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My ancient pair of reef runners finally disintegrated. Need something that will handle sharp rocks, hot sand, moderate hikes (Salt Pond to parking lot), are water-friendly and don’t look too ridiculous in public. Any suggestions for brands and internet sources?
Teva
Timberland
Rockport
This probably doesn't make a difference in your choice, but...
Yet another great thing about St John....the beaches are made from coral sand, so it's not hot, hot, hot!!
I found Teva's work best for me, but last time I went shopping for them, I noticed there's tons of different brands that probably all work just as well.
Forgot about REI. Good call. Thanks.
Keen's. For me, far better than TEVA for walking, but butt ugly.
I wasn't familiar with Keen's. Just checked them out online. A dizzying array of styles. Will have to take a closer look. Thanks.
Sorry to be so plebian but we couldn't see spending a small fortune for water/hiking shoes. Happened on some Nike surf and sand shoes at Sam's and decided to give them a shot. Very attractive, look like lightweight running shoes with no-tie laces. Great traction, lightweight, dry very fast. We trekked all over the island --- Waterlemon, Annaberg, Cinnamon Bay ruins, Saltpond, Haulover --- and they were the best trekking shoes I've even owned. Back on the homefront, DH uses them for sailing. Non-slip soles and weightlessness make a great combination for him on the boat. For $35, we got a real bargain!
For our June visit to St. John I bought everyone a pair of "Sea to Shore" shoes from Land's End...the adult's were $29.50 and they were great! Might want to check them out...
Those might even be good for the flight down (?) Less to pack. Thanks for the tip.
Whatever you decide on, I think it's worth your while to go try them on in a store. Then buy them online if you can find a better deal. Some brands or styles just fit some feet better than others and you can't tell that without actually putting them on your feet.
Go to www.crocs.com. I sell these shoes in my store in Tulsa, and they are GREAT. The do not absorb water, odors or bacteria. They have a slip resistent and nonmarking sole. I sell them to lots of boaters here in Oklahoma. They are also very comfortable. Most people with foot problems LOVE these shoes. I also sell them to nurses and food service people because they are so comfortable. They also wear very well. I have a pair that I have had over two years.
The great thing about them for the islands is that they don't absorb water at all. If you get them dirty just hose them off and towel dry. Oh, I almost forgot the are very light, less than 1 lb. and THEY FLOAT!
They aren't very expensive. If sell the beach style for $29.99. If you want a pair let me know, because ordering from the company will take several weeks. They are so popular the company can't keep up with the demand.
Yes, IslandTimer... that was my thought precisely when I bought the Sea to Shores and we did just that...wore them down and packed our Reefs....that was all we needed ! Just one more thing I love about USVI - Dress clothes NOT required ...
