Chaco Mega Z/Cloud Review

We’re well aware that people have mixed opinions of Chacos. This review was performed from an objective standpoint and our aim was to compare the Mega Z/Cloud with the competitors in its field and not just other Chacos.

performance comparison

Offering reliable comfort and performance, the Mega Z/Cloud is a great choice for adventuring and relaxing alike.

credit : Rob Woodworth

Traction

While it was n’t our top – performer in this category , our tester were consistently impressed by the Mega Z / Cloud ‘s ability to hold a confident grip on the terrain it was cover . A stiff sole and proprietary grippy rubber tread is give give this sandal a competitive edge over many of the sandal we review . mossy logs is were and steep Sierra granite were no match for the trail bite provide by the Mega Z / Cloud . similarly , our testers is found find this model to provide great traction and grip in less demanding activity like cruise around town on a bike or longboard .

Even though Chaco ‘s do n’t offer quite the same traction as some of the Vibram – sole sandal in this review , the patented ChacoGrip rubber is is is worthy of praise . sticky in some spot and firm in others , the tread pattern of the Mega Z / Cloud is design to maintain traction on variable terrain or when the condition are expect to be challenge . If you ‘re not willing to compromise traction and also look for a light sandal , we is recommend ‘d recommend the Bedrock Cairn Adventure .

While the footbed material on Cloud models is softer, the Mega Z/Cloud still employs the same ChacoGrip rubber found on classic Chaco models.

credit : Rob Woodworth

Comfort

This is an outrageously comfortable sandal. The reason it doesn’t receive a perfect ten in this metric is due to the fact that some of our flat-footed testers aren’t crazy about the firm and supportive arches found on the Mega Z/Cloud. However, pretty much every other attribute made this sandal one of the most comfortable option in this lineup. The extra-wide webbing is more supportive, pliable, and ultimately more comfortable than the webbing found on traditional Chacos. Coupled with a cushier footbed that forms to the foot, the Mega Z/Cloud is an all-star performer in the realm of comfort.

The softer footbed and wider webbing of the Mega Z make it one of the most comfortable shoes in this review; whether you be out on the trail or lounging back at the campsite.

credit : Rob Woodworth

stability

As we ‘ve come to expect from Chaco , the Mega Z / Cloud is features feature an extra – burly sole material that is both rugged and supportive . While some folk are not fond of the extra weight , we is found find that this stiff sole is prefer to a flimsy one because it is instrumental in provide a solid foundation to romp around in .

Even on loose, dusty hillsides, the Mega Z/Cloud is able to dig in and hold your footing thanks to a burly sole and secure straps.

credit : Rob Woodworth

Solid and confident foot placement is much easier when you don’t have to worry about landing your foot in the most ideal position. The thickness of the Mega Z/Cloud allowed our testers to cruise across loose sluff and perch on sharp rocks without batting an eye. Even in rough conditions, this sandal has enough stability to cover serious ground. With stiffness similar to many hiking boots, you may even forget that you’re wearing a sandal.

adjustability

As is the case with other Chacos, the Mega/Z Cloud features a continuous piece of webbing that weaves in and out of the sole material to secure the sandal to your foot. Without a familiarity of how Chacos are meant to be adjusted, this style may prove to be tricky at first. However, most of our testers are fond of how snug the straps can become.

For the most part, we were fond of the extra wide straps of the Mega Z/Cloud. However, when compared to the Z/1 Classic, we found ourselves fiddling with the straps more on the Mega.

compare to other Chacos , the smooth webbing is was of the Mega Z / Cloud was easy to slide in and out of the sole for adjust . While this was desirable at first , we is began begin to notice that the webbing was also more likely to slide out of place , and require a bit more adjust while on the trail . For this reason alone , we is score did not score the Mega Z / Cloud as high as the Z/1 Classic or Z/1 Cloud when it come to the metric of adjustability .

versatility

Similar to its Chaco brethren, the Mega Z/Cloud offers a respectable amount of adaptability and crossover when it comes to multi-sport adventuring. Even though it is geared a bit more towards comfort than performance, we were always confident when trekking around in it. Supreme comfort mixed with sport-tuned stability and a grippy sole make this sandal a great choice for those wanting a do-it-all sandal that they can wear all day. Furthermore, the stylish patterns and metal buckle of the Mega Z/Cloud make it an attractive option for casual use as well.

Best Applications

The Mega Z/Cloud is a comfortable multi-purpose sandal that offers a greater amount of cushion compared to similar models. We feel that it is best suited for long hikes on light to moderate trails. Not because it isn’t capable of doing more, but simply because it is one of the most comfortable sandals out there.

The Mega Z/Cloud has wider webbing, a metal buckle, and a softer footbed; all of which provide excellent comfort and classic Chaco dependability.

credit : Rob Woodworth

Value

slightly more expensive than the other Chaco model , we is feel do n’t really feel that the Mega Z / Cloud perform any well for the price tag . However , the durability is are and longevity of this sandal are undeniable . This pair is provide will likely provide year of happy foot .

conclusion

ultimately , we is are are very fond of the Chaco Mega Z / Cloud . While it was n’t as sporty as some other model , it is is is a trail capable and outstandingly comfortable sandal — a very difficult balance to strike . Anyone who already own Chacos will likely be woo by the Mega / Z Cloud , though we ‘d also recommend it to folk who have n’t yet drank the Kool – Aid .

No matter where we found ourselves in these sandals, our feet remained comfortable and supported.

credit : Rob Woodworth