What do you think would be a packing necessity for the Race? Is it your comfy pillow that you’re used to? Specific brands of make-up? Packing 3 sticks of your favorite deodorant?
All of those are great things to pack, especially the deodorant! You’re not going to find many choices deodorant-wise overseas so if you’re particular, go ahead and pack a couple extra sticks.
What I consider a Race necessity is shoes, specifically Chacos. Chaco’s have been on the rise since 2010, however the company is actually 28 years old! Chaco’s, specifically the z-strap style, have been very popular among the hikers, adventurers and sports folk. They don’t appear to be great fashion choices at first, but once you’ve worn them for a month you’re going to fall in love.
I bought my Chaco’s in 2013 because, as a coach, I needed the extra support with standing on a concrete surface for hours on end. At the same time, I needed a shoe that was sturdy enough to not break from the force of the water puddles on the pool deck (aka flip-flops are not a great coaching choice). They quickly became my favorite Spring, Summer and Fall shoe and I wore them a lot, but never as much as I have on the race. I haven’t gone a day without wearing them. I brought two pairs of shoes—Chaco’s and a pair of closed toed shoes—and my Chaco’s is the one item I have used everyday outside my journal and Bible.
Why do I recommend Chaco’s over Tevas or tennis shoes? Below I’ve listed some reasons why.
1. Chaco’s are great for both arch support and back support.
Chaco’s are built to form to your foot. It’s why it is suggested to not buy a used pair of Chaco’s because they’ll have been fitted to another person’s foot. Because it forms to the shape of your feet over the first month you wear them, it provides the best arch support for your feet. They also have a cloud edition that enhances that. When the arches of your feet are supported well, that helps your back and spine get the support it needs too.
2. Chaco’s have awesome pattern and color choices and can be very uniquely designed for you.
Chaco’s has countless options of styles, patterns and colors. You can get the well known chaco’s, the z-strap, with their 1 strap, 2 strap or 3 strap options that also has the option of a toe strap and multiple colors and patterns. But, amazingly enough, Chaco’s has more to offer than just the well known sports shoe. It also has some great fashion shoes, like boots, sandals, flip flops and the like, with the same amount of support and comfort for all you fashionistas out there too.
3. Chaco’s float
When you’re adventuring on your off days and exploring the waterfalls in Thailand or hanging out on the beach in Langkawi, you don’t have to worry if your chaco falls off because they float. You don’t have to dive down and grab them, you only have to reach out and pick them up.
4. Chaco’s hold up well and endure a lot!
I’ve had my Chaco’s for 4 years now and they’re still going strong. I’ve worn them in water, I’ve hiked in them, I’ve done everything in them (including wearing them to church and with dresses). My chaco’s are just now wearing down on the bottom platform and the straps are starting to wear as well, but they still work. They still provide great support, and they’re going to last me another 4 years or more, why? Well, let’s look at the next point.
5. Chaco’s have a lifetime warranty.
Chaco’s gives their shoes a lifetime warranty. This means that if the sole of the shoe wears down or the straps break, Chaco’s will replace the shoe or fix it for free. If by chance they are unable to or the conditions do not meet the warranty clause, it is only $40 to fix your shoes which is only 1/3 the price of a new pair of Chaco’s and 1/2 the price or less of a good pair of tennis shoes.
Essentially, Chaco’s are the best. Now, if you decide to go the Teva’s route or even just Tennis Shoe’s, I won’t be upset, but in the long run, Chaco’s are going to hold up better and give you more support.
Till Next Time,
Kara Faber
