Tecnica Torrent shoes : Let a River Run Through Them

Although I also brought sport sandals and trail running shoes on my recent trip to Belize, most of the time I ended up wearing my Tecnica Torrents. These sandal-like shoes worked great for canoeing and kayaking, as well as for climbing up ancient Mayan pyramids and ambling through city streets. What I especially like about this true “amphibian” shoe is that the mesh upper is breathable and dries quickly while protecting my feet and toes more than a performance sport sandal would.

I first pulled out my Torrents for a canoe trip down the Macal River in western Belize. A few times we had to get out and carry the canoe over very low water, which required good grip on the slippery river rocks. I noticed my friend who was wearing another major brand sport sandal slipped a few times, while I managed just fine in the Torrent. Am I more sure-footed? Maybe. Or was it the more slip-resistant, textured sole of the Torrent? I think so.

Once we were back in our boats, my shoes dried quickly thanks to the drainage ports located in the forefoot.

The Torrent provides good support, and it's a very comfortable shoe. Tecnica has designed the Torrent to include a cellular rubber heel pad that acts as a shock-absorber at heel strike. After my canoe trip, I wore them almost every day for two weeks, with no break-in period needed. In the past I've been prone to blisters when wearing new shoes, boots, and sandals. have gotten some good blisters in the past with various boots, shoes, and even sandals that rub in all the wrong places.

I also wore my torrents bicycling around Caye Caulker. They’ve got speed lacing, which I really appreciates, that I can loosen to tighten with a small toggle.

Bottom Line: Tecnica has scored big with the Torrent. This quick-draining shoe is ideal for water sports and warm weather activities. J.I. (July '05)

Price: $69.95

Manufacturer's Site: www.tecnicausa.com

Buy Online: , Altrec.com