If you love the outdoors, such as kayaking, hiking, and the like, you need to invest in the best water shoes. These shoes are unique because they can protect your feet from fungus and stress brought by long walks.
But, you can’t buy just any kind of water shoes. You need to know what to look for when you go to the store to purchase a pair. In this article, you will know how to buy the best water shoes for you. You will also have some ideas about the best products on the market.
Top 10 Best Water Shoes Reviewed
- Crocs Swiftwater Mesh Water Shoes
- Quiksilver Men’s Amphibian Plus Athletic Water Shoes
- ALEADER Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes
- Adidas Outdoor Men’s Terrex CC Jawpaw 2 Slip-on Water Shoes
- Speedo Men’s Surfwalker 3.0 Water Shoes
- NeoSport Premium Neoprene Wetsuit Boots
- Merrel Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Shoes
- Keen Men’s EVOFIT ONE Water Sandals
- ALEADER Mesh Slip-on Water Shoes
- Speedo Men’s Seaside Lace 5.0 Athletic Water Shoes
#1. Crocs Swiftwater Mesh Water Shoes
Specifications:
- 6 pounds in weight
- Hook and loop closure
- Fits size 8 to 13
Crocs are famous for high-quality footwear. That is why it is not surprising that the Crocs Swiftwater Mesh Water Shoes is at the top of the lists because you will never go wrong with them. This model is durable and sturdy but lightweight too.
Whether it is paddleboarding or kayaking, this water shoe model will not let you down. It dries up quickly as you have never trudge in puddles or never gone to a water adventure.
Aside from being functional, this model is also stylish. You will be happy to flaunt it.
The Crocs Swiftwater Mesh Sandal makes use of stretchable textile and synthetic sole that makes it ideal footwear for almost any occasion. The hook and loop closure makes it easy to fasten and to wear.
The footbed is Croslite; that is also why you can guarantee comfort.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable because of the patented Croslite cushion | Stiffer soles than other Crocs models |
| Scrape resistant due to the toe bumper | Mesh does not stretch |
| Durable and lightweight | Unresistant to sand |
| Quick-drying | |
#2. Quiksilver Men’s Amphibian Plus Athletic Water Shoes
Specifications:
- Fits size 6 to 14
- Lava XL anti-odor technology
- Cinch lock laces
If you want the kind of water shoes that look like sneakers, you might want to consider the Quiksilver Men’s Amphibian Plus Athletic Water Shoes. Besides traveling, you can also use these shoes for casual purposes like going to pubs, clubs, parks, and the like.
When you wear these shoes, you will never realize that you are wearing water shoes because these are lightweight and comfortable. It has drainage ports that make wading in a lot of puddles in your hiking, an enjoyable experience.
Aside from these features, the Quiksilver Water Shoes have reliable traction and grip that makes walking and hiking more comfortable. Moreover, its mesh dries up quickly when it becomes wet due to various reasons. It also uses the Lava XL anti-odor technology that protects your feet from bad odor.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Looks like ordinary sneakers | Not advisable for long hikes |
| Strong traction and grip | Narrow area for the ball foot |
| Drainage port |
|
| Breathable |
|
#3. ALEADER Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes
Specifications:
- Fits size 7 to 14
- Half-size available
- Weighs 0.31 kilogram based on the packaging scale
You can already tell that these are water shoes looking at the ALEADER Men’s Water Shoes. For stylish people out there, you do not have to fret, because they are available in different colors and designs, which you can categorize as plain or elegant. The plains have a bigger mesh than the stylish ones.
The main selling point of ALEADER Men’s Water Shoes is that it is lighter than most others. The draining time is also faster than the others because of its large mesh holes.
Because of these features, you can confidently purchase this model if comfort is what you are looking for a pair of water shoes. The ALEADER Men’s Water Shoes are light and comfortable.
These water shoes are available in a wide range of sizes from 7 to 14, including the half-sizes.
This product is advisable for those who want lightweight shoes. These water shoes also have excellent traction that gives a firm grip while you are on a hike or boarding a boat.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Available in different colors and styles | Sand might get into the large mesh |
| Fast draining system | Not suitable for long hikes |
| Quick-drying | |
| Strong grip |
|
#4. Adidas Outdoor Men’s Terrex CC Jawpaw 2 Slip-on Water Shoes
Specifications:
- Weighs 0.23 kilograms
- Slip-on
- Fits 6 to 13
The Adidas Outdoor Men’s Water Shoes is more than its looks. Although this water shoe model is available only in two designs, which are plain and unstylish for most people, you will fall in love once you wear it. After all, you are just going to dip your shoes in mud and puddles anyway.
Once you wear it, you will immediately notice the high level of comfort it gives, which is not surprising because it uses the Climacool technology that gives cooling properties. It is lighter than most water shoes too.
