RE: [Paddlewise] Footwear

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Stan Heeres [mailto:sheeres_at_net-link.net]
> 
> We are about to embark on a season of canoeing, canoe camping 
> and river
> (not whitewater) kayaking.
> 
> After looking through many magazines and photographs, it seems most
> people wear sandals. That is my first thought also, mostly because of
> the land and water usage.
> 
> My question is this:
> 
> What are the various sandals in use out there for land and water use.
> Please give reason for your enthusiasm. I am looking for brand names,
> how they wear, how long they wear, etc.
> 
 Sandals are one step up from going barefoot.  They can be very comfortable
and convenient to wear when in "amphibious" mode, but the don't really offer
a lot of protection from the elements (cold) or the hard stuff - rocks,
sticks, claws and teeth.
There have been times when small pieces of gravel have lodged between the
sole of my foot and the footbed of my Tevas.  OUCH.  I've stubbed and cut
toes while both barefoot and sandaled.  Sandals are safer than going
barefoot, but not much.
  All of which leads to my thought that my feet deserve to be protected -
and, at least where I live, boots seem to offer the best protection.  A
medium weight wet shoe (like the NRS ATB) does admirable duty when on the
water and a pair of medium weight hikers take care of shore-bound tasks.  My
Tevas are great for kicking around town (especially with a pair of high
fashion fleece socks<grin>), but I don't wear them "in the bush".
  Any injury outdoors, away from the convenience of quick, professional
medical attention, is something to be avoided.  Don't just follow the
example of pictures that you see in various paddling magazines to make your
paddling footwear choices - evaluate your environment, climate, planned
activities, and the myriad possibilities for "unplanned adventures" (ie.
emergencies).

Dave Seng
Juneau, Alaska



  
  
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