Fourth Element Rock Hopper Shoes Review
Last updated: July 2025
- Restores ankle mobility lost with traditional rock boots
- Low-profile fit works exceptionally well with technical fins
- Extremely quick on and off with drysuit sock systems
- Durable enough for repeated boat and platform diving
- Not intended for insulation or rugged shore entries
Overall Score: 8.7 / 10 (Strong)
See current pricing at: Paragon Dive Shop
How Dive Otter scores scuba gear
Minimalist drysuit footwear designed for sock-style suits where ankle mobility and fin control matter more than insulation or walking comfort. I switched to these after struggling with ankle restriction from DUI Rock Boots, and they immediately improved my propulsion, trim, and fin fit. I have used them consistently for over two years with OMS Slipstream fins on boat and quarry dives. As long as entries are controlled, they solve a very specific problem extremely well.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Dramatically improves ankle range of motion compared to rock boots | Provides no thermal insulation |
| Slides cleanly into technical fins without forcing sizing changes | Not designed for walking over rocks, gravel, or uneven shore entries |
| Very easy to don and remove, even between dives | Only compatible with drysuits that use sock-style feet |
| Lightweight and neutral in the water | |
| Has held up well after two years of regular use |
Why I Chose the Fourth Element Rock Hopper Shoes
I originally used DUI Rock Boots over drysuit socks, but they restricted my ankle movement and caused problems with propulsion and trim. During GUE Fundamentals, both instructors independently recommended the Fourth Element Rock Hopper shoes as a solution, and one of them was actively using a pair during class.
After switching, the improvement was immediate. Ankle mobility opened up, fin control improved, and my OMS Slipstream fins fit cleanly without adjustment. Since then, the Rock Hoppers have become part of my standard drysuit configuration for boat diving and quarry platforms, and I have not gone back to traditional rock boots.
Verdict
The Rock Hoppers are a purpose-built solution that do exactly what they claim. They are not warm, cushioned, or versatile, but they dramatically improve mobility and fin control when used as intended. For controlled entries from boats or platforms, they are the best drysuit footwear I have used.
Would I buy it again? Yes. They solved a real problem and have remained part of my kit for over two years without issue.
Who the Fourth Element Rock Hopper Shoes Are Best For
This item is best suited for:
- Drysuit divers who want maximum ankle flexibility with sock-style suits
- Divers using technical fins who need a secure, low-profile fit
- Boat or platform divers looking for footwear that slips on and off quickly
It may not be ideal for:
- Divers who need insulation or cushioning for cold surface intervals
- Shore divers who regularly hike over rough or rocky terrain
Deep Dive into the Score
Scoring System: Each category is scored out of 10 and weighted by importance. This model is used consistently across all gear reviews for transparency.
| Category | Score | Raw Score | Weight | Weighted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Function & Performance | Exceptional | 9.0 | 30% | 2.7 |
| Ease of Use | Exceptional | 10.0 | 20% | 2.0 |
| Versatility | Fair | 6.0 | 15% | 0.9 |
| Durability & Build Quality | Exceptional | 9.0 | 15% | 1.4 |
| Value | Strong | 8.0 | 10% | 0.8 |
| Brand Trust & Transparency | Exceptional | 9.0 | 10% | 0.9 |
| Total | Strong | 8.7 / 10 | ||
Deep Dive Score Explanations
- Function & Performance – 9: Solves the exact problem it was designed for. Excellent mobility and control underwater, especially with tech fins.
- Ease of Use – 10: Probably the easiest footwear in my dive kit to put on and take off. Never sticks, swells, or catches.
- Versatility – 6: Narrow in use case. Designed specifically for sock-style drysuits and controlled entries, with no protection for rough terrain.
- Durability & Build Quality – 9: Two years of use and still going strong. Stitching, sole, and upper materials show minimal wear.
- Value – 8: Mid-range pricing is fair given the performance and durability. No regrets despite the single-use purpose.
- Brand Trust & Transparency – 9: Fourth Element continues to deliver thoughtful design. Their drysuit accessories have been reliable and well-built.
Performance in the Water
- Trim & Buoyancy: They are neutral in freshwater and allow much better leg control than heavier overboots. No trim problems and no air trapping at the feet.
- Kick Styles / Usage: Frog kick, flutter, and reverse all improved after switching. My range of ankle motion opened up considerably.
- Comfort: Easy to slip on and off, even after a long day of diving. No pressure points or rubbing inside the foot pocket.
- Control / Function: Excellent connection with my Slipstream fins. No shifting, no looseness, and the thin sole still offers enough grip on boat decks or platforms.