Because of this feature, it is comfortable to use in hiking or any other types of adventure that can get your feet sweaty. With these water shoes, you do not have to wear socks. You can only let the shoes’ Climacool technology do its job.
The Adidas Outdoor Water Shoes do not have enough holes. Therefore, you can use them to stroll at the beach or any other sandy places. Because these are water shoes, you can also swim and splash around wearing them.
These Adidas water shoes are for men who regard functionality more than the appearance. Because the Adidas Outdoor Men’s Terrex CC Jawpaw 2 Slip-on Water Shoes are exactly the functional type that they can use for almost any outdoor activities, whether walking in the sand, hiking, or swimming.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable to wear because of the slip-on closure | Plain for stylish people |
| Has a cooling property |
|
| Excellent drainage |
|
| Quick-drying | |
#5. Speedo Men’s Surfwalker 3.0 Water Shoes
Specifications:
- Weighs 0.28 kilograms
- Fits size 7 to 14
- Slip-on
The manufacturers are hikers who can understand the needs of their fellow adventurers for pleasant and comfortable water shoes. Besides hiking, you can also wear the Speedo Men’s Surfwalker 3.0 Water Shoes at the beach where you can enjoy splashing with water or walking in the sand while wearing them. These water shoes are quick-drying, so you do not have to worry about walking in the rain or big puddles.
Even though this model is water shoes, you can be stylish because of the five colors available. It also has a sporty design, which enables you to wear it casually.
The Speedo Men’s Surfwalker 3.0 Water Shoe has an S-TRAC outsole that helps drain the water from the shoes. This feature also provides better traction to help you avoid accidents in slippery places.
Lastly, the Speedo Men’s Surfwalker 3.0 Water Shoes have a stretchable upper that makes getting in and getting out of these shoes easy.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Provides a secure fit due to the four-way stretch | Not durable enough considering the price |
| Dries quickly because of the air mesh | Sand can make it heavy |
| Excellent draining system |
|
| Excellent traction | |
#6. NeoSport Premium Neoprene Wetsuit Boots
Specifications:
- Fits size 4 to 16 in men and 5 to 17 in women
- Water Entry Barrier (WEB)
- Thickness variation: 3 millimeter, 5 millimeter, and 7 millimeter
- 2 pounds weight
The latest version of the NeoSport Premium Neoprene Wetsuit Boots is better than before because of the several beneficial features.
The NeoSport Premium Neoprene Wetsuit Boots are available in different thicknesses that can handle different water temperatures. The 3 millimeter is for warm, the 5 millimeter is for moderate, and the 7 millimeter is for cold.
This water shoe model is extremely durable because of its stitched and glued construction that ensures that not a drop of water can enter your boots. The zipper is durable too. Aside from the zipper, it also uses a Velcro that ensures that your feet will remain dry even if you walk on wet surfaces or do some hardcore activities.
Because these water shoes are boots, you probably think that these are stiff and painful in the feet. Yet, you may feel surprised once you wear them and discover that you can comfortably walk around.
These boots do not cause cuts, blisters, irritations, and the like. They remain intact no matter what you do, even when you walk on wet and rocky terrain. If there are many spiny stones along the way, you can still get through them because the NeoSport Premium Neoprene Wetsuit Boots’ soles are resistant to punctures.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers extreme protection for walking on rocky and wet surfaces | Not slip resistant |
| Offers thermal protection | Snug when dry |
| Extremely durable | No drainage |
| Reasonable price |
|
#7. Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Shoes
Specifications:
- 3 millimeter depth
- Bungee lacing
- Available in different designs
- Half-sizes available
- Fits size 6.5 to 14
You might think of the Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Shoes as sandals, or you can think of them as shoes. It is because of the holes that are big for shoes and small for sandals. No matter how you feel about it, these holes are beneficial for draining the water out from it, while keeping your feet protected.
It makes use of the bungee lace closure system that makes wearing it easy and fast. The backside is elastic to keep the shoe one even if your laces are loose. It is also a plus that the Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Shoes’ laces flex as you move, making walking comfortable.
The sole is thick enough to enable you to walk on hard and rocky surfaces without feeling the stones’ pointy edges. That is why you can use the Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Shoes for hiking.
Aside from its quick draining system, it is quick-drying too. Yet, it is advisable to wash the shoes with fresh water after wearing them on saltwater expeditions. Salt keeps the shoes damp.
