The Chaco Z/Cloud offers decent arch support and plush cushioning. I spent weeks trekking on the rocky paths of the Black Canyon Of The Gunnison without feeling any discomfort.
I’ve been a fan of Chaco for years and have worn their Chaco Z Classics on heavy-duty hikes. With the Z/Cloud, I noticed they are slightly more comfortable than the other models.
Our Verdict
Equipped with a reliable ChacoGrip outsole that is suitable both for light hiking and medium-intensity backpacking, this comfortable sandal was also lightweight and supportive for my plantar fasciitis.
I especially appreciated the ChacoGrip outsole. It features the same 3.5mm deep lugs as the Chaco Z 2 Classic but feels a bit softer.
In my experience, this makes the sandal more suitable for everyday use and light hiking.
Overall, wearing Chacos was fun, so let’s dive into my Chaco Z/Cloud review and see the details.
Highlights
| Feature | Chaco Z/Cloud |
|---|---|
| Weight | ~13.1 oz (approx. 371 g) per pair |
| Water Resistance | Water-resistant polyester jacquard webbing; dries slowly |
| Traction | ChacoGrip™ rubber outsole with 3.5mm lugs; excellent grip on various surfaces |
| Comfort | LUVSEAT™ dual-density PU footbed; good arch support; requires break-in period |
| Adjustability | Adjustable strap system; may require time to achieve optimal fit |
| Breathability | Breathable webbing straps; suitable for warm conditions |
| Durability | Durable construction; water-repelling webbing; may show wear over time |
| Arch Support | Excellent arch support; suitable for all-day wear |
| Toe Protection | Open-toe design; no additional toe protection |
PROS
CONS
Things We Tested When We Reviewed Chaco Z/Cloud
When I set out to review the Chaco Z/Cloud, I wanted to ensure that my research was thorough. Therefore, I established several elements to test right from the beginning, and here’s what I discovered during my evaluation.
1. Waterproofing
While these Chaco sandals are not explicitly designed to be waterproof, they still handle water reasonably well. The polyester jacquard webbing straps proved to be quite water-resistant, allowing them to dry relatively quickly.
However, I did notice that the thick but softer footbed had a tendency to retain water, which meant it took a little longer for the sandals to dry completely.
If you get caught in heavy rain or use them to cross a river, they tend to become a bit clunky and heavy, and it will definitely take some time to get them dry again. On the other hand, they can handle light splashes well, so they are a good choice for stream crossings.
2. Comfort
The Z/Clouds exceeded my expectations in terms of comfort.
The LUVSEAT™ footbed, with its excellent arch support, made a noticeable difference, especially during extended periods of activity.
It provided the right amount of heel cushioning and prevented any discomfort or fatigue in my feet.
Yet, I must admit that the loop on the sandals took some getting used to.
Initially, it caused a slight discomfort as it kept rubbing against my toe, but once I found the correct adjustment, these Chaco sandals became quite comfortable and provided a secure fit throughout the day.
I appreciated the ability to customize them with the adjustable strap system, which gave me a snug feel and no ankle chaffing.
3. Support
The sturdy construction of these sandals provided good stability, preventing any rolling or slipping of my feet, even on uneven terrains. Our foot simply cannot and will not slide around as much in the sandal with that big toe strap.
The support offered by the soft footbed, combined with the sandals’ adjustability, created a secure fit that allowed me to tackle various terrains with ease.
While there was a short break-in period for the sandals to adapt to my foot shape, once that happened, the comfort they provided was unparalleled. I felt more secure and sure-footed, allowing me to push my limits and explore challenging trails.
4. Durability
I rely heavily on my outdoor gear to withstand the demands of rugged environments, and the Z/Cloud did not disappoint in terms of durability.
The materials used, such as the rugged ChacoGrip outsole and the durable polyester webbing, proved to be highly resilient to rough surfaces.
Even after extensive use on rocky trails and abrasive terrains, the sandals showed minimal signs of wear.
The stitching held up well, and the overall construction of these Chacos sandals remained intact, assuring me of their long-lasting nature.
I appreciated that I didn’t have to worry about my footwear giving out on me during my outdoor pursuits, as the Z/Cloud sandals proved to be a reliable and durable choice.
5. Traction
The Z/Cloud sandals feature a non-marking ChacoGrip™ rubber sole, which offers impressive traction on various terrains.
I felt confident while walking on beach sand, wet rocks, loose gravel, or muddy trails for miles, as this pair of sandals gripped the ground securely.
Also, the outsole was stiff enough to avoid feeling every rock. However, on extremely slippery surfaces, such as moss-covered rocks, I noticed a slight decrease in traction.
