16 Best Water Shoes

Best Water Shoes

Whether you are going for kayaking, swimming, diving, or headed out the Caribbean, equip yourself with swim shoes instead of going barefoot. Reason being, bacteria builds-up easily in damp places such as swimming pools, which can cause several health issues. Additionally, if you are strolling through the sand or water on the beach, there is a chance that you would step on a sharp rock, a broken glass, or something hazardous. This is why it is best to equip yourself with water shoes before you head out.

Water shoes, also known as water socks or beach shoes, are extremely useful. They can protect your feet from sharp rocks, fish hooks, coral reefs, parasites, and broken glass. Water shoes are also vital for their non-slip resistant properties, which allow you to walk on wet rocks and boats with confidence. They may end up saving your entire vacation from a painful tragedy.

Water shoes used to be unsightly, clunky, and hideous. However, manufacturers have now reinvented this footwear, giving it a sleeker look together with more durability underfoot while maintaining breathable construction. The pay-off? You can wear these water shoes while fishing, kayaking, or swimming, and also use them for light hikes.

Since there are plenty of water shoes currently available on the market, you might find it hard to select a pair that is right for you. No need to panic since we have listed some of the best models here to help you select a great pair. Before we breakdown the specs of each individual model, we will take a look at some important factors that you should consider when shopping for water shoes.

Things to Consider When Shopping for Water Shoes

· Material

Water shoes are generally made of neoprene or synthetic mesh. Mesh allows water ingress and is good for ventilation so you can use water shoes made of this material for swimming, boating, and other water-related activities. If you need a pair that doesn’t let much water in or out, then consider neoprene water shoes as they offer better thermal insulation protection. These shoes can be a good option for surfing and hiking

· Comfort

It is essential for you to invest in a shoe that keeps you comfortable both dry and wet. Therefore, check the cushioning, design, and materials used in the water footwear before buying. Heel and cuff padding, rubber outsole, and tabs for easy pull on and off would keep your feet happy. Furthermore, quick-drying, easy-draining, and lightweight water shoes would prevent your feet from becoming waterlogged and they won’t weigh you down.

· Size

Look for water shoes that are a snug fit because this prevents your feet from sliding inside the shoe when you are getting involved in water sports and also reduces the likelihood of chafing. Most manufacturers have standard sizes while some also cater to slim or wide fittings. So, make sure to check sizing charts before buying. Also, check the fastening system of the shoes to determine whether bungee pull systems or lace are sufficient to provide you with a snug fit.

· Durability

The water shoes you buy should be tough enough to handle a variety of dry and wet terrains and should last at least a year. Water footwear with a thicker outsole tends to last longer but make sure that you choose the right shoes for your activity. For instance, if you plan on using the pair for swimming, steer clear of a clog-like shoe because it will weigh you down.

· Insole

Most water shoes aren’t designed to be waterproof and they let water in and out. The insole of these shoes should be flexible and have easy draining while providing breathability and cushioning. It should also be quick to dry so that the shoes don’t feel heavy when you are walking.

· Outsole

Be it a lake, a river, or the sea, there are many dangers lurking within. You can find broken pieces of glass, sharp rocks, metal, garbage, and even unfriendly fish that can inflict damage to you. This is why your water shoes should have a solid bottom to protect your feet against sharp rocks, broken glass, and other equally hazardous objects. A thicker outsole with water drainage is good for hiking across rough and wet surfaces while a thinner outsole is ideal if you plan on using the shoes solely for water activities. Whether you go for a thin outsole or a thick one, make sure that it is durable and provides good grip. You need solid grip when you are taking on rough terrains like sand, rock, etc. and when you are walking on sleek, tiled floors of a swimming pool. Wet conditions are a major hazard and an outsole with great traction would save you from slipping and injuring yourself.

· Breathability

Good ventilation – either through drainage holes or mesh material – keeps the water shoes breathable and also allows the water to flow in and out of the shoes. So, make sure to consider how breathable the pair is when you are shopping for water shoes.

· Heel Reinforcement

Padding and reinforcement can prevent chaffing on your feet, reducing the likelihood of blisters and hot spots. Neoprene is a good material for heel reinforcement as it is flexible, soft, and offers good insulation.

· Cushioning and Support

Water shoes intended for active-use offer good support and cushioning for your forefoot, midfoot, and heel. If you are going to use your shoes for water-related activities, running, walking, or hiking long distances, you will want a pair with added cushioning. It’ll reduce the impact on your feet and keep them comfortable over long distances.

