Xtratuf Hightide First Look

When XTRATUF sent me the Hightides to review, I figured I’d like them. I didn’t expect they’d become the shoe I grab first before walking out the door.

What are the XTRATUF Hightides

The Hightides are an injection-molded, ankle-high shoe made with an EVA foam called BioLite. If you haven’t seen these before, think of a similar material to what Crocs use. They have a textured footbed to help prevent your foot from sliding around when wet and have slip-resistant outsoles. The Hightides come in full sizes from 7 to 14, and they come in three colors. I tested the Deep Storm color.

One size 12 boot weighed 9.2 oz (261 g) on my scale.

The XTRATUF Hightide Boots In Use

Here’s what I look for in summer paddling footwear, and here’s where the Hightide fits in that spectrum.

• Sticky soles that wouldn’t slip getting into the canoe or kayak.
• Supportive enough for portage trails with a sole that protects from rocks.
• Small enough to fit under a seat for kneeling.

I found that the XTRATUF Hightide boots were comfortable for walking around and wearing around town and on short hikes on local trails. I live near the Boundary Waters, so the trails I hike are similar to portage trails. They were fairly grippy on wet rocks, although I only had limited testing while walking next to a river one day. I’d like to test this in more detail to see how they compare to other paddling boots that I’ve tested such as the LaCrosse Grange Boots. If you need more ankle support for portaging than I do (I find portaging in sandals or tennis shoes fine), you may want a more supportive boot.

They do fit under a seat for kneeling.

Sizing is worth thinking through before you order. The Hightides come in full sizes only, and XTRATUF recommends sizing up. I’m typically a US 11 or 11.5 and went with a 12 — they fit, but run a touch long. In hindsight I’d try an 11 first for a snugger fit. If you’re wearing them over drysuit socks, though, the extra room works in your favor.

My one criticism is that they are harder than I’d like to pull on. I wish there was a pull loop to help.

Wrapping Up

After a month of testing, the XTRATUF Hightides have earned a permanent spot by my door. They’re not a cold-water boot, but for warm-water paddling days and drysuit trips, they’re hard to beat for the weight and price. I’ll update this review after more time on the water. In the meantime, you can get them at Amazon or direct from XTRATUF.