While the sandals performed well in most conditions, showing a good grip that prevented sliding, extra caution was necessary for particularly challenging environments.
6. Weight
Despite appearing bulky due to their sturdy build, these sandals were surprisingly light at just 1 pound and 12.96 ounces for a size 9, feeling featherlight on my feet.
Their lightness was a real plus on lengthy treks and long strolls, keeping my feet free from strain and pain.
In both the city and on rocky trails, the sandals stayed light and easy to move in. They kept my feet fresh without tiring them out, even when walking through sand and dirt, and the comfy design meant no heel pain.
How Does it Compare with Other Products?
Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal
Compared to the Chaco Cloud, the Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal offers a more versatile design and is more suitable to be worn every day.
The Teva sandals have a more open and minimalist style, with fewer straps and lighter overall weight. While the Z/Cloud provides better stability, the Teva sandal excels in terms of breathability and quick-drying capabilities.
Yet, the Teva Terra Fi 5 may not deliver the same level of sturdiness as the Chaco sandal, especially in rugged terrains.
Xero Z-Trail EV
The Xero Z-Trail EV sandal shares some similarities with the Chacos, such as adjustable straps and a lightweight design.
However, the Xero Z-Trail sandal has a more minimalist construction, with a thinner sole and less cushioning. While this makes it incredibly lightweight and flexible, it may result in less overall protection and durability compared to the Z/Cloud.
The Chaco adventure sandals also provide a more secure fit due to their toe loop design, which can be advantageous for more challenging terrains.
Find out more about this product by exploring the full Xero Z-Trail EV review.
Chaco Z/1 Classic
Chaco Classic sandals provide firm support with a structured footbed, while Cloud Chacos feature an added cushioned layer for a softer, more comfortable feel. The choice depends on whether you prioritize support or extra cushioning.
The Chaco Z/1 Classic is a close counterpart to the Chaco Z/Cloud, sharing many similarities in design and performance.
The primary difference lies in the footbed design, with the Z/Cloud featuring a softer footbed and more cushioned compared to the Chaco Classic.
This makes the Z/Cloud more comfortable for extended wear, especially on longer hikes. However, if you are looking for better stability, the Chaco Classic is your choice.
Both Chaco sandals offer good durability, making them reliable options for outdoor activities, but the z/1 Classic sandals retail at a smaller price.
Learn more about this product by checking our Chaco Z/1 Classic review.
Where Does Chaco Z/Cloud Perform Better?
Chaco’s rugged outsoles provide exceptional traction on rocky trails, slippery surfaces, and wet environments, making them some of the best hiking sandals on the market. This sandal model offers superior cushioning, ensuring comfort during long-distance hikes or walks.
I liked their adjustable straps, which can easily accommodate any foot shape and help prevent blisters. Moreover, their softer footbed is designed to reduce heel pain, making them a good fit if you deal with plantar fasciitis.
Where Chaco Z/Cloud Falls Short in Performance?
Although Chacos are generally good sandals for hiking and the Chaco Z/Cloud sandal offers remarkable performance, I did encounter a few minor flaws.
Due to their design with a loop around the toe, you cannot wear them with socks, which may lead to chaffing if the fit is not proper.
Additionally, some users with narrow feet may need time to adjust to the toe loop, and the straps could deliver even more adjustability for a perfect fit.
However, these issues can be easily overcome with a proper break-in period.
Do We Recommend It?
My experience using this sandal on various terrains, including rugged trails and wet conditions, was nothing short of excellent.
Not only that the Chacos work great for my high arches, but their strap adjustment system was easy to use, and they quickly molded to my foot.
While it’s worth noting that, like most shoe options, they require initial adjustments for the best fit, these minor considerations do not outweigh the overall benefits they offer, especially their excellent durability that guarantees many years of use.
| WHERE TO BUY? | FOR MEN | FOR WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| REI | See Pricing» | See Pricing» |
| Amazon | See Pricing» | See Pricing» |
| Backcountry | See Pricing» | See Pricing» |
FAQs
Yes, the Chaco Z/Cloud sandals come with several improvements over the classic version. They provide enhanced comfort with the soft LUVSEAT PU footbed and have a lighter weight. Additionally, the Z/Cloud sandals have better adjustability with their straps, allowing for a more customizable fit.
The Chaco Z/Cloud sandals are excellent for hiking. They feature good stability, durability, and traction, making them suitable for various terrains. These sandals are designed with grippy soles to provide comfort and stability during long hikes, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors without compromising performance.
