Palm Gradient 3.0 boot
Let’s talk boots. I do not mean neoprene boots, seen worn by many. These are a great option or a shoe for summer and the shoulder seasons when bare-foot paddleboarding isn’t an option or where you can’t trust what’s in the water (which is many of our waterways these days). I’m talking about a larger boot mostly worn for kayaking and used when portaging parts of the river unrunable or scouting rapids. Yet, more and more people are travelling further on their SUP and with the continuous rise of white water SUP, people are finding themselves in more remote destinations.
Everyone knows the problem with a neoprene shoe or boot is that they generally have a softer sole. Although this offers some protection from stones and uneven ground, it is often unsuitable for a longer or more uneven surface. Because of this, people are turning to solid-soled shoes or boots. Palm has just released its redesigned Gradient 3.0 boot, which is another great option for water enthusiasts.
First, let’s look at the pros and cons of boots over other alternatives:
Pros:
More support; better foot protection and better grip.
Cons:
More expensive; often heavier; bulkier; usually, a much thicker sole and harder/longer to dry out.
Now, this is my list based on past experiences and years of paddling with canyoneers. Let’s look at Palm Equipment’s new offering.
The first observation is that these are not heavy, bulky boots and feel considerably light in size. I always recommend sizing up when buying boots to allow more space for drysuit socks or thick socks in winter. I usually wear a 10 in trainers and boots, and the size 11 is an excellent fit. They felt comfortable and fit well, wearing thin pairs of socks around the house. This is down to the design of the boot. It features neoprene ankle support, which then runs down the tongue of the boot and fits your foot nicely. There is a velcro wrap-around fastening mechanism to ensure a tight fit on the ankle; this helps support the ankle and prevents water ingress and dirt/debris from getting into the boot.
Palm has also decided to keep laces on the boot, which, although only coming up to mid-height, allows you to pull in the lower boot to ensure a good fit. A second set of laces has also been provided as a backup or to change the styling. As well as plenty of adjustment on the boot, Palm has also included a spare set of insoles labelled ‘+Fit’ so that you can reduce the volume in the boot; I’ve found this helped the fit for me. It will be interesting to see how long these last as they are fairly thin; maybe a little glue might keep them down; otherwise, they could become damaged if they slip about.
I mentioned weight. For such a big boot, these are very light, weighing 492g per boot. Once on, they do not feel heavy at all and don’t really feel too different from a neoprene boot or trainer.
The Gradient 3.0 is a comfortable boot with a lining throughout; I’m not sure I would still wear bare feet in them. I’d prefer a thin sock inside or a dry sock. I have tried them without a sock, and they were surprisingly comfortable; it’s just a habit of mine to wear something inside a boot.
The heel is rubber and protects the boot if sitting in a kayak or on your SUP, which will help the boot’s life expectancy. The front toe has a rubbery plastic coating, and combined with the rubber heel, it almost feels like a full rand, similar to that found on walking boots.
The soles are Vibram idrogrip a very sticky rubber when wet making these great for contact with your board or surface when not on your board whether you’re climbing or just enjoying a coffee on the bank and a pit stop. The boots use EVA foam to cushion the sole for comfort.
What I did notice is that although the soles look very thick on these boots, you do not feel elevated above your board; there does not feel like a disconnect between board and person.
I’m really impressed with these boots, and they are definitely one for the winter months and shoulder seasons. They keep your feet warm, comfortable, and safe on any surface. The main negative is the cost. A boot like this is always going to cost more than a neoprene boot. However, it’s a bit like buying a drysuit; it’s an investment that brings with it many benefits. These are well-made and looked after and should last you many seasons.
It’s important to say our dear friend Bren Orton played a major part in designing these boots with Palm. His feedback and ideas have been taken into account on these Gradient 3.0 boots. If you like a bit of colour in your kit, you can buy Bren’s colourway, Sherbet and Turquoise, or play it safe with Black, as pictured.
Note: A portion of sales of the Gradient boots is being donated by Palm to a cause for Bren’s family and legacy.
Price: £150
