If you're looking for the best walking sandals for your summer adventures, you'll likely end up with two final contenders: Teva and Chaco.
These popular brands were both born out of necessity during the 1980s. Two river guides, one in Arizona and the other in Colorado, needed comfortable walking shoes that would stay put and prevent their toes from wrinkling into prunes every day.
They shared these basic needs, but from there, the river splits. The sandal designs they ultimately came up with look and feel quite different. We've reviewed Teva sandals and Chaco sandals separately, delving into their history, design, and impact on the fashion and outdoor industries.
Now, here's a direct comparison that will let you easily decide which hiking sandals are right for you.
We compared the Teva Hurricane Sandals and the Chaco Z/1 Classic Sandals, two of each brand's most popular models.
Here's how they stacked up when we compared features like their strap system, footbed, arch design, and color selection. Though they serve similar but slightly different needs, both brands make some of the best walking sandals for women.
| Tevas | Chacos | |
| Best use case | Everyday walking | Hiking or long-haul walks |
| Fit | Better for flatter feet | Better for higher arches |
| Footbed | Smooth and cushioned | Firm and textured |
| Arch support | Lower arch | Higher, more structured arch |
| Straps | Velcro straps that adjust at the foot and ankle | One continuous strap with a buckle for a secure, customized fit |
| Weight | 1 pound, 4 ounces | 1 pound, 5.2 ounces |
| Price | Slightly less expensive | Slightly more expensive |
Strap design and materials
Footbed materials and feel
Midsole and arch design
Outsole
Weight
Color and pattern options
The bottom line
After trying both sandals from Teva and Chaco, we learned that they're both very comfortable and supportive. But you should use the following points to determine which pair you should buy:
Choose Tevas if you have flat or less arched feet, you don't mind Velcro straps, and you want a softer footbed. We also tested the Tevas Zymic and found it to be our favorite comfortable walking sandal, so the brand has proven itself twice as a solid option. Tevas cost less than Chacos at about $75, but you may be able to find them at lower prices during other retailers' sale events.
Choose Chacos if you have high arches, like the look of the single-wrapped strap, and want a more "dry" feel. There are also more color and pattern options thanks to the customization feature. Chacos are the more expensive option at $105, but can be found for much less on Amazon or Zappos.
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