Footwear for Rafting: What NOT to Wear [Guide]

Choosing the right gear is like charting a course before navigating a river; it sets you up for a successful adventure. When it comes to whitewater rafting, your footwear choice is far more than a minor detail – it’s a critical piece of safety equipment. This guide will steer you away from poor choices, explaining why certain shoes can turn an adventure into a hazard, highlighting the footwear blacklist, outlining the risks involved, detailing essential features for good river shoes, and offering some solid recommendations on shoes for rafting.

Understanding what not to wear is the first step in ensuring your feet are protected, secure, and ready to handle the dynamic environment of the river. Let’s navigate these waters together, ensuring your focus stays on the thrill of the rapids and the beauty around you, not on failing footwear for rafting. These tips will help you select the best rafting shoes for your upcoming rafting trip.

Why Footwear Choice Matters

Selecting appropriate footwear isn’t just about comfort; it’s fundamental to your safety and the smooth running of the entire rafting trip. The wrong shoes can introduce unnecessary risks, potentially leading to injuries or complications that affect everyone on the water. Let’s explore why this choice carries so much weight when considering whitewater rafting footwear. Considering different footwear options is key.

Safety Risks of Wrong Shoes

Wearing unsuitable shoes on a rafting trip introduces genuine safety concerns. Many newcomers make this mistake, often requiring outfitters to step in with rental gear like neoprene wetsuit boots simply to meet basic safety standards. It highlights how vital proper footwear selection is right from the start. We often see people underestimate the river’s demands during river rafting.

Rafting subjects your feet and footwear to significant forces and varied terrains – slippery rocks, uneven banks, and the constant push of water. Shoes need to offer protection and stay firmly attached. A failure here can directly cause injury or lost gear, disrupting the flow of the trip for everyone involved. Think of it as ensuring your vessel (raft) is river-ready. Your foot needs protection.

Foot injuries are unfortunately common on water trips, frequently stemming from inadequate footwear. Shoes that don’t protect against sharp rocks or fail to provide stability are often the culprits. Guides consistently emphasize footwear because they’ve seen firsthand how easily preventable problems arise from poor choices.

The river environment itself presents numerous hazards. Sharp rocks, submerged branches, and slippery riverbanks demand reliable grip and protection. Official safety guidelines often stress the need for appropriate footwear to navigate these conditions. For instance, the National Park Service advises against bare feet due to potential hazards on riverbeds. Ignoring such advice increases accident likelihood.

Importance of Secure Fit

The single most vital requirement for rafting footwear is that it stays securely on your feet. This is non-negotiable. Imagine being unexpectedly swept into turbulent water – losing your shoes instantly puts you at a disadvantage, barefoot in a potentially hazardous environment. Your shoes are your anchor in unpredictable currents; a secure fit is paramount.

Achieving this security relies on robust fastening systems. Look for sturdy laces on shoes or well-designed straps, including an indispensable heel strap on sandals. These features prevent shoes from being pulled off during vigorous paddling, navigating rough terrain, or taking an unexpected swim. The fit must withstand the river’s dynamic forces; this is where footwear becomes critical.

Losing footwear mid-river leaves feet exposed to injury from rocks, debris, or slippery surfaces. It hinders movement and complicates rescue efforts. A secure fit ensures continuous protection and allows you to move confidently, whether bracing in the raft or walking ashore. It’s the foundation of safe river travel.

Outfitters universally stress the need for shoes that won’t come off. Dealing with lost gear causes delays and risks for the entire group. Their packing lists consistently specify secure options, reflecting the practical importance of this rule. Following these guidelines avoids common pitfalls and keeps the expedition moving smoothly.

A snug fit also ensures the shoe performs as intended, offering stability and protection. It prevents your foot from sliding inside, which can cause blisters or loss of balance. This connection between fit and function is key to bracing effectively and moving with confidence on your river journey. Have you ever experienced footwear failure during an activity?

The Rafting Footwear Blacklist

Just as certain paths are unsafe to travel, some types of footwear are universally unsuitable for the river environment. These common choices lack the necessary security, protection, or traction, turning them into liabilities rather than assets. Steer clear of these items to ensure a safer rafting trip.

Flip-Flops: The Worst Offender

Flip-flops consistently top the list of forbidden footwear for rafting, and for good reason. Their most critical failure is the complete lack of secure attachment. Without a heel strap, these flip flop shoes slide off effortlessly when wet, during activity, or if you end up in the water. This leaves you instantly barefoot and vulnerable.

