Team Unsponsored have been using Astrals’s great footwear since they were launched a couple of years back. The Brewer in particular are a firm favourite. All of our current Astral shoes have the Stealth rubber sole from Five Ten.

Astral Hiyak

When Five Ten was bought out by Adidas the availability of Stealth rubber to other shoe companies dried up. As a result Astral went searching for a rubber compound that would be even better than Stealth.

So roll on a year or so and we have the new G.ss (super sticky) rubber right here on a pair of Astral Hiyak boots at Unsponsored HQ.

The Hiyaks retail at around £98.

Astral Hiyak Specifications:

Super Sticky Outsoles:

Using our stickiest rubber, G.SS, the bottom is designed for maximum sole-to-ground friction. Non-marking, with siping; drain holes toe and heel. 3.5mm thick.

Insulation:

Like neoprene, the 3mm quilted Airmesh traps air between you and the waterproof shell. But our mesh dries out overnight, instead of in a month. The midsole is removable, 7mm thick 45C closed cell EVA foam. Foot to Ground Distance: 12mm heel, 11 mm ball.

Hidden Laces:

Laces are the best way to secure a river shoe. Ours are water-resistant and hidden with a Velcro over-flap, to keep things tidy.

Durability:

1000D Cordura® nylon with 1060D ballistic nylon reinforcement rand stitched and bonded directly to the outsole enhances durability vs. traditional bonded neoprene construction. High-top padded ankle protection with semi-rigid heel cup; 3mm quilted spacer mesh lining.

The Hiyak boots feel very light and the fabric tough. The sole seems pretty grippy and initial side by side tests indicate that the G rubber is far better than Stealth. That is really saying something.

We’ve been testing the Hiyaks out over the last couple of months and will be putting a bit more time in before we publish our thoughts.