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Ask Betty

Dear Betty,
I grew up surfing in warm water and now I need booties for the cold water in Northern California. Do I get the 3MM ones with or without the split toe? Any other tips?
     —Lori, San Francisco, California

Dear Lori,
Booties are usually 2 or 3 millimeters thick. 2mm booties are good if you are looking for protection against rocks and reef and 3mm ones will keep your feet warmer in cooler water temps. You can also choose the solid toe (they look like socks) or split toe, which separates your big toe from the others. The only complaint I have heard with the split toe is that sometimes your leash gets stuck in between. (Ouch!) The downside of the solid style is that you have less control on the board (but only slightly less and not something the beginning or even intermediate surfer has to worry about). The upside? They make your feet look smaller.

Enjoy the ride,
Betty

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