· Water Resistance

You need to understand the difference between waterproof shoes and water-friendly footwear. Waterproof shoes are for activities and conditions where you can’t afford any water to penetrate the shoes’ material. These shoes don’t let any water get past the outsole and uppers, ensuring that your feet stay completely dry. Water shoes that are designed solely for water activities aren’t waterproof but they are water-friendly.

Water-friendly means that your shoes won’t get damaged even if they are completely submerged in water. This means that its soles won’t separate from the uppers, its seams will not disintegrate and the design won’t stretch out after you take a dip in the sea. Water-friendly shoes remain intact regardless of how many times they take a splash. They also dry quickly. This is very important because no one likes wearing wet shoes for long. Quick-drying shoes are a good option for people who want to wear their shoes both on land and in water.

Benefits of Water Shoes

· Good Protection

Water shoes protect your feet from sharp objects and rocks, prevent sunburns, and protect you from stubbing your toe on the poolside. They would prevent injuries as you swim, climb, walk, hike, or explore.

· Solid Grip

Whether you are strolling around the beach, walking by the pool, or hiking, the rubber outsole of water shoes would provide you with a solid grip, reducing the likelihood of slipping.

· Multi-Terrain

Some water shoes can be used in and out of the water. You can put on these shoes and go for rocking climbing, hiking, surfing, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, fishing, or trail running.

Our Top 3 Choices

Best Overall Choice: MOHEM Casual Mesh Water Shoes

Premium Product: Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Aero Sport Hiking Water Shoe

Best Value: ALEADER Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes


Best Water Shoes

1. ALEADER Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

ALEADER Men's Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

The ALEADER Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes are surprisingly great even when you compare them to high-end water footwear. They are quite versatile and will allow you to enjoy river rafting, beachfront hikes, and boating, among other activities. The uppers are made from breathable hydrophobic engineered mesh that allows your feet to breathe. These shoes also feature Solyte midsoles that provide durability and impressive bounce-back. You also get water-draining outsoles that provide solid grip in slippery conditions, offering you good performance in water aerobic activities.

The ALEADER Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes are comfortable and lightweight so they won’t weigh you down. A ComforDry insole cushions your arches so you won’t feel like your feet are rubbing against branches and rocks. These shoes have also go FluidFlow technology that runs from the upper to the outsole. This technology is what makes this pair water-friendly – it encourages water to roll off the shoes instead of saturating them.

It is important to note that the ALEADER Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes run big so consider ordering a smaller size than your original.

Pros of the ALEADER Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

  • Quick-drying
  • Solid traction
  • Good breathability
  • Durable
  • Comfortable to walk on
  • Inexpensive

Cons of the ALEADER Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

  • Sizes run large

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2. Speedo Men’s Surfwalker 3.0 Water Shoe

Speedo Men's Surfwalker 3.0 Water Shoe

The Speedo Men’s Surfwalker 3.0 is a durable and comfortable pair of water shoes. They feature quick-drying mesh uppers, which offer breathability and would help keep your feet comfortable as you stroll on the beach or walk around poolside. The mesh panels dry fast so you can easily transition water to land and walk comfortably without worrying about your shoes weighing you down. They come with a rear pull-up tab, which makes it easy to put them on and off.

The Speedo Men’s Surfwalker 3.0 features an S-Tracoutsole that offers good traction on wet and slippery conditions. This thick outsole provides ample cushioning, so you should be comfortable hiking in these shoes or walking on wet concrete/tile floors. However, the arch support isn’t great so people with flat feet or fallen arches may not find this model comfortable.

A thick band runs across the forefoot of the upper, giving you better durability than you would get with genuine mesh and more breathability than neoprene. There is also a small toe cap that offers a bit of protection to your toes.

The Speedo Men’s Surfwalker 3.0 is a good option for anyone looking for a versatile pair of shoes to use on and off the water.

Pros of the Speedo Men’s Surfwalker 3.0 Water Shoe

  • Breathable and durable uppers
  • Solid traction in wet and slippery conditions
  • Quick-drying materials
  • Rear pull-up tab
  • Comfortable to walk in

Cons of the Speedo Men’s Surfwalker 3.0 Water Shoe

  • A bit pricier

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3. Vibram Men’s KSO EVO

Vibram Men's KSO EVO Cross Training Shoe

Vibram is a renowned brand among outdoor enthusiasts and you can expect quality products from it. The KSO EVO from Vibram have a stretch polyester mesh upper, which drains out water and promotes airflow, allowing your feet to breathe easily. The durable Vibram WAVEGRIP rubber coating at the bottom of these shoes gives you a great grip on wet and slippery surfaces.

