Water News

    Astral Announces Four New Styles of Water Shoes for 2015

    Jordan Reed from Darby Communications displays the razor-siping technology incorporated into the bottom of Astral's Loyak shoe.

    At this year’s Outdoor Retailer Summer Market, I stopped by the Astral booth to learn about what new products the water sports brand has planned for release next spring. What I discovered were shoes that not only had the technology to perform well while kayaking or paddleboarding, but that looked good for everyday wear as well.

    Four new styles will be released next spring—the Aquanat, Loyak, Hiyak, and Mary Jay—all of which have heavy-duty gripping features.

    “Our SS15 footwear collection fully embodies the Astral design approach,” Astral CEO and Director of R&D Philip Curry said in a news release. “Shoes that perform well beyond expectation and having a relaxed appearance.”

    While Astral’s 2015 outsole will be constructed of one of two kinds of G-Rubber, the super gripping capabilities are non-marking, so users won’t have to worry about damaging their gear. “These are great water shoes for kayakers, sailors, boaters, rafters—pretty much any kind of water sport,” said Jordan Reed from Darby Communications.

    Aquanat

    Made for the river and the trail, the Aquanat is made of 1000 Denier CORDURA Nylon as well as welded reinforcements in the heel, toe, and eyestay. It’s lightweight and drains quickly because of multiple drainage ports. The shoe also includes plenty of ventilation with fine-screen mesh on its sides. It includes the non-marking rubber outsole with heavy lugs for stability. It will retail for $119.95.

    The Loyak

    The Loyak

    Loyak

    This minimal shoe is made for use in small kayaks. Made with a 1000 Denier CORDURA Nylon upper for durability and ideal drainage, they’re perfect for wear in and out of the water. This shoe also includes the G.15 rubber for traction. They will retail for $79.95.

    Hiyak

    The Hiyak is the perfect kayaking bootie, but also works for rafting and stand-up paddleboarding. It includes three millimeters of quilted Airmesh insulation instead of neoprene, which makes it much lighter, more durable, and quick drying. It includes the G.SS (super sticky) outsole and a 1000D CORDURA Nylon upper, with a 1060 ballistic nylon reinforcement rand. It has a removable closed-cell EVA foam midsole, hidden water-resistant laces with a Velcro flap, and reflective features. It will retail for $114.95.

    Mary Jay

    To expand its offerings for women, Astral will be releasing the Mary Jay, which is perfect for water and everyday wear. It includes a 1000D CORDURA Nylon upper, instep strap with brass buckle, and drainage at the heel and toe. Made of Astral’s G.15 rubber, it provides great traction. The Mary Jay will retail for $79.95.

    To learn more, check out Astral’s website.

    Images by Ariel Black