Previously (click HERE to see last article ) we discuss about the pros and cons of wearing shoes when surfing, but you may also courious how should I do the right choice?
How to Decide Whether to Wear Shoes
Determining whether to wear shoes while surfing ultimately rests with your personal preferences and considerations. However, there are several factors you can ponder before reaching a decision. Asking yourself the following questions may assist in making an informed choice:
- Cold Tolerance: Consider how long you can stay in the water before your feet start feeling uncomfortably cold. If your desired surf duration exceeds your cold tolerance, wearing shoes could be a sensible choice.
- Concerns About Sea Life: If you have concerns about sea life, but you’re not willing to forgo surfing altogether, wearing surfing shoes can provide peace of mind.
- Terrain and Entry/Exit Points: Take into account how you’ll enter and exit the water. If you’ll be navigating rocky or reef-strewn shores and are concerned about foot safety, wearing shoes may be a prudent decision.
- Ocean Floor Composition: Always be mindful of the ocean floor’s composition. If you anticipate a high risk of injury due to its consistency and shallow depths, surf shoes can offer protection.
When choosing the right type of shoes for surfing, remember the following considerations:
- Material: Opt for surf shoes primarily constructed from neoprene, the same material as wetsuits. Neoprene provides flexibility and insulation. Rigid shoes will restrict your movement, while poorly insulated ones won’t keep your feet warm.
- Sole Type: Surf shoes should feature harder, yet not solid, rubber soles. These soles offer grip when standing on your board. Avoid booties with smooth bottoms and no added soles, as they can make balancing on the board challenging.
- Closure Mechanism: Different booties have various closure mechanisms, such as zips, straps, elastics, or slip-on designs. Choose the one that suits your comfort level and doesn’t interfere with your wetsuit or come off easily during wipeouts.
- Ankle Support: Consider whether you prefer booties that extend up your ankle, offering more support and a better seal, or low-cut booties that leave your ankles exposed. The latter can provide greater freedom of movement.
- Thickness: The thickness of your booties’ material should match the water temperature. Thicker booties are suitable for cold water, while thinner ones are better for warmer conditions.
Shoes to avoid for surfing include those not specifically designed for the sport, as they can become waterlogged and heavy, posing a safety risk. Additionally, land shoes tend to lose traction when wet.
In conclusion, most surfers opt not to wear shoes while surfing, but it’s not uncommon, especially in cold water or over rocky breaks. Booties can provide safety from injury and the cold. Ultimately, your decision should align with your specific needs and preferences rather than external opinions.
