the GearCaster

Columbia Drainsock II Water Shoes Review

The Drainsock II is one of a variety of water shoes available from Columbia Sportswear. Since receiving these shoes last fall, I have been wearing them for beach runs, SUP adventures in CA and FL, and most recently on a daily basis during my trip to Hawaii. 

Inov-8 Fastlift 315/335 Weightlifting Shoes

Two years ago, Inov-8 dipped their toe into the CrossFit waters with the launch of the Bare-XF 210. Now with a huge product blowout planned for the CrossFit Games later this summer, Inov-8 is jumping straight into the deep end, launching their Fastlift 315 and 335 weightlifting shoes. 

KEEN Clearwater CNX Hybrid Sandals Review

While testing women's SUP gear last fall, I took my KEEN Clearwater CNX sandals down to meet their birthplace in Clearwater, FL. Similar to the new Chaco NearGround collection, the KEEN CNX line has everything you love about KEEN footwear, but lightened up for your summer adventures. With an agenda full of SUP, bike riding, and beach walking, these hybrid sandals were put through their paces. 

Chaco NearGround Sandal Collection

All you Chaco fans will be happy to hear about the company's latest footwear release just in time for your spring and summer adventures. The new NearGround Collection includes a line of men's and women''s sandals that feature the traditional Chaco webbing but are built on a more minimalist platform. Since last fall, I have been wearing the new Fantasia sandals for Stand Up Paddleboarding and the Fathom for around town and trips to the beach. 

Rottua Recycled Bike Tire Sandals

California is synonymous with sandals and bikes, so it only made sense for Bay Area company Rottua to combine the two. Creating unique sandals out of old bike tires and tubes, Rottua will remind you of those fabulous days spent riding through the Golden State, whether you are a roadie, mountain biker, or cyclocross fanatic.