Surf Wetsuit Boot Guide
Be ready for your dream wave, no matter how cold the water gets. Don't let numb feet end your session early - because even the perfect wave is unsurfable when you can’t feel your feet. Cold-water surfing wouldn’t be possible without trusted surf boots, the most important piece of equipment next to your wetsuit. Having warm and protected feet promotes longer sessions and more fun in the water.
Throughout this surf boot guide, we will discuss all of the different ins and outs of booties, including use, construction, fit by brand, and sizing. If you’re here for the FAQs, don’t miss out on answers based on our industry insights and expertise.
Why Surf Boots Matter
Surf boots (commonly referred to as booties) keep your feet warm in cold conditions, protect against sharp reefs and rocky breaks, and enhance grip on your board. The right pair can extend your session and improve its overall performance. Choosing the correct thickness, style, and fit ensures maximum comfort and efficiency. Whether you’re surfing, SUP, bodyboarding, or just swimming, surf boots help keep your feet warm in any cold water endeavors.
Surf Boot Thickness Temperature Guide
Quick Disclaimer: The below temperatures are a great general guide for what boots most people would choose in certain temperatures if they want their feet to stay warm. That said, everyone has their preference, and some surfers will wear the recommended booties in warmer or colder temperatures than we suggest. Some people don’t wear boots at all in temperatures below 50; we don’t recommend it, though.
1mm - 2mm - (70ºF/21ºC & Above) This thickness of surf bootie is for surfers looking for protection from reefs and rocks in warm tropical water. Often referred to as reef boots, they look more like low-profile shoes.
3mm - (60ºF/15ºC - 70ºF/21ºC) Surf booties with 3mm of thickness are best used in locations such as Southern California or during East Coast summers. The benefit of a 3mm boot is a good balance of warmth and board feel.
5mm - (50ºF/10ºC - 60ºF/15ºC) 5mm surf boots are one of the most widely used in the industry. It provides warmth for cold water surfing and is a great option for locations such as the Pacific Northwest and East Coast during the Spring and Fall seasons. If you need a one-boot quiver, the 5mm is the way to go.
6.5mm - (40ºF/4ºC - 50ºF/10ºC) Built for those friged water temperatures. If you surf in the 40º to 55º range but have cold feet, the 6.5mm boot could be a better option than the 5mm. This boot thickness would be ideal for Alaska, the Great Lakes, or East Coast winters.
7mm+ - (40ºF/4ºC & Below) The thickest boots offered are good for places such as Alaska, the Great Lakes, or East Coast winters. Built for some of the coldest conditions surfable, the 7mm+ range is not for the faint of heart. The thicker neoprene makes them hard to get on but will keep your feet warm in close-to-freezing temperatures.
Types of Surf Boots
Split Toe (ST) - Split-toe boots are built with a split between the big toe and four other toes. It is a full external split that lets the big toe move freely. Some surfers prefer this option due to the added mobility and grip you can get from the separation. The downside to this style is that it is not as warm, considering the external split in the material.
Hidden Split Toe (HST) - This is one of my favorite boot styles. It gives you the feel of a split toe but the warmth of a round toe. The split toe is internal and does not have a visible gap on the outside. With the separation from the big toe, the boots are comfortable and lock your feet in place. Getting the best maneuverability and warmth is why I choose to use hidden split-toe boots.
Round Toe (RT) - Round-toe boots are the classic style of surf boots. It is the best boot for people getting into surfing or wanting a warm, comfortable fit. The style fits on like a sock and is exceptionally warm due to there being no separation in the toes. Some people prefer a round toe because a split toe can be uncomfortable if you have abnormally shaped toes.
Surf Boot Materials and Construction
There are a wide variety of brands that sell wetsuit booties for surfing. Each brand has different materials and constructions. Like wetsuits, there are affordable, mid-range, and high-end options to choose from. Depending on what activity and location you’re at, there is a model to meet your needs. Some of the most important features of surf boots include straps, neoprene thickness, and seams. Below are some common materials/constructions used for surf boots.
Sole - Almost all surf booties have a smooth skin sole surrounding the lower part of the boot. This shiny rubber material provides additional protection and warmth. Some soles are thicker than others, depending on how they’re built. A thinner sole, like that found in Rip Curl Flashbombs, offers a high-performance board feel, whereas a thicker sole, like the Hotline Reflex boot, is built for added protection and durability.
Straps - Most surfing booties have adjustable straps that tighten for a more snug fit. This offers a better board feel because the boots are less likely to move around your feet. Depending on the boot, one or two straps are enough for a sturdy fit. If the boots you’re looking at don’t have any straps, the boot is constructed with a stronger body so that the straps aren’t necessary.
Seams - Each surf brand has a different way of constructing seams. Some of the most common seams include glued and blind stitched (GBS), welded seams, and taped seams. Welded seams are normally on the high-end side of wetsuit booties, while GBS seams are commonly in the affordable range.
Liner vs. No Liner - Booties that feature a liner add warmth and durability; however, they can feel heavier and less maneuverable. They also take longer to dry and have less of a board feel.
