Zhik Boots – the ultimate comfort on the water

Zhik Boots

Zhik have been leading the way with their sailing boots for a number of years now. So much so that competitors are launching boots with very similar looks and features.

We’ve been using Zhik boots for around 7 years now across a variety of boats and quite honestly, we love them. Our boots of choice are the 160 and 260 models but there are 6 different types available for a variety of uses on the water.

In the 7 years we are one year into our second pair of 260 sailing boots after some hard sailing in various locations across the World. Fantastic quality that lasts!

Boot 60

We’ve always been intrigued by this boot design but personally I would say it’s not one for our UK customers as the boot has no protection. Likely to be ideal if you are sailing in warm conditions and from a soft sandy beach.

Boot 160

This Zhik boot is the second most popular at Sailing Chandlery. It is an ankle cut, lightweight boot with all the protection you need for sailing in warmer conditions.

The 160 boot has a hard wearing sole, is easy to slip on and has a velcro strap across the top. It also benefits from the amazing grip system which we feel can’t be beaten in a sailing boot.

The grip system makes this boot ideal for trapezing but also with the protection across the front for hiking.

View the 160 Zhik Boot

Boot 260

The Zhik 260 sailing boot is by far the most popular Zhik boot we sell.

This was the first designed sailing boot (to our knowledge) to use a lacing system rather than zip. The design has a draining holes at the side to allow any water to run out along with a very hard wearing sole with added protection around the heel and toe. There is a velcro strap around the top to help secure the boot in place.

This boot is made from a 4mm neoprene.

View the 260 Zhik Boot

Boot 460

The Zhik 460 sailing boot has similar features to the 260 Zhik sailing boot. The only differences between these two models is that the 460 boot is made from 2mm neoprene, has a thinner sole too and also has no added protection across the front of the foot.

The 460 will allow you to get more feeling for the boat which some sailors like.

View the 460 Zhik Boot

Boot 360

The 360 boot is very similar to the 260 but also has the Zhik Grip II system on the front of the boot.

The Zhik Grip II system is designed for hiking and is a tooth system which fits with the underneath of the Zhik Grip II hiking straps. We’ve had loads of feedback from sailors who love this Zhik boot and hiking strap combination, they say it keeps them locked into the hiking strap for better comfort.

This boot is made from 4mm neoprene and is more popular than the 560 shown next.

View the 360 Zhik Boot

Boot 560

The 560 boot is the same as the 360 but again is a 2mm neoprene version rather than 4mm.

We don’t currently stock the 560 boot at Sailing Chandlery but can get a pair to you within 3 working days, contact us if you would like a pair.

Recommendations

Zhik recommend that their boots are not worn off the water, you should take care of them and take them off after sailing. They also recommend they are washed out with fresh water after use and left to dry out of the sun.

Here are our recommendations for your type of sailing and the Zhik boots you should be wearing:

• Hiking – 360 or 560 boot but with the Zhik Grip II hiking strap
• Summer sailing – 160 boot
• General all rounder – 260 boot

Important Note

Zhik boots do come up small, we always recommend ordering the next size up than recommended! Please take note of the size charts which are available on each product page.

Video Review

In April we worked with Tristan from Zhik to create a video review of the Zhik 260 and Zhik 460 sailing boots – Zhik 260 & Zhik 460 Sailing Boot Review