Gear Review: The world’s best river shoe

Five Ten Canyoneer 3

The title of the famed Paul Simon song, “Slip Slidin’ Away” best describes typical river shoes. But look out boating world: The solution to your footwear needs is here in the Five Ten Canyoneer 3 shoe.

Five Ten has spent 15 years perfecting a shoe built for navigating canyons in steep, slick and harsh conditions. It has durable, welded seams, burly laces, ankle support, and a neon color that would make any 13 year old jealous.

I was recently on a fishing trip to New Zealand when I spotted my Queenstown fishing guide, Ayato Otsubo, lacing up a pair of Canyoneer 3s. “[It’s the] best shoe I have ever owned, perfect for a day of wading around rivers fishing,” Otsubo said.

I’ve spent 20 years guiding and running rivers and was unable to find a river shoe or sandal that would give all the elements of traction, support and comfort. Until now.

I tested the shoes in late May, on a six-day trip down Idaho’s Middle Fork of the Salmon River. It was a perfect blend of cold water, slick boulders, and rocky shorelines while scouting rapids or rigging a boat.

Bottom line: I’ve found the perfect river-running shoe! Five Ten’s patented STEALTH rubber sole is like glue on the rock, the ankle support is bomber, and the burly construction is a welcome change from my other river shoes that typically had weeklong shelf lives. Long gone are the days of slipping while stepping out of my boat; rolling an ankle while rigging on a rocky shoreline; or sending shoes back for warranty due to faulty craftsmanship.

Next stop? The Gallatin River for some fishing in my Canyoneer 3s to practice that cast Otsubo taught me.
– Eric Ladd

Eric Ladd tests his Five Ten Canyoneer 3s on Idaho’s Middle Fork of the Salmon River. PHOTO BY JUSTIN HOWELLS