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Chaco Flip Sandal : Small Profile, Big Support
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I should've known these flip-flops would reign supreme. After all, virtually everyone I know wears Chaco sandals, and not just for river trips: Every day, I see them peeking out from under restaurant tables, pedaling cruiser bikes, and paired with sundresses at outdoor concerts. But for years I stuck with my trashy thongs, because, I wondered, how much better could Chaco possibly be?
Two words: So much! I appreciated the arch support as soon as I slid my feet into them. Instead of being totally flat, like most sandals, the Flip has a molded, BioCentric footbed that keeps me from pronating. It feels sculpted to my foot, and offers the kind of sturdy support I'm used to getting from hiking shoes--not flip-flops. As a result, the Flip lets me scramble confidently down steep riverbanks to get to my favorite swimming holes.
Wakeboarding on nearby Stagecoach Reservoir, I loved how the super-sticky soles gripped the boat's soaked decks and kept me from slipping. As an added bonus, those soles boast 25 percent recycled content--so they're functional and green, too.
The Flip also feels great around town. Running errands on my bike, I liked how these sandals stuck securely to the pedals. The waterproof materials also tolerated an occasional rain shower much better than my leather sandals, which get stained and discolored when I wear them on soggy days.
There's just one thing missing: When I walk, the Flip makes none of those annoying smacking sounds that are so typical of flip-flops. The webbing holds the sandal snugly against my foot throughout my stride, so they're blessedly quiet. The fit is comfortable, but not tight enough to chafe. Best of all, the Flip has proven to stay stink-free, day after summer day. Wearing the Flip is a treat--and its lack of odor is the cherry on top.
Available in men's and women's sizes.
Bottom Line: A beach-casual thong that's actually good for your feet. (KB, Aug. '09)
Price: $55 Onlineshoes.com, sale on sandals at amazon.com
, sale on sandals at amazon.com
Manufacturer's Site: www.chacousa.com
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If you like to stay fit on the road, check out the Fit For Business web site for a list of hotels with fitness centers or affiliated with health clubs. |
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