Foul weather gear (advice wanted)

[MARLAUREN]

Just received a pair of "XTRATUFF" boots as a birthday gift, the rock idea rocks (sorry...) how long on the stove, can you get your stones to hot ...

The best way is to boil the stones in water. There are many YouTube videos showing the process. Try searching YouTube for "drying boots with hot stones," or other similar search terms. Wrapping them in wool socks or paper towels/cotton rags before placing them in the boots is helpful. Happy birthday (belated)!

 

[Aqua V]

Went to wash some older Gill gear (jacket and bottoms) in the machine, checked the care label and; Hand-Wash Only with Soap Flakes, no laundry detergent or machines. Looks like its the bathtub, kiddy pool, plastic trash can, don't have a deep-sink...

 

[bmills]

From a commercial fisherman's / stevedore's perspective, I recommend a pair of XTRATUFF boots and a thick pair of wool socks. After decades on the Bering Sea, I've not found anything better. You'll need to get a boot dryer or keep a couple of smooth river stones on the stove to put in the boots after use to dry them as condensation will occur inside them if worn for long periods in colder weather. (Hot stones are a great boot dryer).

I agree that XTRATUFF makes great boots. I have an insulated pair that I improved with Birkenstock insoles. However, I would caution that the tread is very good at holding pea gravel. If you don’t meticulously clean them every time you board your boat, you will chip your gel coat.

 

[MARLAUREN]

I agree that XTRATUFF makes great boots. I have an insulated pair that I improved with Birkenstock insoles. However, I would caution that the tread is very good at holding pea gravel. If you don’t meticulously clean them every time you board your boat, you will chip your gel coat.

Excellent point and advice about cleaning. They do tend to hold onto gravel. I keep mine on the boat and rarely wear them off the boat. But if worn off the boat it's definitely necessary to make sure they are clean before wearing them onboard again for the reason you've mentioned.