# Sock-Equipped Hiking Sandals The Chaco Z/Ronin Sandals Have a Rugged, Protective Design By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2019-08-19 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chaco-zronin References: [gearpatrol](https://gearpatrol.com/2019/08/19/chaco-zronin/) & [chacos](https://www.chacos.com/US/en/z-ronin/41327M.html) Socks and sandals are a fashion faux pas that has been adopted by many anti-style enthusiasts, which is something that the Chaco Z/Ronin sandals take in stride to provide enhanced protection from the elements. The sandals are outfitted with [rugged outsoles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/jasper-zionics) and feature a built-in sock-like upper section that helps to enhance the tactile nature of the footwear. This is thanks to the additional structure and protection that this sock-like cover will provide, which gives them a somewhat anti-fashion look that could be admired by fashion-forward consumers as well as [avid hikers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/danner-trail-junction-sneakers). The Chaco Z/Ronin sandals will hug the contours of the foot at all times to help hikers avoid debris or other materials along their route that could cause injury. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.0/10 - Popularity: 45% | Activity: 66% | Freshness: 9% - Audience gender: 90% men, 10% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Sock-equipped Footwear:** Incorporating sock-like structures into footwear designs provides enhanced protection and tactile experience for wearers. - **Rugged Protective Design:** Designing highly-protective footwear with rugged outsoles can provide hikers and outdoor enthusiasts with additional safety features for their adventures. - **Anti-fashion Aesthetic:** Developing anti-fashion footwear designs that incorporate functional features can appeal to both aesthetic-driven and adventure-driven consumers. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Outdoor Gear Industry:** Established outdoor gear companies can create sock-equipped versions of their current product lines to provide innovative, protective footwear options for customers. - **Athletic Footwear Industry:** Athletic footwear companies can incorporate rugged protective features in their designs to create versatile athletic shoes that can be worn in a variety of environments. - **Fashion Industry:** Fashion companies can tap into the anti-fashion trend by producing adventurous and highly-functional footwear designs. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Functional Mermaid-Inspired Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/z1-design.md) - [Stylish Lightweight Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lightweight-sandal.md) - [Eco-Conscious Hybrid Sneaker Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hoka-hopara-2.md) - [Lifestyle Foam-Based Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-balance-sandal.md) - [Waffle-Inspired Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chaco-x-waffle-house.md) - [Trail Running Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/teva-aventrail.md) - [Ultra-Cushioned Hiking Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hiking-sneaker.md) - [Neutral Urban Summer Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shinjuku-sandal.md) - [Lightweight Marine-Inspired Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hyperport-h2-sandal.md)