...my last pair of Attack shoes just bit the dust. I bought a new pair, but to my dismay NRS has once again changed the design. The last that the new design is built on is different, so the new size 11 no longer fits like the old size 11. Its also noticably bulkier. This is the 3RD time they've changed the last, and the design actually seems to be getting worse with each new version. Whoever is designing them obviously does not have creeking in mind, and doesn't realize what a pain in the ass it is to have to send your shoes back for a different size. The very first (mesh) version of the Attack shoes wasn't broken, I wonder why they decided to "fix" it? Must be trying to develop a better "rafting" shoe :-)

I tried a pair of the Keen creeking shoes. It was like wearing banana peels on your feet. They have absolutely zero traction. Nike no longer makes their creeking shoes, and obviously Lotus / Patagonia is out of the market. Everything else I have looked at is either oriented toward playboating and offers no protection, or is way too bulky to fit in a kayak. It is also interesting that there is nothing out there designed to work with a drysuit. Most everything is made of neoprene, which sucks for durability, drainage and support. Plus, if you're wearing a drysuit with socks, you don't need the insulation of neoprene anyway.

I'm really surprised no one has tapped into this market. I have a hunch its because none of the companies making footwear are actually consulting with boaters. They probably have some MBA whose never boated in charge of their "rafting" shoes line. It seems like it wouldn't be too difficult to develop something that is simple, durable, offers good protection and isn't too bulky. Why are there so few (i.e. zero) options?