I generally use skate shoes since they have good support in the ankle and sole. I certainly don't buy them off the rack and put them in the water. I first wear them out by plenty of skateboarding mostly with my dog and once i've worn down the right grip from slowing down they are ready for the water. They will last for a few months and i rarely even give them a rince so don't worry baout how long they will stand salt. I won't think you can get a pair of shoes that wont take sand in but it takes an hour or two running around on the beach before they get so bad you have to dump them out. Some cheapies from Big W with velco closers will do the job too.

I'd say they are best with grip tape though deck grip especially the wake skate rubber works well too. Prepare to be roasted for looking a fool but do what you have to do. Enjoy not having to worry about stubbing your toe on the hidden rock in the sand.

Thanks Rich, will do.....yo da masta.

Nick

Naw Laurie, booties are too hard to get in of and are not with the big cushy sole. Velco snucks like Rich suggests....

Wax and shoe combo would work fine in your scenario, can't see any need for the skate grip. Most bindings have drain holes to let water and fine sand out. Leather punch on the larger setting would to the same job on your shoes. Grab some Chuck Taylor Allstars and start a new trend.

Whatever you end up doing, I'm hoping you get back on the water ASAP!

Would soft sole shoes really make a difference?
If so go to a podiatrist and get some orthotics made up for the shoes you get. You could get crap target top shelf ones then.

gruezi said...

And yes Reli it is that board you just love to hate.......

It is not a surfboard its a pontoon

i personaly use gum boots (wellyies) to the uk folk they strengthen your thighs when you bail and have to tread water. just my 50p

dunlop volleys. good for barefooting also

Is there any reason you need shoes Gruezi?

Why not just take it easy, use wax, bare feet and bend those knees?

Good question Tobes....I hate straps and shoes, but I have noticed that walking with cushy soles is better for my problem. I recon with the right shoes I don't too much wax, no deck grip and I will not cut my feet. Remember that landing on a board is like landing on pavement with bare feet.........not a good impact for fragile old bones.

I'm just plotting with a new concept to get out there again because the way things are now I'm fkd.............

Thanks wotzy about the note about runners catching and getting skate shoes, makes sense. I have the gel insets you are talking about, so the plan is getting better...........so sad I think and breath my new plan to get out there....thanks guys....velcro skate shoes, with holes punched in soles for drainage and gel inserts.

This all keeps me busy while not kiting...............but tonight it is whisky tasting, now that is real good for my problem.

...you may put an EVA foam of 10-15mm of high density (80-120) on the board and cover it with a grip.... it works a treat...
...there are shops that sell EVA foam, and you can get squares of grip from squid grip in Perth...
...alternatively, twinnnie cushions could be quite comfy, but I am not sure where to get them by the m. They may still be of EVA, not sure...

gruezi said...

......I am just going for the softest smoothest pussy ride

Good luck!

I reckon you are teching out a bit with the shoes.
If you are after mellow kitesurfing, just go strapless with a small kite, cushion those impacts with your knees. Maybe your pontoon isn't the perfect ride, I have a few boards that are really relaxing and some that are too wide or need lots of foot pressure, it's down to you and your size / style.

Hope you get out there...

hows about a zimmer frame blossom.. do yourself and your sport a favour and harden up.. keep the shoes for walking in..