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For those of you who aren’t familiar, kitesurfing is an extreme sport that combines elements of surfing, sailing, skateboarding, and snowboarding into a single activity. It is one of the most demanding yet rewarding watersports that you can practice.
Anyone who has ever tried to kitesurf is aware of the change that adequate equipment makes when it comes to stability and safety. Apart from a high-quality kite and kiteboard, there is an additional piece of equipment that you will want to invest more time and money into.
Yes, we are talking about wetsuit boots. As you attach your feet to the kiteboard for added stability, you will want your boots to be comfortable and durable. Let’s look at how to choose a proper pair, as well as whether a split-toe design is the best option out there or not.
Our Reviews of the Best Wetsuit Boots for Kitesurfing
O’Neill Superfreak Tropical Split Toe Booties
BEST OVERALL
If you are looking for boots that will keep your feet protected even in rough conditions, look no further than a pair of O’Neill Superfreak Tropical STs. Highlighted by a deep split-toe design, as well as an adjustable foam exterior, these are incredibly comfortable and offer great balance support!
Review
The first thing that we want to talk about is the durability of these boots. Made from neoprene rubber, which is on both the inside and outside (fluid foam neoprene), there is not much to worry about in terms of sturdiness. Much like with other high-quality boots, the neoprene material offers adequate protection and should easily endure heavy winds and continuous use.
The rubber sole is textured, offering a better balance and traction both when you are walking, as well as standing on the kiteboard. When it comes to wetsuit boots, you will want to have extra support – this is where the adjustable hook front strap comes into play. You can adjust the tightness of the boot depending on your foot size, ensuring optimal comfort and security.
The split-toe design itself is quite impressive and can be of great help if you are a beginner and just learning how to balance yourself on a kitesurf board. Along with the drawstring closure, it works to provide a secure fit no matter your foot size.
The boots are quite attractive and feature an O’Neill brand mark. Our only complaint regarding the design is the missing loop on the heel. This kind of detail could go a long way when it comes to putting the boot on and taking it off.
Still, given the price and the sturdiness of these wetsuit boots, it is safe to consider these a great value offer!
Pros
- Good price point for most people
- Comfortable whether wet or dry
- Sturdy and will not slip off
- Split-toe design for maneuverability
Cons
- Lacking loop on the heel to easily put the boot on
NP Surf Origin High Cut Round Toe Boots
BEST MATERIAL
If you are looking to buy from a respectable brand without breaking your budget, this pair is just the right option for you. NP Surf is a company that is known for high-quality wetsuit footwear, focusing on providing a comfortable and secure fit that should protect your feet and help you have better balance!
Review
Coming in a black color, you can choose from several sizes when it comes to this model. If you are a kitesurfer, you know the importance of great footwear that provides adequate support throughout the design while also offering proper stretch.
These NP Surf booties are highlighted by neoprene rubber that offers multiple layers of protection when walking on the rocks. However, we noticed that this pair is nowhere near as comfortable as the aforementioned wetsuit boots, probably because these don’t feature the neoprene foam on the exterior.
The most innovative design detail on these has to be adequate support that is provided in the heel and toe areas. Unlike most of its competitors, this piece of footwear is highlighted by a high-ankle design, which can be essential when it comes to kitesurfing against heavy waves and winds.
While there is no drawstring closure to help you adjust the fit, these boots are highlighted by a flatlock, so you won’t have to worry about much when it comes to keeping your foot in place throughout your kitesurfing experience.
Although there are a couple of design flaws that we would like to see corrected, we can’t say much against this pair of boots. Secure and offering great heel support, this model is a fair choice if you are on a limited budget and you are looking to get a pair of quality wetsuit boots!
Pros
- Value for money option that is ideal for most people
- Flatlock closure for security
- Stretchable to fit the foot without constricting it
- Great heel and toe support
- High-ankle design offers ankle protection
Cons
- Not as comfortable as similar models
- Lacking drawstring closure for a customized fit
Hyperflex AMP Split Toe Boot
Moving on with our list of the best wetsuit boots for kitesurfing, it is impossible not to mention footwear designed by HyperFlex. As one of the best brands for kitesurfing boots out there, it comes at a somewhat higher price, but given the innovative comfort and security solutions that this model features, it is a product that we would recommend!
Review
The first thing when it comes to this AMP boot is that, due to an innovative design, you will feel warmer and more comfortable. It will also feel like you are kitesurfing barefoot. Highlighted by a pull-on closure and low-heel design, these boots will ensure balanced support when you are on the board.
The material that these are made out of is neoprene, which is considered to be the best solution because of its structure and durability. The best part is that it features AMP-foam, similar to the O’Neill boots we discussed earlier, which ensures optimal comfort and flexibility. Not only that, but the neoprene foam should provide you with added warmth when you are kitesurfing against heavy winds.
