essential part of your camping kit.
You'll love being able to slip them on at camp or for a quick excursion without messing with fresh socks and big boots. Not only that, but you'll always be river ready. On some trails, that's not just convenient, but a downright necessity.
Are Chacos True to Size?
When considering Chacos vs Tevas, there are many differences, but one big similarity is that neither sells half-sizes.
Everyone has questions like: 'Are Chacos true to size?' or 'No half sizes? What size do I buy?' All of those are valid questions, and fortunately, have an easy answer.
It's true, Chaco doesn't sell half-sizes. Presumably, that's because with a self tightening sandal, it's easier to fit more feet with fewer sizes. After all, the shoe adjusts to fit your foot, only the sole needs to be large enough. Even the footbed molds custom for your foot.
So here's the scoop. Chacos tend to run a tad large. If you're an 8, order an 8, it will fit great. If you're a half-size, say a 9.5, you should usually order a size down. In this case, a 9.
However, if you feel your foot may be on the bigger end of that half-size, ordering up may be the safer option. That's because a sandal that's a bit big fits a lot better than a sandal that's too small.
What Stores Sell Chacos?
Chacos have become so popular and are so in demand these days that you can find them at just about any store, except the thrift store because no one gets rid of a pair of Chacos.
You can find Chacos everywhere from Amazon or Famous Footwear to REI, or your local outdoor gear store. You can also get them from a number of outdoor retailers.
Who Should Get Chacos?
Chacos are best for the serious outdoor adventurer. Particularly anyone who works on rivers, oceans, or bodies of water. They are a bit more heavy duty than Tevas, in most cases, and will last you most of your life.
They make great sandals for the city liver who just wants extra support and comfort, too. After all, whatever shoes you wear day in and day out are going to have a big impact on your feet.
The Chaco LUVseat footbed isn't just great arch support and comfort for a sandal, it's great for any footwear, period. That's because when you combine the high quality support of PU materials and the durable, shock absorbing rubber of the soles, Chacos score high marks with podiatrists.
In fact, every single style of Chaco sandal on the market today is certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association. Not many shoes can make that boast. And when it comes to Tevas vs Chacos, only one brand has doctors on their side.
Best Chaco Sandals
Chaco Z1 Review
The Chaco Z1 sandal is the classic offering from this time-tested brand since 1989. Composed of only eight parts for an all around simple, and effective travel sandal.
They come standard with Chaco's signature style strap and adjusts to your foot. Coupled with their podiatrist-certified LUVSeat™ PU footbed means maximum comfort. The Z1 comes without a toe loop, for those who like a more casual fit in exchange for less fore-foot control.
Although they used to be made with Vibram soles, these babies now come equipped with their own brand of ChacoGrip™ rubber that is both durable and highly effective while you're on the trail.
See The Men's Chaco Z1See The Women's Chaco Z1
Chaco ZX2 Review
The Chaco ZX2 sandal shares many of the same classic design features as the Z1. And although they come with a double strap in place of the classic solid strap, the ZX2 is still composed of just eight component parts.
The double strap may feel a little less comfortable to some, but allows for increased adjustability for high performance comfort. Unlike the Z1, the ZX2 is designed with a toe loop to maximize your control.
Underfoot, you'll find the same standard of comfort and quality. Chaco's signature LUVSEAT™ PU footbed and ChacoGrip™ rubber outsole will keep your feet comfortable and capable whether you're out for a short walk to the store or a long hike in the hills.
See The Men's Chaco Z2See The Women's Chaco ZX2
Chaco Z Volv Review
The Z Volv sandal is the modern evolution of a classic Chaco sandal. It offers all of the best features you are most familiar with, but cuts weight and adds style points with a modern look and an airy PU midsole.
This sandal still relies on the classic Chaco pull-through adjustable webbing straps and an injection-molded ladder lock buckle. It will feel like the familiar comfortable fit you're used to.
However, the Z Volv will feel lighter on your feet due to a 20% lighter sole design. In addition to the differences you'll feel, it's also worth noting that these sandals are produced in a vegan-friendly ethic, and with a non marking EcoTread™ that is 25%-recycled rubber.
