Let’s be honest when it comes to cold wether surfing or paddle boarding, it’s a drag to have wet feet. You are exposed to the elements, time on the water feels longer, and paddling becomes more exhausting. There are a few options to choose from if you don’t want to get wet feet. For example, you can don a thick wet suit or simply take your boots off and keep them onboard next to your board in a dry bag.
Yet, not many winter surfers prefer the idea of getting into the water with a bulky wet suit or once out of the water, drying up their feet before putting the boots back on. Cold water and wet feet aren’t pleasant experiences at all.
The solution is to get an excellent pair of surf booties that will keep your feet dry. However, there are a lot of surfing booties to choose from on the market. Even worse, some of the best ones in terms of price and quality aren’t that easy to find.
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| O'Neill Reactor 2 2mm Reef Booties | Best Overall |  |
| Seavenger Zephyr 3mm Neoprene Dive Socks | Budget Pick |  |
| Rip Curl Flash Bomb Hidden Split Toe Wetsuit | Upgrade Pick |  |
1. O'Neill Reactor 2 2mm Reef Booties
Pros:
- Sturdy material
- Good insulation
- Get a lot of compliments from others on how they look
These surf booties from O'Neill are definitely the right choice for you if you're looking for a good quality pair. The typical characteristics of these surf booties are that they're flexible to avoid cramping your feet, and they've made using rubber, which is both lightweight and sturdy. It also means that your feet won't feel cold or numb.
It features an adjustable Velcro strap to hold the booties in place, to make sure they won't budge for your whole ride. The surf booties are also a great point of purchase as they look really good. No one would make out you're wearing booties from a distance.
The O’Neill Reactor 2 2mm Reef Booties also has their "Hydrophobic" lining to dry quickly and kill the bacteria. Overall, this can be a great buy for you if you're looking for something that will keep your feet warm in cold water.
2. O'Neill Superfreak 2mm Tropical Split Toe Booties
Pros:
- This soft rubber 7mm thick O’Neill Superfreak partial neoprene boots keep your feet warm with the 2mm Tropical Split Toe Booties and its soft rubber upper with buckle closures.
- The Slip-on design enables you to put these boots on even when your feet are wet. You can even swim with these.
- Vibram rubber soles on these boots provide traction and grip in all kinds of conditions.
- The contrast between the black upper and the white soles makes your feet look stylish.
- These are the most durable boots bought by users of this product averaging 4.3 out of 5.0 stars.
- "My feet were in these boots for a solid hour… Some of the guys were in them for 3-4 hours and there was no difference in foot time," said Lin’s. She’s talking about cold water surfing conditions where the temperature was around 32 degree F.
- This Amazon reviewer is grateful the boots come in two sizes: "took the O'Neill bootie in a size 9 for a more accurate foot fit for me… The 9 definitely fits close to the foot." She also says the price is reasonable, despite the fact the boots are insulated.
3. O'Neill Heat 3mm Split Toe Booties
Pros:
- The booties combine the wide range of motion of an open-toe bootie, with the extra protection of a bootie, and they won’t fall off.
- The bootie is not very durable, and you may want to replace it after a few weeks of use.
4. Neo Sport Premium Neoprene Men & Women Wetsuit Boots
Pros:
- The design is attractive
- The sole provides traction for slippery surfaces
- The polyester is durable and flexible
- The soles of the boots are somewhat puncture-resistant
Cons:
- They may be too tight and become uncomfortable on long-term use
- They are easy to stain or tear
- Customers report leaks after several months of use
The Neo Sport Premium Neoprene Men & Women Wetsuit Boots, Shoes are a fun addition to any watersport. This product is designed to resist tears and punctures and is available in small, medium, and large.
Customers report that these boots are somewhat comfortable and some an even wear them as regular boots when they go to the beach. They are nicely shaped and are just the right size, about an inch or two above the ankle.
These boots are created out of neoprene and Lycra. The neoprene provides a soft and comfortable stretch around the ankle. The rubber soles provide traction for slippery surfaces. The polyester parts of this footwear are durable and flexible and can handle rough use.
