Ancient Watershoes?

[Chris Russo]

I know it's a bad idea to get your leather boots wet and then walk ten miles in them--both for the leather and your feet. But if you're planning on doing a lot of in-and-out of water (like setting up a seashore weir or spearfishing in the shallows), what would the ancients have done? Barefoot? Boots and all?

[Andy M]

Good point,

I've learned first hand and from research that taking care of your primitive gear is vital. As long as the threat level allows you to go Hobbit, I would advise keeping the footgear dry.

Andy

[Gareth]

...

[david lewis smith]

"Jungle Boots" army issue have vents to let water out, but your feet are still kind of cold, clammy and wet.

Lots and lot of wax applied keeps most leather fairly water prof, and if you lace them tight will keep water out if it does not go over the top.

Cross the river,
sit down
pull off boots
pull off socks
dry feet
change to dry socks
put on the mostly dry boots, body heat will do the rest

Take care of your feet always

Sandals are ok to walk in, the Romans did it for a few centuries