These water shoes provide a glove-like fit and your toes would perfectly fit in the sockets, making you feel like you are barefoot. The Vibram Men’s KSO EVO comes in half sizes and a variety of different colors so you can choose the pair that best suits your style. However, pay attention to the sizes when ordering and go with a size bigger as they run small.

The Vibram KSO EVO can be used for surfing, paddleboarding, river rafting or just walking on the beach. The split-design means that you can even wear them while swimming. These shoes drain water quickly, so you would be able to stroll around the beach comfortably after returning from the water. They also provide decent protection from small rocks but the outsole isn’t as protected so we wouldn’t recommend using them for hiking.

Pros of the Vibram Men’s KSO EVO

  • Quick-drying
  • Breathable
  • Durable
  • Great grip on wet and slippery surfaces

Cons of the Vibram Men’s KSO EVO

  • Not good for hiking
  • Expensive

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4. Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Aero Sport Hiking Water Shoe

Merrell Men's All Out Blaze Aero Sport Hiking Water Shoe

If you want pair of light hiking shoes that can double as water shoes, consider the Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Aero Sport. These are built for rocky paths, muddy roads, hiking, and boulder climbing. Not only that but if you feel the urge to jump in the water after hiking, you could do that in these shoes. The materials don’t get damaged from moisture and water dries out fairly quickly.

One thing we like about these shoes is that they are extremely lightweight while being comfortable. They also protect your feet from sharp objects and hard rocks that might be present on the trail. The Merrell All Out Blaze Aero Sport features uppers made out of breathable mesh and Vibram outsoles underneath. The mesh keeps your feet cool and dry, preventing irritation while the Vibram outsole provides excellent traction on mud, water, and slippery rocks.

These shoes look like they are made to withstand an apocalypse as they are made of sturdy materials and the workmanship is excellent. The Aero Sport Hiking Water Shoesarea bit on the expensive side but they are worth it as they can handle any terrain.

Pros of the Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Aero Sport Hiking Water Shoe

  • Lightweight
  • Can be used in and out of the water
  • Water dries out fairly quickly
  • Extremely durable
  • Breathable

Cons of the Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Aero Sport Hiking Water Shoe

  • Expensive

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5. Zhuanglin Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

Zhuanglin Men's Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

The Zhuanglin Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes are good for any water activity. They feature air mesh uppers, which makes them breathable and quick-drying. These uppers also make the shoes lightweight so you should be able to comfortably wear them on and off the water.

The Zhuanglin Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes come with an exceptionally lightweight Solyte midsole that provides good bounce-back while being durable. Moreover, they feature a ComforDry insole that cushions your feet and keeps them comfortable. The outsoles, made from a rubber compound, provide good grip on wet terrains. The mesh uppers and outsoles have holes in them to help water drain quickly. The downside to this is that it’s easier for rocks and sand to get into your shoes. You might have to frequently empty your shoes if you use them for walking on the beach. Therefore, the Zhuanglin Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes is a good option for water activities but not so great for strolling on the beach or hiking.

Pros of the Zhuanglin Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

  • Inexpensive
  • Quick-drying
  • Rubber outsole provides good grip on wet surfaces
  • Breathable
  • Comfortable

Cons of the Zhuanglin Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

  • Not suitable for walking on the beach and hiking

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6. Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Shoe

Merrell Men's All Out Blaze Sieve Water Shoe

The uppers of the Merrell All Out Blaze Sieve feature a cut-out sandal design to promote water drainage. They are made of waxy waterproof leather fabric that should prevent your feet from getting wet. The Neoprene lining repels water, ensuring that the shoes stay dry. These shoes have been treated with M Select Fresh to keep odor-causing bacteria at bay. The sandal-style makes it easier to put the Sieve Water Shoes on and off while the bungee cord laces allow you to adjust the fit. The elastic back of these shoes is convenient but since there is no heel counter, overall support would feel limited. The interior is not seamless so going barefoot is ill-advised.