5. O'Neill Superfreak 2mm Tropical Split Toe Booties
Pros:
- This soft rubber 7mm thick O’Neill Superfreak partial neoprene boots keep your feet warm with the 2mm Tropical Split Toe Booties and its soft rubber upper with buckle closures.
- The Slip-on design enables you to put these boots on even when your feet are wet. You can even swim with these.
- Vibram rubber soles on these boots provide traction and grip in all kinds of conditions.
- The contrast between the black upper and the white soles makes your feet look stylish.
- These are the most durable boots bought by users of this product averaging 4.3 out of 5.0 stars.
- "My feet were in these boots for a solid hour… Some of the guys were in them for 3-4 hours and there was no difference in foot time," said Lin’s. She’s talking about cold water surfing conditions where the temperature was around 32 degree F.
- This Amazon reviewer is grateful the boots come in two sizes: "took the O'Neill bootie in a size 9 for a more accurate foot fit for me… The 9 definitely fits close to the foot." She also says the price is reasonable, despite the fact the boots are insulated.
6. Rip Curl Flash Bomb Hidden Split Toe Wetsuit
These booties also get a lot of praise because they are simple to get on and off and they don’t come off in your feet while surfing. The simple design using neoprene as well as the split seam bootie help them fit all standard shaped feet well, whether they are big, wide, narrow or medium footed. The materials are solid and high-quality and these are one of the easiest to get on. They are also one of the most popular booties for surfers today.
Perhaps the best thing about this bootie is that it comes in both kids and sizes too so even if you have a little girl planning on learning to ride waves it is a good option for you to consider to make sure her feet stay warm and protected without giving her an overabundance of extra fluffiness up top.
7. Mares Neoprene 2mm Scuba Snorkeling Dive Boots
Pros:
- Good quality material
- Very comfortable
- Very easy to get on and off
- Keep feet warm during the colder months
- Have a snug fit
- A great price
(Size: Medium (6.5-7.5), Black)
Overall, most reviewers are very satisfied with this purchase and recommend it for anyone who spends a decent amount of time in the water each week and wants to maintain their comfort level during all times of the year.
8. Hyperflex AMP 2mm Low Reef Boot
Pros:
- Best for any water temperature
- Thinner than other options
- Easy to breath in and out
- Ventilation holes
- Excellent protection
Cons:
- Low stretch zones
- Limited warranty
The Hyperflex AMP 2mm Low Reef Boot Package is our review winner in this category. This is an excellent bootie package that offers some of the best comfort available in today’s options.
This package features a soft EVA 3D footbed that provides excellent comfort that will be appreciated up to multi-hour stints in the water. The faux fur lining will add another layer of warmth even though it doesn’t come into contact with the foot.
The design is also form fitting so that you get the right fit and maximize comfort. The high-top design will go higher than the ankles, allowing you to wear the boot with short pants without the need for a long bootie.
9. Neo Sport Premium Neoprene Men & Women Wetsuit Boots
Pros:
- The design is attractive
- The sole provides traction for slippery surfaces
- The polyester is durable and flexible
- The soles of the boots are somewhat puncture-resistant
Cons:
- They may be too tight and become uncomfortable on long-term use
- They are easy to stain or tear
- Customers report leaks after several months of use
The Neo Sport Premium Neoprene Men & Women Wetsuit Boots, Shoes are a fun addition to any watersport. This product is designed to resist tears and punctures and is available in small, medium, and large.
Customers report that these boots are somewhat comfortable and some an even wear them as regular boots when they go to the beach. They are nicely shaped and are just the right size, about an inch or two above the ankle.
These boots are created out of neoprene and Lycra. The neoprene provides a soft and comfortable stretch around the ankle. The rubber soles provide traction for slippery surfaces. The polyester parts of this footwear are durable and flexible and can handle rough use.
