Surrounded by the Great Lakes and Michigan's many inland lakes, my launch and takeout sites are for the most party sandy, sometimes with a bit of gravel. First shoes I used were Keens. Thick and bulky, they filled up with sand. Had to take them off to dump the sand. I hate sandy shoes. Then I tried using my original Teva sandals. Easy to dump sand, but the straps were either too tight or too loose and made my feet cramp. Nor is it a good shoe to wear in colder water. Next was a pair of J-41 water shoes, which worked for a while until the elastic cord on the right shoe weakened and the shoe would slip off my foot. They also took two days to dry and did accumulate sand.
Then Astral Loyaks came on the market.
I love this shoe. It has drainage in the sole, toe, and heel. Great flexibility, quick drying nylon upper, and a wonderful, supportive sole. I wear a pair of lightweight SmartWool micro socks with my Loyaks and while a tiny amount of sand may get in, I never feel it. Best of all, it's a laced shoe so there are no pressure points because of straps and my feet are always comfortable. Stains and dirt are easily washed away and the shoes don't get stinky. When I wear them out, I'll buy another pair. They're that great.
