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General => General Topwater & Jigging Discussion => Topic started by: Marcio Paes on October 28, 2010, 05:45:53 AM

Title: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Marcio Paes on October 28, 2010, 05:45:53 AM
Hi Guys,

I have tried many water shoes to use at the fishing boat.

Some are reasonable.

But many shoes are not practical at expedition because they remain wet or don’t dry very fast (a problem when you are living aboard or fishing for multiple days). Some of then don’t have a good fit, nor a secure grip at boat, or dont protect your feet from the sun, or get a bad smell very fast. etc.

I saw some news and I want to ask if someone had some experience with “Vibran Fivefingers KSO” water shoes?

http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/products/products_KSO_m.cfm (http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/products/products_KSO_m.cfm)

What are you guys using? Do you know a perfect one?

PS: Must mention that I just don’t like Crocks.

Thanks in advance,

Marcio.
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Chuen Fan on October 28, 2010, 06:28:27 AM
Brandon wears those, I call em super cool high grip shoes! ;D
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Jamie Moir on October 28, 2010, 09:33:48 AM
I'm using a pair too. I quite like them, the grip is good, the only slight issue is that the uppers are pretty lightweight. Mine got a tear already along the edge of the fabric upper/plastic lower on the outer edge of one foot.
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Chris Young on October 28, 2010, 10:15:46 AM
Guy's these chinese safety shoes have been out for ages  8).............much cheaper too !

Good thing is the upper (sock) is easily changed when stinky  :o or wet  :'(

I have never seen the fivefinger thingies but I would be worried about catching one toe and breaking it.
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Mario Benedict on October 28, 2010, 10:32:00 AM
I've got these
(http://biasboating.com.au/images/PRODUCT/medium/2535.jpg)
have had them for 3-4 years now.

More grippy and looks better than Crocs.
Dries pretty quick too.

Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Greg Burt on October 28, 2010, 12:45:06 PM
The 'looks better' bit is in the eye off the beholder  ;) ;D
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Peter Childs on October 28, 2010, 12:58:12 PM
I'm a croc man, went acorss to the AC's shown above for a while, they definately give better heal support, but they weathered pretty quick.  Now back to the crocs again.

One thing I find with the crocs though, once the tread wears down a bit, they become as slippery as all %$&K - particularly at the boat ramp, got the odd bruised shin and tail bone to show for it!

PS I really like the Tiger suntan you get with the AC's compared to the leapord skin print from the Crocs.
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Mark Harris on October 28, 2010, 12:59:35 PM
2 dollar flip flops or bare feet  8).
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Greg Burt on October 28, 2010, 01:29:50 PM
Used to be into the Shimano Evair's and still like them, but now into the 'Crocs' and some 'NothinZ' I picked up in NZ which have lasted 18 months.
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: mark gaal on October 28, 2010, 04:33:45 PM
X2 for the ACs, had some of the mesh shimano ones that got destroyed last trip to Fiji, comfortable enough but didn;t like the tropics one bit, chaseing cattle up hill and dale  didn't help either I'm guessing . :D
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Andre van Wyk on October 28, 2010, 07:11:52 PM
I wear SImms Flats Sneakers, the ones designed for wading the flats, flyfishing I guess...
I've got a 5 year old pair of the orginal ones that have been through hell and back and are still kicking.... I've trekked the outer atolls of the seychelles with them, which is pure hell on any shoe, and since used them for fishing rock & surf, hiking into isolated high mountain creeks and streams to chase trout, and out chasing Yellwofin in the canyons... they are pretty toasted now, after 5 years of abuse, but the soles are still perfect... the uppers are ripped to shreds, but for 5 years of wear, I've been hell of a impressed...

My reasoning for wearing a full lightweight boot rather than sandals etc? I've seen what a 5/0 treble in a foot looks like.... and I've seen what a rolled ankle looks like after tripping on a boat... I've also seen what a stubbed toe looks like when kciking a fishbox in a moment of haste.... All these things can completely ruin a days fishing, or a fishing trip...

The added protection of a heavy soul, and ankle support goes a long way in my books....