10. Seavenger Zephyr 3mm Neoprene Dive Socks
Pros:
- Flexible 3mm neoprene construction
- 130lb Compression Rated
- Ideal for drysuit divers & surfers
Our top pick is the Seavenger Zephyr 3mm Neoprene dive socks, which come in various sizes for men and women. These specialized socks are ideal for divers and surfers as they are highly flexible even when inflated, making them easier to put on, wear, and take off. They are also more durable than cheaper knock-offs, and are long-lasting and resistant to tear, abrasion, and tear when you’re using them.
These dive socks from Seavenger are extremely lightweight and breathable. They’re made with 3mm neoprene for your feet and 1.2mm neoprene for your calves and ankles. The design also means that they’re comfortable to wear while providing ample wrist and ankle support during your dives.
Since this item is designed with cold water in mind, you can wear it in temperatures as low as 39‖72 Fahrenheit. Using the product also helps to keep the odor of your feet at bay.
11. O'Neill Reactor 2 2mm Reef Booties
Pros:
- Sturdy material
- Good insulation
- Get a lot of compliments from others on how they look
These surf booties from O'Neill are definitely the right choice for you if you're looking for a good quality pair. The typical characteristics of these surf booties are that they're flexible to avoid cramping your feet, and they've made using rubber, which is both lightweight and sturdy. It also means that your feet won't feel cold or numb.
It features an adjustable Velcro strap to hold the booties in place, to make sure they won't budge for your whole ride. The surf booties are also a great point of purchase as they look really good. No one would make out you're wearing booties from a distance.
The O’Neill Reactor 2 2mm Reef Booties also has their "Hydrophobic" lining to dry quickly and kill the bacteria. Overall, this can be a great buy for you if you're looking for something that will keep your feet warm in cold water.
12. Rip Curl Flash Bomb Hidden Split Toe Wetsuit
These booties also get a lot of praise because they are simple to get on and off and they don’t come off in your feet while surfing. The simple design using neoprene as well as the split seam bootie help them fit all standard shaped feet well, whether they are big, wide, narrow or medium footed. The materials are solid and high-quality and these are one of the easiest to get on. They are also one of the most popular booties for surfers today.
Perhaps the best thing about this bootie is that it comes in both kids and sizes too so even if you have a little girl planning on learning to ride waves it is a good option for you to consider to make sure her feet stay warm and protected without giving her an overabundance of extra fluffiness up top.
13. O'Neill Heat 3mm Split Toe Booties
Pros:
- The booties combine the wide range of motion of an open-toe bootie, with the extra protection of a bootie, and they won’t fall off.
- The bootie is not very durable, and you may want to replace it after a few weeks of use.
14. Aqua Lung 5mm Men's Superzip Ergo Boot
Pros:
- Low price
- Gets the job done
The Aqua Lung Men’s Superzip Ergo Bootie is a great choice for the high-tech, wearable boots that it offers. That’s because it comes with silicone lacing and a heavy-duty zipper. It also offers excellent fit that makes it more comfortable than other similar boots on the market.
Installing these boots can be a little difficult at first but with some time and a little patience, it gets easier. The clear top rolled edge is designed to stop water from seeping in.
These boots feature a removable shorty sock that makes it easier to wear them without adding bulk. This feature also gives your toes more room to move around. It also allows for easy drying if you get water inside the boots when you swim.
15. Hyperflex AMP 2mm Low Reef Boot
Pros:
- Best for any water temperature
- Thinner than other options
- Easy to breath in and out
- Ventilation holes
- Excellent protection
Cons:
- Low stretch zones
- Limited warranty
The Hyperflex AMP 2mm Low Reef Boot Package is our review winner in this category. This is an excellent bootie package that offers some of the best comfort available in today’s options.
This package features a soft EVA 3D footbed that provides excellent comfort that will be appreciated up to multi-hour stints in the water. The faux fur lining will add another layer of warmth even though it doesn’t come into contact with the foot.
The design is also form fitting so that you get the right fit and maximize comfort. The high-top design will go higher than the ankles, allowing you to wear the boot with short pants without the need for a long bootie.
