This winter, I was sent three pairs of Chaco shoes to review for ActionHub. Because of the horrendous Michigan winter and snowstorms as late as earlier this week, I was only recently able to start the review processes, as all three are geared toward warmer weather activities. First on my list was the Azula Mid Waterproof Boot, which proved its function during a muddy spring hike along the river in my hometown. Next on my list was the new ReversiFlip women’s sandal. Because we’ve had a lovely mix of 70-degree, sunny days and those with snow covering the ground, I’ve had the chance to switch between the Chaco sandals and my Sorel boots on a daily basis.

On those first few warms days, I as reminded how simple it was to slip on a sandal to go run errands. A coat was not required, and the windows could even be rolled down during the drive. After being accustomed to sporting heavy boots, a long coat, gloves, a hat, and a scarf all winter, I welcomed the change in weather. I think finally, after much back and forth, spring is finally here. As someone who goes through several pairs of sandals each summer, my closet is empty of them and I was eager to try out the ReversiFlip.

I first checked out the shoes at this year’s Outdoor Retailer Winter Market in Salt Lake City, Utah. I was able to see all of the new styles throughout the brand, as well as learn what celebrations were being held for Chaco’s 25th anniversary. The ReversiFlip immediately caught my eye, because unlike the traditional Z sandals, it looks like something that can be worn on a daily basis with “less outdoorsy” clothing. At the end of reviewing, I found this shoe to be ideal for the everyday user who is looking for better foot support than what is offered in cheaper shoes.

Let’s take a look at the specs:

Upper:
• Removable webbing straps let you swap for different colors and patterns (strap sets sold separately)
• Synthetic leather straps with comfortable webbing toe post

Midsole:
• Cushioned LUVSEAT™ PU footbed

Outsole:
• Non-marking EcoTread™ outsole with 25 percent recycled rubber
• 2.5mm lug depth

I wore the shoes during an easy walk on a trail as well as on a daily basis while running errands and moving around the house. If you’re walking on an uneven trail, one misstep can mean a twisted ankle. I found this was my most common problem. Because the shoe must be bent in order to switch the straps, it’s not as sturdy as some of Chaco’s other sandals. While this feature makes it pretty simple change the color and pattern of the straps, the shoe doesn’t hold your foot in place as well as it could.

As for daily use, they’re perfect. They’re not your traditional summer sandal that lacks in cushioning and arch support, so anyone looking for those characteristics included in a shoe should check them out. One of the biggest means of promotion the company is using to advertise the shoe is the ability to easily switch the straps, showing that maybe the $60 price tag is worth it because they can essentially be changed to match any outfit.

If I were to take these on a backpacking trip, they’d be ideal to wear around the campsite. But if you’re trying to keep the weight of your pack down, as many are, I’d probably go with a more technical sandal with multiple straps in addition to hiking boots. While the ReversiFlip sandals are easy to slip on and off, they seem more practical for everyday wear rather than backwoods wear.

Check out the video below to get a visual of how the straps are changed.

Images by Ariel Black