When the water begins to cool, surf boots become indispensable to extend your sessions without losing your toes! But between the different thicknesses, shoe types and materialsIt's not always easy to find your way around. So how do you choose the ideal pair for your your spot, your surfing style and your comfort ? We explain everything.

1. What thickness of neoprene should I choose? 🌡

The thickness of the boots depends directly on the water temperature :

Water temperatureRecommended thickness
12 - 17°C2 - 3 mm → Lightweight and flexible 🏖
8 - 12°C5 mm → Good compromise between warmth and flexibility ❄
< 8°C7 mm → Maximum insulation for icy waters 🌊

💡 Tip The thicker the booties, the better they keep in the heat. the less flexible they are. It's up to you to find the right balance for your practice!

2. Round toe, split toe or hidden split toe? 🦶

Bootie fit plays a key role in comfort and stability on the board.

✅ Round toe

✔ Warmer, as toes warm each other.
✔ More comfortable for those who don't like finger separations.
❌ Less stability and feel on the board.

👉 Ideal for : for those seeking comfort and warmth above all else.

✅ Split toe

✔ Improves stability and balance on the board.
✔ Prevents the bootie from "floating" in the water.
❌ Less warm than the round toe, because the toe is insulated.

👉 Ideal for : surfers who want maximum control and responsiveness.

✅ Hidden split toe (separated toe inside, but not visible)

✔ Best compromise between warmth and stability.
✔ No discomfort due to separation as with split toe.
✔ More control over the board than a classic round toe.

👉 Ideal for : those who hesitate between round toe and split toe!

3. Which materials to choose? ♻

Not all boots are made from the same materials! Here are the main options:

✅ Classic neoprene → Derived from petrochemicals, offers good performance but less environmentally friendly.
✅ Yulex → Made from natural rubber from rubber trees 🌿 a more environmentally friendly alternative.
✅ Limestone → A neoprene derived from limestone, often more flexible and durable.

💡 If you're looking for a more eco-friendly option, give preference to Yulex or Limestone.

4. Thin or thick sole? 🦶

The sole plays a key role in the feel and grip on the board.

🔹 Thin sole → More feeling with the board, ideal for shortboarders 🔥
🔹 Thick sole → More protection and durability, but less feel 😏

💡 Top-of-the-range models use latex to improve grip and comfort.

5. Low or high boots? 👢

🔹 Low boots (slippers) → More flexible and comfortable, but sometimes let water in.
🔹 High boots → Better suited to extreme conditions, offer improved sealing and prevent cold water from seeping into the suit.

👉 If you surf in very cold watersopt for well-fitting ankle boots.

6. The little details that make all the difference 🔥

🚀 Velcro or zip fastening → Improves fit and prevents the boot from slipping.
🚀 Thermal lining (e.g. Flashbomb, Thermoforming) → Fast drying and better insulation.
🚀 Glued and stitched seams (GBS) → Limits water ingress and improves durability.

💡 A good fit is essential! Booties that are too big will let water in and lose their thermal efficiency.

🏄‍♂️ Which pair to choose for your practice?

Your profileRecommended model
ShortboarderBoots 3 mmthin sole, split toe 👌
LongboarderBoots 3-5 mmmedium sole, round toe 🛶
Winter surferBoots 5-7 mm, ankle boots, hidden split toe ❄

🌊 Keep warm with the right booties!

Choosing the right surf boots means find the right compromise between warmth, flexibility and feel.

✔ Water temperature → 3 mm for mid-season, 5-7 mm for winter.
✔ Shoe type → Round toe for warmth, split toe for stability.
✔ Materials → Limestone and Yulex for a more eco-friendly option.
✔ Sole → Thin for more feeling, thick for more protection.

👉 Discover the best surf boots on Shapers Club and stay warm all winter long! ❄🏄‍♂️