Beyond being easily lost, flip-flops offer almost no protection against river hazards. Sharp rocks, submerged branches, and rough shorelines pose a significant threat to exposed feet, leading to cuts, bruises, or puncture wounds. They simply aren’t designed for rugged environments where foot protection is paramount.

The smooth soles typical of flip-flops provide notoriously poor traction on wet rocks or slippery raft surfaces. This lack of grip dramatically increases the risk of slips and falls, a serious safety hazard both in the boat and on shore. Stability is compromised from the moment you put them on.

Their inherent instability and total lack of foot support also contribute to injuries like sprained ankles. Your foot constantly works just to keep the flip-flop on, preventing secure footing and effective bracing. Outfitters and safety guidelines universally prohibit them due to these combined risks. They have no place on a river adventure.

Classic Crocs: Deceptively Unsafe

Classic clog-style Crocs, or classic croc sandals, might seem water-friendly, but they often fall short for rafting due to their insecure fit. Even with the heel strap engaged, they lack proper heel lockdown and can easily slip off when wet or during active movement. This makes them nearly as hazardous as flip-flops when it comes to staying on your feet.

The characteristically wide and loose fit compromises stability. This increases the risk of tripping or stumbling on uneven surfaces or within the raft itself. A snug fit is necessary for secure footing and bracing, something classic Crocs typically don’t provide for the demands of rafting.

While offering toe coverage, the ventilation holes can be a double-edged sword. Sharp debris like sticks or small rocks can potentially enter through these holes, posing a puncture risk. The plastic material also offers less impact protection compared to more robust shoe constructions.

Classic Crocs provide minimal arch and heel support. Under the physical stress of rafting activities, this lack of support can lead to foot pain, strain, or even conditions like plantar fasciitis. Their design prioritizes casual comfort over the athletic support needed on the river. They might feel okay initially, but prolonged wear under stress reveals their shortcomings.

Bare Feet: Absolutely Forbidden

Going barefoot while rafting or walking along riverbanks is a definite “no.” Outfitters and safety guidelines strictly prohibit it due to the complete lack of protection. River environments are full of hidden hazards – sharp rocks, broken glass, submerged branches – that can cause serious injury to unprotected feet. Bare feet are never a safe footwear option.

Bare feet are extremely vulnerable to cuts, puncture wounds, and bruises. The National Park Service explicitly advises against bare feet precisely because of these risks lurking beneath the water and along the shore. Protection is simply non-negotiable in this setting.

Without footwear, traction on wet, slippery surfaces like rocks or the raft floor is virtually nonexistent. Slips and falls become almost inevitable, significantly increasing the risk of injury. Grip is absolutely essential for safe movement in and around the river.

Navigating rocky or uneven terrain becomes painful and difficult without foot protection. This hinders movement during essential activities like scouting rapids, portaging around obstacles, or potentially self-rescuing. Proper footwear enables safe and efficient movement, which is critical in a dynamic environment. Even around the campsite, keeping shoes on is wise to avoid unseen hazards on the ground.

Other Unsuitable Footwear Options

Beyond the main offenders, several other footwear types fall short for rafting. Cheap, flimsy “aqua socks” often lack the durability and sole stiffness needed. They wear out quickly, offer little impact protection, and trap sand, causing painful abrasion. Don’t confuse these with robust, purpose-built water shoes.

Any general slip-on shoe without secure laces or straps holding the heel is unsuitable. Mules, slides, or loose loafers share the primary flaw of flip-flops and classic Crocs: they can easily come off. Security remains the paramount concern for any footwear chosen for the river.

Heavy, traditional hiking boots, while protective, are generally poor choices for wearing in the raft. They absorb water, become extremely heavy, drain poorly, and dry slowly. This weight can be a dangerous liability if you unexpectedly find yourself swimming. They might only be suitable for specific trips involving extensive hiking to the river, like some Timberline trips might require.

Shoes marketed as “waterproof” often trap water once it inevitably gets inside (usually over the top). These waterproof shoes prevent drainage, leading to heavy, waterlogged feet and discomfort. Efficient drainage is far more beneficial than attempting waterproofness in a rafting context. Look for designs that let water escape easily from the shoe.