Another reason why high-quality material is so important is that it plays a crucial role when it comes to the range of motion and control that you are allowed. Due to the mini diamond-shaped channels and the diamond skin sole, you won’t have to worry about potential blisters that low-quality wetsuit boots are known for. This combination provides fantastic traction and control.
The ExoShell is responsible for added adjustability that will provide you with a secure fit and support from your heel to your toes. Highlighted by a vulcanized heel lock that is connected to the arch strap, the innovative design of these AMP boots eliminates any possibility of strain or foot injury.
Most importantly, you won’t have to worry about these boots becoming damaged through heavy use and stepping on large rocks, given the GBS seams that are highlighted by double-stitching and blind-stitching. Lastly, when it comes to comfort, it is hard to find a pair of boots that could stand up with these AMPs thanks to their P4 thermal lining.
The cushioned microfiber fleece provides optimal insulation and warmth. As we have mentioned above, arguing against these boots is impossible.
Yes, the price is much higher than that of the NP boots, but the difference in quality is immense. Thus, if you want to ensure optimal security, fit, and comfort, think of these AMPs as a long-term investment that will revolutionize your kitesurfing experience.
Pros
- Incredibly comfortable, even when worn for many hours
- Great fit for most people’s feet
- Insulation properties ensure feet are warm even in cold water
- Secure heel lock keeps feet firmly in place
- Durable and will last for many years of regular use
Cons
- Pricey compared to similar boot options
O’Neill Superfreak Tropical Split Toe Booties
We already mentioned that O’Neill is one of the most trustworthy names when it comes to wetsuit boots. This pair is similar to the one we have already reviewed, but the main difference is that it is highlighted by a round-toe design rather than split-toe.
Review
First and foremost, we have to say that the design of these boots is quite attractive. Yes, they only come in black, but the O’Neill logo that is featured throughout, along with the convenient heel loop, makes this model a pair of good-looking wetsuit boots.
We were quite happy to see that this pair offers fantastic torsion control through the forefoot strap, as well as the hook and loop that is set at the heel. Unlike the 2mm split-toe O’Neills, these Superfreaks are highlighted by a round-toe design that can work better for certain kitesurfing maneuvers.
Most importantly, the material that these boots are made out of is neoprene, which is probably the best solution in terms of durability and comfort. Not many of its competitors include the fluid foam neoprene on the exterior that provides proper insulation and protection from blisters.
The rubber sole is textured and offers great traction both when you are walking and standing/balancing yourself on the kitesurf board. The drawstring closure also goes a long way when it comes to having a secure fit and keeping your foot in place.
However, you should keep in mind that this piece of footwear is not made for heavy use, as it doesn’t feature double-stitching and is likely to fall apart if you continuously put them through rough conditions.
Still, no one can deny that these booties offer great comfort and a secure fit for the given price, which is everything a kitesurfing beginner needs!
Pros
- Affordable for most people
- Great comfort is offered, even for long-term wear
- Secure fit gives you confidence and peace of mind
- Neoprene foam offer durability and strength
Cons
- Not as sturdy as similar models
Rip Curl Flash Bomb Hidden Split Toe Boots
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT
Last but certainly not least are these Rip Curl boots that are made according to the latest industry standards in terms of warmth and sturdiness. At a somewhat higher price, these are made to last and provide optimal comfort and traction for any kitesurfing enthusiast!
Review
The main advantage that these boots offer is the incredible warmth, which is due to the Flash Lining. This innovative feature ensures great insulation properties and fast drying, which can be of great use if you have just a single pair of wetsuit boots.
Made out of 3mm E4 neoprene, you won’t have to worry much when it comes to the durability that this piece of footwear offers. The taped seams ensure that the boots can endure heavy-duty use and walking on large and uneven rocks.
We were quite impressed with the comfort that these boots provide. This is mostly due to the soft sole, as well as a tight grip that is provided by the velcro straps. There are a couple of design details that allow for good adjustability, including the heel pull aids, as well as the straps that go around the ankle and over the top of your foot.
Yes, they are on the pricier side, but for the quality and secure fit that you are getting, they are worth it!
Pros
- Great heel-to-toe support
- Adjustable for a comfortable fit
- Dries quickly so no bacteria grow
- Fantastic insulation to keep feet warm in winter
Cons
- Quite expensive compared to similar models
- A bit tight around the bridge for some
Summary
When it comes to choosing the best wetsuit boots for kitesurfing, you should take a couple of points into consideration, including the price, durability, comfort, and support that is provided.
It is safe to say that the AMP HyperFlex proved to be the best out of the five options we reviewed. Great comfort, insulation, and traction make these perfect for both beginners and experienced kitesurfers. However, the price is a bit of an issue when it comes to these boots.
For this purpose, we would put the O’Neill Superfreaks split-toe boots in second place. While these may not provide the same heel-to-toe support, they are still incredibly comfortable and offer a secure fit, which is essential for kitesurfing!
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