70 SYNDICATEWAKE.COM
Wakeskate Shoe Review It’s all very well knowing what is on the market and being aware of what is out there but very often an informed decision is the best decision. For that very reason we bring you an independent test of some of the leading shoes in the wakeskate department. Not only the main line specific shoes but also a wildcard non specific shoe to see whether you really need to look for the‘wakeskate’label or if is something that has been all dressed up in marketing and hype. We put the shoes through the mill and rated them on the most important factors when considering which shoe to buy; comfort, weight, flex and grip. Good shoes are often as important (sometimes more) than a good skate. If you can’t interact with the skate how you want to then you are facing an uphill struggle before you even get wet. Everyone wants something different when it comes to skate shoes, some like a harder wearing pair that will see you out over a couple of seasons, some like extra flexibility and feel while others simply choose whichever is comfiest on your foot when you try them on. What we have presented here is a totally independent report for you to make your own decision as to which shoe to choose from or at least give you a better idea how to choose which pair you go for next time you are looking for some. Shoes are really are a very personal matter when it comes to wakeskating, there is a lot of different features and a whole range available. What is most important is to try a few out, switch them up with your friends and find out what works best for you. Some people will enjoy a stiffer, more supportive shoe while others will enjoy a more relaxed fit with less all round support. We are not here to say which is best as that would be like telling you which is favourite brand of chocolate. What we are here to do is to give you some facts so you can make your own calls on what you would like to get from a shoe and which you think might suit you better and make you enjoy your water time a little more. We averaged out the scores from our test team (Taylor Dell and Nick Hine) and took notes on each shoe after some solid testing. Comfort (Feel vs. Ergonomics) – How the shoe felt to wear not only while riding but when wet and walking around. Weight (On land vs. Water)– A combination score of wet and dry weights along with how it felt on the foot. Flex (Support vs. Agility)– How stiff/supportive/felixble the shoe is to ride with and wear. Grip (Durability vs. Control)– A key issue, how much friction you can create with your beloved board. The shoes on test were: Teva - Gnarkosi Fox - Ando Lite Kustom - Amphibian Nike – TITLE TO FOLLOW In each category the shoes are rated by a five star award system that was averaged out from the whole test on both boat and cable.
SYNDICATEWAKE.COM
71
Teva - Gnaroski
This shoe was an interesting one, it is stiffer than the others and is not just a conventional skate converted for wake use. Like all things it is a matter of preference when looking at this shoe, it is stiffer than the rest but if you are after a hard wearing, long lasting shoe – this is for you. It has a moulded heel section which continues almost to the ball of your foot, this makes it super supportive and gives a different feel when riding. There are a plethora of drain holes around the shoe making it quick draining and due to the construction of the shoe with the plastic heel there is a minimal amount of weight change so it feels the same wet or dry on your foot. The hard wearing sole of the shoe makes it a little less responsive and some feeling is lost as a result, however by the same token there is no mesh in the sidewalls either which means this is not a pair of shoes you are going to wear out in a few sets.
Comfort Weight Flex Grip
72 SYNDICATEWAKE.COM
Best Features t t t t t
Lightweight Comfortable Dries quickly Good size/fit Durable
Fox - Ando Lite Comfort Weight Flex Grip
One of the most comfortable shoes in the line up, this shoe not only felt good on the foot but also was a good looking shoe. A lot of foam in the construction means that it does take on some water making it slightly heavier when wet, although the mesh sides do help in getting rid of any excess in the shoe while you are riding.
A durable outer sole means that they will last more than a month or two and will keep you out of the shop and on the water. The sole is a little on the thicker side which is great for those harder landings off the kicker but some control is lost in the exchange. Also the slight tilt on the insole means that the stance is not flat when you are riding which can affect your ride in different ways but is not necessarily a bad thing.
Best Features t t t t t
Maximum comfort Lots of mesh drainage Strong construction Snug fit Durable soles SYNDICATEWAKE.COM
73
Kustom - Amphibian The lighestest overall shoe in the review, no foam in site so the shoe remains almost the same weight wet or dry but can leave the ankles a little exposed for some tastes. The thin soles mean that flexibility and control are strong attributes to this model which will leave you in no doubt as to where your foot is on the skate at any time. The super soft sole may wear quickly for some of the more dedicated riders out there, which opens up the wear vs. control debate which is more of a personal choice from rider to rider. Despite the lack of padding the shoe remains supportive through its’ design and cut around the heel which feels good and instils confidence in the fit. Mesh sides aid drainage all round but can also leads to an increased wear factor as the soft mesh sides don’t stand up too well from grip tape abuse, but if you can avoid the mesh sides with your skate the suede uppers will last well against the elements.
Best Features t t t t t
Slim line sole Mesh panels Very flexible Good control No foam inserts
Comfort Weight Flex Grip
74 SYNDICATEWAKE.COM
Nike - 6.0 Braata
The Nike was the wildcard entry, a non-specific shoe entered into the mix to contrast against the specific products. The shoe sports an all round enclosed upper so there is very little room for drainage and the stitching doesn’t last as well as the specific models that are designed for an aquatic life. However the soles are very flexible and have a lot of grip which translates well through the shoe giving a great feel on the board. The sole being so soft however will be prone to accelerated wear in contrast to some of the tougher soled models around. The suede upper does go very stiff when it is dry and can be ultra tight getting them on dry, which can also lead to excessive wear and tear on the shoe. A small amount of foam in the shoe helps for comfort in the fit and doesn’t affect the performance of the shoe too heavily when they are wet.
Best Features t t t t t
Grippy sole Comfortable fit Very flexible No feel loss Reduced foam
Comfort Weight Flex Grip SYNDICATEWAKE.COM
75