The All Out Blaze Sieve comes with a Unifly midsole and has several holes for water drainage. The midsoles offer ample cushioning for a comfortable hiking experience. These shoes feature a TC5+ Vibram rubber outsole that provides good traction on dry surfaces and rocks. However, they tend to slip on wet rocks and other slick objects.

Overall, the Merrell All Out Blaze is a decent pair but it isn’t good when it comes to hiking on wet rocks. If this is what you intend to do, we suggest you look else. However, if you want water shoes for hiking over dry ground, mud, gravel river beds, damp sand, or canoeing, then these shoes are a good option.

Pros of the Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Shoe

  • Sandal-style allows for easy on and off
  • Waterproof
  • Keeps odor in control
  • Breathable
  • Durable

Cons of the Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Shoe

  • Poor traction on wet surfaces

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7. ALEADER Men’s Slip-on Shoes

ALEADER Men's Slip-on Shoes | Water, Comfort Walking, Beach or Travel Shoe

The ALEADER Men’s Slip-on Shoes are designed to withstand frequent use on and off the water. So you can wear them during your favorite water activities as well as for walking around the beach and light hiking. They feature hydrophobic engineered mesh uppers, which offer quick drying and breathability. Waterlogged shoes can weigh you down so ALEADER has incorporated FluidFlowin these shoes to ensure that water quickly drains from the uppers, midsole, and outsole.

The ALEADER Men’s Slip-on Shoes come with a cushioned EVA insole that offers extra comfort when you are walking along the waterfront or strolling through the rocks. Furthermore, they feature dual-density EVA outsoles, which give shock absorption and offer great traction on both dry and wet surfaces.

The ALEADER Men’s Slip-on Shoes are a good option for outdoor enthusiasts who need water footwear that performs well both in and out of the water. They are also reasonably priced so they won’t break the bank.

Pros of the ALEADER Men’s Slip-on Shoes

  • Reasonably priced
  • Perform well both in and out of the water
  • Quick-drying and breathable
  • Cushioned EVA insole promotes comfort
  • Solid traction on both dry and wet surfaces

Cons of the ALEADER Men’s Slip-on Shoes

  • Not the most durable offering

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8. Merrell Men’s Choprock Water Shoes

Best Water Shoes

The Merrell Men’s Choprock can be a good option for those outdoor enthusiasts who often find themselves in water during their hiking adventures. It is super durable thanks to the Vibram lugs on the bottom and water-friendly uppers. These water shoes also come with a rubber-reinforced toe that helps protect your feet against trail debris such as sticks and rocks.

To make the Choprock Water Shoes quick-drying, Merrell has used a synthetic mesh material for the uppers – which promote airflow – and vents in the outsole that let water out. These shoes also incorporate a molded EVA midsole for comfort and stability. Furthermore, the Vibram grip outsole provides solid traction on dry and wet surfaces to prevent slips and falls. Walking through streams and rivers in the Merrell Men’s Choprock Water Shoes should be a breeze as they can stand up to slippery traverses and dry quickly.

It is worth noting that these shoes run large so you might want to order a pair smaller than your original size.

Pros of the Merrell Men’s Choprock Water Shoes

  • Solid grip on wet and slippery terrains
  • Great for hiking
  • Toe protection
  • Super durable

Cons of the Merrell Men’s Choprock Water Shoes

  • Pricier

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9. RYKA Women’s Hydro Sport Water Shoe Cross-Training Shoe

RYKA Women's Hydro Sport Water Shoe Cross-Training Shoe

If you often find yourself walking or hiking through wet terrains and are looking for a good partner for your adventures, the RYKA Women’s Hydro Sport is an option worth considering. These shoes are versatile, flexible, and comfortable. Moreover, they are suitable for all types of water sports. The RYKA Hydro Sport features a lacing system where laces a held together by a toggle, which allows you to obtain a snug fit. Once you have tied the laces, you can secure them under the tongue.

These shoes come with sticky rubber outsoles that provide great traction on wet surfaces. These outsoles are quite durable and won’t separate from the upper part anytime soon. Moreover, they feature drainage canals to prevent water from accumulating inside your shoes. These canals allow little rocks and sand to creep in, which is why these shoes are only suitable for water activities; not for hiking and walking on the beach.

The RYKA Women’s Hydro Sport comes with uppers made of lightweight mesh and synthetic materials that promote quick drying. Despite being lightweight, these shoes are quite supportive in both dry and wet conditions.

