Chaco makes sandals that are loved by pretty much everybody who considers themselves “outdoorsy.” The brand has created a community around these Vibram-soled kicks which has spawned an almost ravenous loyalty. So why write a review about the Chaco Z/2 Yampa sandals when everyone already loves them and needs no convincing? Call this a reinforcement of awesomeness, because I belong to that ravenous class of Chaco worshippers.
Then again, the Chaco Z/2 Vibram Yampa are a new model this summer. At first glance, they look just like their cousins, the Unaweep, but they in fact are quite different. The Yampa have the same features that Chaconians love, but with a few minor changes. First, the Yampa has a whole new outsole that has a lower profile, is lighter weight and is supposedly more slip-proof for better traction. Funny thing is that people are saying the Yampa reminds them of the original Chacos when they were first being made in Paonia, Colorado.
As soon as I pulled the Chaco Yampas out of the shoe box, I could tell they weighed less, which was confirmed when I held them alongside my Unaweeps. But on my feet, they felt just like good-old Chacos. I wore the Yampas around town, while doing yardwork, and, most importantly, while exploring the deserts of southern Utah.
Chaco Sandals are my favorites for hiking and any other outdoor activity, and while the Yampa version is lighter, I never felt like they were less burly or under performed in any way. In fact, I began to appreciate the Z/2 big toe strap while hiking as opposed to my Z/1 Unaweeps. The toe strap kept my foot more secure, which made hiking easier, especially when going downhill.
While I didn’t have a chance to get the Chaco Z/2 Yampa Sandals out on the river, I think rafters will be pleased with them as well. Chaco says they have a new lug design that sheds water easily, and there’s better traction when wet. Of course they have everything else that’s great about Chacos like a midsole that gives good arch support, which is good for the whole body.
So while we all know that Chaco sandals are the bomb, the Yampa add even more options and versatility to an already impressive lineup for those of us who love freeing our toes in the summer months.
Here are the full Yampa specs from Chaco:
- Machine Washable/Air Dry
- Polyester Webbing
- LUVSEAT™ platform. Custom Adjust’em Fit
- ChaPU™ – polyurethane midsole – part of LUVSEAT™ platform
- Vegan
- Vibram® Yampa Outsole. Resolable. Non-marking
For more, visit www.chacos.com, or purchase the Z/2 Yampa sandals below:
I love my Chacos! I work as a whitewater raft guide, and none of us would dream of wearing anything else on the river! I have an outdoorsy blog too at kiminakayakblog.blogspot.com
Thanks Kim. We’ll check out your blog right now!