Water shoes are a remarkably adaptable type of footwear that transcend their primary purpose of being worn in aquatic environments such as kayaking, exploring rock formations at the beach or scuba-diving. Their functionality extends far beyond these activities, as they can also serve as reliable companions for hiking excursions and even lend a helping hand when washing the car.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast with a passion for adventure or simply looking to safeguard your feet during leisurely pursuits, water shoes prove to be an excellent choice, offering unparalleled protection and comfort for the wearer.
The 8 Best Water Shoes
When it comes to water shoes for hiking and outdoor activities, there are many great options on the market. For men, Adidas Outdoor Men’s Terrex Boat Water Shoes are a popular choice, offering a combination of comfort and support. Sperry Men’s Flex Deck Water Shoes are another great option, providing a versatile and stylish solution for water-based pursuits. Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Sandals offer a more relaxed fit and breathable design.
For those looking at neoprene wetsuits, NeoSport Wetsuits Paddle Low Top Boots provide a full-body solution for cold-water activities. Meanwhile, MAINCH Women’s Hiking Water Shoes are a great choice for women, offering a lightweight and comfortable option for hiking and outdoor adventures. Our top pick among women’s water shoes is Speedo Women’s Water Shoes, which provide a snug fit and excellent support.
Stride Rite Made2Play Phibian Water Shoes offer a fun and playful design, while Native Shoes Water Shoes provide a versatile and comfortable solution for water-based activities.
Our Top Pick for the Best Water Shoes
The Speedo Women’s Water Shoes take top honors as our premier choice for best water shoes. With a wide range of styles catering to men, women, and kids, Speedo has established itself as a go-to brand for high-quality aquatic footwear. Whether you’re an avid kayaker, surfer, or simply looking for comfortable poolside footwear, these water shoes deliver on comfort, protection, and support.
Not only are they easy to slip into, but they also boast a stylish design that won’t compromise on functionality. And the best part? They’re affordable, making them accessible to water enthusiasts of all levels. Check out the current price on Amazon.
Styles of Water Shoes
When it comes to water shoes, you’re presented with a range of options, including three distinct styles. The first is the traditional water shoe, designed for optimal comfort and support during aquatic activities. Next are water sandals, which offer a more relaxed fit and often feature straps or toe rings for added security. Rounding out the trio are water booties, a type that provides additional ankle coverage and can be particularly useful in colder or rockier waters.
Water Shoes
Water shoes closely resemble sneakers, boasting sturdy rubber outsoles and breathable mesh fabrics that facilitate airflow. While these footwear options tend to dry swiftly when wet, it’s essential to note that prolonged submersion in water can cause them to become uncomfortably weighty.
Water Sandals
Water sandals boast a unique design featuring a ‘closed-in toe’ and mesh-like materials that cover a significant portion of the foot, punctuated by strategically placed openings or vents to facilitate the expulsion of water. Some models are specifically designed for kids, mimicking the appearance of rubber sneakers with tiny perforations that allow for controlled water release.
Water Booties
For aquatic adventures, water booties provide a snug fit around the entire foot, resembling a sleek, waterproof sock. These specialized footwear options are perfect for scuba diving or snorkeling excursions, offering a secure and comfortable barrier against marine environments.
Seven Activities for a Water Shoe
Water shoes have become an essential accessory for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re spending the weekend on your boat, enjoying a day at the beach with your kids, or taking part in water sports, these versatile shoes provide protection and traction. For those who love the water, water shoes are a must-have. They can be worn while getting on and off a boat, rigging a sail, or navigating through squalls.
The protective footwear is also ideal for fishing, walking alongside a pool, or umpiring a school carnival. Diving and snorkeling enthusiasts will appreciate the protection offered by water booties. These shoes shield feet from sharp rocks, coral, and other underwater hazards. Whether you’re exploring shallow waters or descending to depths, water shoes can give you peace of mind. For land-based activities, water sandals offer excellent traction on slippery surfaces.
They’re perfect for hiking, climbing, or participating in water sports like whitewater rafting or windsurfing. Some models feature a closed-toe design that protects toes from sharp objects and allows for ventilation to keep feet cool and dry. Protecting children’s feet is crucial when they’re playing at the beach. Water shoes can shield their toes from hidden dangers like sharp shells, broken glass, and toxic needles.
They’ll also prevent bluebottles or stinging sea creatures from causing discomfort. Even everyday activities like washing the car can benefit from wearing water shoes. These shoes dry quickly, provide protection against slippery surfaces, and can absorb any unexpected shocks.
