Chaco
Wolverine World Wide · United States
Chaco is an American sandal brand founded in 1989 by Mark Paigen and owned by Wolverine World Wide. It is known for adjustable single-strap sandals.
| Founded | 1989 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Mark Paigen |
| Owner | Wolverine World Wide (since 2009) |
| Headquarters | Rockford, Michigan |
| Website | chacos.com |
What is Chaco?
Chaco is an outdoor footwear brand from the United States. Wikipedia states it was founded in 1989 by Mark Paigen, a white water rafting and fly fishing guide, and that it is owned by Wolverine World Wide, which acquired it in 2009. Its headquarters is in Rockford, Michigan.
History
Paigen made the first custom pair in 1989 for a client on a three-day float trip. By 1991 he was selling the sandals from a small shop in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. The company was first named Gecko and later renamed Chaco after Chaco Culture National Historical Park. Production was based in Paonia, Colorado, until 2008, when it moved to China. After the 2009 acquisition, the company's facilities moved to Rockford, Michigan.
Products and positioning
The brand's signature product is an adjustable sandal with a single strap that loops through the sole, and the Z/1 is described as the first of these. The range has widened to outdoor-style fashion sandals, shoes, flip-flops, boots and accessories. Chaco also offers a repair service for its sandals.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Chaco?
Mark Paigen, a white water rafting and fly fishing guide, founded Chaco in 1989.
Who owns Chaco?
Chaco is owned by Wolverine World Wide, which acquired it in 2009.