Without sacrificing durability or comfort, the lighter weight of the Chaco Z Volv makes it the best Chaco sandal for hiking.
See The Men's Chaco Z VolvSee The Women's Chaco Z Volv
Tevas Reviews
What Are Tevas?
There's a reason why Teva sandals are so commonly compared to Chacos. They are far and away the two most respected and well known brands of hiking sandals on the market today, and have been for several years.
Tevas, unlike Chacos, feel a little more conventional and familiar to the average person putting on their first pair. The Velcro straps feel more familiar, the sole feels less like a deadly weapon, and the look is more casual.
Although some say Tevas aren't as tough as Chacos, they may not be taking into account the wide range of models Teva offers. There are lightweight, minimal models as well as sturdy sets of hiking sandals available from Teva.
What Are the Different Models of Teva Sandals?
These days, Teva offers so many types of footwear that we'd need a whole other article to cover them all. As far as their best backpacking sandals go, we cover the Terra Fi 4, the Hurricane XLT, and the Original Univeral sandals in this review. Each offers a different level of support and durability for different types of travel.
However, not covered in this review, they also offer a wide range of flip flops and shoes. Other quality sandals in their catalog include the Katavi and Tanza lines.
What Are Tevas Made Of?
The very first 'pair of Teva sandals' was made from an old pair of flip-flops and two Velcro watchbands deep in the Grand Canyon in 1984. At least, that's how the legend tells it.
Nowdays, water-friendly polyester webbing, Durabrasion Rubber, and high tech nylon composites make up most of a Teva sandal.
Where Are Tevas Made?
Unlike Chacos, Tevas are manufactured primarily in Asia, China and Vietnam to be exact. They also have manufacturing in El Salvador. It's not ideal, but it does help keep the cost low. You'll have to make your own decision about how much you value products made in the USA.
Are Tevas Waterproof?
Just like Chacos, Tevas are not waterproof---common misunderstanding. They are water-friendly, or water-ready, same difference.
Basically, they love water, and are made to be immersed in it without effect. They dry quickly, don't take on too much water-weight, and best of all, maintain good traction-- even while wet.
Are Tevas Good for Hiking?
We've already talked about the importance of having a pair of lightweight sandals for time spent at camp. Tevas are no exception to this rule. They make excellent campground shoes. They are also great for wet terrain where river crossings or days on the beach are likely.
However, hiking is where Chacos vs Tevas makes a big difference. Tevas just aren't quite as thick or rugged as Chacos and don't stand up to long hikes, especially with weight. However, they make a great shoe for day hikes, or any walk along, or in the water.
Are Tevas True to Size?
Tevas fit pretty true to size, assuming a standard foot shape. If you have a wide toe box or are a half size, you should probably size up. It differs with every foot, but a sandal that's a bit big will fit much better than a sandal that's too small.
What Stores Sell Tevas?
Just like Chacos, Tevas are sold in all sorts of stores, all around the world. You can usually find a pair at any generic shoe store, a number of places in most malls, and also at any outdoor store dealing in water or beach sports.
You can also order them online from any number of retailers. Or, if you want the easy way, you can get them right on Amazon and often find them on sale.
Who Should Get Tevas?
Tevas are ideal for a more casual sandal enthusiast. They aren't going to satisfy most hardcore hiking fanatics. But if you spend time around water, or like to wear sandals in the city, you'll feel great in Tevas.
Their casual design, comfortable footbed, and low price make them ideal for easy use. Even if they don't come out on every adventure with you, they're a great piece for any outdoor arsenal.
Best Teva Sandals
Teva Terra Fi 4 Review
The Teva Terra Fi 4 is the latest in this long line of Teva's classic sandal. Designed to be an all terrain, sport-use sandal, the Terra Fi 4 is lightweight (14.5 oz) but also strong and supportive.
Polyester webbing straps dry quickly and resist abrasion. They feature Teva's easy hook-and-loop closure system for a fast, comfortable fit.
