Astral Brewer

This is the first pair of lace-up, shoe style water shoes I have owned, and I admit, had I not won these, I probably would still be using slip-on neoprene cheapie-type water shoes. But these are great! I have used them for many canoe outings and canoe camping trips, and I can say that I cannot imagine a better pair of shoes for my paddling needs.

In deciding which size to order for this model shoes, I did some research, which indicated they may tend to run a bit small; I ordered a half size up from my normal size, and that seems just right.

They are very comfortable to wear, and are amazingly lightweight. I often wear a pair of sacrificial old bike socks, which makes them a bit more snug to my feet, especially when they are wet. There seemed to be no need for a break-in period, and I have had no discomfort from the shoes, during any of the varied applications.

The rubber compound on the sole has helped me stay upright on some slippery launch sites, as well as when clambering up rocks, and piney, rooty trails to campsites. The laces hold the shoe snugly in place (it comes with two pair of laces, in coordinated colors!). They seem to be durable, and show no obvious signs of wear after pretty heavy use for a period of months.

The shoes are comfortable in the canoe, and stay cool even when the temps begin to rise.

Drainage in the shoes is great,and I am amazed at how fast they dry. There are water escape routes on the sides and back of the shoe. One of the best things I have noticed....Remember the Seinfeld episode "The Beast"...well, with our old water shoes, we used to have to bag them in plastic before we put them in the car, because of that lovely odor they would develop..and it never would go away!

Well, these shoes DO NOT SMELL! Does not seem to matter how clean or less-than-clean the water may be, the material of their construction ( a type of cordura nylon) does not hold an odor.

The heel of the shoe is designed so it can be folded down, and you can use the shoes in a scuff or clog mode...very nice, for quick trips out of the tent while camping.

I do not kayak, so have not tried them in that type of boat. My husband sometimes uses a kayak, and he would certainly buy a pair if they were made in a size 14 shoe.

There are three color choices in the men's model (which I have), and two choices in the Brewess (women's model).

I definitely would recommend this shoe!

Solid shoe for everyday use.

Recently saw these on sale and needed a pair of water shoes for an upcoming trip to Dominican Republic. Received them and have worn them regularly since.

Very comfortable shoe with or without socks. Shoe does not seem to hold odor in, but man do my feet stink after. Haven't had a chance to actually use them in the water except for watering the lawn/garden, but the soles seem super sticky so far.