Summer Time Means Sandal Time!

Clown Shoe vs. Jesus Sandal

Through my work in the Outdoor Retail Industry, I spend a lot of time in footwear. Come early May, people start looking for a sandal or shoe they can take in the water but will dry super quick and provide the comfort and support they need to get through the day. Based on my experience, there are two brands that stick out among the rest.

Keen sandals are great for all occasions. They provide excellent arch support, are constructed with a durable EVA foam - which offers excellent cushion and shock absorption - are built with a medium to medium-wide last (sorry to those with narrow feet), and have a unique, patented toe cover. Specific models are made of leather, while others are made of a synthetic, nylon blend. All Keen sandals are 100% waterproof and resist odor-causing bacteria. They are also equipped with anatomically-designed foot beds for extra comfort and support. The unique ridges built into the foot bed help cup the heel and prevent sliding.

While I do not own a pair of Keens on account of a narrow foot, I have encountered many loyalists and seen the sandals on happy feet in many circumstances, ranging from the local grocery store to the mountains to the beach. Many customers looking for a simple "water shoe" end up with Keens but also end up with a lot more. They come back to the store a month later and say, "I wear them all the time!" Indeed, Keens have that reputation. And here is a bonus: some models have a vanilla extract built into the rubber, so they smell good, too! In fact, I'd be lieing if I said I didn't enjoy sneaking a sniff in the shoe deck, from time to time...

Chaco sandals have developed something of a "trend following" at nearby Appalachian State University, but, in general, have found a profitable market amongst the outdoor adventurer crowd, due to their extreme functionality. Chacos, or as some like to call them - "Jesus Sandals" - provide unparalleled arch support. The thick, Vibram, Unaweep sole makes Chacos tough enough to hit the Appalachian Trail for a day hike or even an overnighter. And if you have more water-based endeavors in mind, try the Pro edition, IdroGrip sole that's designed to give you more traction in wet places. As with the Keens, there are several models to choose from. The Z/1 series have a single strand of polyester (quick-drying) webbing, while the Z/2 series (pictured) provide a stabilizing toe strap, which river guides and hikers find useful. Chaco also produces more casual styles, such as the Zong - which has no heel strap - as well as flip flops. Like the Keens, Chacos are 100% waterproof and quick drying, so don't hesitate to wear them in the river!

Since I own a pair of Chacos (the Z/2's) I can testify to their quality. After a full year of solid use, they hardly look worn, and the Vibram sole is holding up, as expected. I've worn them for entire days at work and have also taken them on day hikes. They seriously provide the support of a light hiking boot. I absolutely love them. However, I think Keen also makes a quality sandal, and if my foot were not so narrow, I would surely have a pair of them, as well. So if you're looking for a pair of summer shoes or even just something more supportive than your typical Nikes, try a pair of Chacos or Keens and see what all the talk is about!