2015 marks a year when most of the major kayaking equipment manufacturers launch brand new or heavily revised footwear lines.
Here we take a look at the top one’s to watch.
Manufacturer: Five Ten
Model: Canyoneer 3 Boot
What’s New? While the overall style and shape of the Canyoneer boot stays the same, the weight has been paired back and the boot feels more balanced. The threads on the sole have been increased which should improve traction in boggy/mucky conditions but the tried and tested Stealth rubber is still used. The upper and lower sections of the boot are welded together which should reduce/eliminate chances of delamination over time. The biggest noticeable difference is the addition of laces over the previously used buckles (again there were issues in the past with the rubber holding the buckles perishing and hopefully this will remedy this).
The Verdict: Five Ten have kept the styling and features which made the original Canyoneer so popular but tackled a couple of issues which means that this model should have much better durability into the future.
RRP: 150 euro
Availability: March/April 2015
Pre-order Now:
Manufacturer: Keen
Model: Gorgeous Boot
What’s New? After a short absence of any serious water shoe in their range, the Keen Gorgeous Boot replaces the popular Gorge Boot (see what they did there?) as their top line water boot. It’s predecessor (Gorge Boot) was relatively popular and well regarded but was hastily dropped by the big wigs at Keen without much explanation. The Gorgeous Boot is more of a re-boot (sic) of the Hood River Shoe which was popular in the States but was never officially released in Europe. Essentially it marries a 2mm neo sock with the sole and strap system from Keen’s popular water sandal range. Less stiff than the likes of the Canyoneer, it is a very comfy boot that will work well as an allrounder and be one of the better boots for wearing on bare feet (due to lack of drainage). It’s a no nonsense boot that goes back to basics in terms of design with no fancy gimmicks on the sole (razor siping/modular construction) which should only add to it’s overall durability.
The Verdict: Demand has already been high (partially due to lack of supply of any water boot) and feedback has been positive. Should make a good boot for those boaters who do not want or need the additional support offered by the Canyoneer.
RRP: 110 euro
Availability: Now!
Buy Now: http://www.i-canoe.com/en/Foot-wear.46/Kokatat.9/GORGEOUS/Keen_Gorgeous_Boot.2855.html
Manufacturer: NRS
Model: Velocity Boot
What’s New? The NRS Velocity Boot is a long awaited replacement for the extremely popular NRS Attack Shoe (which at one stage was the most popular water-shoe we sold). They have taken the overall shape and style of the Attack Shoe but added a stiffer, beefier sole, higher ankle support, stiffer upper and laces. Overall NRS have created a good looking boot that will appeal to intermediate and advanced boaters and swift water rescue teams. While not as bulky and stiff as the Canyoneer, this may in fact be a benefit for paddlers who found they had to change the size of their kayak just to match the style of their shoes! Price wise it offers the best value for money and is sure to be popular with those looking for their first river boot after they graduate from the bootie.
Verdict: A good looking boot that ticks all the boxes in terms of form and function while coming in at a reasonable price.
RRP: 100 euro
Availability: March 2015
Pre-order Now: http://www.i-canoe.com/en/Foot-wear.46/NRS.45/NRS-VELOCITY/2015_NRS_Velocity_Watershoe.2729.html
Manufacturer: Astral
Model: Hiyak
What’s New: While Astral have been making footwear for a couple of years now, this is their first offering in terms of a water boot. It combines the shape of their existing shoe line with higher ankle support and a velcro wraparound closure that protects the laces. The 1000D Cordura nylon upper is stitched and bonded directly to the sole which should enhance durability (something that was hit and miss in earlier models). Behind the Cordura are 3 layers of airmesh to provide insulation and ensure quick drying after use. The sole features GSS non-marking rubber to offer the highest grip that Astral provide in a wet boot. The boot is extremely flexible making for easier fit in a range of different types of kayak but lacks the stiffer support some prefer in the Canyoneer.
The Verdict: A nice looking boot that will hopefully give Astral a firm footing (sic) in the water boot market.
RRP: 120 euro
Availability: March/April 2015
Pre-order Now:
Manufacturer: NRS
Model: Crush
What’s New? The Crush is NRS’s new water shoe for those looking for lighter weight and less support than the Velocity. It will make a great summer shoe that could be worn both on and off the water. Featuring the same sole as the Velocity it should offer the same level of grip but with less bulk and should appeal to many watersports enthusiasts: canoe, kayak, SUP, sailing, etc…
The Verdict: A well designed shoe that is set to enter an already highly competitive market (Astral Brewer/Rassler/ Keen Kanyon/etc…). Good to have as a back up pair of shoes and great for travelling.
RRP: 80 euro
Availability: March 2015
Pre-order Now:
http://www.i-canoe.com/en/Foot-wear.46/NRS.45/NRS-CRUSH/2015_NRS_Men_s_Crush_Watershoe.2731.html
Manufacturer: Keen
Model: Class 5 Tech
What’s New? Keen have been making sandals and mesh shoes for years and this is one of their most stylish and practical models ever. Very lightweight and comfy it can be worn barefoot or with neo socks/drysuit socks (although there is no inherent insulation in the shoe). The bungy lacing system is neat and simple and secures the shoe around the foot well. As with the Crush above, they could be worn in the summer as an alternative to sandals (and you may even get away with combining with a pair of socks!).
The Verdict: Apart from the rather clunky sounding name, these are a well made, stylish pair of shoes that would be at home both on and off the water.
RRP: 100 euro
Availability: Now!
Buy Now:
http://www.i-canoe.com/en/Foot-wear.46/Lifeproof.86/Keen_Class_5_Tech_Water_S/Keen_Class_5_Tech_Water_Shoe.2895.html