How to Size Surf Boots
Having the right fitting boots is key to having fun and a safe time surfing. If they’re too big, water can leak in, resulting in heavy boots and cold feet. If they’re too small, it not only feels quite uncomfortable but also adds added stress to the seams, which speeds up the boots breaking down quicker with time and use. A key indicator that they’re too small is if your toes are curled at the end of the boot; however, it is normal for your toes to touch the end of the boots for a skin-tight fit.
The first step in sizing a wetsuit boot is knowing your street shoe size. Another thing to consider is your foot shape. Do they run wide, average, or wide? Also, it’s common for folks to have two feet of different sizes. For example, the left foot is a size 9, and the right foot is a size 8.5. We’ll cover that scenario more in the FAQ section below. That said, most surf boots are unisex sizing.
How to Size Men's Surf Boots
For men’s sizing, it is best to go with your street shoe size. However, if you are in between sizes, consider sizing down. For example, a men's street shoe 9.5 typically fits well in a size 9 bootie.
How to Size Women's Surf Boots
For women’s unisex sizing, it is best to size down one full size from your street shoe. For example, and women's street shoe 8 or 8.5 typically fits well in a unisex size 7. If you're looking at a women's specific-sized boot, a size 8 or 8.5 street shoe typically fits well in a size 8 bootie.
How to Put on Surf Boots
It’s important to remember that booties are not always easy to get on and off. Similar to a wetsuit, putting on brand-new boots requires a bit of extra effort.
- Make sure you're in an area where you can sit down or comfortably stand on one foot. Start with dry feet - wet feet can make the booties harder to put on.
- If possible, roll up your wetsuit legs about 3-4". This keeps them out of the way for now.
- Roll down the top of the boot at the ankle cuff. One or two rolls should be enough.
- Stretch the opening wide with both hands to make space for your foot. It is easiest to put both thumbs on the inside of the back of the boot, point your toes downward, and slowly slide your foot into the bootie.
- If you feel resistance, wiggle your toes and use your hands to gently pull the material up over your foot.
- Make sure your heel is fully seated in the heel pocket—this helps prevent excess water from entering.
- If the booties have Velcro straps, tighten them just enough to secure the fit without cutting off circulation.
- Once both booties are on, roll your wetsuit legs back down over the tops of the booties.
- The wetsuit should overlap the booties slightly to create a seal that minimizes water flushing.
Be patient with putting the boots on. Even for experienced surfers, a new boot can take a few attempts to get on. Also, if you're struggling, there is no harm in asking a friend or fellow surfer for help! With time and use in the water, the boot rubber will stretch a bit.
Size Guide By Brand
Billabong
Slightly wider than most brands. Unisex sizes offered: 6-13. Men: consider sizing down if you are in between sizes, especially if your feet run narrow. Women: size down one full size. Overall, Billabong's surf boots are comfortable and perform well. They are made in 3mm, 5mm, and 7mm thicknesses. The boots feature RT and HST options, some with and without straps.
Hotline
Fits slightly larger with a wider toe bed. Unisex sizes offered: 6-12. Men: consider sizing down if you are between sizes, especially if your feet run narrow. Women: size down one full size. Hotline boots are a Cleanline Surf favorite since their thicker soles are preferred for the rugged PNW coastline. They are offered in three configurations: 5mm HST, 5mm RT, and 7mm RT with ankle and foot straps.
Manera
Overall slimmer fit that runs true to size. Unisex sizes offered: 5-12. Manera is also a rarity, offering a handful of half sizes in 6.5, 8.5, and 9.5. Men: size according to street shoe. Women: size down one full size. Manera’s surf boots are completely strapless, making them a great low-profile boot that carries an exceptionally warm and comfortable feel. Manera makes 3mm, 5mm, and 7mm thicknesses in both RT and HST options.
O’Neill
True to size fit. Unisex sizes offered: 5-15. Men: size according to street shoe. Size down if in between sizes. Women: size down one full size. O’Neill surf boots have been tried and tested for many years. In fact, nearly our entire rental fleet consists of the durable O’Neill Heat model. The boots are also offered in 2mm, 3mm, 5mm, and 7mm options in RT, ST, and HST with strap and strapless models. From surfing reef boots to winter boots, O’Neill has you covered.
Patagonia
Runs narrow. Unisex sizes offered: 5-13. Men: size according to street shoe. If you have wider feet, consider sizing up if in between sizes. Women: size down one full size. Patagonia’s surf boots are durable, warm, and sustainably made. They are offered in thicknesses ranging from R2=2mm, R3=3mm, R4=5mm, and R5=7mm in both HST and RT. The boots don’t include straps and are slightly harder to get on due to the narrow fit and high ankle height.
Quiksilver
Slimmer fit and feel. Unisex sizes offered: 6-13. Men: size according to street shoe. If you have wider feet, consider sizing up if in between sizes. Women: size down one full size. Quik makes their boots in just 3mm and 5mm ST options. The simple design gets the job done for an affordable price.
