ProView – Chaco Men’s Rapid Pro Flip Review

I’m a sandal guy. Chaco, Luna, Reef, Birkenstocks—I guess I just like the freedom. So I was excited to try out a pair of Chacos flip flops. Over the years I have had probably half-a-dozen pairs of chacos, but if I’m being honest the last pair I had weren’t the best. I get it, no company is going to hit a homerun everytime. But I was willing to forgive and forget and put these new Chaco flops through their paces (pun intended).

There aren’t many crazy stories I can tell you about flip flops. Most people, me included, aren’t summiting large mountains in flip flops; I regret to inform you that I did not send 5.13 in these flip flops (even with the sticky rubber); and sadly, I did not complete, nor even attempt, an ultra-marathon in these flip flops. 

I did however wear these Chaco flips in the water, on dry ground, over rocks and grass, and even to a few civilized places. I am happy to report that these Chacos did exactly what they were supposed to. The stayed on my feet when I wanted them to, slid off easily as oft as I so desired, and kept me comfortable at little league soccer games, on trips down the river, and mountain life in general.

The one ironic story I have to highlight one of the qualities of the Rapid Pros is when I was out trying to take pictures with them. I got a few pictures of my feet in the sandals while water was rushing over them (super cool). Then I slipped them off to try and get a photo of them on the wet rocks I was standing on, and it was only when I stepped on the rocks with my bare feet that I realized the rocks were very slippery. When I was wearing the Chaco Rapid Pro Flips I walked across the rock like it was dry and when I tried to walk across the same rock barefoot I ended up wet. 

Fit/Comfort 

These were great for me. I say “for me” because I have a pretty wide foot, usually wear a 10.5, and sized up to an 11. These were almost perfect for width and length on me. So if you are on the fence I would size up a .5 size. 

Look/Style

I’ve always liked how Chacos look. If you like that, then you’ll be happy. Also, the two webbing choices they have for these are pretty sick.

Features

It’s still just a flip flop, so the features list is pretty short. The chaco LUVSEAT footbed is great in my opinion. I’ve never liked the “squish” of other sandal brands, so I appreciate the firmer footbed of Chacos that is much more durable and better for standing in all day. 

Also, as I said earlier, the sticky rubber is no joke on these things. I was constantly impressed by the grip these things have as I played in creeks with my kids and spent time guiding on the Nantahala and Ocoee rivers.

Weight/Packability

These are definitely not for ounce counters. As with all Chacos, they are heavy, especially for flip flops.

Function/Performance

They do everything they are supposed to do and nothing they’re not. I don’t need a bottle opener on my sandals, I don’t need a pair of flip flops that I can run a fast mile in, I need a pair of flip flops to wear to the river and then go grab a pizza in. This is that pair.

Durability/Construction

The Rapid Pro Flips are built to last. They are heavy and definitely not cheap, but I guarantee you could wear these in and out of the water all season, put them up wet, chuck ‘em in the truck bed, and they are still gonna last you a few years. 

What sets this product apart?

Comparing this to other sandals it is set apart in different ways. They are as durable as Birkenstocks except you can get these wet. They are as nice as Reefs or Rainbows, but you’re not gonna bust your butt when you’re stepping on wet rocks. They perform well in the outdoors like Tevas or Keens except they dry fast and don’t have the awful “squish” of other sandals.

Who is this product for?

This product is for anyone who wants a pair of flip flops that don’t mind working overtime. The Rapid Pro Flips would be perfect for river guides, fishing guides, or anyone doing water based activities and instruction. 

The Final Word 

As I said earlier, my last pair of Chacos were not my favorites, but the Rapid Pro Flip Flops have renewed my trust in the brand. Chaco, keep up the good work.

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