While old sneakers are frequently recommended, some advise against canvas sneakers specifically. Canvas absorbs water readily, stays wet, and can increase discomfort or blister risk. Synthetic sneakers generally perform better if you’re going the sneaker route. Avoid tennis shoes or running shoes unless they are synthetic and have good traction. Lastly, common sense dictates that high heels, dress shoes, or cowboy boots are entirely impractical and unsafe for rafting. Basic athletic shoes with shoelaces are better, but still not ideal compared to river-specific shoes.

Hazards of Improper Footwear for Rafting

Choosing the wrong path with your footwear selection can lead directly to various hazards on the river. These range from the immediate problem of losing a shoe to the painful consequences of inadequate protection or the instability caused by poor traction. Understanding these risks underscores the importance of making the right choice in shoes for rafting.

Risk of Losing Your Shoes

The most immediate hazard of insecure footwear like flip-flops or classic Crocs is simply losing them. A sudden wave, quick movement, or an unexpected swim can easily separate you from your shoe, leaving you instantly barefoot in the river. This is often the first domino to fall, leading to further problems during river rafting.

Once a shoe is gone, navigating the river environment becomes a painful challenge. Trying to walk on sharp rocks, slippery surfaces, or unseen debris without protection is difficult and significantly increases the risk of cuts, bruises, or falls. Your mobility and safety are immediately compromised.

In a rescue scenario, whether helping yourself or others, the lack of footwear is a serious impediment. Traversing difficult terrain barefoot slows progress and increases the chance of further injury at a critical moment. Secure footwear is an asset, not a liability, during unforeseen events.

Dealing with lost footwear frequently causes delays for the entire group. Guides may need to divert attention, impacting the trip schedule. It’s an avoidable issue that affects everyone’s experience. Proper gear choices prevent this common disruption and keep the focus on the adventure.

Lack of Essential Protection

Inadequate footwear offers minimal defense against the physical hazards common in river environments. Flip-flops, flimsy aqua socks, or even some open-toe sandals leave feet vulnerable. Bare feet, of course, offer zero protection. A primary function of river shoes is to act as a shield; you need appropriate foot protection.

Feet are highly susceptible to cuts, gashes, and puncture wounds from sharp rocks, broken glass, submerged branches, and other hidden debris. Proper footwear provides a vital barrier against these common threats. Preventing easily avoidable foot injuries should be a top priority for every rafter.

Stubbed toes are a frequent and painful occurrence, especially with open-toe shoes when bracing inside the raft or walking on rocky shores. Closed-toe shoes or sandals with substantial protective toe caps significantly reduce this risk, making movement safer and more comfortable.

Even small irritations like sand and grit trapped inside ill-fitting shoes can cause significant abrasion and blisters over a rafting day. Shoes designed to minimize grit entry or allow easy flushing help prevent this discomfort. Don’t overlook the potential for sunburn on the tops of your feet if wearing sandals – apply sunscreen diligently or opt for closed coverage like full-coverage water shoes. Wear appropriate socks if needed.

Poor Traction and Instability

Reliable traction is absolutely critical for safety when moving on wet, slippery surfaces. Many unsuitable shoe types, including flip-flops or shoes with smooth, worn-out soles, provide inadequate grip. Good grip is your connection to the ground, preventing dangerous slips on slippery riverbanks.

Poor traction dramatically increases the risk of slipping and falling – while getting in or out of the raft, walking ashore, or even shifting position within the boat. Falls can lead to a range of injuries, from minor bruises to serious sprains, fractures, or ankle injuries. Stability truly starts from the ground up.

Footwear that fits loosely, like classic Crocs or flip-flops, contributes to instability by allowing your foot to move around inside. This makes balancing more difficult and increases the likelihood of tripping or twisting an ankle. A stable platform underfoot is essential for confident movement; you need stable footwear.

Inside the raft, good footing allows you to brace effectively against the powerful forces of rapids and maintain balance while paddling. Poor traction or unstable footwear compromises this ability, potentially leading to falls overboard. Secure footing directly aids your performance and safety as an active participant. The American Whitewater Safety Code emphasizes appropriate footwear as part of overall river safety preparedness.

Key Features for Rafting Shoes

Now that we’ve navigated the hazards of poor choices, let’s chart a course toward selecting the right footwear. Good rafting shoes share several key characteristics that equip them for the demands of the river environment. Focusing on these features will guide you to the best shoes for white water rafting and a safer, more comfortable experience. These are the features that make for good shoes for rafting.

