Who would’ve thought that a pair of Chacos would have an endless debate behind them? After all, there are just sandals with straps.
However, not many people know if they are well-fitted or not. So, are Chacos true to size? Or is it just a blatant myth waiting to be busted?
The answer to that is yes, this footwear type generally does come fitted and true to its sizing.
But the only problem with Chacos is that they barely come with half-measurements. For example, anyone with a size between 34 and 35 might have tough luck finding the right pair.
However, there is no need to mope around. Let us take a look at the methods you can use to find the right-sized Chacos for your feet.
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How to Find the Right Sized Chacos?
Firstly, you can either go for the size charts that many stores provide for Chacos. However, this method might not be too helpful if you shop online. In this case, another option is to use something called the “Brannock Device.”What’s that?
Brannock Device
It is a small, foot-sized machine that uses linear calculations to measure the size of your shoes. It is pretty accurate and works to provide almost 96 percent accurate results!
All you have to do is place your foot on the device and read down on the scaling. Make sure to rotate the heel cups on either side for accurate readings when measuring your other foot.
Printable Chart
If you do not own a Brannock Device at home (which is not that surprising, honestly), maybe try printing the size chart off an online store. The only catch here is that the printed version has to be life-sized and provide true measurements.
This can be quite difficult to do with something you downloaded off a screen.
Using Strings
If nothing else works for you, stick to the traditional string method. For this, take a thread that goes past the size of your foot and put it over your best-fitted footwear. That can be sneakers, boots, or even high-heels.
If the pair you are going for is a size 35, measure it as 34 and a half. This keeps the straps in consideration, as a string can’t exactly give the most accurate readings to the T.
The straps will tighten the Chacos around your feet anyway. Getting a pair that is the same size as your shoes will only result in a larger sole and looser area around the ankle.
However, going for half a size smaller will allow you to use the straps for tightening and loosening without compromising on the sole size.
Now, you can take that string to a physical shoe store and use it to measure the pair of Chacos you want to purchase. It might seem a bit funny to the staff there, but hey, a shopper’s gotta make do with what he/she can, right?
Are the Back Straps Adjustable?
If you are an avid Chacos wearer, you have probably seen it come with multiple straps. You will even find the laces on the back of the pair.
As a matter of fact, all the straps on this kind of footwear are adjustable. This ultimately means that the back straps are as well. You can tighten and loosen it however you want and let the pair mold around your feet accordingly.
However, if the back straps are a bit too tight for you, we’d suggest you try walking around first before purchasing them.
Let the shape of your feet get accustomed to the pair. If it still feels a bit stuffy and pokes your Achilles Heel, go for one with a softer and looser back strap.
What Size Chacos Should You Go for?
As a general rule of thumb, you should always go for a pair smaller than the size of your feet. This footwear style is not like your every sandal or sneaker. It basically has open spaces from where your feet might fall out.
That is why you should go for a size that runs half a size smaller than your actual shoe measurements. Getting a larger pair might result in a larger sole but tighter straps. That will only feel uncomfortable.
The Number of Straps Chacos Come with
Different models of this footwear come with varying numbers of the strap. While most pairs for females come with only one lace running from the front to the back, the other versions might not be the same.
In fact, you can find a model that comes with toe loops as well. This loop usually helps position your big toe in one place, which initially helps with walking faster.
Chacos Comfort and Stability – Myth or Fact?
This footwear type has lots of debates on its comfort as well. Some parties are pro Chacos, whereas others feel like the pair is downright irritating to wear.
However, the comfort and stability one might experience from wearing these are completely subjective. What works for you might not suit someone else. But there is one downside that is pretty general for every customer, though.
Chacos tend to retain a lot of moisture in-between the toe area. As a result, the pair can get pretty stinky by the end of the day. That is mostly the reason why some individuals state the footwear as uncomfortable.
On top of that, they might even feel a bit too stiff on your feet the first time you put them on. But on the bright side, breaking into them will not require too much time. Just walk around for a good time, and you will be good to go.
How Long Does the Footwear Last for?
With proper care, any product on Earth will last you for years. Chacos are on the same boat as that notion.
Although seemingly low-maintenance, this kind of footwear can get pretty dirty very easily. You do not want to wear it for any high-intensity activities, such as hiking, running, or dirt-biking.
Stick to wearing them for your occasional trips to the mart, running errands, or even for a casual day out with the girls. You get the gist.
How to Clean Chacos in Easy Steps
Due to the footwear not having any shielding from either side, you must clean it regularly to get rid of the funky smell.
i. For Leather-bound Chacos
You do not want to wash or douse this type of Chacos in water thoroughly. But keeping it clean is a must. So, how do you do it?
a. Get a Washcloth
All you need is a damp washcloth. We suggest you go for a microfiber one to not leave scratches on the footwear.
b. Use Soft Detergent
You can use a soft leather conditioner or even washing soap to clean leather Chacos. Just make sure that the product is mild and does not stain or fade your pair excessively.
c. Dry with a Towel
Lastly, make sure to properly dry your leather shoes before you put them out in the sun to dry. The towel will soak up the excess moisture to speed up the overall process. The last thing you want is to find your leather Chacos squeaking with excess water inside.
ii. For Rubber Chacos
Unlike leather ones, you can be a lot more liberal when cleaning this type of Chacos.
a. Throw It in the Washer
From buckets to even washers, you can clean this pair in any way you want. Nothing will possibly scratch or damage the strong rubber structure of the shoes.
b. Use a Soft-Bristled Brush
You can use a soft brush, such as a toothbrush, to clean the tricky crevices on your rubber Chacos. That will remove dirt and mud from those areas and prevent bacteria from building up.
If you want, you can also use a vacuum first to remove the dry dirt from corners before you throw the pair into the washing machine.
c. Let It Air-dry
Unlike the leather version, you do not need to go ahead and dry the pair with towels or tissue paper beforehand.
Simply let it hang out in the sun or on the ground. You can also consider keeping it in a place with enough air ventilation to let it dry faster.
Final Words
So, are Chacos true to size? Or are you still confused about that bit? To sum this article up, know that nothing could beat the comfort you can experience from wearing such footwear.
However, do make sure to get the perfect size for the best results, and use the above-mentioned methods to find the right fit for your feet. Also, don’t forget to clean the pair occasionally to prevent it from smelling awful.
We hope you enjoy wearing Chacos, as much as we enjoyed writing about them!