Boating World

Sole Savers

Chaco sandals can be worn off the boat as well as on board.

by Sarah Pelot

August 1, 2006

Though there are a variety of boat shoes out there, there just aren't too many for women that are actually stylish as well as functional. Looking for a pair of shoes that I wouldn't be hesitent to wear off the boat as well as on board, I decide to try out a pair of Chaco sandals. Chaco is well-known for its trademarked BioCentric™ comfort, and it's soon apparent why - the company has taken into consideration every possible position the foot is in while active, and has created a footbed that ensures support and comfort to your feet, no matter what activity you're participating in. For the test, I choose the Wrapsody model, a new women's slide that's part of the company's Z/rivative line, a collection of shoes that have a softer footbed and Vibram® outsoles that can be resoled. The straps feature a continuous pull-through webbing, so I'm able to customize the sandals to the shape of my feet. They're made of polyester, so they dry faster than nylon, which is important when you're on a boat and are inevitably going to get wet. The Wrapsody comes in two types of soles, which is great because I'm able to choose the Unaweep sole, a non-marking one that would be secure but safe for walking around on the boat. They're perfect for boating, but even better, you can wear them around town because of their sleek, modern style. The Wrapsody comes in women's whole sizes 5-11, medium width, and in five great colors. They retail for $75. (970) 527-4990, www.chacousa.com.


SoleTested