Review: XTRATUF Kiata Drift Sneaker

What kind of footwear should you wear out on the river? As a novice paddler, I often wore some kind of sandals or running shoes that had been languishing in my closet. But when I started spending more time out on the water, it was time to pick up a dedicated pair of river kicks. And the XTRATUF Kiata Drift Sneakers were just what I was looking for.

These shoes are essentially a pair of sneakers that are designed to be worn in the water. The upper material snugly holds my foot in place as I'm trudging through a streambed, and it doesn't absorb excess water that makes the shoes feel heavy or sloppy when I go on land. The soles are grippy and supportive, providing stability and confidence when navigating along the banks. They are also non-marking, so they won't scuff up a boat.

One of my favorite things about the Kiata Drift Sneakers is that they can be worn comfortably with or without socks. The inside of the upper is devoid of any thick seams, so they feel plush on top of my feet. Regarding fit, the Kiata Drift Sneakers seem to run a tad large—I might recommend sizing down half a size (as they do come in half sizes), especially if you plan to wear them without socks. All in all, I've been impressed by the Kiata Drift Sneakers, and I'll wear them pretty much any time I'm heading for the water.

xtratuf.com; $115.