Astral Hiyak Water Shoes

I've used these over 18 months now, ocean and inland kayaking. Very comfortable, less rigid and more room for the big toe than the five ten ankle high boots I can't get anymore. They are sturdy and resist cuts from rocks and barnacles well. Good drain holes, and the fabric dries out easier in the sun. But overall they are wetter than neoprene boots, because the quilted fabric takes forever to drain, and I bring more water into the cockpit. And they don't seem to dry at all overnight in the dark. They are good for day hikes around camp, with good protection for toes and ankle bones, and good traction on rocks and logs. Among the best for not getting sand and gravel inside. When tied, they will not pull off my foot in deep mud like low-cut water shoes.

Super comfy, grip is excellent. Removable insert makes it possible to use them with waders if you size up. I've been using them all season this year, and have zero complaints.

10/10, great for use as a raft guide, way better underwater traction than others I’ve tried. Maybe size up tho, the foot band inside is pretty narrow/tight. Over all super easy to use, great value, high quality, and they just look pretty sick too.

Gets the job done. Not uncomfortable. Quality

So far very happy with these shoes. Comfy right away. Good if you have wide feet at the toes, they don't pinch the toes. Light weight. Be aware that these have a rubbery insole the normal insole may not fit the shoe's unique shape but I feel this could be remedied with the right socks if it's an issue. The shoelace protection flap is actually a really great innovation and should be universally adapted.

This is my first impression of the shoes after receiving them. I have not used them in the water but they came highly recommended from a friend who has worn them a long time. I will edit this review after some water time. The first thing I noticed was the quality. These do not look cheap in quality. The comfort when I put them on is amazing. The insole feels like a slight rubbery surface which you would expect from a water shoe. All around the ankle is a very soft material and I was pleasantly surprised at how good it felt. I really like the strap that holds the shoelaces in place and gives extra support to the ankle. I've been wearing them around the house to break them in but they already feel broken in. I will be using these in my kayak on rivers and also the coastal backwaters. I need protection. I feel these shoes are going to be great. I've had some shoes (sandals) that always allow small sticks, sand and sea shells under my foot. Drives me crazy. About the time you launch your kayak you take a step and feel a sharp pain because a shell or stick is wedged under your foot. One of the reasons I bought these was to eliminate that problem. If I'm camping on a river, these shoes should act as a pretty good hiking boot to go exploring as well. I'm very happy with initial impression. I will report back after some water time.

As always great river shoe. No 1/2 sizes, so definitely size up. Durable, non slip, great ankle support

Absolutely love these- they stay on, snug but comfortable, keep rocks and sand from entering your shoes, protects your toes and soles from sharp objects or rocks in the water, and drain nicely. High quality and worth every penny.

Excellent grippy river shoes....so far. They have the soles stitched rather than glued to the upper. I live in hope that this'll give them a longer life than my previous several sets of river shoes from other manufacturers. ...so I'm now on my second set. I got just over a year out of these (around 200 days on the water), which is similar to what I've had out of 5:10s and Bestard shoes.

Arrived on time. Fit is good. Seem well made, with comfy ankle area and good sole. Not used yet due to Covid...

I tested these out over the weekend with two days of open canoeing and they are extremely comfortable & lightweight!