Our verdict
The Astral Hiyak high-top shoes receive high marks for their solid grip and traction, amazing comfort, and supportive features. It comes with plenty of drain holes for easy drying. Plus, the Velcro strap reinforces the lacing system underneath.
Pros
- Topnotch traction on slick surfaces and slippery rocks
- Quick dry
- Lightweight
- Supportive padding
- Flexible cushioning
- Secure fit
Cons
- The drain holes on the toe area and heel ensure that the shoes dry quickly after getting soaked
Who should buy the Astral Hiyak
The Astral Hiyak lower-volume bootie is perfect for paddling and kayaking. It is a solid option if you:
- Prefer a hiking boot that maximizes surface areas creating friction on slick surfaces.
- Prefer a hiking boot that ensures that the shoes dry quickly after getting soaked.
Track and field
- These water shoes forego an upper made of hydrophobic canvas with a ballistic nylon reinforcement rand.
- It has a flex grip outsole with maximized surface areas that creates friction on slick surfaces.
- The drain holes on the toe area and heel ensure that the shoes dry quickly after getting soaked.
Size and fit
The Astral Hiyak is a mid-cut hiker with a soft, padded collar. It has a two-way closure which is made up of a lace-up closure and a velcro strap so they stay in place while you’re swimming or crossing rivers. The Cordura material in the upper is quite flexible so it conforms nicely to the foot, giving the wearer a snug fit with or without drysuit socks.
Prevents slipping on wet and slippery surfaces
Much of the power of the Astral Hiyak comes from its flex-grip outsole which has a high level of stickiness. Keeping feet from slipping on wet and slippery surfaces, it has wide surface areas for increased grip and traction.
Excellent grip on loose dirt and edging performance
The divided lugs create a substantial grip on loose dirt while the razor siping on the edges bite into surfaces upon flexion. The sole is sewn and glued directly to the upper that ensures durability.
Comfortable, supportive, and lightweight cushioning
The Hiyak shoe has a removable midsole made of 7mm thick 45C closed-cell EVA foam. It’s cushiony and supportive and most of all - lightweight. This durable and resilient foam has many desirable properties, including shock absorption, moisture resistance, and heat insulation.
Versatile design
This boot is a unisex shoe available in men’s sizes. So, it is being worn by women as well because of its versatile design.
Reflective enhancements
Unlike traditional water shoes that feature neoprene uppers, the Astral Hiyak is made with hydrophobic canvas. It’s available in black color with red detailing for an appealing look. There are little reflective enhancements on the front and back which are really helpful when navigating the trail in the dark.
Excellent insulation and water-resistant
The upper also features a 3mm-quilted spacer mesh lining which serves as the shoe insulation. It works by trapping air between the foot and the waterproof shell. And like all Astral shoes, the Hiyak has an engineered drainage system that helps the water come while minimizing the entry of stilt.
Secure fit
The upper has three lace holes and additional eyelets for reinforcement. On top of the lacing system is a Velcro strap in case the laces loosen when hit by the sea waves or crossing streams.
