Background update: I wrote this sandal review post last summer, but it’s still pertinent this summer and getting plenty of hits. So I’m bringing it back to the front page. Quite a feat, I know.
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I bought my go-to pair of Chaco sandals in 2003 when preparing for the Global Semester at St. Olaf College. I wasn’t the only one. Most of the students on the trip had Chacos so our matching footwear would cause quite the stir in Egyptian markets or Thai beaches. Some were even brave enough to sport their Chacos in winter with Smartwool socks. (Being from Florida and knowing sandals and socks is the ultimate faux pas, I remained pure.) But this is all to say: I literally traveled around the world in my Chacos and still wear them consistently six years later. Chaco makes some quality sandals.
But, after much hemming and hawing, I recently purchased not another pair of (brown) Chacos, but Keen Newport H2 sandals. And I have to say, I’m smitten. Though I have been a strong advocate for Chacos for many years, I may be switching my allegiance to Keen. Yes, I know. What will the world come to next!
I, though, am not a quick decision-maker. I am a thinker. An analyzer to the extreme. So, scroll down to check out my Chaco/Keen showdown.
Chaco Z2
Pros:
- very comfortable (high arch)
- feet feel secure but not claustrophobic
- washable (dishwasher and clothes washer)
- come in a fair variety of colors
- great for hiking (I even know folks who run in them)
- replaceable soles/treads (though I liked my lighter tread before I replaced it)
- no back heel bump to bother you
- rocks easily slip out
Cons:
- not the best for ugly feet (lots of foot showing)
- the new soles are too heavy
- they do get smelly quicker than they used to a few years back
- toes are vulnerable to mean rocks when hiking
- not good for rock-hopping in Montreat (toe banging issue)
- straps sometimes move a little
- dangerous on the beach (can get sand in the canvas straps)
- tan lines
Keen Newport H2
Pros:
- cushier than Chacos, more comfortable even
- snug secure feel
- washable/waterproof
- good (more) color choices than Chaco
- toe protection (this is huge)
- good for slightly uglier feet (mine included)
- easy to dress up a bit
Cons:
- feet feel a little hot sometimes
- rocks get stuck inside and must stop to pop them out
- more mainstream? everyone and their mother and law has Keens (I love you LouAnn)
- tread perhaps tracks more mud than Chacos
- smelly possiblities
- the elastic cords may wear out one day
- even crazier tan lines (not sure about this yet)
After hashing that out, I’m still not sure if I have a favorite. My Chacos will always have a special place in my heart, but I have to admit I’m wearing my Keens more this summer. If you’re looking to purchase a pair, you can’t go wrong, but maybe this is my advice: for free spirits with a variety of footwear needs and wants, the Chaco might fit your personality best. For those who like things a little more ordered and comfortable, perhaps the Keens are up your alley. Or…. just buy whatever is on sale.
Tags: buy, Chaco, chaco or keen, chaco or keen review, chaco sandals, chacos, comparison, consider, keen, keen sandals, keens, sale
I will be loyal to Chacos. I love them and I don’t feel like the Keen is even a Sandal. Looks more like a shoe to me. And the Chaco tan is a prize, not a con!
chaco’s will always win. but how can you compare them to keen’s. keen’s are not sandals. they are shoes that are missing some material. seriously. those aren’t sandals. they don’t have any characteristics of sandals. they are shoes.
Interesting….two comments for Keens as not sandals. I guess I think they’re sandals because they function the same as Chacos in my wardrobe. Also, you don’t wear socks with them. Oh, and they feel like sandals when on your feet. I hear you though: Keens are clunkier and have a different personality than Chacos. Keep the comments coming folks.
Does this discussion have anything to do with the previous “Guide my Feet”?
Adam, Clunkier? I disagree….As soon as you put them on, they become “one” with your ugly foot. I’m a Keen guy, but only because I found a pair for under $20. Besides, what other footwear can you use for hiking, mowing and/or horseback riding?
i require both in my life. (keep in mind i also own 5 pairs of black heels and wear them all) hike in keens, stroll in chacos. can’t wait to see y’all next month!
The versatility of Keens is unbeatable.
A more natural(?) alternative:
http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/
Yes, I’m intrigued by these. I’ve heard people advocate running in them. My brother has a pair, but I’m not quite that granola myself.
I had a pair of Keen’s. The anti-smell vanilla soles they used attracted legions of red ants. No joke. I would wake up with shoes covered in them. The soles seems to have less traction than Chacos. And, they are so wide I feel like I’m wearing clown shoes. Ultimately, I brought them back to REI, and bought a pair of Chacos. I wear them continuously. And I agree that the tan line is a pro, not a con.
Wow I got mauled by red ants the same way with my keens
Wow, that’s strange, Nicole. So glad I haven’t discovered the ant problem. Anyone else experience that? Now the clown shoes thing doesn’t phase me — I wear size 14 — everything feels like clown shoes.
My Chaco brethren, lend me your ears! Chaco is a variable way of life. Even apart from the functionality and comfort, nothing can beat the “air through my toes” ecstasy that IS Chaco. My encouragement is for you to come home, return to Chaco and be freed from your Keenly clever oppressors. The world of “almost but not quite” wants to pull you down and bury you with more than 50% foot surface coverage. Chaco is our William Wallace to the foot world. Be brave my friend. Have heart, endure and if nothing else, get chaco hiking shoes. This way the sockos and chacos epidemic can be avoided. Peace be with you, the ever Chaco redeemed.
I just read this and realized it was from a year ago! I also have a pair of Z/2′s that I bought in 1998 for a variety of water activities. They are now sitting here in the garage and I’m not sure what to do; buy a new pair or go for a pair of keen’s! My old Chaco’s would be too expensive to repair. The footbed is worn and the straps are really stinky! This definitely helps me in my decision though. Basically, I can’t go wrong with either brand! I live in MN as well and have to say that friends don’t let friends wear socks and sandals!
Thanks,
Jesse
as a fourteen month owner of keens, i vote chaco for all your cons above and the general clunky weight of keens. also the dorky dad sandal factor, although that would likely remain for me with chacos.