Pokeboo Packable Boots
These Pokeboo boots are quite clever in their own little way, and came to my attention due to a short Instagram review by Lynne Hawthorne from @Lynne_SUP_Fitness. Thank you, Jo, from Pokeboo.uk, for the generosity in sending me the two different versions, flat sole and treaded, so that I could experiment. I have been testing them extensively, and they, in fact, have made me a little bit of a believer.
Being paddleboarders, we can all relate to the hardship of choosing the proper footwear when taking colder paddles. Neoprene boots are good in some ways, for instance, when you are in the water and moving. Nevertheless, they are not very comfortable when you are standing on the shore, slowly launching or trying to keep warm before getting wet. They only insulate when wet, which is inconvenient. Waterproof socks may seem like a good idea, but they are not always as waterproof as they claim, especially when the weather gets worse or the ground becomes dirty.
Design and packability
Manufactured from a flexible, waterproof ‘Natural’ rubber, they are light in weight, strong, waterproof, and easy to clean; thus, they are the perfect choice for any outdoor activity. Each of the two versions can be folded and placed in a small drawstring storage bag, making it convenient for drybag, backpack, or car boot storage. The flat sole version can be compressed to a very small size, whereas the treaded version is slightly larger to provide extra grip and support, though it is still small. Additionally, the company offers different product colours; thus, you can either match your kit or pick a colour that makes you happy. Above all, they are straightforward to put on, unlike the stiff, traditional wellies; you do not have to pull or wrestle with them.
Flat Sole Version
The flat soles are the best ones to be put on after a paddle, a wild swim, or when your feet are asking for a rest from wet trainers. In fact, wearing them gives you a barefoot feeling as the material they are made of is soft and pliable. In case you are a lover of that natural bond and liberty of movement, then these will fit you like a glove. Especially, since they are great for such soft surfaces as grassy fields, the shore of a lake, or even a quick walk with your dog in the park. They haven’t been designed for rough adventures, but are ideal for campsite mornings, car park transitions, or post-adventure pub stops.
Treaded Sole Version
The treaded sole provides more traction. Although remaining packable and lightweight, they have enough grip to walk on muddy towpaths and slippery slipways. The extra grip underfoot gave me confidence, and the tread helped prevent the uncomfortable feeling of stepping on something sharp or uneven, so I found them perfect for walking into the river. Without giving it a second thought, I’ve worn them straight from the water to the car, and they have been great. The additional sole structure offers just enough support without compromising flexibility.
Most importantly, neither version of the shoes took away the board skills. In other words, if you were to change the position of your foot or shift your weight, they would still be comfortable, and you wouldn’t notice them, which is exactly what you want when your balance is important.
Verdict & availability
It’s a really good match when you wear any of these boots with a good pair of thermal or waterproof socks to keep your feet warm. That combination is the winner for keeping feet warm, dry, and ready to go – even in the harshest weather.
One of the main features I love about these boots, apart from how they perform, is their low-fuss nature. No flashy logos are covering half the boot, no over-engineering – just a simple design that hits the mark. These are the kind of boots you don’t remember packing, but when you come across them, you’re glad you did. “From board to boot bag in seconds – these have a real purpose for paddle life.”
If you paddleboard, enjoy wild swimming, or like to be ready for whatever the British weather may bring, then these are worth considering.
Flat Sole Version: £79.99
Treaded Sole Version: £84.99
Colours: Flat Sole available in Charcoal, Black, Royal Blue, Khaki, and Yellow.
Treaded Sole available in Black only
