Xcel Axis Round Toe 3mm Surf Boot

I am a long-time advocate of this brand for mitts and booties when it comes to open water swimming. This is a thinner gauge of neoprene than what I usually use. I found that this model takes in a little more water than other pricier Xcel models. If you aren’t a big kicker it’s fine, but otherwise you may get annoyed. The sole exterior coating is great for craggy shorelines.

Does the job: keeps feet warm, keeps sand out, great board feel, reasonably comfortable, etc. my only complaint is, like every surf bootie I've owned, these are very difficult to take off. Unlike rafting booties, which usually have a side zipper or Velcro, surf booties get suctioned on to your feet, and are therefore brutal to take off. They're no coming off by accident, that's for sure. Weird.

The foot size was actually ok, but the ankles very tight. Felt like it would be uncomfortable with them so tight, so I returned and found a bootie that zips at the ankle.