Our verdict

81
Good!

Chaco's reputation for crafting excellent quality sandals is evident in the Chaco Z/Volv. This model was a standout for wearers because of its superb comfort, support, lightness, and stylish colors. If you are looking for a sandal to live in during summer, the Z/Volv is ready to do the job.

Pros

  • Top 30% most popular hiking sandals
  • updated Mar 16, 2023
  • Excellent overall performance
  • Lightweight
  • Stylish design
  • Wide range of color options
  • Excellent support
  • Durable
  • Flexible

Cons

  • Hard to adjust straps
  • Long break-in period

Who should buy the Chaco Z/Volv

The Chaco Z/Volv delivers a promising performance, but only after it has been broken in. It is a solid option if you value the following features in hiking sandals:

  • suitable for casual strolls, hiking on rugged terrain, and in the water
  • adjustable straps which provide a precise and personalized lockdown
  • Nov 30, 2018

Chaco Z/Volv logo

Excellent traction and slip-resistance

This hiking sandal offers traction and slip resistance through a component called EcoTread. An avid hiker shares that the sandal grips very well even in the water.

Chaco Z/Volv outsole

Most of its surface is peppered with Z-shaped and rectangular lugs. The front and rear parts feature a design that aids in uphill and downhill paths. "Super reliable," reports a reviewer.

In addition, this proprietary outsole is made of 25% recycled rubber compound.

Soft and light underfoot feet

Users are granted a cushioned platform by the LUVSEAT midsole. This unit uses an airy polyurethane compound that creates a soft and light underfoot feel. The Chaco Volv is actually 13% lighter than the popular Chaco Z/Cloud (369 g over 425 g). This is confirmed by many wearers who also say that their feet don't feel as tired after walking in the Z/Volv compared to the classic Chacos.

Chaco Z/Volv midsole

"The most comfortable sandal I've ever had on my foot," says a reviewer, summing up how many people feel about the Volv. Those who have worn Chacos before also report that the Z/Volv lives up to the comfort provided by its siblings.

Chaco Z/Volv midsole 1.0

Excellent arch support and stability

The top surface of this footbed has a grid pattern that prevents the foot from sliding. The sandal's contoured sole is designed in a way that cups the foot in all the right places (the heel and the arch in particular) to grant all-day support. Those with high arches are happy that they can wear it all day without pain.

Chaco Z/Volv arch support

The platform itself is also fairly wide, helping the wearers feel more stable when traversing challenging terrain.

Chaco Z/Volv wide platform

Adjustable straps

The Z/Volv’s upper is made mainly of polyester jacquard webbing. Its adjustable straps are networked within the midsole. Fit management is handled by the high-tensile webbing heel riser along with an injection-molded ladder lock buckle at the ankle.

Chaco Z/Volv strap

Unfortunately, some people had issues with the heel strap, complaining that it's too big and cannot be regulated. They tried adjusting the fit through other straps but it was rather fiddly. It takes some time to get used to the strapping system of the Chaco Z/Volv.