One of the things we like about this pair is that it comes with removable perforated nitracel insoles so you can use them as your own orthotics. Moreover, the webbing midfoot cage provides lateral and medial support. The RYKA Hydro Sport isn’t inexpensive but for what it offers, it is worth every penny.

Pros of the RYKA Women’s Hydro Sport Water Shoe Cross-Training Shoe

  • Good for water activities
  • Great grip on wet surfaces
  • Removable insoles
  • Webbing midfoot cage for support
  • Drainage canals in the outsole for quick drying
  • Secure lacing system
  • Comfortable to wear

Cons of the RYKA Women’s Hydro Sport Water Shoe Cross-Training Shoe

  • Not good for hiking and walking on the beach

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10. Zhuanglin Women’s Quick Drying Aqua

Zhuanglin Women's Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

The Zhuanglin Women’s Quick Drying Aqua is a good option for swimming, kayaking, fishing, boating, river rafting, and other water-related activities. They are comfortable, stylish and allow your feet to dry fast while protecting you from small rocks and other equally dangerous objects. The rubber material used for the outsole of these shoes is neither too hard to feel rigid nor too soft to wear easily. Moreover, it is slip-resistant so you would be able to enjoy water sports without worrying about slipping. However, the outsole does allow sand to come inside the shoes.

The uppers of the Zhuanglin Quick Drying Aqua are made from durable and breathable air mesh that allows your feet to breathe, preventing the buildup of sweat and moisture. The weight of these shoes is another positive highlight. These shoes are very light thanks to the exceptionally lightweight Solyte midsole. Despite being light, the midsole provides good cushioning to support your feet.

These water shoes incorporate Comfordry insole that provides cushioning and support to ensure that your feet are comfortable off the water. The Zhuanglin Quick Drying Aqua is an inexpensive pair that comes with great features, which make them an option worth considering.

Pros of the Zhuanglin Women’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

  • Rubber outsole provides good traction on wet and slippery surfaces
  • A versatile pair suitable for on and off water activities
  • Dries quickly
  • Breathable and comfortable

Cons of the Zhuanglin Women’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

  • Not suitable for walking on the beach as they allow sand to creep in

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11. MOHEM Casual Mesh Water Shoes

MOHEM Mens Womens Casual Mesh Water Shoes

This is a versatile pair that can be used for walking, hiking, diving, boating, surfing, and other water activities. The MOHEM Casual Mesh Water Shoes, like several other models on the list, come with air mesh uppers that let the air flow easily, ensuring breathability and fast draining. This material is quite durable so it should hold up nicely even with heavy use.

The outsole of the MOHEM Casual Mesh Water Shoes is made with a sticky rubber compound that provides good traction on wet rocks under and over water and other slippery trains. This outsole features unique drainage holes to promote drying. This means that you can rush to Starbucks and grab a coffee, straight from the beach without changing your shoes. They provide a snug fit and are true to size so you can stick with your original size instead of ordering a size up or down than your original.

At less than 8 oz, the MOHEM Casual Mesh Water Shoes are extremely lightweight so they won’t weigh you down. Considering the features of these shoes, one might think that they would be extremely expensive. But surprisingly, this isn’t the case. So if you are looking for a versatile pair of shoes that can accompany you in your off-water and on-water adventures, add the MOHEM Casual Mesh Water Shoes to your shortlist.

Pros of the MOHEM Casual Mesh Water Shoes

  • Rubber outsole provides good traction on wet terrains
  • Versatile pair
  • Extremely lightweight
  • Quick-drying
  • Flexible and durable

Cons of the MOHEM Casual Mesh Water Shoes

  • Some sand can creep in

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12. Northside Unisex Brille II Athletic Water Shoe

Northside Unisex Brille II Athletic Water Shoe

The Northside Unisex Brille II features neoprene uppers with breathable air mesh webbing and abrasion-resistant toe overlays. This fairly quick-drying and breathable construction makes the shoes comfortable. These shoes also feature removable EVA insoles that you can use as a replacement for your specialized orthotics. They are easy to adjust thanks to the bungee cord and you would be able to get a snug fit.

The Northside Unisex Brille II comes with multidirectional rubber outsoles that provide reliable traction on both dry and wet surfaces. This outsole is thick so it should protect your feet on jagged environments. This means that you can go hiking in these shoes. The Northside Unisex Brille II provides good arch support, which makes them a good option for people with low arches. One downside to these shoes is that they trap a lot of sand so avoid wearing them if you intend to walk on dry sand.