How to Choose the Best Water Shoes
Material
Water shoes, sandals, and booties all boast unique features that cater to the needs of water enthusiasts. At their core, water shoes are designed from lightweight mesh materials that efficiently expel water and prevent mold buildup. The breathable fabric allows for airflow and helps maintain a fresh scent. Meanwhile, water sandals can be crafted from flexible leather, synthetic uppers, or rubber/EVA, which conforms to the shape of your foot.
The latter option offers excellent support and flexibility. Water booties, made from Neoprene, are notable for their durability, insulation, and ability to retain body warmth. While they may absorb water, leaving feet feeling heavy when submerged, this drawback is outweighed by their streamlined design, making them an excellent choice for divers and snorkelers.
Thick Sole, Traction, and Support
When navigating uneven terrain or standing for extended periods, a sturdy sole on your water shoes is crucial. A solid tread provides excellent grip and traction on slippery surfaces, such as moss-covered rocks in rock pools. Unlike water booties, which often have thin outsoles that may not offer sufficient protection on rocky or uneven surfaces, good-quality water shoes typically feature thick soles that can withstand the demands of outdoor activities.
In addition to providing support and traction, some water sandals, such as those with UniFly soft foam midsoles, also boast antimicrobial treatments designed to reduce odor-causing bacteria, ensuring your footwear remains fresh even after prolonged use.
Lightweight, Drainage, and Ventilation
When it comes to water shoes or sandals, one of the most important features is drainage. A good pair should be able to efficiently expel water to prevent long-term absorption, which can lead to blisters and discomfort. In addition to proper drainage, a breathable material that dries quickly is also crucial. This ensures that your feet stay dry and comfortable throughout your outdoor adventure.
For backpackers who prioritize lightweight gear, look for sandals with neoprene panels that provide protection from scratches while still allowing water to escape. The key is finding a balance between breathability and coverage. By considering these factors, you can find the perfect water shoe or sandal that meets your needs and keeps your feet happy.
Toe Guard
When it comes to water shoes resembling hiking boots, a key feature is the incorporation of robust toe guards crafted from thick and durable rubber. These barriers serve as a vital line of defense against potential hazards such as wayward objects or rough surfaces that could cause toenail trauma or discomfort.
Handy Tips for Water Shoes
When it comes to using water sandals for hiking, it’s essential to be mindful of their limitations. While they’re suitable for light-grade trails and occasional scrambles over rocks, they’re not designed for more demanding terrain or longer hikes. The lack of support and padding means they won’t withstand the rigors of a lengthy hike. Additionally, even with breathable designs and some padding, blisters can still occur in hot weather if your feet swell.
To minimize discomfort, keep your feet as dry as possible and consider wearing a well-padded waterproof hiking sock. When venturing onto wet, hard, or slippery surfaces, always exercise caution, regardless of the traction provided by your water shoes. In terms of fit, most water sandals will accommodate average-sized feet. However, those with narrower or wider feet (including children) should consult the manufacturer’s size chart to ensure a comfortable and blister-free experience.
If sand gets stuck in your shoes, give them a good rinse under a garden hose or beach tap. Most water shoes can be machine washed, but brightly colored ones may run their color if not washed in cold water. To keep your water shoes/sandals in top condition, follow these simple tips.
8 Best Water Shoes – Reviews
Adidas Outdoor Men’s Terrex Boat Water Shoes
The Adidas Outdoor Men’s Terrex Boat Water Shoes stand out with their sleek design, featuring a lightweight and quick-drying construction that makes them perfect for fishing, beach activities, or even mowing your lawn. The shoes boast an all-day comfort thanks to the 360° ventilation provided by the Climacool open mesh upper, which cools the shoe and wicks perspiration away from your skin.
The EVA tongue top ensures a snug fit, while the heel insert stretches to conform to the shape of your foot. When navigating rocky surfaces, the non-marking TRAXION rubber outsole pattern provides optimal grip on most surfaces. Available in full and half sizes ranging from 6.5 to 15, these water shoes cater to both men and women. Choose from two attractive colors, but consider sizing up a half-size from your normal shoe size to achieve the best fit, as some users may find them too narrow.
Overall, the Adidas water shoes excel in terms of quality, construction, grip, versatility, breathability, quick-drying capabilities, and style. However, they do have some drawbacks – sand can be challenging to remove, the outsole may slip on very wet surfaces, and they’re not ideal for hiking. Nevertheless, they remain a great option for wet or dry conditions.
