Gear Suggestions: Shoes & PFD

[hank9481]

I'm looking at getting a pair of Columbia Cayman II's from Sierra Trading Post and wondered if anyone had any just to feel better about my purchase or if someone has advice regarding a different option that may work better. I don't have a ton of money to spend so suggesting a $200 pair of amphibious shoes will be tough for me !

I'm also in the market for a good, lightweight PFD for kayaking. Nothing uncomfortable or bulky. Thoughts?

[turboturtle]

I think the Caymans your looking at look like deck shoes for sailing or kicking round the docks. I don't know what you paddle, but most all decked boaters seem to prefer neoprene booties as they collapse stuffing them into an already tight little decked boat.
As for canoeing with them. They might be alright. Ida know. Maybe not if your a saddle riding solo boater. Most peeps feets get a little sore from being crunched in paddling position.

Other than that, they do look good for the price. I have better luck finding something that fits when I don't have to order on line however. I never buy before I try.
This is but my opinion, Others might have one you find more acceptable. That's what its all about.
NRS has a line of neoprene booties, most under Fifty bucks. I've been wearing their booties for many a year. Never been dissatisfied with them.

Bob

[Randy Dodson]

I've got a pair of Keen Hood River shoes that are the best thing I've ever had for open boating. Around $100. I strongly recommend them for open boating. If you're kayaking they might be ok for a rec boat but I don't think they'd work very well for a WW kayak or dedicated touring or sea kayak. In those cases I'd check out what Turbo said.

[Steve S]

I saw Randy's Keen Hood Rivers and immediately ordered a pair. I concur with his recommendation. They are comfortable, dry quickly and provide excellent protection for your feet when you are wading in a rocky stream bed. http://www.keenfootwear.com/product/ss0 ... ver%20boot" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[RomanLA]

These aren't the greatest thing out there, but they are probably the most common shoe you will see on the river.
http://www.austinkayak.com/products/441 ... -Shoe.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

The shipping is free and here's a 20% off coupon code for them...
Coupon: MAYFLOWERS
Offer Expires: 5/31/2009