Review NRS Vapor Loft wetshoe

What is it? NRS Vapor Loft wetshoe is a high-top paddling shoe that features a rugged outer sole, zip-up inseam and neoprene outer shell.

How much? Regularly $54.95, NRS has the shoe listed for sale as of Thanksgiving Day weekend for $31.96.

What does it do? The Vapor Loft has a snug and secure fit with a tough and grippy sole that makes for a great river running and expedition wetshoe.

Hits: The tough yet flexible sole partially wraps up and around the heel and toes for added protection when scrambling around on rocks. The zipper also features a hook-and-loop tab at the top to prevent the zipper from slipping back down and coming undone unexpectedly.

Misses: The wrap-around heel and toe makes the shoe seem a little smaller than its size as advertised, and this can be particularly challenging if you're wearing a dry suit with incorporated socks and thicker socks underneath. Despite this, the stretchy nature of the neoprene makes up somewhat for the space crunch.

The Verdict: This is a great wetshoe. Despite the snug feeling, the shoe broke in nicely and feels comfortable all day on the river in a dry suit with incorporated socks and smart wool base layer socks. The shoe survived a mild swim in a Class III rapid without missing a step (or getting sucked off by the river). I would recommend this for river running and colder weather, but it might be overkill for park-and-play boating. Consider getting a size larger than you normally wear in a street shoe due to the wrap-around heel and toe (and the extra layers typically worn in cold water paddling).