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

Traction

While it wasn't our top-performer in this category, our testers were consistently impressed by the Mega Z/Cloud's ability to hold a confident grip on the terrain it was covering. A stiff sole and proprietary grippy rubber tread give this sandal a competitive edge over many of the sandals we reviewed. Mossy logs and steep Sierra granite were no match for the trail bite provided by the Mega Z/Cloud. Similarly, our testers found this model to provide great traction and grip in less demanding activities like cruising around town on a bike or longboard.

Even though Chaco's don't offer quite the same traction as some of the Vibram-soled sandals in this review, the patented ChacoGrip rubber is worthy of praise. Sticky in some spots and firm in others, the tread pattern of the Mega Z/Cloud is designed to maintain traction on variable terrain or when the conditions are expected to be challenging. If you're not willing to compromise traction and also looking for a lighter sandal, we'd recommend the Bedrock Cairn Adventure.

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.

Stability

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

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.

Compared to other Chacos, the smooth webbing of the Mega Z/Cloud was easier to slide in and out of the sole for adjusting. While this was desirable at first, we began to notice that the webbing was also more likely to slide out of place, and required a bit more adjusting while on the trail. For this reason alone, we did not score the Mega Z/Cloud as high as the Z/1 Classic or Z/1 Cloud when it came 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.

Value

Slightly more expensive than the other Chaco models, we don't really feel that the Mega Z/Cloud performs any better for the price tag. However, the durability and longevity of this sandal are undeniable. This pair will likely provide years of happy feet.

Conclusion

Ultimately, we are very fond of the Chaco Mega Z/Cloud. While it wasn't as sporty as some other models, it is a trail capable and outstandingly comfortable sandal--a very difficult balance to strike. Anyone who already owns Chacos will likely be wooed by the Mega/Z Cloud, though we'd also recommend it to folks who haven't yet drank the Kool-Aid.