Most Popular Footwear for 2023

• Posted on 30 November 2023
• By Lou Mauer
• Posted in Astral, Gear Guide
• 0

Reviewing the Most-Popular Footwear UWG Carried in 2023

In 2023, we carried over 100 different footwear styles designed for whitewater and outdoor use; however, of those 100 options, 5 styles stood out to our loyal customers. Here's a countdown of our most popular footwear styles of 2023.

#5 Chaco Men's NRS Z/2 Classic with NRS Strap Webbing

This sandal is an age-old classic. Chacos were originally designed by river runners in the 80s and remain a fan favorite today! There's no doubt that this style's success is related to the steeze and recognition of the NRS webbing. However, other notable features include the adjustable pull-through straps, contoured arch support, and overall versatility. You can expect more of the NRS-Webbing Chacos in 2024, along with new, river-specific Chaco Sandals. 

#4 Astral Brewess 2.0

The Astral Brewess is Utah Whitewater Gear's most versatile woman's shoe. We recommend this shoe for someone looking for one shoe to raft, climb, and play outside in. Here at UWG, we can't get enough of the wide Astral toe box. Not only does this feature keep you comfortable, but it also helps you balance and perform your best. 

#3 Astral Loyak AC M's

Coming in at number 3 is one of Astral's best sellers, the Loyak AC. This shoe is ultra-lightweight and hyper breathable. The most impressive feature is the G.15 Rubber Soles. This rubber is stupid grippy. However, we do not recommend this shoe for heavy whitewater use. It would be best worn for SUP, sailing, fishing, and training. The woman's version of this shoe can be found here. 

#2 Astral Brewer 2.0

Our second-most-popular shoe of 2023 is the sibling of the Brewess, the Astral Brewer! This shoe is versatile, lightweight, quick dry, and more. Most positive reviews are rooted in the bomb-proof grip and overall comfort. We recommend this shoe for anything from a day on the water to a day running errands. 

#1 Astral Rassler 2.0

FINALLY! The top shoe of 2023 is the Astral Rassler 2.0. This unisex, whitewater-specific boot is hard not to love. The 2.0 has been redesigned to improve durability, so it's worth the upgrade. Our customers love wearing the Rassler 2.0 with their dry suits or all alone because they know they can trust these shoes in the worst of swims. Without a doubt, these are the best shoes for the most intense river runners.