How to Fit & Adjust Chacos

How Should Chacos Fit?

Before you begin unbuckling and tugging on your straps, it’s important to know how well-fitting Chacos should feel on your feet. The first step towards getting that perfect fit is starting with the right-sized sandals.

Chaco Sizing

Chacos come in whole sizes, so if you typically wear a half size, a good rule of thumb is to choose the next whole size down. For most people, this method will get them the right size. However, it’s important to keep in mind that Chacos use the heel-to-ball measurement rather than measuring the length of the foot itself so you may need to use a Brannock Device to find your size. This general rule applies to men’s, women’s, and kids’ Chaco sandals, so resist the temptation to size up for “room to grow” when buying for the kids.

Should I Leave Extra Room for My Toes?

You may get the urge to size up just so your toes have plenty of space to move. Do not be fooled into letting this fear guide your decision. Chacos wrap your feet snugly and keep them securely in place so your toes won’t spill over. There will not be much leftover space between the edge of your sandals and your foot—this is okay. It’s actually for the best! If your Chacos are too big, they will likely never be comfortable and might even cause arch or heel pain.

How to Adjust Chacos

Now that you’ve chosen Chacos in the correct size, you can go ahead and start adjusting your straps for the most comfortable fit and feel. There are two main types of Chaco sandals—Chaco sandals with a toe loop and Chaco sandals without a toe loop. Each type requires a different process for tightening or loosening the straps, so follow the steps below for your specific style!

How to Loosen Chacos

With a Toe Loop

1. Open the buckle and loosen the strap all the way.

2. Loosen the top strap that runs across the top of your foot towards your big toe by pulling from the outside of the foot up towards your toe.

3. Loosen the strap that wraps around your big toe by pulling from between the toe and going outwards.

4. Starting at the point closest to your toe, pull the strap that runs from your pinky toe to the inside of your foot to loosen it.

5. Step into your Chacos and secure the fit with the buckle.

Without a Toe Loop

1. Open the buckle and loosen the strap all the way.

2. Loosen the uppermost strap by pulling it from the outside of your foot towards the inside.

3. Loosen the middle strap leading from your pinky toes by pulling it down and towards the inside of your foot.

4. Step into your loosened Chacos and make the final adjustment, securing the fit with the buckle.

How to Tighten Chacos

With a Toe Loop

1. Starting from the point nearest the ball of your foot, pull the strap that runs around your big toe down towards the outside of your foot. This will tighten the cross strap running from your big toe down below your pinky toe.

2. Pull the cross strap downward towards the outside of your foot, starting from the point nearest your big toe. This will tighten the strap that wraps around your big toe. 

3. Pull the strap that feeds into the buckle starting from the inside of your foot pulling towards the buckle. This will tighten the strap that runs diagonally across the base of your toes and top of foot.

4. Pull the strap through the buckle to secure your final fit.

Without a Toe Loop

1. Pulling from the point closest to your big toe, tighten the top uppermost strap.

2. To tighten the middle strap running from the base of your toes, pull on the strap that feeds into the buckle starting from the inside of your foot.

3. Pull the strap through the buckle to secure your final fit.

When your Chacos fit perfectly, you can take on any adventure. From running errands to hiking the trails, you’ll want to do everything in your secure and comfortable Chaco sandals. If you need further assistance figuring out how to adjust your Chacos, speak with one of the SCHEELS Footwear Experts at your local SCHEELS, or stop by in-store to have your Chacos adjusted.