Piled up next to the front door of any outdoor lover, among well-loved running shoes, hiking boots, and Blundstones, there is very likely a Chaco sandal, too. The staple brand has been around since the 1980s when it first started producing the Classic Z/ sandal as whitewater rafting footwear, and has long since become synonymous with an "outdoor lifestyle" that's both aspirational and attainable, hardcore and casual. In recent years, the brand's lineup has grown considerably while catering to both segments—take for example the low-profile, adventure-ready Bodhi and all new, urban-minded Townes Collection.
With the Townes Collection, Chaco dresses up some of its classic silhouettes in premium leather and adding height for styles more suited for sidewalks than river beds. The new line includes the Townes ($110), the Townes Midform ($115), and the Townes Midform Slide ($115) to create a range that includes a leather Z/-inspired sandal and a chunky platform slide.
For the last few weeks I've been giving the Townes Midform a test, walking here, there, and everywhere around Field Mag's hometown of New York City. Keep reading for the verdict.