Camping and Day Trips at Foster Falls

Stu getting tangled up by a dog
Photo Credit: Jessica Purvis

Tucked away in the Southeast corner of Tennessee, about 40 minutes Northwest of Chattanooga, you'll find Foster Falls in the little town of Sequatchie. Foster Falls makes for a great day trip or weekend camping trip if you're not into climbing (more on that in a later post). It's dog friendly, which means you don't have to bring a dog or own a dog for that matter, you can just play with other peoples dogs, which is what my friends and I do.

Chaco…A 3-Part Review…Part II Z1

As promised a while ago, here are some of my thoughts about the Z1’s by Chaco. These sandals are at the top of my footwear list for a few reasons.

They have a heel strap

They lock your feet in tight with very little slippage. They work great for light trail hikes as well.

They don’t have a toe strap

I like to have a full range of motion for all of my toes. When I’m going to be on my feet for a long time, these are my preference for the security and free range of motion for all my toes.

They’re light

Unlike the Z2’s, the sole is slimmer, so they won’t weight you down.

The one disadvantage to these bad boys is the lack of a toe strap. Now, I know I said earlier that to me it’s an advantage. However, if you’re looking to go on some steeper and tougher terrain, these won’t be the best. The toe strap does help give more added security and reduces the risk of slipping.

I wore them to UCF’s Spirit Splash one year and they helped out a bunch. I got to protect my feet and keep my sandals on at the same time…not to mention they got a much needed cleaning.

I’d suggest wearing them to music festivals like Bonaroo or the Vans Warped Tour. You’ll be outside all day in the blazing hot summer sun. You’re going to want to wear sandals. You always run the risk of losing sandals, but if you have the Z1’s, they’ll provide: comfort, foot support, sole protection, and stay on your feet all day.

Chaco…A 3-Part Review…Part I…Z2

To kick off this 3-part Chaco review, we’re going to look at the Z2 style, probably the most recognizable sandal that Chaco offers. With it’s crazy toe strap design, this style stands out among the rest.

I wear this style the most when I’m going to be out-and-about for a while and don’t want to have to worry about them going flying off my feet. This style is also perfect to take to the crag. If you’ve ever been climbing in North Carolina, you know that it’s sometimes a good 15minute-45minute hike. Once you get to the crag, they’re easy to put on and take off, when you’re not climbing. With their high traction and self-cleaning tread design, this makes them a perfect sandal for easy hikes.

They're sexy and they know it

What makes this style stand out is the toe strap, like I mentioned earlier. I find that the toe strap keeps my foot in place and stable, better than the other styles that Chaco offers. The webbing and sole design also allow you to get that perfect fit across your foot and toe so your feet don’t go sliding all over.

The biggest drawback to this style is the s

ize. They’re big, clunky, and heavy. If you’re looking for a lightweight sandal, these aren’t the ones for you.

If you’re looking for durability, foot support, and stability, this style is for you.

Check back tomorrow to get my input on the smaller and lighter, Z1 style.