Neoprene Boots & Water Shoes
What are Water Shoes Used For?
Water shoes are crafted for a range of uses. In this section, you'll come across beach shoes ideal for water sports as well as numerous recreational activities in or around water.
SUP Footwear
A pair of neoprene boots can be advantageous if you're venturing out on your SUP during cooler weather. Alternatively, for SUP, you might consider water shoes with a rubber sole underneath. This sole offers protection from sharp objects when wading into the water with your paddle board. However, footwear isn't needed to enhance grip on the deck, as paddleboards are intended for bare-foot use.
Swimming Footwear
Swim shoes equipped with a rubber sole are excellent for those intending to swim on rocky shorelines. If open water swimming appeals to you, neoprene socks could be a worthwhile consideration to aid in retaining warmth. Those passionate about cold water swimming may already be aware that cold water swimming shoes can provide a significant advantage.
Surf Booties
Surf booties, which can also be wetsuit boots, are designed from neoprene to ensure your feet remain warm in chilly waters. They serve the additional purpose of protecting your feet from corals, sharp items, and stones. These booties are utilised across various surfing disciplines.
Selecting a Pair of Neoprene Boots
Neoprene boots are available in two different designs - split toe or round toe.
Choosing suitable surf booties depends on individual preference. Split toe wetsuit boots have the big toe separate from your other toes, and many surfers believe these types offer superior balance and board sensation. On the other hand, round toe neoprene boots lack a divider and are often deemed more comfortable to wear.
How Should Surf Booties Fit?
Wetsuit boots ought to sit snugly over your ankles and feet. Boots that are too tight might restrict circulation, while those too loose can fill with water, leading to cold feet and instability.
Surf booties typically come in 3 mm, 5 mm, and 7 mm thicknesses. Thicker boots provide additional warmth and allow for surfing even in the coldest conditions, although they may offer reduced sensitivity, slightly impacting board feel.
Be sure to measure your feet and consult the size chart to find water shoes that fit perfectly. New wetsuit boots may initially feel a bit tight, but they should stretch and become a better fit after some use.
Interested in a complete wetsuit set? Explore our collection of Wetsuits, Wetsuit Gloves and Wetsuit Hoods.