If you’ve ever felt your feet getting overheated in trail runners on a dusty, hot trail, you’re not alone. Many hikers have had that frustrating experience, and that’s where sandals like Chacos come in. Transitioning from boots to trail runners was a freeing move for many hikers, so why not take it a step further with sandals? But are Chacos a good alternative for hiking? And are there any potential downsides? As someone who’s hiked in Chacos for years, I’ve learned the best scenarios for wearing them. Here’s what you should know before making the switch.

The Pros and Cons of Hiking in Chacos

Before diving into when they’re best used, let’s go over the pros and cons of hiking in Chacos—or sandals in general.

Pros:

• Breathability: Keeps your feet cool and ventilated
• Water crossings: No need to switch footwear when crossing streams
• Durability: Built to last on rugged terrain
• Comfort: Great arch support and a snug fit
• Chaco Tan Lines: A badge of honor for some hikers!

Cons:

• Risk of toe stubbing: You’ll need to be mindful of rocks and roots
• Blister-prone: If not broken in properly, you can get blisters
• Debris: Rocks and sand can get stuck underfoot
• Foot sunburn: You might not realize how much exposure your feet get

For many, the advantages of Chacos outweigh the drawbacks, but there are a few things to keep in mind when deciding whether to hike in them.

Are Your Feet Prepared?

First things first: your feet need to be used to Chacos before heading out on any long hikes. This means wearing them regularly for everyday activities—like grocery shopping, walking the dog, or even to work. The more time you spend in them, the better your feet will adjust.

Chacos are designed for comfort, but they do rub in certain areas. Hiking, especially uphill or downhill, adds more pressure to those areas, so it’s important to break them in properly. If you don’t, you could end up with blisters, which can be a major setback.

Is the Trail Suitable for Sandals?

Before you take your Chacos on any trail, it’s important to assess the terrain. If the trail has a lot of brush, loose rocks, or cactus thorns, sandals might not be the best choice. You’ll want to avoid trails with sharp debris or overgrown vegetation that could cause cuts and irritations.

Surprisingly, cold weather isn’t always an issue with Chacos. If it gets chilly, you can flatten the toe strap and wear socks with your sandals for extra warmth. I’ve even worn mine in snowy conditions without issue—though I wasn’t exactly hiking up mountains in them, just strolling at a high-altitude Swiss train station!

What About Distance and Trail Difficulty?

Some hikers use Chacos for thru-hikes, but most people might find long distances in them challenging. If you’re planning a longer hike, start with shorter treks and see how your feet respond. Even the most broken-in feet can get sore after a while, and downhill sections tend to exacerbate blisters due to the added pressure. If you’re just getting into hiking in sandals, it’s a good idea to avoid steep inclines or long descents until you’ve built up more endurance.

My Final Thoughts on Hiking in Chacos

In conclusion, I really enjoy hiking in Chacos. The freedom for my feet, the convenience of water crossings, and the comfort of having my shoes off and on in seconds are huge benefits. Of course, they’re not perfect for every situation, but for the right conditions, they’re an excellent choice.

If you’re going to try hiking in Chacos, I recommend the Z/2 version, which includes a toe strap for better foot security. There are two main options: the “Classic” model with a sturdy rubber sole, and the “Cloud” model, which offers more cushioning. The Classic works great for me, but if you plan on putting in longer miles, the Cloud may be more comfortable.

For colder weather or added protection, I suggest pairing your Chacos with Injinji toe socks. They can help during the break-in period and keep your feet comfortable on longer hikes. I highly recommend grabbing a pair if you decide to go the sandal route!