Rip Curl
Slimmer fit and feel. Unisex sizes offered: 6-13. Men: size according to street shoe. If you have wider feet, consider sizing up if you are in between sizes. Women: size down one full size. Rip Curl offers a wide selection of surf boots, ranging from reef boots to thicker winter boots. Thicknesses include 1.5mm, 1mm, 3mm, 5mm, and 7mm in RT, HST, and ST versions.
Roxy
Women’s specific fit. Female sizes offered: 5-10. Women: size according to your street shoe size. If in between sizes, size down by one-half. Available in 3mm and 5mm options in both HST and RT models.
Solite
True to size fit. Unisex sizes offered: 6-13. Men: size according to street shoe. Size down if in between sizes. Women: size down one full size. Solite stands out as the only heat-moldable surf boot to ensure a unique and custom fit. The boots are available in 1mm, 3mm, 5mm, and 8mm options ranging from ST, HST, and RT models.
Vissla
True to size fit. Unisex sizes offered: 6-13. Men: size according to street shoe. Size down if in between sizes. Women: size down one full size. Vissla booties are offered in 3mm, 5mm, and 7mm in either RT or ST.
Xcel
Runs small. Unisex sizes offered: 5-13. Xcel is another rarity by offering a handful of half sizes in 9.5, 10.5, and 11.5. Men: size according to street shoe. Size up if in between sizes. Women: size down one full size or a half size if in between sizes. Offered in multiple variations from reef to winter booties: 1mm, 3mm, 5mm, 7mm, and 8mm thicknesses in addition to RT and ST options. Xcel has a strong reputation for constructing quality booties for cold water surfers.
Wetsuit Boot FAQ
Are surf boots made in women-specific sizes?
Yes, but almost all surfing bootie brands are unisex. The rule of thumb is to downsize by one full size if you wear a female street shoe. At the moment, Roxy is the only brand we carry that makes a women-specific surf boot.
What size surf boot should I get if I have feet of different sizes?
Always prioritize comfort on the larger foot to avoid excessive pressure, numbness, or restricted circulation. If the smaller foot feels loose inside the boot, try wearing a neoprene sock or purchasing a boot with two Velcro-fit straps. If there is a big difference in size, ordering two pairs of different sizes might be necessary.
Do they make youth wetsuit boots?
Yes, O’Neill, Rip Curl, and Xcel make youth-size surf boots, which we have in stock here.
Are wetsuit boots meant to be tight?
Yes, wetsuit booties are meant to be skin-tight and are not easy to put on. A key indicator that the boots fit is if your toes touch the end of the boots but are not crunched. If they’re crunched, then the boots are too small.
How long should boots last?
Boots can last multiple years, depending on how often you surf. If you surf consistently, High-end boots should last 1-2 years.
What is the warranty on wetsuit boots?
Cleanline offers a 30-day warranty for manufacturing defects. After that, most brands offer a 3-month warranty from the date of purchase, depending on the damage/condition of the boots.
Do surf boots go over or under your wetsuit?
Surf boots should always be worn under a wetsuit. Wearing them over the wetsuit can cause water to flood into the boots.
How do you take care of your wetsuit boots?
Taking care of your neoprene can dramatically improve the life of your boots. It is best to clean your boots with fresh water after every use and then dry them in the shade. For full cleaning instructions, check out our Wetsuit Care Guide blog.
Are wetsuit boots waterproof?
No, wetsuit booties are meant to get wet on the inside; however, the warm lining material will keep your feet warm and comfortable, even in the coldest of waters.
Do surf boots affect board feel?
Yes, surf boots come in various thicknesses and can vary in board feel. Typically, the thicker the neoprene, the more board feel you sacrifice. However, some brands like Solite and Xcel feature a thinner sole, which enhances board feel.
Are reef booties different from regular surf boots?
Yes, reef boots are low-ankle boots meant for walking on reefs or rocks in warmer climates. They are built with minimal insulation and are not built to keep your feet warm in colder climates.
Can wetsuit boots go in the washer or dryer?
We don’t recommend putting them in a washer or dryer. It can ruin the neoprene and thermal insulation. It is best to let your boots air dry after washing them in a bucket full of fresh water and neoprene shampoo.
Where to Buy Surf Boots
Hopefully, after reading this, you will better understand the types of boots available and how to pick a size that will work best for you. We offer a full selection of wetsuit boots for men, women, and kids. Shop at the links below.
Relevant Blogs We've Written
If you are looking for similar information on surf gear accessories, reviews, and more, check out the resources below.
Final Thoughts
In the end, finding the right surf wetsuit boots comes down to understanding your needs, the conditions you'll be surfing in, and the level of comfort and performance you’re looking for. Whether you're braving icy waters or just need extra grip and protection, the right pair can make all the difference in your surf sessions. Prioritize fit, thickness, and durability to ensure your boots keep you warm and connected to your board. With the right choice, you'll spend less time worrying about cold feet and more time enjoying the waves. Happy surfing!
If you have any questions about sizing, boot tech, or anything, you can always call us at 1-888-546-6176 or send an email to support@cleanlinesurf.com
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