I would prefer to just fish barefoot of course, feels so much better... but I don't fish enough to risk messing up a trip by getting a damaged foot...
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Jon Li on October 28, 2010, 07:16:38 PM
Sperry Topsider sandals onboard is for me but Crocs when wading in the freshwater river bed full of stones .

Jon .
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Greg Burt on October 28, 2010, 07:32:52 PM
Mark, I found those Shimano mesh shoes comfy but also very smelly after a days wear :o

Andre, I was fascinated by those wading shoes the guys were wearing on the videos of the Seychelles you sent me a couple of years back, they looked different but practical  :-\ :D
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Darren Cook on October 28, 2010, 07:51:08 PM
Anyone tried the Varivas deck shoes that were around a couple of years back?

Pretty exxy unless you're Kozo Okubo. (sponsored).
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Mark Harris on October 28, 2010, 08:07:18 PM
I amazed Fisherman do not offer a pair of re-badged Crocs at $1,000 per pair.... :).
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Andre van Wyk on October 28, 2010, 08:14:31 PM
Andre, I was fascinated by those wading shoes the guys were wearing on the videos of the Seychelles you sent me a couple of years back, they looked different but practical  :-\ :D

Bun those would have been either Patagonia Marlwalkers or Simms Flat Sneakers for sure.... they are the only things that last the hell of the coral/marl flats of Cosmoledo and Farquhar...

These are not something you would want to wear alllll day including after fishing, but when I'm back on board the mothership, or back on land or whatever, I'm barefoot or with flip flops, then boots go back on whenever starting fishing again...
They are however comfortable as all hell, and one can wear them wet all day.... I wear the SIMMS Gravel guards with them too, keep all and any gravel and sand outta the boots when wading or trekking the surf zone...

Here are the original Sims Flats Sneakers:
(http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m209/Steelprod/ANDRE%20FISH%20STUFF/Simms-Boot-Flats-Sneaker-II.jpg)

And I think I'm gonna be replacing them with a pair of their new Flats Boots, which have a little more ankle support, and they got more grip too...
(http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m209/Steelprod/ANDRE%20FISH%20STUFF/Flats_boot__34053_zoom.jpg)
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Geoff Volter on October 28, 2010, 08:32:51 PM
I'll second Andre's vote, except I use the patagonia marlwalker II's, They give great protection and pretty good grip in the boat. Dont consider KORKER torrents, I have been dragged across the deck due to these.
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Andre van Wyk on October 28, 2010, 09:17:09 PM
Geoff - The OG SIMMS flats sneakers had far less ankle support than the Pata Marlwalkers, which is why I think Simms have stepped up their game with their new Flats Boots which are closer in style and support to the Marlwalkers I think...

Both fantastic options with great support and grip!

Hang on, I just checked the new Patagonia site, seems they have gone back to a style more similar to the SImms SNeaker...interesting... the older Marlwalkers defintely had a longer upper/ankle support...

The new ones look pretty trippy... Their Surf Sneaker could be a good option too...
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: AustralianAngling on October 28, 2010, 09:18:35 PM
Island Slipper Big Game Strap Sandal worn by many of the Crewman & Captains in Australia and around the world.

The Island Slipper Big Game Strap Sandal is constructed of a traditional boat sole for wet traction, a raised upper arch for support and a unique 3-point anchor system. Available in Black and Thorns; Men's full sizes 7-16.
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Marcio Paes on October 29, 2010, 01:14:14 AM
How about the timberlands one? Like the plunge (above) I had the old version, and was good, but never found again... I think they discontinued then.


(http://s1.postimage.org/plynS.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/1fgh64ix0/)


(http://s3.postimage.org/nTCzJ.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/1cht0ye6c/)

PS: Watersocks from severall brands still work resonable (when they are breathble and not all neoprene). Like the discountinued Nike Aquasocks.

Best regards,

Marcio.
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Geoff Volter on October 29, 2010, 06:57:20 AM
Andre, I think my next pair will be the simms boots, they look pretty good. A good mate of mine had some durability issues with the simms sneakers but reckons the boots should be ok. The MW's just wont die though but are a pain to get on and off due to the lacing arrangement on the ankles. ie holes not hooks.



Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Scott Maybury on October 29, 2010, 07:30:31 AM
I used to wear the AC's but have converted to a pair of Keen sandals and really like them....they don't dry as quickly as some of the rubber shoes but they are more comfortable and the grip is excellent. They also allow your feet to breathe really really well. Unlike some sandal/thong designs you can also get ones (like the ones I have) with a rubber toe protector
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Luke Wyrsta on October 29, 2010, 08:36:26 AM
With the variety of products listed in this thread - i have used most and still have not found anything near standard to what would satisfy me.

I occasionally wear some Asics with unique tread but they are expensive, not water proof and usually done by the end of the trip...

Oh dear  :(
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Peter Morris on October 29, 2010, 10:58:09 AM
Mario....Those 'Active Casuals' get pretty stinky dont they..???.....even if you do wsh them in fresh water each time.

Crocs are my preffered shoes on the boat........to make them real comfy wearing socks in them is good.

Socks in Crocs is how it goes.

BUT.....its not to nice when the socks get wet which is usually always.

Pete
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Peter Morris on October 29, 2010, 11:18:34 AM
With the variety of products listed in this thread - i have used most and still have not found anything near standard to what would satisfy me.

I occasionally wear some Asics with unique tread but they are expensive, not water proof and usually done by the end of the trip...

Oh dear  :(

You are right Luke.....

None are perfect......Those Vibram thingies that brandon wear look comfy.......but they look like painted on feet... ;D
I thought Brandon had painted his feet in camoflague the night before on the Odyssey..... ;D ;D

Pete
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Mario Benedict on October 29, 2010, 01:07:47 PM
Mario....Those 'Active Casuals' get pretty stinky dont they..???.....even if you do wsh them in fresh water each time.

Pete

I removed the insoles and no stinky for me.


This should be a good boat shoe :-)
(http://www.asia-marine-equipment.com/img/shoes_burke_boot.jpg)
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: marinco koj on October 29, 2010, 02:56:40 PM
I use the rip curl reef walkers and have done for a few years.
 


(http://s2.postimage.org/hZcrJ.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/10hox836s/)
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Andre van Wyk on October 29, 2010, 06:42:20 PM
Hey guys,

Here are my 5 year old Simms Sneakers.... as you can see, they have taken some punishment, but the soles are still almost 100%...

For the $100 they cost me 5 years back, they've been a good investment....
(http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m209/Steelprod/ANDRE%20FISH%20STUFF/IMG00175-20101029-0851.jpg)

(http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m209/Steelprod/ANDRE%20FISH%20STUFF/IMG00176-20101029-0851.jpg)

Luke - I just a shoot for ASICS Europe, and the entire crew got given some "SHoot Loot" in the form of a brand new pair of top end Asics shoes of their choice... I grabbed their Sensor Gel 4 Trail Running shoe, which is probably the most comfortable shoe I've ever worn, and thought that they would be a pretty awesome boat show because they are built to get wet and dry quickly because of trail running, they've got fantastic grip, and flex in the sole, and they are incredibly light....Might try them sometime too...
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Peter Agapiou on November 01, 2010, 12:56:34 PM
no shoes the best ,cool ,good grip ,no smell ...harden up boys
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Luke Wyrsta on November 01, 2010, 02:50:31 PM
no shoes the best ,cool ,good grip ,no smell ...harden up boys

Pete...if you could cast more than 130g - then I would accept your harden up boys comments. Stick it!  :P
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Gary Prerost on November 01, 2010, 07:54:11 PM
Pete , you run a real risk of fungal infections especialy on boats I have seen plenty of people with thier toenails about to fall of its very difficult to get rid of and painfull to do so . ingroan warts are another transfered on boats and are usualy established before you know whats going on.
I like the look of brandons footwear on a boat ,wading reefs, beaches or any rocks is another matter you need good foot protection.You just never know what your going to step on.
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Peter Agapiou on November 01, 2010, 08:36:33 PM
Thanks  LUKE ....mate i not bad for a old guy and the boat bicth,and who knows what infections you have spread in the boat.....i feel so drity :o
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Gary Prerost on November 05, 2010, 10:01:11 PM
You never mentioned the boat bitch peter better get yourself along to a doctor quick time , mm maybe a clinic for casters desease that can be bad, or maybe the dirty dirty foot clinic who knows where your feet have been
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Andre van Wyk on December 03, 2010, 06:51:36 PM
Just a quick update on footwear...

