Stand Up Paddling (SUP) is a fantastic way to explore waterways, get exercise, and enjoy the outdoors. But when it comes to paddling, one question often pops up: what should you wear on your feet? Barefoot or Booties?
There are two main options for SUP footwear: going barefoot or wearing booties. The “right” choice depends on several factors, including the environment, weather conditions, and your personal preferences. This guide will delve into the pros and cons of each option, helping you decide what works best for your next SUP adventure.
The Barefoot Experience: Feeling One with the Board
Paddling barefoot offers a unique connection to your board. Here’s what makes it appealing:
- Enhanced Balance: Feeling the board directly with your feet can improve balance and proprioception (your body’s awareness of its position in space). This can be especially helpful for beginners learning to find their center of gravity.
- Superior Board Control: Barefoot paddling allows for more nuanced footwork on the board. This can be beneficial for maneuvering in tight spaces, performing advanced techniques, or navigating choppy waters.
- Tactile Feedback: Feeling the texture of the board beneath your feet provides valuable feedback. You can sense subtle changes in water conditions, like currents or approaching waves.
- Warm Weather Comfort: On hot days, going barefoot can be refreshing. Your feet can cool down quickly when dipped in the water, making for a more enjoyable paddling experience.
- Numb feet: Some people suffer from numb sore feet when paddling. This usually is a thing that goes away when you learn to relax your feet when paddling. Thick booties can make this problem worse.
However, there are also some downsides to consider:
- Sunburn: If paddling in direct sunlight for extended periods, unprotected feet can easily burn. Sunscreen is a must, but reapplication can be inconvenient.
- Sharp Objects: Rocks, shells, and other sharp objects in the water can cause cuts and abrasions. This is a major concern when paddling in rocky coastlines, rivers, or shallow areas.
- Cold Water Discomfort: In cool or cold water, barefoot paddling can be uncomfortable and even lead to numbness. This can be a safety concern as numb feet will have reduced sensitivity.
- Slipperiness: Algae or slime on the board can make the surface slippery, increasing the risk of slipping and falling.
Booties Up: Protection and Performance
SUP booties offer several advantages, especially in challenging environments:
- Protection: Booties shield your feet from sharp objects, blisters, and stings from marine life. This is crucial when paddling in unfamiliar waters or areas with potential hazards.
- Warmth: Booties keep your feet warm in cold water, preventing discomfort and potential numbness from cold. This allows for longer paddles in cooler weather conditions.
- Grip: Many booties have soles with good traction, providing better grip on the board, especially when wet or encountering algae. This can improve stability and prevent slips.
However, booties do come with some drawbacks:
- Reduced Feel: Compared to barefoot paddling, booties can limit the tactile feedback from the board. This may affect balance and control for some paddlers.
- Bulkier Feel: Booties can feel bulky compared to going barefoot. This can take some time to get used to and may slightly affect maneuverability.
- Warm Weather Discomfort: In hot weather, booties can trap heat and make your feet sweaty. This can be uncomfortable and make longer paddles less enjoyable.
Finding the Right Booties for Your Needs
If you decide to go with booties, consider these factors when making your choice:
- Water Temperature: Choose booties with thicker soles and insulation for colder water. Look for thinner, more flexible booties for warmer conditions. Booties are not that expensive. Consider buying few pairs with different thickness. Always prefer using the thinnest ones you can get away with.
- Water Conditions: For rocky coastlines or rivers, prioritize booties with good puncture resistance and protection.
Split toe or Round toe booties
Split toe means that your toe is splint in to it’s on “compartment” inside the bootie. This locks your feet better inside the bootie. Many like this kind of bootie as it might give better feel. The drawback is that split toe booties are not quite as warm. You can’t use a sock for extra warmth or the sock needs to be split toe also.
Safest is to go with regular round toe booties. But if you have bad experience with round toe booties where your feet moves too much inside the bootie give a split toe a try.
Long or Short heel
If you want warmth go with long heel. Long heel keeps your feet dryer, especially if you are using an wetsuit.
If you are using the booties mainly for protection short heel booties might be more comfortable and easier to get your feet into.
Known good SUP bootie brands
Brands that make good booties are usually brands that offer wetsuits also. Go with established brands and you can’t go wrong.
Here is a list of few:
Dry Socks for Added Warmth
When using booties, consider wearing dry socks made for water activities. Dry socks will keep your feet completely dry. My feet get cold really easy. Dry socks have helped this a lot and I can get away with thinner booties when I use dry socks under the booties.
Here are some additional tips for SUP footwear:
- Always try on booties before buying to ensure a good fit. They should be snug but not constricting.
- Inspect booties for any damage before paddling. A small tear can quickly become a larger cut if you step on a sharp object.
- Rinse booties with fresh water after each use to remove salt, sand, and other debris.
- Dry booties thoroughly to prevent mold growth.
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