16. XCEL Men's Drylock Split Toe Boot 3Mm
Pros:
- Flexible material for walking comfort
- Quick drying
- Built-in snow lock
- Keeps out water and wind
Are you looking for a quality bootie that will keep your feet dry and looking great in the water? If so, consider the XCEL Men’s Drylock Split Toe Boot. This is a comfortable boot that is ideal for surf, wake or knee-boarding.
Designed to be flexible, this boot allows a great range of motion for walking and moving about. The boot heats the foot, keeping it warm in colder temperatures.
It also comes with a quick-drying material. This makes it ideal for water sports, as you can get them off and let them dry once you’re out of the water.
17. XCEL Men's Drylock Split Toe Boot 3Mm
Pros:
- Flexible material for walking comfort
- Quick drying
- Built-in snow lock
- Keeps out water and wind
Are you looking for a quality bootie that will keep your feet dry and looking great in the water? If so, consider the XCEL Men’s Drylock Split Toe Boot. This is a comfortable boot that is ideal for surf, wake or knee-boarding.
Designed to be flexible, this boot allows a great range of motion for walking and moving about. The boot heats the foot, keeping it warm in colder temperatures.
It also comes with a quick-drying material. This makes it ideal for water sports, as you can get them off and let them dry once you’re out of the water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who makes the best wetsuits for surfing?
There’s a number of surf brands that make good boots. In this guide, I’ve reviewed the best watersports booties on the market in 2022.
My top pick for women is the Rip Curl Women’s Kinetic booties. They have a hydrodynamic design that allows you to glide through the water and stay fully engaged with the wave.
For men, my top pick is the O’Neill Men’s Primero booties. They have a heat-reflective inner booty that makes it comfortable to wear in colder water, and flat seams that cut down on water drag.
For kids and youths, my top pick is the NRS Kids Youth River booties. They have an asymmetrical design that gives great support and stability.
How do I choose surf booties?
The perfect surf booties have to be cozy, warm, and most importantly functional. Your feet will be basking in the water and you’ll be walking on the board, so you’ll have to feel secure and totally comfortable to have a great surfing experience. Keep in mind that you’ll be spending a lot more time in them than your typical shoes.
Sometimes what’s most important is comfort. If you’re trying to stay warm in the colder months of the year but don’t want to wear a huge pair of slippers then the soft fleece of booties will do the trick. On the other hand, if you’re going surfing on a particularly hot day and you’re looking for something more streamlined to slip your feet into, the rubber soles will do the trick.
What is the best 4 3 wetsuit?
This "best" wetsuit is anything but. I know that's a bold statement, but I am willing to stand behind it. I am just a simple guy with a wife, kids, and two jobs. Needless to say, I don't have a ton of free time on my hands. But w
But when I'm on the water, I love surfing and I love surfing in warm water. So finding the best 4 3 wetsuit for me is like, the holy grail. And I have done all the research and I have test driven a solid amount of wetsuits from the abominable price range to the budget friendly ones. And so here's what I found from testing all these surf wetsuits.
Is Xcel A good wetsuit brand?
A pinnacle, Xcel wetsuits is a specialized manufacturer of wetsuits and surf Accessories. They pride themselves on the quality and design of their wetsuits, as well as providing the best possible service for their clients.
Generally-speaking, Xcel provides a high-quality, durable wetsuit; however, their price is typically a little more than its competitors.
Conclusion
There are a number of benefits to wearing a surf bootie. For starters, they eliminate the pain of having blisters after surfing, water skiing, wakeboarding or any other water sport. Your feet will stay warm and are pretty comfortable.
This is a nice alternative if you’re not really into wearing old-school neoprene booties.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| O'Neill Reactor 2 2mm Reef Booties | Best Overall | |
| Seavenger Zephyr 3mm Neoprene Dive Socks | Budget Pick | |
| Rip Curl Flash Bomb Hidden Split Toe Wetsuit | Upgrade Pick | |