Just landed my new Simms Flats Boots... stoked, managed to get them through customs free of charge...
These boots are sick....

Here is a pic ( crappy cell pic ) next to my now retiring/back up pair of 5 and a half year old Simms Flats Sneakers which have been on pretty much every single fishing trip/outing since 2005 with me, and have pretty much lived outside on the deck for months at a time...
(http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m209/Steelprod/ANDRE%20FISH%20STUFF/IMG00208-20101130-2106.jpg)
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Greg Burt on December 03, 2010, 07:06:48 PM
The old ones still look loved Neps, retire them with full honors   8)
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Andre van Wyk on December 03, 2010, 07:21:02 PM
They have served me so well Bunzo, and been on many many happy trips mate, they will get a place of honour in my newly built man cave for sure.... The missus surprised me with an early birthday present yesterday... got home and she pulled me downstairs to my cellar/store room which leads off the garden under the house, which I'd recently cleared at her prompting with plans to turn it into a man cave of sorts...

Been working 18 hours a day 7 days a wek the last couple weeks, so no time to get started on teh plans... but I walked in last night and lo and behold, the missus had taken it upon herself to completely clear out, repaint, and install a beer fridge ( full to bursting with ice cold beers ), a flat screen TV, Playstation, a full set of drawer compartments for fishing reels and gear, and rod racks all along the one wall, as well as some wicked bean bags and cushions and an old rocking chair, rugs on the floor, lava lamps........ all of which she got done without me knowing...

There is a wall thats going to be dedicated to lures and retired fishing stuff, so I'm sure the boots will find a place there!

Gotta say I'm pretty damn stoked... not many guys have a woman whjo actually builds them a man cave in their house....
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Kasey Leong on December 04, 2010, 04:12:19 AM
I've got a pair of Keen Newports as deck shoes and they've got great grip and protect the toes really well. Lasted quite a while too. However, they didn't quite dry quickly enough and did end up with a smell. Didn't really like the heel strap either.

However, I've seen these recently and they look much more accomodating:
(http://s.onlineshoes.com/images/br038/137705_366_45.jpg)
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Greg Burt on December 04, 2010, 10:36:12 PM
They have served me so well Bunzo, and been on many many happy trips mate, they will get a place of honour in my newly built man cave for sure.... The missus surprised me with an early birthday present yesterday... got home and she pulled me downstairs to my cellar/store room which leads off the garden under the house, which I'd recently cleared at her prompting with plans to turn it into a man cave of sorts...

Been working 18 hours a day 7 days a wek the last couple weeks, so no time to get started on teh plans... but I walked in last night and lo and behold, the missus had taken it upon herself to completely clear out, repaint, and install a beer fridge ( full to bursting with ice cold beers ), a flat screen TV, Playstation, a full set of drawer compartments for fishing reels and gear, and rod racks all along the one wall, as well as some wicked bean bags and cushions and an old rocking chair, rugs on the floor, lava lamps........ all of which she got done without me knowing...

There is a wall thats going to be dedicated to lures and retired fishing stuff, so I'm sure the boots will find a place there!

Gotta say I'm pretty damn stoked... not many guys have a woman whjo actually builds them a man cave in their house....

WOW!! any sisters ?
What a buzz, playing Assassins Creed 2 on the Play Station in that suroundings  ;D
You're a lucky man Brother  ;)











Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Scott Williams on December 30, 2010, 09:05:16 PM
Has anyone tried the Columbia "Blackfin" ???

http://www.columbia.com.au/products/footwear/productDetails.cfm?parentID=280&catID=291&prdID=775 (http://www.columbia.com.au/products/footwear/productDetails.cfm?parentID=280&catID=291&prdID=775)

It's always been crocs for me previously, but as someone else has mentioned they are useless once the tread wears a little.
Title: Re: Best Water / Boat Shoes.
Post by: Andrew Pennisi on December 30, 2010, 10:03:38 PM
I've tried most of the foot ware listed and don't think I've found the ultimate shoe yet, in the tropics in calm weather, bare feet seem to do the job quite well.  My old runners normally get a run until I can't stand the smell anymore.