Surf booties and surfers - that's usually not love at first sight. And if surfers could avoid wearing them they probably would. The main reason being the better board feeling when surfing barefoot and therefore the improved board control. But surfing in cold weather conditions makes them change their minds quickly and start appreciating booties.
Let's face it, surfing in -10 degree, knee high snow conditions doesn't really leave the option to not wear booties.
But also reef breaks and rocks make a surfer appreciate booties - even in warmer regions. Especially when another surf cut yet again lead to an infection, hence, no surfing... we all learn our lessons eventually.
So let's do a fact check and take a look at the Pros and Cons:
Pros:
Foot Protection: Surf booties provide protection for your feet against sharp objects, rocks, coral, and other hazards that may be present in the ocean.
Temperature Regulation: In colder water, surf booties help to keep your feet warm by providing an additional layer of insulation. This is particularly useful for surfers in colder climates.
Improved Traction: The rubber soles of surf booties offer better traction on slippery surfaces, such as rocks or the waxed surface of a surfboard. This can enhance your stability and control while on the board
! On the other hand -> improved traction can also be a "con" argument. Yes, surfers want traction, hence the wax on boards, but there is a "too much" , too. Longboarders like to walk on their boards and also short boarders adjust their foot position during a ride. A tiny movement of the back foot can speed them up and give them that extra momentum to get around the white water or to make a turn. Booties sometimes inhibit these movements and give surfers the feeling of being "stuck" on the board.
Cons:
Reduced Board Feel: Some surfers argue that wearing booties can diminish the "feel" of the board, making it harder to gauge the board's movements and respond quickly to changes in the wave.
Fit Issues: Getting the right fit with surf booties can be crucial. If they are too loose, water may enter, reducing their insulating properties, and if they are too tight, they can be uncomfortable and restrict movement.
Aesthetics: Some surfers prefer the aesthetics of bare feet on the board.
Learning Curve: If you're not used to wearing booties, there may be an initial adjustment period as you get used to the feel and movement. This can affect your balance and overall surfing performance until you become accustomed to them.
Most surf brands sell booties in different thickness and styles. For instance Oneill Split Toe 3/2. Booties with split toes are supposed to provide the surfer with a better board feeling, but the downside to them is that they don't keep feet as warm as the regular booties without toe split.
In conclusion, the decision to wear surf booties depends on various factors, including the water temperature, the type of surf conditions, and mainly - personal preferences. Ultimately it's always up to the surfer and as always - there is no right or wrong. Just whatever works best for you.
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