Pros of the Northside Unisex Brille II Athletic Water Shoe

  • Breathable
  • Removable insoles
  • Solid traction on both dry and wet surfaces
  • The thick outsole protects your feet
  • Good arch support

Cons of the Northside Unisex Brille II Athletic Water Shoe

  • Traps a lot of sand

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13. JBU Mermaid Too

Best Water Shoes

The JBU Mermaid Too is another versatile pair of water shoes that you can use both in and out of the water. These shoes incorporate Microban antimicrobial treatment that helps keep odor-causing bacteria at bay, promoting a fresh feel. The uppers of this pair are made with unique neoprene vegan material, which makes them breathable. Also, they feature a breathable man-made lining for comfort.

The JBU Mermaid Two comes with cushioned EVA insoles for underfoot comfort. Drainage ports are incorporated into these insoles, which allow water to escape easily.  Underneath the shoes, you get All-Terra Traction rubber outsole that delivers solid grip on dry and wet surfaces.

It is worth noting that the JBU Mermaid Too wears out fast so if you want a durable pair that can withstand heavy use, look elsewhere.

Pros of the JBU Mermaid Too

  • Breathable and comfortable
  • Microban antimicrobial treatment prevents odor
  • Solid grip
  • Quick-drying

Cons of the JBU Mermaid Too

  • Wears out fast

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14. Adidas Outdoor Men’s B Slip-on Dlx Water Shoe

Adidas Outdoor Men's B Slip-on Dlx Water Shoe

The Adidas Outdoor B Slip-on Dlx Water Shoes are soft, breathable, stylish, and quick-drying and can be used for numerous water activities. They offer decent protection against hard surfaces and prevent sand from creeping in. These shoes are also lightweight and flexible and won’t take up too much space in your backpack.

They won’t provide as much arch support as you will find in shoes with thicker outsoles, but they make up for this in comfort thanks to their breathable and quick-drying uppers. The Adidas Outdoor B Slip-on Dlx Water Shoes are also ultra-lightweight so they won’t weigh you down. They come with a rubber outsole called the ‘TRAXION’, which provides a solid grip on both wet and dry surfaces.

Pros of the Adidas Outdoor Men’s B Slip-on Dlx Water Shoe

  • Breathable
  • Quick-drying
  • Solid traction
  • Comfortable

Cons of the Adidas Outdoor Men’s B Slip-on Dlx Water Shoe

  • Lack of arch support
  • Sand can get inside

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15. WXDZ Water Sports Shoes

WXDZ Men Women Water Sports Shoes Quick Dry Barefoot Aqua Socks Swim Shoes for Pool Beach Walking Running

The WXDZ Water Sports Shoes can be worn anywhere there’s water involved – use them for swimming in the pool, walking on the beach or enjoy river rafting in them. Not only are these shoes fashion-forward and water-friendly but they also boast an easy-on design, allowing you put them on and off quickly. There is also a pull-on tab in the back for added simplicity.

The WXDZ Water Sports Shoes feature breathable, quick-dry uppers with fine stretch. These shoes are also lightweight and feel like socks. They further boast rubber outsoles with seven holes on each bottom to ensure that water and sand easily flow out of them.

The WXFZ Water Sports Shoes fit true to size so you won’t have to go for a size up or down when buying them. It is worth noting that these shoes aren’t meant for hiking and are only suitable for beach walking and water-related activities. So if you want to enjoy strolls on the beach, canoeing, river rafting, and similar sports activities, you could consider going with WXDZ Water Sports Shoes.

Pros of the WXDZ Water Sports Shoes

  • Breathable uppers
  • Quick-drying outsoles
  • Solid traction on wet surfaces
  • Pull-on tab for easy on and off
  • Lightweight and flexible

Cons of the WXDZ Water Sports Shoes

  • Not versatile

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16. Merrell Men’s WaterproMaipo Water Shoe

Merrell Men's Waterpro Maipo Water Shoe

The Merrell Men’s WaterproMaipo delivers comfort, good drainage, and support on both dry and wet conditions. They have toe protection and feature shock absorption and cushioning capabilities to protect your feet against rock and rough terrains. These shoes feature neoprene uppers, which promote breathability and encourage faster drying while being durable.

