I am going to panama (bocas, pacific coast) in a few weeks and possibly costa rica as well. I am going to need reef booties at a few of the locations where the water will be in the high 70s, low 80s. I currently have a pair of 3mm rip curl booties, am wondering if i can get away wearing those or if i should invest in a lighter 2mm reef shoe with a heavier sole. any feedback is appreciated.
Well I feel like you could get away with them but it wouldn't be as comfortable as the 2mm with a heavier sole. The ones you have might also rip, not 100% sure, but anything can rip it really depends on how good you hit your foot on the reef. But if your not really looking to spend money I would just go with the 3mm ones, they should work.
Make sure that the regular boots are secure enough not to come off in a wipeout and also that they won't fill up with water. Really, a new pair of reef boots should only set you back about $40-50, worth having IMHO if you plan on traveling a lot.
Joe Gratola used to wear Keds canvas lowtops. Bright red. Blew everybody's mind. Here comes this kook wearing sneakers in the water, and he's busting 360s, and airs before anybody else in the entire state. Think about it. Lace 'em up tight, and you're good, no matter what.
Reef booties have drain holes to let the water run out and prevent the boot from filling with water. Regular booties do not and will fill with water. Keds canvas low tops have riveted vent holes that would also release the water. Whatever you wear, make sure the water can drain out.
Makes sense b/c my 3 mm and especially my 5 mm winter boots def fill with water so def gonna get some reef boots.
