Waterside activities - paddling, kayaking, wild swimming, beach walks, river crossings - all share the same footwear challenge: you need something waterproof that you can put on quickly, take off easily and pack away without fuss. Traditional wellies are too bulky to carry to the water. Neoprene water shoes are fine for the water but uncomfortable on dry land. Packable waterproof boots sit neatly between the two.
This guide covers how Pokeboo packable boots perform for paddling and waterside use, and what to look for when choosing boots for activities near water.
What to look for in boots for waterside activities
- Fully waterproof - natural rubber or equivalent; not just water-resistant
- Flexible sole - useful for scrambling over rocks, launching a kayak or walking on uneven riverbanks
- Grip - wet rocks, slippery riverbanks and wet boat decks all require decent traction
- Quick to put on and take off - especially useful when moving between water and dry land repeatedly
- Compact and packable - easy to carry to the water in a day bag or dry bag
- Easy to clean - sand, mud and river silt should rinse off quickly
How Pokeboo boots perform at the water's edge
Pokeboo boots are made from natural rubber and are fully waterproof. They are designed for wet-weather use including puddles, wet grass and light paddling. They are not designed for deep water immersion or activities where the boot would be fully submerged for extended periods.
For waterside activities - launching a kayak, paddling in shallow water, paddleboarding, walking along a wet riverbank or beach - they perform well. The flexible sole makes it easier to move on uneven ground, and the natural rubber construction means they rinse clean quickly after contact with sand, mud or river silt.
Pokeboo Original vs Pokeboo TREAD for waterside use
Pokeboo TREAD is the better choice for most waterside activities. The textured sole gives extra grip on wet rocks, slippery riverbanks and wet boat decks.
Pokeboo Original is a good choice for flatter waterside terrain - sandy beaches, flat riverbanks and paddling in calm, shallow water where grip is less of a priority.
Packable boots for kayaking and paddleboarding
Kayakers and paddleboarders often need footwear for the launch and landing rather than for time on the water. Packable boots are ideal for this: you can carry them in a dry bag, pull them on to launch, and fold them back away once you are on the water. They are also useful for portaging - carrying your kayak or paddleboard between water sections on uneven ground.
Read more: Pokeboo packable boots featured in international PADDLER magazine
Packable boots for beach and coastal walks
Coastal walking often involves a mix of terrain - sandy beaches, rocky shores, wet grass and muddy coastal paths. Packable boots are useful for the wetter sections and fold away easily when the ground dries out. They are also practical for rock pooling, where you need waterproof footwear but do not want to carry full wellies to the beach.
Frequently asked questions
Are Pokeboo boots suitable for paddling?
Yes, for light paddling in shallow water. They are fully waterproof and made from natural rubber. They are not designed for deep water immersion or extended submersion.
Are Pokeboo boots good for kayaking?
Yes, for launching, landing and portaging. They are compact enough to carry in a dry bag and quick to put on and take off at the water's edge.
Can I use Pokeboo boots on wet rocks?
Pokeboo TREAD has a textured sole that provides grip on wet rocks and slippery surfaces. As with any footwear, take care on very wet or algae-covered rocks.
How do I clean Pokeboo boots after waterside use?
Rinse under a tap or hose to remove sand, mud and river silt. The natural rubber construction means they clean easily and dry quickly.
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