Secure Fit is Non-Negotiable

The absolute cornerstone of effective rafting footwear is its ability to stay securely fastened under all conditions. Turbulent water, swimming, and active movement shouldn’t dislodge your shoes. This security typically comes from robust laces or well-designed straps, always including a crucial heel strap. This prevents footwear loss, the primary failure point. A secure fit is non-negotiable.

A snug, secure fit ensures the shoe remains in place during vigorous paddling or when walking on uneven terrain. This constant connection keeps your foot protected and allows for confident, stable movement. The fit must be reliable enough to withstand the dynamic forces encountered on the river.

Look for features that allow for a customized, tight fit. Adjustable straps on sandals or secure lacing systems (shoelaces) on shoes are key. These prevent your foot from shifting inside the shoe, which reduces blister risk and significantly enhances stability. Proper adjustment makes a world of difference.

Official equipment lists, like those from the National Park Service for specific rivers, often specify footwear that stays on securely. This highlights it as a fundamental safety requirement recognized by governing bodies. Lace-up shoes or strapped sandals are standard expectations. Verifying a reliably secure fit is the first and most important step.

Protection from River Hazards

Effective rafting footwear must act as armor for your feet, shielding them from numerous physical threats. Sharp rocks, glass, sticks, and rough surfaces are common. A sturdy, protective sole is the first line of defense against underfoot hazards. Don’t underestimate what might be lurking beneath the water or along the bank. Appropriate foot protection is key.

Closed-toe footwear or sandals featuring a substantial protective toe cap are highly recommended by many river experts. This design significantly reduces the risk of painful stubbed toes or more severe impact injuries, especially important when bracing in the raft or navigating rocky terrain. Protecting the toe area is vital.

Beyond the sole and toes, the upper material should offer resistance to abrasion and minor impacts. While mesh aids drainage, ensure it’s durable enough for the environment, perhaps balanced with more protective synthetic panels. Overall foot coverage contributes to comprehensive protection against scrapes and bumps.

Some purpose-built river shoes offer enhanced ankle support. This can be beneficial for ankle stability when scrambling over uneven rocks or carrying gear between put-in and take-out points. Added support helps prevent ankle rolls and provides a more secure feeling during shore excursions. Matching the level of protection to the known risks of your specific river trip is wise.

Reliable Traction is Crucial

Good grip on wet, slippery surfaces is non-negotiable for safety. Look for outsoles made of rubber specifically formulated for wet traction. The material composition directly affects how well the shoe adheres to slick rocks, muddy banks, or the raft floor itself. Rubber soles are common.

Outsole design plays a significant role. Aggressive lug patterns or specialized “sticky” rubber compounds, often found in dedicated water shoe brands, enhance grip considerably. Check that the sole is intended for wet environments, not just dry trails. The tread pattern makes a tangible difference in preventing slips. You need excellent traction.

Reliable traction prevents the slips and falls that commonly cause injuries on rafting trips. It improves your stability when moving around, getting in and out of the boat, and bracing effectively during rapids. Good traction translates directly to better balance and control in a dynamic setting.

Before your trip, ensure the sole material covers the main contact points of your foot and isn’t excessively worn down, especially if using older shoes. Worn-out soles lose their gripping ability significantly. Checking the condition of your gear is part of responsible preparation. Prioritizing reliable wet grip is prioritizing your safety.

Drainage and Quick Drying

Your feet will get wet while rafting – it’s unavoidable. Therefore, good rafting footwear must allow water to drain out quickly rather than pooling inside, preventing issues like trench foot. Features like built-in drainage ports or uppers made largely of mesh fabrics facilitate this essential process, preventing that waterlogged, soggy shoes feeling.

The materials used in construction should be quick-drying and non-absorbent. Synthetics like polyester, nylon, or neoprene are ideal choices. Materials to avoid include cotton and often traditional leather, as they soak up water, become heavy, and dry very slowly, leading to discomfort. As noted in university packing lists like Montana State University’s, synthetic materials are consistently recommended. Consider water socks made of neoprene for extra warmth.

Effective drainage and quick-drying capabilities offer multiple benefits. They reduce the shoe’s weight, minimize the discomfort of sloshing water, and significantly lower the risk of blisters caused by prolonged wetness and friction. Wearing the right clothing and gear, including quick-drying clothes, keeps you more comfortable overall and prevents wet shoes from ruining your day.