Overall, the shoes are durable too. The manufacturer claims that you can use these on different occasions. You can use them for work or casual.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable to wear because of the lacing system | Some sand or stones can get in |
| Great for short hiking | Weak soles |
| Dries fast |
|
| Breathable |
|
#8. Keen Men’s EVOFIT ONE Water Sandals
Specifications:
- Weighs more than 2 pounds
- Fits size 5 to 15
- Cleansport NXT odor control
Like the Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Shoes, the Keen Men’s EVOFIT ONE Water Sandals look like sandals and shoes because of the holes. These are available in different colors so that you can be stylish wearing them.
Aside from that, it has lace that you can adjust quickly by pulling it. It is one of the best water shoes to use if odor control is your concern. The Keen Men’s EVOFIT ONE Water Sandals apply Cleansport NXT technology that eliminates bad odor.
Aside from its sleek appearance, the Keen Men’s EVOFIT ONE Water Sandals are also comfortable to the feet. It provides stability due to the TPU inserts that you can remove or use any time.
You can assure that the Keen Men’s EVOFIT ONE Water Sandals are durable because of the stiff fabric that can help get rid of moisture. If you think about the overall quality, there is nothing to worry about because it is sturdy. Yet, its weight is more than two pounds, because of the durable outsole.
The Keen Men’s Water Sandals are excellent in water, but the weight might drag your performance. On the other hand, it can do well in protecting the feet from hard shells and sharp rocks, if in case you want to use them to walk on the beach.
The Keen Men’s Water Sandals are excellent when it comes to having a firm grip. You can wear them if you have to go for an adventure where you have to deal with slippery rocks and muddy puddles.
The shoes can also perform well in hiking, especially when you have to walk on muddy areas.
Because of the Keen Men’s Water Sandals’ durability, it is advisable for people who need to go for miles of walking or hiking.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent traction | Denser than other water shoes |
| Sleek designs | |
| Durable | |
#9. ALEADER Women’s Mesh Slip-On Water Shoes
Specifications:
- Fits size 5.5 to 11
- Available in 17 styles
- Slip-on
The ALEADER Women’s Mesh Water Shoes are what every adventurous girl will love. Even though these are for women, they are durable because of the rubber pods placed strategically in the wear-prone places.
For most women, being stylish is always a must. The ALEADER Women’s Mesh Water Shoes will not let down because these are available in different colors and designs.
No matter what the size of their feet, they can find the one that will surely fit because of the full range of available sizes, which include half-sizes.
The ALEADER Women’s Mesh Water Shoes use FluidFlow technology that drains water from the shoes to the outsole.
It also has a hydrophobic mesh that makes wearing it comfortable because of its quick-drying and breathable property. Besides, the Solyte midsole is lightweight and resilient. It also makes use of ComforDry sock liner that provides cushion and cooling effect to the feet.
Despite being water shoes for women, the ALEADER Women’s Mesh Water Shoes have excellent traction. They can walk on slippery areas by wearing these shoes.
The ALEADER Women’s Water Shoes are for stylish and adventurous women because of the style, comfort, and functionality it offers. Because of the various designs that they can choose from, they can wear these shoes in almost any occasion. Moreover, these stylish shoes will be their perfect partner for many adventures.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish to wear even casually | Tendency for small rocks or debris to get in |
| Comfortable to wear | Not for long walks |
| Lightweight |
|
| Traction | |
#10. Speedo Men’s Seaside Lace 5.0 Athletic Water Shoes
Specifications:
- Fits size 7 to 14
- Made from 70 percent textile and 30 percent synthetic neoprene
The Speedo Men’s Seaside Lace 5.0 Athletic Water Shoes will make your hiking and trudging in water an enjoyable experience because of the comfort and protection they give.
The Speedo Men’s Seaside Lace 5.0 Athletic Water Shoes have a simple, but elegant design that men will love. The combination of tailor-made textile and synthetic neoprene ensures that these shoes are of premium quality. It also has a synthetic sole that can withstand the wear and tear.
The outsole part is a rubberized S-Trac technology that helps drain the water out of the shoe without causing slippage.
It also provides stability that allows you to endure a long hour of walk.
The Speedo Men’s Seaside Lace 5.0 Athletic Water Shoes have a lightweight design and quick-drying feature that make these shoes even more comfortable for the feet. The mesh in the upper provides a breathable and cooling sensation that is highly beneficial in hot weather conditions.
These Speed water shoes use bungee lace and toggle closure system that allows you to get in and out of these shoes quickly.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Breathable mesh | Small particles can get into the shoes |
| Elegant design | Sole is thin |
| Quick-drying | |
Top Pick – Our Favorite Water Shoes
The listed products are among the favorites of most people who love adventures and the outdoors. Yet, the most popular and the one that stands the most is the Crocs Swiftwater Mesh Water Shoes.
Crocs have been a famous brand for functional footwear. It is not surprising that the company will never do anything to taint its name by producing mediocre products. Because of it, the brand alone can already guarantee the durability and features of their products.
