[SamSteele]

Originally Posted by Dielbo

Do you mean you want rubber sole to use in states where they don't allow felt? Or do you mean you want rubber because you want to reduce spread of whirling disease?

If it's the former, I get that. If it's the latter, maybe take a look at some newer studies and information. The link between felt-soles and spread of whirling disease is highly tenuous at best.

I tried some and they are slippery as hell on freestone streams. On the algae-covered rocks on the Bow they were just ridiculously dangerous. I returned mine and got new felt-soles with (removable) studs and the difference is huge.

It was for the later. My understanding is that felt soled boots were no longer allowed in waters of the National Parks and thought it was only a matter of time before the same was applied across the province.