Footwear recommendations

[Mahmoud Salem]

Dear All
Good day

I know this topic was raised several times and it was very useful reading them

Many recommended Columbia drainmakers, Daiwa boat shoes, Crocs Ace , Keen Newport or others

But I think my priorities are a little different
My biggest concern is traction over very slippery surfaces; some of the boats we use are painted with a ridiculously smooth paint, that when combined with fish slime, mist/minor spray and fish blood turn into disaster waiting to happen
last time I slipped twice and due to the lack of traction could not load the rod well on a good AJ, I barely landed it, but it was one and done,though it lasted just a few minutes, so I can't imagine hooking a decent BFT

being water proof or quick dry is very nice, but I'd gladly sacrifice it for added traction
I though of getting hiking shoes but I'm not sure if this is what they are designed for

Your opinion is highly appreciated
Mahmoud

[Nathan Tsao]

If your surfaces are slippery to the extreme, maybe try something with a felt sole. Felt is the best wet traction material out there, unbeatable for slippery river rocks.
Downside is that most felt soled boots/shoes are heavy, and hot to wear unless you're standing in the water. I believe the brand "Chota" makes a felt soled sandal though; i bought a pair for my dad years ago, but i dont know if they still make them.

[Adrian Gumban]

Teva Churn http://www.teva.com/mens-churn-quick-dry-water-shoes/4153,default,pd.html?dwvar_4153_color=BLU&start=1&cgid=men-shoes-water

These are the most comfortable water shoe I have worn & have excellent grip. I got mine & a pair for the missus from amazon for a really good price. These are heaps better than the columbia equivalent IMO

[Fred Mignard]

Try this one, I even can run on the deck. :-)
http://www.adidas.com/us/product/mens-outdoor-climacool-boat-lace-shoes/CF607

[Ben Lai]

Why not Crocs? I like Crocs on deck!

But never put sun lotion on foot when putting on Crocs, it will be slippery like oil inside the Crocs!

[David Noble]

Fish slime and blood on the deck will be risky regardless of what shoes you are wearing.
Maybe try http://www.amazon.com/KEEN-Hydro-Guide-Watersport-Sandal/dp/B003Z4JQFS
I had Columbia's but couldn't stand the smell.

[Trevor Skinner]

Columbia get's my vote.

However, you need to have a big boat. Once you've been wearing them for a while you will want to get as far away as you possibly can from them. Last week, we even considered running a pair up the outriggers just to get them into 'clean' air.

Regards,


Trevor 

[Andre van Wyk]

[John Cahill]

Just tried out Dunlop Volleys last week and they were brilliant, great grip but man they stunk after 4 days!

[Ryan Keith]

I've done the same as John. Fortunately, you can treat $40 volleys as expendable.

[Darren Cook]

$40 for volleys.....ouch!

[Wayne Brown]

Crocs are great. Be nice with a non slip sole though

[David Noble]

$40 for volleys.....ouch!

They are trendy now. Even my all time favourite KT26 has made a comeback.

[David Noble]

These look great, with a Vibram sole. But expensive and unavailable outside of Italy.
http://www.lizardfootwear.com/en-US/AGILE101_12SM_EN.html

The search continues...

[Chris Dennis]

I tried the Adidas Climacool boat shoes but i don't find them very comfortable to wear all day. They are a pretty narrow fit and the soles aren't padded.

The Sperry Top-Sider Son-R Shandal's are way better in every respect and they grip well on a slippery deck.