I haven't paid much attention to aqua shoes on the past, usually buying whatever is cheap and on sale. Lately I've learned there is a difference. Here are 3 brands and how they compare: Nike Sneakerboat ($40), Nautica Tack ($40 on sale) and Oxide ($9). I've rated each on a scale from 1 to 10 for different qualities. Here's what they look like:
Grip: Gripping the pedals is a high priority for me
Nike -- 10 -- by far the best
Nautica -- 6 -- not bad
Oxide -- 6 -- OK
Fit / comfort:
Nike -- 9 -- excellent walking and pedaling; tiny contact with toes -- I'm picky here
Nautica -- 10 -- very comfortable all around
Oxide -- 5 -- upper seam pinches top of my foot under pedal straps. Otherwise fine.
Sand: Intruding sand can definitely rub your feet the wrong way
Nike -- 9 -- minimal intrusion
Nautica -- 6 -- sand seems to sneak in; not too uncomfortable though
Oxide -- 5 -- sand is sometimes annoying
Construction / durability:
Nike -- NR -- seems well made. No foot liner, but not a problem. Light weight wet and dry; fast drying
Nautica -- NR -- well made, durable plastic foot liner, little heavier, slow drying, Vibram sole.
Oxide -- 3 -- shoe upper pulls away from toe in short order using pedal straps (I wedge my feet in); foam foot liner stretches in time.
Weight: (on the postal scale)
Nike -- 14.1 oz dry / size 11
Nautica -- 19.1 oz dry / size 10
Oxide -- 17.5 oz dry / size 10
Style:
Nike -- clean, functional, simple design
Nautica -- most likely to bag yachting invitations. Looks good with the Hobie Gucci seatback removable fanny pack. Best to be seen in at the Club!
Oxide -- Keep your feet underwater and you'll be fine
Overall rating / value:
Nike -- excellent so far; best value; outstanding sticky soles -- my favorite. Earth saving recycled materials an excellent conversation starter!
Nautica -- comfortable, versatile, can be seen anywhere. Competent shoe. I like it.
Oxide -- Better than nothing -- I've had several pair. Can't beat the price.
There are several other brands and styles out there. If nothing else, this gives some ideas of what to consider. If you have some likes or dislikes, how about sharing them?
