Stab Recommends: The Best Kicks For Checking The Surf

The best footwear for checking the surf is entirely dependant on your location.  

There’s nothing worse than trying to negotiate a big muddy puddle on the track in a pair of slides. But that doesn’t mean that sometimes they’re not the best vehicle for a comfortable surf scope. We’ve shaken the snowball and imagined ourselves in all manner of locations, and here’s a smattering of the best footwear for sucking back a java and peering over the dunes. 

Vans Checkered Slips

Not the most practical in slop, but if it’s dry and dusty nothing feels more classic California surf than surveying the line up in a pair of crisp white Vans slip ons.

Timeless.

Dr Martens Yank-Ons

Those low cut Dr M’s shoes everyone has are a little tired, but Docs have stood the test of the times for a reason. their boots (not the This is England type) are perfect for yanking on and dashing through the bush. 

Brit Pop. 

Globe x Drizabone Practical Comfort

I’ve had a pair of these in my van for three years. I forget about them, it rains, I panic, find them, then rejoice. Soft, warm, warterproof(ish) and they’re sleek enough to wear in the city if the occasion arises. 

Perfect collab.

Redback Stompers

Since seeing Rasta Red-Backing through the Tassie wilderness in Nevertown, we’ve been infatuated with the iconic Aussie work boot. I once interviewed Paul Kelly and he was wearing a brown suit with a pair too. Rasta, PK. That’s some hefty endorsements.

Australian institution.

Hunter River Waders

Hunter have veered away from their toffy roots and the modern version does country style perfectly. If you’ve got to go stomping through wet forestry to reach the sea then a pair of these would do nicely. They’re neoprene-lined too. Toasty.

Pommy practicality.

Adidas Lazy Boys

If you live somewhere predominantly dry and like driving with no shoes on then look no further. Just slip ’em on, hop out, and start skipping ocean-ward. 

Car accessory.

XTRATUF Tundra Beaters

If you need to wear a pair of these to check your surfs then we don our caps to you, core lord. But if you ever pull the trigger on that trip to Iceland, then these’d sure be a steezy alternative to snowshoes. Just pack thick socks.  

Core daps.

And if you’re wondering what waves to check in your new adventure kicks, we encourage you to consult this book. It’s available for digital download or in hardcover, though we emphatically endorse the coffee table version.

Surf horny.