Sperry Men’s Flex Deck Water Shoes
When it comes to staying comfortable and stylish around water, the Sperry Men’s Flex Deck Water Shoes are an excellent choice. With their innovative design and durable construction, these shoes excel in providing a high level of comfortability while also boasting a great aesthetic appeal. The secret to their success lies in their lightweight, breathable quick-drying mesh upper, which ensures your feet remain fresh throughout the day.
Additionally, the vulcanized outsoles are securely attached to the uppers, resulting in a more solid and reliable shoe that can withstand various water activities. The compression-molded EVA footbed adds an extra layer of comfort, while the approximately 2.25-inch shaft provides excellent support for those with high arches or requiring additional support. If needed, the footbed can be removed to accommodate orthopedic insoles.
The shoes’ Molded Hydro Grip rubber outsole with Adaptive Wave-Siping technology ensures a secure grip on wet surfaces, minimizing slippage concerns. The bungee laces with toggles make it effortless to put on and take off the shoes, while also allowing for adjustments to ensure a snug fit. With three color options – Grey, Black/Yellow, and Blue – there’s something for everyone. If you have narrow or broad feet, consider choosing half a size down or up based on your standard shoe size.
The pros of these water shoes include their excellent value for money, exceptional comfort, stylish design, breathable mesh, good support, grippy outsole, ease of cleaning, and effortless wear. On the other hand, some users may find the shoes noisy due to squeaking when walked upon, and they may not be suitable for individuals with broad or flat feet. Check the current price on Amazon.
Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Sandals
Merrell’s Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Sandals seamlessly blend the comfort of a sandal with the support and stability of a hiking shoe, making them an ideal choice for a variety of outdoor activities. When venturing into wet and balmy jungle environments, the sandals’ flexible leather and synthetic upper allow water to drain quickly, while the neoprene and Lycra collar provides a comfortable fit that can be worn all day.
For more challenging terrain, the Vibram® TC5+ outsole with 3mm lugs offers excellent support and stability on uneven surfaces. The UniFly soft foam midsole is treated with Merrell’s M Select Fresh antimicrobial technology to prevent odor-causing bacteria from forming, keeping your shoes smelling fresh even after a long day of hiking. These water sandals are also available for women and come in a range of attractive designs.
When selecting a size, be aware that these sandals run slightly larger than their advertised size, so it’s recommended to choose half a size down from your regular shoe size. The pros of this product include its sturdiness, wide range of designs, good ankle protection, lightweight design, comfort, anti-bacterial treatment, breathability, and quick-drying properties. However, some users may find the sandals’ grip on smooth surfaces to be lacking, and the price point is relatively high.
NeoSport Wetsuits Paddle Low Top Boots
Step into your next outdoor adventure with confidence and comfort thanks to the NeoSport Wetsuits Paddle Low Top Boots. These innovative boots boast a zipper-less design, premium neoprene material, and Lycra edge trim for a snug fit that stretches to accommodate your feet. The absence of zippers simplifies putting them on and taking them off in a hurry with the adjustable Velcro straps and ankle barrel cinch.
When embarking on challenging outdoor pursuits like white-water rafting, the boots’ high-quality, abrasion-resistant seams and puncture-resistant, high-traction sole provide exceptional protection on rough terrain. Although the soles are thin, wearing waterproof socks underneath can minimize discomfort. With their versatile design, these boots are also suitable for women. To ensure a perfect fit, follow the manufacturer-provided size chart.
Neo-Sport offers a 1-year limited warranty for added peace of mind. The boots’ pros include good value for money, a great design, durability, excellent insulation, and good traction. However, some users may find the thin outer-sole and potential water absorption to be drawbacks. Check the price on Amazon to get started.
MAINCH Women’s Hiking Water Shoes
The MAINCH Women’s Hiking Water Shoes are a versatile choice for outdoor enthusiasts. These shoes excel in providing comfort, support, and protection for your feet during various trail conditions. The breathable design features an open mesh upper and midsole channels with small holes to keep your feet cool and fresh even on hot days, minimizing the risk of unpleasant odors.
The lightweight construction, quick-drying material, and soft honeycomb midsoles work in harmony to provide excellent support and stability for women’s comfort needs. The protective toe cap and synthetic ribbons on the sides add an extra layer of security. When hiking through rugged terrain or exploring rock pools along the beach, the rubber soles with anti-slip technology ensure a secure grip. The raised sole also enhances friction, providing added peace of mind.