Once you wear the product yourself, you will know that it is not just any other kind of water shoes because these are high-quality shoes. It does not use lace for fastening; it uses Velcro instead, which makes getting in and out of it easy.
The Crocs Swiftwater Mesh Water Shoes are among the lightest water shoes in the market. Although one of the downsides is that sand and small particles can get in due to the holes at the side, these holes are also a plus side for its amazing drainage system.
Thus, although not suitable for strolls at the beach, these water shoes are great for walking the wet terrains.
What You Need to Know About Water Shoes
First of all, you need to know that water socks and water shoes are not the same. You can wear water shoes while swimming, coasteering, hiking, and the like. You use water shoes are to protect your feet from getting hurt from small particles like rock and shells as you walk on rough terrains or beach. You also use them to prevent your feet from soaking in water inside the shoes.
On the other hand, you wear water socks only for swimming, which primary function is to protect your feet from sea creatures.
You should also know that water shoes are not the best footwear in the cold season, because of the lack of insulation. If your feet get wet in a cold climate while wearing water shoes, you can assure that these shoes can protect your feet from soaking in water, but not from frostbites because of the cold.
What to Consider When Buying Water Shoes
The first thing you consider when buying water shoes is the reason you are going to buy them. There are a lot of water shoes in the market, but they differ in features. All have strong and weak points. That is why you must know where you want to use them.
Some shoes are great for walking in the sand while others are horrible when you immerse them in water. Some are excellent to wear for slippery terrains but collect sand once you wear them to stroll on the beach.
If it is your first time buying or plan to replace your poor performing water shoes, look for the following features.
Material and Size
Although it is a no-brainer to choose the size that perfectly fits your feet, you also have to consider the material. Remember that the primary function of water shoes is to protect your feet from getting soaked in water trapped in the shoes. For this reason, water shoes get wet all the time.
Sometimes water shoes tend to shrink in size depending on the material used.
There are also times that due to extended use, the shoes expand in size. That is why you need to make some adjustments.
The typical materials used for water shoes on the market are textile, rubber, foam, mesh, and leather. All are skin-friendly.
Most water shoes are mesh on the upper part that makes them breathable. Some are leather that is snug to the feet. Keep in mind that when you choose to buy textile-made water shoes, select the waterproof, durable, and lightweight ones.
Mesh water shoes are a great choice when you have to go for a lot of water activities because these shoes tend to drain water fast. Neoprene is an excellent pick if the cold is your concern, and you do not want to let water in that much.
Traction
Water shoes are crap without traction. Most water shoes drain the water out from the shoes that can cause slippage. For this reason, a good pair should also have excellent traction that keeps you from having accidents.
Comfort
Water shoes with excellent features are nothing if they are comfortable to wear. Because of this, you should also consider comfort aside from the variety of features that your water shoes can provide.
You should be able to wear your water shoes comfortably, whether they are dry or wet. Concerning it, you should also consider the weight and think about how it will affect your performance.
Outsole
Water shoes are varying outsole thickness.
If you use your shoes mostly for hiking, you need the ones with thicker outsoles to protect you from spiny particles and rocks. Thinner outsoles are ideal for walking in water.
Conclusion
You can say that most water shoes are ugly, but most of the ones listed above prove that they can be versatile for various occasions. Even if these footwears are not pleasing to the eye, these can provide you the best hiking, kayaking, or strolling experience that ordinary sneakers cannot do.
For this reason, if you are an adventurous type, you can consider a durable and trustworthy pair of water shoes an investment. Pick the ones that you feel comfortable, but also enable you to do the activities you want to do.
One example is the Crocs Swiftwater Mesh Water Shoes. Although these shoes are not perfect, you can agree that they can provide the best experience.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: What are the activities that you can do by wearing water shoes?
A: It depends on the kind of water shoes you have. Some water shoes are great for hiking and coasteering, while others are great for swimming, scuba diving, and surfing.
Typically, people buy water shoes to do water sports or other water-related activities. People use them too when they have to walk on a wet terrain or even walking around the pool.
Q: Can you swim wearing them?
A: Again, it depends on the kind of water shoes you have. There are kinds of water shoes that you can immerse in water for swimming. These shoes are typically neoprene-made that does not allow much water inside.
These shoes are also snug to avoid losing them while you swim.
Q: Do you need to wash your water shoes?
A: The primary function of water shoes is to protect your feet from fungal infection caused by prolonged immersion in water, by not letting it in or draining it. Yet, it does not mean that these shoes are not resistant to bacteria.
You still need to wash your water shoes with lukewarm, clean water, and mild soap.
Dry them entirely after scrubbing and washing them.
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