The soles are designed to cradle your foot and support it where it matters most. A specially designed shock absorber is built into the heel of the shoe to help take off some of the stress of long hikes. Teva even treats these shoes with Microban®, which helps prevent foot odor due to it's anti-microbial properties.
See The Men's Teva Terra Fi 4See The Women's Teva Terra Fi 4
Teva Hurricane XLT Review
Next in line after the shoe that launched Teva into international outdoor super-stardom, the Hurricane XLT is simple and reliable. Teva says it themselves, they're not ashamed that very little has changed about this shoe since it was introduced. After all, if it 'aint broke, don't fix it.
Universal strapping provides a custom fit every time using three adjustable points. The heel strap is padded to maximize comfort. These straps are what Teva calls water friendly---meaning that they can get wet, no problem. They won't be made weaker by water and will dry out fast.
The Hurricane XLT also carries the same tried and true features as other Teva's, designed to keep you comfortable and safe. That means a nylon shank for angular staility, a shock absorber in the heel, and a Microban anti-microbial treatment to fight foot odor.
See The Men's Teva Hurricane XLTSee The Women's Teva Hurricane XLT
Teva Original Universal Review
The Teva Original Universal sandal is a real classic and comes cheaper than their other, more advanced models.
They are lighter and built to a more simplistic design than other models. However, Teva's signature strap and buckle system along with a EVA foam footbed help get the fit just right for all day comfort.
The outsole on this shoe is rubber and the straps are made from water-friendly polyester webbing.
All in all, the Original Universal sandal provides simple and affordable comfort. They make a great all-terrain sandal to slip on whether you're headed to the beach or deep into the mountains.
See The Men's Teva Original UniversalSee The Women's Teva Original Universal
FAQs
Are tevas waterproof? Are Chacos Waterproof?
Yes, both Tevas and Chacos are fully waterproof, so you won't have to worry about getting your feet wet!
What is the difference between Chaco Cloud and Classic?
Both the Chacos Classic and Cloud are great sandals. The main different is the footbed and type of sole. Both sandals have the LUVSEAT footbed, but the Chaco Cloud has an additional top layer that provides additional arch support and cushioning. Both shoes have a non-marking sole, however the Chaco Cloud features a newer tread design that is better in wet conditions.
Are Tevas good for hiking?
There are many great hiking sandals our there and Tevas makes some great choices. Tevas are lightweight and comfortable if you are going to be hiking in hot and/or wet conditions.
Do Chacos run true to size? What about Tevas?
Both Chacos and Tevas tend to run true to size. If you are between sizes it's recommended that you size up.
Are Chacos good for arch support?
Chaco sandals feature excellent arch support which can improve body alignment and discomfort from plantar fasciitis. They are some of the best sandals for arch support.
What Is the Best Sandal: Chaco or Teva?
So what's the answer---Chacos vs Tevas, who wins? What is the best sandal for hiking, outdoors and travel?
You should know by now that there's no answer to such impossible questions. It all depends on you. Who you are, what you do, and what style you feel most comfortable in.
Chacos are burly. They are the real deal when it comes to hiking in sandals. You can beat them up in the mountains for years before you even think of sending them in to Chaco's sustainable repairs program.
Check Out Some Chaco SandalsTevas are a more moderate, and multi-use sandal. They can hit the trails with the best hiking sandals, but aren't so committed to the open road that they can't do a day on the town as well.
Check Out Some Teva SandalsIf you're looking for a sustainably made shoe that comes from the USA and can be repaired before replacement, then Chaco is your brand. Not as concerned with such things, and just need a great multi-use sandal for the coming years? Teva will do perfectly.
If you're a die hard for the deep wilderness, you might try on a Chaco first.
But, if you live a more diverse lifestyle that goes from the shore one day to the woods the next, Teva might be your perfect fit.
Either way, Chacos vs Tevas, you're going to have to make that call for yourself.
Now that you know all there is to know about the best hiking sandals out there, it's time to give some a try.
Your feet can take it from here.
While you're at it, be sure to check out my other guides on the best watch for hiking, the travel duffel bags, and the top rated backpacking tents.