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Yes supposedly they make good breeding grounds for bacteria and 'aquatic pests'

Felt soles apparently are already banned in New Zealand. Opinion generally seems to be that this trend will follow with other countries doing the same, reason being that felt soles can aid the spread of aquatic pests and the like.

I have already invested in a pair of Patagonia Riverwalkers, with the "sticky" rubber soles. As well as the soles, they are much, much lighter than my Simms Freestone felt soled boots although I have yet to wear them (Mrs. Tonio is wrapping them up for Crimbo, as I type!).

No moves as yet by UK.USA looking at it, but nothing concrete yet.
NZ banned them 2 seasons ago.Mostly because of Rock snot. a weed that both USA and UK already have as a native species(I believe). But with the coming of signal Crayfish and Killer Shrimp .I think the ban might just have moved a lot closer

Jim

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The Fishermans Friend is the Flirty Fly,Fickle Food for Fleeting Fish.