Let’s be really honest here. Most casual jetskiers rarely don a pair of race-ready riding boots to fart around the lake with the kids. Growing up, most folks laced up an old pair of Chuck Taylors or slip-on Vans before stepping into the tray of their JS550, but just as the personal watercraft have evolved over the decades, so has the riding gear.
Calling something “race” often scares folks away, so that’s where this review begins with a disadvantage. While certainly, Slippery Wetsuits’ Liquid Race Boots are fully suitable for the closed course, they offer foot and ankle support that you won’t find in an old pair of sneakers or Crocs, or even some neoprene booties. And after a long day on the water, that added support will be much appreciated.
Years back, reviewed a pair of neon green-and-black Race Boots, which we got to replace the black-and-grey Liquid Race boots that we had since 2009. And like the Liquid Race Boots we picked up prior to testing the then-new ’21 Yamaha SuperJet, this newest pair came with some improvements made to the design over the years.
Since the redesign, Slippery’s Liquid Race Boots have maintained the same all-black look, and come with 1.5mm neoprene socks standard. No extra purchase required. The lace up boot features heavy duty loops and a thick shoestring to draw the sides taut around your foot. Above the ankle is a large Velcro strap that cinches the ankle closed. On the back is a pull tab to help slip the boot on.
Previously, the boot’s “chassis” was made of a thicker material with only small perforations for your foot to breathe through. Today, the boot uses Slippery’s “airmesh” material on both sides for vastly improved ventilation and drainage. This also gives it added flexibility allowing it to feel more forgiving. This was a welcome change to those who wore high-top wrestling shoes.
The Liquid Race Boot featured rugged anti-abrasion traction pads at the heel and toe, protecting the foot from shock while increasing grip while moving around the tray. The sole wraps high up around the heel for increased traction, support and stability. The thick sole cushions the ball and heel, fundamental for racers and aggressive riders often pivot off of their toes and ride on their feet.
In prior reviews, our primary complaints were that we found that sizes over 11 felt a little tight and the harder laces and loops tended to get brittle over the season – but not so for our boots this year. Our toes were never cramped or squished, and the materials are still pliable and soft. Priced at $99.95, Slippery’s Liquid Race Boot has increased in price by $10 since our last bout.
Nevertheless, they’re still a solid purchase at a fair price – particularly as other boots with less breathability and lacking the inner liner cost quite a bit more. Whether you’re looking for added grip for aggressive riding, better protection from rubbing and scrapes, or just wanting to keep your toes warm, the Slippery Liquid Race Boot is easily one of your best options.
