Astral Rassler & 5-10 Water Tennie feedback

[DougB]

I'm trying to decide between these shoes. I will be ordering online and don't have an opportunity to try before I buy. I will be using for paddling and a decent amount of rough portaging. I prefer footwear with flexible soles which is leaning me towards the Tennie from the small amount I've read. I also want great grip and drainage. Has anyone used both and can provide some comparison?

[Wendy]

I have both. If you have a wide foot the Astral has more room in the toe box, otherwise I would choose the water tennie. The sould on both is excellent, Stealth rubber, the most secure I have ever felt on slippery rocks. The Astral downsides are that because they are minimalist I have found the seams rub the foot, dry suit bootie. They also collect alot of debris inside of them. The are open on the heel, which is great for kayakers who sit heal down where water and sand can drain out, but for open boaters the sand goes to the toes. Too bad- I have both types of Astrals but will wear them for minimal portage and summer with no drysuit bootie to ruin. So- the Water Tennie would be my choice for your purposes.