In cooler conditions, quick-drying footwear helps your feet stay warmer by reducing evaporative cooling. Wet feet lose heat much faster, so minimizing water retention aids thermal comfort. Do your current water shoes drain well, or do they hold water like water logs? Efficient water management is key for both comfort and safety, preventing water chills and water colds.

Recommended Footwear Alternatives

Choosing the right footwear doesn’t have to be complicated. While the blacklist highlights what shoes for rafting to avoid, several excellent options meet the key criteria for safety and performance on the river. These alternatives represent some of the best shoes to wear rafting and provide the secure fit, protection, traction, and drainage needed for a successful rafting trip. Consider these best footwear for rafting choices. Many raft guide shoes fall into these categories.

Secure Sport Sandals

Chaco Z/2 Classic Sandals | Secure strap system ensures they stay on feet

The Chaco Z/2 Classic is a popular choice, known for its distinctive single-strap webbing system that includes a toe loop. This design aims to provide a highly secure and adjustable fit, wrapping continuously through the midsole. The goal is to keep the sandal firmly attached, even during active use in water or on trails. Many users find this system effective for preventing slippage. These are often considered among the best shoes for river rafting.

These sandals feature Chaco’s LUVSEAT™ polyurethane (PU) midsole, which offers significant arch support and is designed for all-day comfort. The ChacoGrip™ rubber outsole has 3.5 mm lugs intended for reliable traction on both wet and dry surfaces. The overall construction is relatively simple but focuses on durability, with the PU midsole resisting compression over time.

While praised for security and support, potential drawbacks include a break-in period where straps might cause rubbing, and the overall weight, which is heavier than many other sandals due to the dense PU midsole. Sizing can also run large, often requiring users to size down. The long strap end might also require tucking or trimming for neatness. These lightweight sandals are still heavier than some alternatives.

Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandals | Good traction and quick-drying straps for comfort

The Teva Hurricane XLT2 is another well-regarded sport sandal, utilizing a simpler three-point Velcro strap system for adjustment. The straps are made from REPREVE® recycled polyester webbing, known for being quick-drying. This adjustability allows for a customizable fit over the forefoot, instep, and heel, aiming for security without the complexity of the Chaco system. These ankle strap sandals offer good security.

Comfort comes from an EVA foam midsole, which provides cushioning and moderate arch support, generally feeling softer underfoot than Chaco’s PU. The Durabrasion Rubber™ outsole is designed for reliable wet/dry traction, suitable for light hiking and water activities. A nylon shank adds some stability on uneven terrain, and soft padding on the heel strap helps prevent chafing.

Potential downsides include the Velcro potentially wearing out or collecting debris over time, and the EVA midsole may compress faster than PU with heavy use. While generally comfortable, the arch support is less pronounced than in Chacos. Some users also report needing a break-in period, and sizing can be inconsistent, often running large. These are considered good shoes for whitewater rafting by many.

Purpose-Built Water Shoes

Astral Loyak AC Water Shoes | Flexible, great grip, good drainage and ground feel

The Astral Loyak AC represents a minimalist, barefoot-style approach to water footwear. These shoes are lightweight and flexible, designed to provide excellent ground feel and agility, making them flexible footwear. The upper combines breathable mesh and hydrophobic canvas, featuring drainage ports at the front and back to shed water quickly. This makes them suitable for activities where transitioning between water and land is frequent – a great water shoe.

A key feature is the Flex-Grip™ outsole made with Astral’s high-friction G.15™ rubber. It employs divided lugs and razor siping for exceptional grip on wet, slick surfaces like rocks or boat decks. The shoe has a zero-drop platform (level footbed) and a wide toe box, promoting natural foot mechanics and balance, which many find beneficial for stability. These are excellent lightweight rafting shoes.

Challenges can include the snug, non-tongued opening, which can be difficult for those with high arches to put on. The minimalist design offers little cushioning or arch support, which may require an adjustment period for users new to barefoot-style shoes. Some have also noted potential irritation from stitching under the tongue area when worn without socks. These might be considered technical shoes.

NRS Paddle Wetshoes | Neoprene warmth with a sturdy sole for protection

The NRS Paddle Wetshoes offer a different approach, focusing on warmth and protection, particularly for cooler water conditions. They feature a 3 mm Terraprene™ neoprene upper lined with soft, quick-drying VaporLoft™ fleece for insulation. This high-top design provides more coverage and thermal retention than open sandals or mesh shoes. These are essentially wetsuit boots.

