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Our Review – Zhik Performance High Cut Boots
Reviewed by the Coast Water Sports team after hands-on testing and comparison with the previous generation Zhik Performance High Cut Boots.
Having worn the previous generations of Zhik Boots, the version with the distinctive green soles, it is easy to spot the changes in this latest model.
The biggest improvement is the lacing system. The laces have been moved to the inside of the boot, making them much easier to tighten and loosen. Zhik has also reintroduced the buckle to the strap syetem to make a 2:1 an adjustable tension strap around the top of the boot, helping to achieve a secure fit around the ankle.
One downside of having the buckle is that the useful lace pocket built into the ankle strap has had to go or it woudlnt fit through the buckle, so there is no longer anywhere obvious to tuck the loose lace ends away once they are tied.
The previous quick-pull lacing system has been replaced with a traditional lace-up design, so you now need to tie them like a normal shoe. Fortunately, Zhik has made this as straightforward as possible by using open lace hooks at the top of the boot rather than eyelets, allowing you to get them on and off quickly.
The sole has also been redesigned. It feels noticeably chunkier and more substantial than the previous version, giving the impression that it should be more durable, while still offering the excellent grip that Zhik boots are known for.
Important Sizing Information
These boots come up approximately one UK size larger than expected and are noticeably wider than the previous generation.
As a real-world example, I normally wear a UK 9, but the UK 8 (labelled US 9 on the box) fits me perfectly. With the previous generation, I wore the US 10, which said on the box it was also a UK10??!.
Our recommendation is to order one UK size smaller than you would normally buy. Those with particularly wide feet, however, may appreciate the additional room and prefer to stay with their usual size.
Cold Weather Performance
One feature we are still undecided on is the addition of several small drainage holes on the outside of the boot. Their purpose is clearly to allow water to escape more quickly, but traditionally neoprene boots (and wetsuits in general) are designed to retain a thin layer of water, which then warms up and provides insulation.
Most manufacturers go to considerable lengths to minimise flushing, whereas this design appears to encourage it. It will be interesting to see how this performs during a full season of sailing, particularly in colder conditions. We will update this review once we've had more time on the water.
Overall Verdict
Overall, this feels like a more robust and practical evolution of the Zhik Performance High Cut Boot. The revised lacing system is easier to use, the construction appears tougher, and the grip remains every bit as impressive as before.
We do miss a couple of features from the previous model, particularly the lace storage pocket, and if we're being honest, we think the old green-soled version looked a little cooler. That said, if durability and ease of use are your priorities, this new version looks like a worthwhile upgrade.
