Gear Review: Astral Rassler

--Product Information--
Product Name: Rassler
Product Brand: Astral
Best Use: Walking around slippery river banks and climbing Mt. Everest.
Sizes Available / Specs: Mens 5-13 & Womens 6-11.5

--Test Information--
Location of Test: Walking around Rapids near you.
Duration: 6 months

--Ratings--
Value Rating: 9
Durability Rating: 9
Overall Rating: 9

Full Review: My last pair of river shoes were the 5'10 Canoer's. They were amazing shoes and had great traction regardless of how slippery the rocks were. The Canoer's were perfect while scouting large rapids or walking around them. These shoes dubbed as a great hiking shoe when putting in the man hours searching for epic waterfalls and un-run creeks. So after two long beautiful years, my 5'10's were up and it was time for daddy to get a new pair of shoes.

The one thing I did not like about the 5'10's was how bulky they were. After checking out the Rasslers, I realized that Astral was using the same rubber that the 5'10 water shoes were using, the Stealth sole. The Rassler's have great ankle protection for doing long hikes and portages. The Astral's are so light in comparison to the 5'10's leading me to believe they wouldn't last, but to my surprise they are killing it. After 6 months of use and paddling almost 5 days a week, these shoes are doing great. The Astrals also fit so much better in my kayak.

"The Good" List: These shoes are light, durable, and have excellent traction. Everything you need while playing down by the water.

"The Not so Good List": Not the most appealing color options.

The Bottom Line: Best shoes you can have if you're spending a lot of time around big rapids.