At least some Chaco fans were surprised – and a few disappointed – by Chaco's April Fool's Day press release announcing the launch of Barefoot Z sandal, the lightest minimalist sport sandal ever created at a “mere 40 grams.”
According to the marketing copy, The Barefoot Z “features a new Paleolithic design with a GroundTouch footbed that has been millions of years in the making. Jacquard webbing wraps across the foot and finishes in a toe loop for total forefoot control. The minimalist outsole design will leave feet calloused, creating luggy knots of hardened skin for a tread that can take on any trail.”
The press release even included quotes from Gary Banik, Chaco’s lead product developer, and Chaco ambassador and climber, Brendan Leonard, as well as a link to purchase the shoes. The link led to Chaco's blog page that showed three images of the shoes and more elaborate marketing copy. But at the bottom of the page, Chaco confessed, “Okay, okay… while Barefoot Z’s aren’t real, our 25th Anniversary sure is! For a quarter-century we’ve been adventuring with you: down rivers, over mountains, around the world, and back. Thank you for making our history together unforgettable! Join us, and participate in Chaco’s 25th anniversary celebration with new products, contests and journeys: http://www.chacos.com/US/en/25Anniversary.”
Still, some respondents to the blog were looking forward to the shoe. Said lyandell02, “I would totally sport those around the house! Let's turn this joke into a reality Chaco! ;)”
Added Jeff, “It's not really too funny…you should make a minimal style just like that with a minimal but tough sole and your classic web design.”
Said user_459779, “I love a company with a sense of humor just as much as I love my Chacos! Been wearing them for almost 25 years, back when people thought they were “weird” looking. Have a great day, Chaco!”
The press release and links are below:
Chaco Introduces Revolutionary Sport Sandal Design
March 31, 2014 (Rockford, Mich.) Chaco, which launched its iconic sport sandals 25 years ago this month, is once again pioneering outdoor footwear designs with the unveiling of its Barefoot Z sandal. The new Barefoot Z is the lightest minimalist sport sandal ever created.
“We stripped away all the clutter and went back to the basics-way back-with our new Barefoot Z sandal,” says Gary Banik, Chaco’s lead product developer. “Our hyper-minimal silhouette is so low-profile, you won’t even realize they’re on your feet.”
“The Barefoot Z, to me, represents the culmination of a quarter-century of Chacos’ research and development of the ultimate sport sandal,” notes Chaco Ambassador, Brendan Leonard. “I’ve worn mine for hiking, trail running, bouldering, and even a few pitches of ice climbing. Really, if you want to go truly light and fast in the mountains, I don’t know why you’d wear anything else. Including clothing.”
The Barefoot Z features a new Paleolithic design with a GroundTouch footbed that has been millions of years in the making. Jacquard webbing wraps across the foot and finishes in a toe loop for total forefoot control. The minimalist outsole design will leave feet calloused, creating luggy knots of hardened skin for a tread that can take on any trail.
The new Barefoot Z is available for purchase at www.chacos.com.
Product details:
UPPER:
Polyester jacquard webbing upper, with toe loop, wraps around the foot for the ultimate customized fit
Adjustable and durable webbing heel risers
Custom injection molded ladder lock for a secure hold
MIDSOLE:
Earthy GroundTouch footbed with slip resistant footprint pattern design
OUTSOLE:
Non-marking ultra-minimalist design with calloused skin for tread
Weightless outsole for versatility
About Chaco: Born on the river in 1989, Chaco builds premium footwear for the outdoor-minded. As a result of the brand’s proprietary LUVSEAT footbed, the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) has awarded the Seal of Acceptance to many Chaco footwear styles. The APMA Seal is intended to raise awareness by identifying products of exceptional quality that are manufactured with comfort, health, and safety in mind. Simply put, Chaco is fit for adventure. Please visit us at www.chacos.com, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter: Chacousa.
Chaco is a part of Wolverine Worldwide's Performance Group, which also includes the notable lifestyle brands Merrell, Saucony, Cushe, and Patagonia Footwear.
