Astral Introduces New “G.14” Sticky Rubber

You may have heard, Astral, known for its rich history and key innovations in paddlesports equipment, is expanding its award-winning footwear collection with a new outsole that utilizes “a proprietary new sticky G.14 rubber.”

The company says its new rubber will surpass the performance of any outsole previously available to paddlers.

Said Astral CEO and director of R&D, Philip Curry: “We are extreme kayakers and designers committed to making the best river shoes ever. We questioned and evaluated everything done before, found weaknesses and committed ourselves to doing it better.”

Astral’s new soles — which will be on the Brewer and new women’s specific Brewess – feature increased surface contact and added siping (razor slits in the rubber) to improve grip and shed mud more effectively. The paddling shoes are extremely lightweight and, importantly, feature classic takeout-to-table good looks.

Internally, the footbed features a zero-drop midsole, with a wide toe box for balance and stability.

The minimalist upper is constructed with Cordura nylon and airmesh for abrasion resistance, lightweight, and fast drying. The Brewer works well for SUP, crouching in a canoe, or squeezed into a playboat. (MSRP $99.95)