Standup Zone Forum

Stand Up Paddle => Gear Talk => Topic started by: Dusk Patrol on June 13, 2018, 10:57:28 AM

Title: Bootie substitute - are there warm-ish reef shoes that drain?
Post by: Dusk Patrol on June 13, 2018, 10:57:28 AM
I know, there is no substitute for... But anyway, Zoo's "strange booties" thread got me wondering if something like the Vibram toes version or the similar Body Glove water shoes would work in like 3/2 California conditions, to keep your feet warm enough.

It typically happens that eventually my normal (O'neill) boots fill with water, with no easy way to drain.  I could (i) go to shore or  (ii) lay on my back on the board with my feet in the air, but that's doing a disservice to all SUPpers reputations everywhere. 

Is there a shoe that both keeps some warmth in and drains? 

Alternatively, is there a trick to draining ones' boots?     
Title: Re: Bootie substitute - are there warm-ish reef shoes that drain?
Post by: Bean on June 13, 2018, 11:28:35 AM
I found that when using an ankle leash, the boot on the leash side stayed drier.  So I grabbed an old leash cuff for the other side which worked well.  It's all about keeping the bootie from balooning.

Now I just grab some 2 sided velcro and wrap each ankle (1 1/2" Velcro Onewrap).  Wrapping the velcro around the bootie, underneath the wetsuit will allow the suit to flush without filling up the boot.  Just make sure that it's not too tight (your feet wil tell you if it is).
Title: Re: Bootie substitute - are there warm-ish reef shoes that drain?
Post by: tde on June 13, 2018, 11:36:23 AM
Vibrams are the best reef booties I’ve found. Used them for at least the last 8-10 years on trips to Fiji, Hawaii, Nicaragua, Mexico, El Salvatore, Costa Rica, Barbados...etc. would NEVER go on a surf trip without them!! Get the low profile model (with the strap across the top of the foot) and be sure to try a pair on and get the right size!!
Title: Re: Bootie substitute - are there warm-ish reef shoes that drain?
Post by: Eagle on June 13, 2018, 11:44:39 AM
Just posted on Zoo's thread.

If you can find these Maiori -> they are ones to get for ocean play.  Provide fantastic traction on your SUP better than bare feet.  Neoprene uppers keep rocks and grit at bay.  Mine are about 5 years old and have taken them to beaches in Mex DR Cuba etc.

Not had any reason to buy any recent offerings -> but do have have 4 different styles for running and working out and water use.  Fit is very specific for certain toes and feet.  So make sure you can return them if need be.

https://youtu.be/ngINqCNofoM
Title: Re: Bootie substitute - are there warm-ish reef shoes that drain?
Post by: tde on June 13, 2018, 11:48:21 AM
Here’s a pic of the vibrams... you don’t need to worry about draining since the fit so snug. Very light weight, you don’t even know they’re on and the soles are tough enough to handle reef and lava rock..
Title: Re: Bootie substitute - are there warm-ish reef shoes that drain?
Post by: Dusk Patrol on June 13, 2018, 01:27:22 PM
Thanks guys. I'll try the Vibrams, and in winter, Bean's velcro tourniquet...

Vibram seems to have just one water shoe option right now, so no choice paralysis.
Title: Re: Bootie substitute - are there warm-ish reef shoes that drain?
Post by: hbsteve on June 13, 2018, 03:14:50 PM
The O'Neill Superfreak 2mm Tropical ST boot has drain holes. 
I think they run short.  So try them on or order a larger size.
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