Hi can anyone recommend a great pair of surf booties... has anyone tried the billabong SG5 3mm split toe? Cheers

These are the shizzle:



I am very, very happy with mine (5mm, split toe), they're on their third Vicco winter and still good. Would definitely buy again when the time comes.

I have always found that the hardest thing to do after a long, cold winter surf session..... is taking off my booties.
My back is already tweeked and I just want out of the suit and into the Pub for an after-surf cocktail.

The suction on "pull on" booties is a lower back killer when you get old.

I now use only Zippered Dive Boots... mine are Scuba Pro

So easy on.... Sooooo easy off. unzip, step out. Drink.

For reference... I regularly surf in -10 C (15* F)


For super cold flat-water paddling...I have paddled in -20C (harder to keep feet warm)

I use Neosport Explorer Boots
2 sizes too big, so I can wear 2 layers of socks
The boots come up to your knees... so your feet stay DRY when you launch

Zippered Dive Boots

You need extra warmth for this

5 mm NeoSport Explorer Boots

Xcel Drylock round toe booties best I have used. I use the 7mm in winter and the feet are usually okay for a good while....lasted well considering. Going for the 8mm next winter. The sole remains same thickness but the rest of it has increased warmth. I am surfing in 5 or 6 degrees c in winter.

Supcreek is right though.....boots are a nightmare to get off and that goes for Xcel especially!! But they are the best IMHO.

Ripcurl Flashbomb in 3 or 5 mm. They really do dry fast!

supthecreek,

Port Philip Bay temp down to 15.5c at the moment, and we're all out buying booties.

Looking at your photos, "we are not worthy..."

but to add to the thread, I've just bought some RipCurl Flasbomb booties. Went with these ones because they have the softest sole, so you don't lose too much feel on the board. So far, so warm.

If you all ask nicely, Nozza may post some shots of his hi-tech, soon to be patented bootie drying technology.

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Supmaori said...
[br]Hi can anyone recommend a great pair of surf booties... has anyone tried the billabong SG5 3mm split toe? Cheers

I bought a pair of Billabong booties (not sure of actual model) but found them way too slippery - so went with Ripcurl Flashbomb - grippy, comfy & warm, which is great for SUP, but no good for getting into the straps whilst windsurfing.

My kids have the billabong split toe - must be OK they don't whinge about cold feet and get them on and off ok

I prefer the ripcurls have 2 pairs of rubber souls and 1 pair flashbomb , of those the flashbomb is more comfy . warmer and has lasted better - into its third winter , while the rubber souls have split on the top after one winter but are much easier to get on and off ,

all comes down to personal preference

I am also looking for a good pair of booties but having trouble finding somewhere to actually try them on. There is plenty of options on line but would like to try before I buy. Any suggestions in Sydney of stores that stock a few of the major players in this field?

Thanks.

Dont look past the KSO FLO Vibram Five Fingers boots. Amazing grip, neoprene around the top of the foot with a zero drop to the sole of the foot giving it the sensation of being bare foot.

Cheers

Thanks for all the feedback guys..much appreciated

I agree with Human Cartoon and Slab. This is my third winter with Xcel Drylock boots. They are excellent for both SUP and surfing. Highly recommended!

Xcel lads! 7 round toe in cold water. Accept no substitutes!

I have just got back from Indonesia where i supped in these flying object booties for 10 straight days,

and they are by far the best booties i have ever put on my foot !