PRODUCT REVIEW
PHOTO BY CHRIS SHANGLE
GRUNDÉNS SEAKNIT BOAT SHOE
By Matt Williams
Washington-based fishing apparel specialists Grundéns has been keeping recreational anglers and commercial fishermen dry and comfortable for nearly a century with a wide range of top-notch apparel . The company recently stepped into the boat shoe market with a stylish slip-on-and-lace-up-style sneaker designed to stand up to the rigors of all-day fishing while providing a nifty look well suited for casual outings on or off the boat .
First Impression
Fashionable but not gaudy , the SeaKnit Boat Shoe is clearly engineered from the ground up with peak performance in mind . Here ’ s my take : * OUTSOLE : The bottom side is non-marking with multiple channels to drain water and razor-cut siping that improves traction on docks , rock , gelcoat and other slick surfaces .
* MIDSOLE : The midsole is built from a cushiony copolymer EVA . The footbed begins with a roomy toe box and gets progressively wider ( and thicker ) toward the heel to maximize support . Fitted with a removable insole anatomically designed for optimum comfort .
* UPPER : The seamless knit nylon upper has no tongue , dries quickly and is extremely breathable to help keep you cool on sultry summer days . The synthetic fabric stretches , so the shoe slides on and off easily and provides a snug , comfortable fit without cinching the laces down too tight . * COLORS : Two attractive colors : Metal : A light grey with orange laces and white midsole . Anchor : A gunmetal grey with matching laces and midsole . Both have the Grundéns logo stamped on the side and on the finger tab .
In Action
I put these shoes to the test for a solid month , and they were truly a pleasure to wear , not to mention a huge step up in the support department from the trusty clogs I ’ ve been donning for years — and also way more appealing to the eye . I especially like the easy slip-on / slip-off design and the way the knit nylon breathes and conforms to your foot without snugging the laces too tight . Low-cut sock fans will appreciate the fact that the supple material won ’ t chafe below the ankles , even when wet .
Final Thoughts
Stylish and moderately priced in comparison to some of the top namebrand sneakers , these tennies will treat you right anytime you ’ re on the casting deck in fresh or saltwater . You have to love the fact that they ’ re produced by an industry icon that has been supporting and supplying fishermen with topnotch goods for nearly 100 years .
Performance Advice : Maintenance
Grundéns says the shoes can be machine-washed in cold water , preferably with laces and insoles removed . The shoes can be tumbledried with heat or air-dried . Regular cleaning with a damp rag , soft brush and a mild detergent / water mix will help keep the shoes looking good for a long time .
76 MAJORLEAGUEFISHING . COM | JUNE-JULY 2021