Protection comes from a sturdy 3 mm rubber sole combined with a 5 mm neoprene insole and a 2 mm plastic shim, shielding feet from sharp rocks and impacts. The shoe includes extra padding over the outside ankle bone for comfort in tight kayaks or rafts. A gusseted side-entry YKK® zipper allows for relatively easy on/off, even over drysuit socks, secured further by a hook-and-loop strap.

Potential drawbacks include the bulk and warmth, making them less suitable for hot weather or warm water. Sizing can run small or narrow, especially when worn over thick socks or drysuits, and the zipper may not accommodate very wide calves. Like any neoprene gear, they require proper rinsing and drying to prevent odors and maintain zipper function. These are a solid footwear option for cold water.

Salomon Techamphibian 5 | Versatile, quick-drying, secure fit, protective toe cap

The Salomon Techamphibian 5 aims for versatility, blending features of a water shoe and a light hiker, making them potentially some of the best shoes for rafting and hiking. The upper uses quick-drying synthetic mesh designed to drain water efficiently while resisting debris entry. A key feature is the Quicklace™ system for fast, secure tightening, combined with a collapsible heel that allows the shoe to be worn as a slip-on clog when desired.

Protection is provided by a reinforced toe cap and stitched upper construction. The Contagrip® FD outsole uses siping (thin slits) to enhance grip on wet surfaces. An EVA midsole offers moderate cushioning and flexibility for comfort during varied activities. These shoes attempt to bridge the gap between open sandals and closed-toe shoes, offering an updated/upgraded water shoe feel.

Potential issues include sizing inconsistencies (can run large or feel tight in the toe box for some) and the possibility of small debris entering through the mesh or collapsible heel area. While versatile, the mesh upper may not be as durable as solid materials under heavy abrasion. The Quicklace™ system, while convenient, offers less fine-tuned adjustment than traditional laces for some users. These are considered good shoes for white water rafting.

Final Tips for Success

Navigating your footwear choice successfully comes down to remembering a few key principles. Keeping these final tips in mind will help ensure your feet are well-prepared for your river adventure, allowing you to focus on the experience itself. Selecting the perfect footwear leads to happy feet and a seamless rafting experience.

• Prioritize Security: Above all, ensure your footwear will stay firmly on your feet. Test straps and laces. If it feels loose dry, it will likely come off wet. This is non-negotiable for a safe rafting trip.
• Protect Your Feet: Opt for rugged soles to guard against sharp objects. Consider closed-toe shoes or protective toe caps, especially on rocky rivers. Avoid flimsy materials that offer little defense. Ensure you have protected feet.
• Demand Good Traction: Choose shoes with rubber soles specifically designed for wet grip. Check tread condition on old shoes. Worn soles lose their effectiveness. Excellent traction is vital.
• Manage Water: Select footwear that drains efficiently and is made from quick-drying synthetic materials (like polyester or nylon) or neoprene. Avoid cotton and slow-drying leather or canvas sneakers. This prevents soggy shoes and potential trench foot.
• Break Them In: Never wear brand-new shoes on a rafting trip. Wear whichever shoes you choose multiple times beforehand, including getting them wet, to identify potential rubbing spots and prevent painful blisters on the river. Visit shoe stores early if buying shoes.
• Choose Proper Socks: If wearing socks for warmth or blister prevention, choose wool or synthetic materials. Absolutely NO COTTON socks, as they hold water and increase cold risk. Bring dry socks for after. What to wear white water rafting often involves careful layering, including socks and maybe even a wetsuit in cold conditions.
• Care for Feet: At camp, clean and thoroughly dry your feet. Apply moisturizer if needed. Bringing a separate pair of dry camp shoes provides welcome relief for uncomfortable feet. Consider a backup river pair for multi-day trips.
• Check Outfitter Advice: Always consult the specific packing list and recommendations provided by your rafting outfitter or reputable rafting company. They know the local river conditions best and tailor advice accordingly.
• Inspect Old Gear: Before your trip, carefully check any older river shoes or old sneakers for signs of wear like sole separation, cracked materials, or failing straps/laces. Gear failure mid-trip is best avoided. These important gear parts need checking.

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