The Merrell WaterproMaipo come with micro-mesh drainage ports fitted on the sidewalls. These eject water, allowing the shoes to dry faster. Due to the lightweight construction of these shoes, you should be able to negotiate trails with dexterity. The hydro drainage/ventilated insoles of these shoes also promote faster drying and they are treated with Aegis antimicrobial technology to keep odors at bay. These shoes are further equipped with Air Cushion midsole with nylon 6.6 injection-molded arch shank that provides cushioning and support to make your hiking trips comfortable.

The Merrell WaterproMaipoalso features a non-marking Vibram Water Pro TC5+ rubber outsole which provides slip grip on wet and dry surfaces. It is worth noting that these shoes run a bit large so you might want to order a size smaller than your original for a snug fit.

Pros of the Merrell Men’s WaterproMaipo Water Shoe

  • Toe protection
  • Shock absorption and cushioning
  • Rubber outsole provides solid traction on wet and dry surfaces
  • Dries fairly quickly
  • Hydro drainage/ventilated footbeds
  • Air Cushion midsole

Cons of the Merrell Men’s WaterproMaipo Water Shoe

  • Not the most durable offering

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Final Thoughts

If you want to enjoy walks on the beach and water-related activities without worrying about slipping or injuring your foot from hazardous objects, pick a pair of water shoes from our list. With the right water footwear, your feet would be protected against harmful objects like sharp rocks and broken glass and you would be able to enjoy water sports like canoeing, river rafting, and surfing with confidence.

We hope you find the information provided above helpful. Armed with this knowledge about water shoes, you should be able to find a pair that suits your needs and your wallet. If you are still struggling to find a suitable pair, we’ll make things even easier for you. If you recall, we mentioned our top picks earlier. Now we’ll elaborate on our top three choices and let you know why the MOHEM Casual Mesh Water Shoes is the best overall choice, what makes the Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Aero Sport Hiking Water Shoe the best premium footwear, and why we believe that the ALEADER Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes is the best value offering out of all the products mentioned in the list. If you have already chosen a pair that you want to buy, feel free to skip this section; otherwise, continue reading to select the right water shoes.

Best Overall Choice

The MOHEM Casual Mesh Water Shoes is a versatile pair that can be used for walking, hiking, diving, boating, surfing, and other water activities. This is the reason why it has earned the best overall choice award. This model comes with air-mesh uppers for good airflow, ensuring breathability and fast draining. The mesh material is quite durable so it should hold up nicely even with heavy use. The outsole of the MOHEM Casual Mesh Water Shoes is made with a sticky rubber compound that provides good traction on wet rocks under and over water and other slippery trains. This outsole features unique drainage holes to promote drying. This means that you can rush to Starbucks and grab a coffee straight from the beach in the same shoes. They provide a snug fit and are true to size so you can stick with your original size instead of ordering a size up or down than your original.

Premium Product

If you can afford to buy high-end water shoes, we recommend you go with the Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Aero Sport. These shoes are built for rocky roads, muddy roads, hiking and boulder climbing. Not only that but if you feel the urge to jump in the water after hiking, you could do that in them. The materials won’t get damaged from moisture and water dries out fairly quickly. These shoes are extremely lightweight while being comfortable. They also protect your feet from sharp objects and hard rocks that you might encounter on the trail. The Merrell All Out Blaze Aero Sport features uppers made out of breathable mesh and Vibram outsoles underneath. The mesh keeps your feet cool and dry while the Vibram outsole provides excellent traction on mud, water, and slippery rocks.

Best Value

If you want a pair of water shoes that gives you the best value for money, we recommend the ALEADER Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes. They are quite versatile and will allow you to enjoy river rafting, beachfront hikes, and boating, among other water-related activities. The uppers are made from breathable hydrophobic engineered mesh that allows your feet to breathe. These shoes also feature Solyte midsoles that provide durability and impressive bounce-back. In addition to this, you also get water-draining outsoles that provide solid grip in slippery conditions, offering you good performance in water aerobic activities.

Now pick a pair from our list and enjoy your favorite water activities. When deciding to buy water shoes, consider the factors we discussed earlier including materials used, comfort, size, durability, insole, outsole, breathability, heel reinforcement, cushioning and support and water resistance.

We have provided detailed information on water shoes but if you are still finding it hard to select a pair or have any questions to ask from us, feel free to contact us. We’ll be more than happy to assist you in finding a pair of water shoes that are right for you.