The sports-shoe-lacing system allows for easy adjustments and quick removal, making it convenient to wear these shoes during various outdoor activities. You can choose from three attractive colors – black rose, pink, and black – and select your best fit using the size chart provided by MAINCH.
While there are some limitations, such as not being ideal for those with high arches or running slightly small, overall, these water shoes offer great value for money, providing a comfortable, supportive, and quick-drying experience.
Speedo Women’s Water Shoes
When venturing into the world of amphibious activities, it’s essential to prioritize comfort and protection for your feet. The Speedo Women’s Water Shoes are an excellent choice for just that. Crafted from fully breathable mesh, these shoes ensure a fresh and sand-free experience. The Neoprene collar provides a snug fit by stretching to accommodate the unique shape of each foot.
Furthermore, the S-TRAC TPR water traction outsole is designed to minimize resistance in the water, providing exceptional grip on slippery surfaces. The elasticized closure allows for easy donning and doffing, minus the hassle of zippers or straps. Although they can be challenging to remove when wet, the shoes are quick-drying and effortless to clean. For those who prioritize aesthetics, the Speedo Water Shoes come in two attractive color options: black/pink and navy.
The brand also offers sizes for men, toddlers, and even the whole family, making them an inclusive choice. Some notable pros include their affordability, good quality, stylish design, excellent protection, traction, and ability to keep sand at bay. Additionally, they dry quickly and are easy to clean. However, some users may find them difficult to remove when wet, and sizes can run smaller than advertised.
Overall, the Speedo Women’s Water Shoes strike a great balance between functionality and fashion.
Stride Rite Made2Play Phibian Water Shoes
The Stride Rite Made2Play Phibian Water Shoes are a must-have for any parent who wants to keep their little one’s feet protected and comfortable while playing at the beach. This sandal cleverly combines the support of a sneaker with the airy comfort of a sandal, making it an excellent choice for kids. The high-quality EVA upper provides a snug fit, while the reinforced toe cover safeguards tiny toes from any potential harm.
The quick-drying mesh material is breathable, and the antimicrobial lining ensures that your child’s feet remain dry, fresh, and odor-free all day long. For added support and traction on slippery surfaces, the outsole features thick rubber with non-marking soles. Parents will also appreciate that these shoes can be machine washed without damaging the mesh, making cleaning a breeze.
The secure fastening system, complete with a hook and loop, allows your child to easily put their own shoes on and take them off. Plus, the grip at the back of the sandal provides a reassuring sense of security. A fantastic fashion choice, these water shoe sandals come in a vibrant range of colors that are sure to delight kids and parents alike. They provide a great fit for most infant’s, toddlers’, and little kid’s feet, making them an excellent investment for any family.
Native Shoes Water Shoes
When it comes to choosing waterproof footwear for your kids that’s both functional and fashionable, Native Shoes Water Shoes are an excellent option. Made from lightweight and flexible injection-molded EVA, these high-quality sneakers feature all-over perforations that allow water to escape, making them perfect for summer activities. Not only do they dry quickly, but the odor-resistant material ensures your child’s feet stay fresh.
The thick rubber soles provide great traction, reducing the risk of slipping and falling, while the rubber toe cap protects their toes from any potential injuries. For environmentally-conscious parents, Native Shoes uses a low-emission manufacturing process, and the shoes bear the PETA-Approved Vegan Footwear seal, confirming that no animal products were used in their creation.
To maintain the sneakers’ condition, simply wash them in cold water – although it’s worth noting that some colors may run. These comfortable slip-on sneakers come with the added benefit of no laces to fuss over. Kids will love the wide range of 12 fantastic colors available for toddlers (1-4 years), Little Kids (4-8 years), and Big Kids (8-12 years). Native Shoes designs its shoes to fit most feet, but if your child has extra wide feet, be sure to consult the size chart before making a purchase.
While these sneakers are ideal for casual beach or poolside activities, they’re not recommended for extended periods or swimming in water due to lack of support.
Our Top Pick for the Best Water Shoes
Our top pick for the best water shoes is Speedo’s exceptional offering – the Women’s Water Shoes. This iconic brand has established a reputation for crafting high-quality footwear for men, women, and kids alike. Whether you’re an avid water sports enthusiast or simply enjoy lounging by the pool, these water shoes have got you covered. Boasting unparalleled comfort, protection, and support, they are designed to meet the demands of your aquatic adventures.
With ease of wear, stylish design, and an affordable price point, it’s no wonder Speedo’s Women’s Water Shoes have earned a spot at the top of our list. Check out the latest pricing on Amazon.
