It took some time but I was finally able to acquire a pair of Vibram Five Finger 'barefoot' shoes in the neoprene 'Flow' model, which was the style I was looking for in the first place. The KSO model was the first style I tried and as just as quickly as I managed to squeeze them on, I realised the KSO would make for a good kayaking shoe as well - so bought that instead. But ever since I've been left thinking the Flow would better suit cooler conditions. Constructed with 1.5mm neoprene (as opposed to the nylon fabric in the KSO), the Flow is certainly warmer. Not only are they warmer, I also think they'll do a better job of keeping sand and mud out of the shoe, as there are no mesh panels as with the KSO.Because I go kayak fishing all-year round, it was fairly easy for me to justify the investment into both. But many people might otherwise be faced with a tough choice. Being that I tend to feel the cold a lot, I found that the KSO simply isn't warm enough for mid-winter kayaking, yet pretty much perfect for warmer months. Appreciating the fact that most people don't feel the cold quite like myself, to use latitude as an example, I think it fairly safe to say that for Aussie yakkers who try to participate all year round, anyone based south of Sydney is probably best to look closely at the Flow. Paddlers living north of Sydney will likely be better off with the KSO.
I've only been wearing the Flow for one day and while suitably impressed, the real test (on the water) is yet to come. But I think its safe enough for me to conclude (based on my experience with the KSO) that although the Flow is most certainly a better cold weather solution than the KSO, it's too early for me to conclude that they are a superior solution to the Stohlquist Caveman Ergo, which has been a terrific performer for me, in both cool and warmer weather. They're also comfortable enough to walk around all day long and are also well-worth looking at. Especially for those that either can't fit into, or are unsure about the Vibram Five Finger style.
| Next > |
|---|
