When enjoying a day at the beach with friends and family, the last thing you want to worry about is injuring yourself by slipping on sharp rocks or stepping on sea urchins.
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Many people choose to wear water shoes while walking, wading, or swimming by the shore so that their day at the beach goes smoothly. Water shoes are mesh shoes with a rubber grip sole that provides better traction and protection than bare feet.
While ordinary shoes chafe and cause blisters when wet, water shoes are designed to allow water to flow freely around your foot. They are perfect for those who want to enjoy the pleasures of the ocean, without fearing what could be underfoot.
When picking out water shoes, as with any shoe, the more options that you have available, the more likely it is that you will be able to find a good fit. Shoppers will be pleased to find several excellent choices when they go to buy water shoes for the whole family. With so many great options, there is no need to compromise on fit, comfort, or style.
Best Water Shoes
Mens #1 Pick - ALEADER Men's Quick Drying
- Breathable and Durable Air Mesh Build
- Lightweight Solelite Midsole for Bounce
- Water Grain Outsole for Traction
Womens #1 Pick - ALEADER Women's Mesh Slip
- Breathable and Durable Air Mesh Build
- Lightweight Solelite Midsole for Bounce
- Water Grain Outsole for Traction
Kids #1 Pick - Crocs Kids' Baya Clog
- Synthetic Thermoplastic Material All Around
- Holes in Top and Side For Drainage
- Built in Arch For Support
Best Men’s Water Shoes
Aleader Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes
Aleader’s lightweight, sleek water shoe option provide comfort and support for guys at the beach. The porous breathable upper encloses a ComforDry sockliner and arch-supporting sole, creating a comfortable fit.
These are perfect for boating or fishing as well as splashing around in the water.
The attractive lace-up design of these water shoes means there’s really no need to pack a second pair of shoes for wearing around in public after a day at the beach; they look like regular shoes.
As the name suggests, Aleader’s shoes are specifically made to dry quickly, so they’ll be less likely to become caked with sand or dirty up your car’s floor covers.
Speedo Men’s Surfwalker 3.0 Water Shoes
Speedo Surfwalkers are designed with performance in mind.
The protective, cushioning upper completely hugs your foot for a snug, non-restrictive fit. For watersports like swimming, these slip-on shoes are up to the challenge.
The design, in contrast with the Aleader brand, is certainly more about function than appearance, but the durability and utility of this shoe make up for what it may lack in flair.
With these shoes, you certainly won’t look out of place by the beach or bay, though you may find them so comfortable, you’ll want to wear them everywhere.
Best Women’s Water Shoes
Aleader Women's Mesh Slip grOn Water Shoes
Much like Aleader’s option for men’s water shoes, these mesh slip on shoes are stylish.
Though they retain all the optimal standards for performance at water-based activities, they would appear to the casual observer to just be cute running shoes.
Fitted with a strong rubber sole, you won’t need to worry about losing your footing as you play in the ocean or along the shore.
The breathable mesh allows for maximum comfort and easy cleaning, and the quick drying fabric means they’ll be ready to wear again in no time.
CIOR Upgraded Durable Sole Barefoot Water Skin Shoes
If you’re looking for a shoe with longevity, these are a nice option.
These technical shoes fit more like socks, and provide a cozy fit suitable for all manner of higher impact activities like surfing, swimming, and snorkeling.
You don’t have to worry about them slipping off and getting lost in the waves, and yet they won’t feel overly tight thanks to the soft, stretchy neoprene material.
They are also ultra-light and won’t weigh you down as you paddle through the surf or jog along the shore.
Best Kids’ Water Shoes
Crocs Baya Kids Clog
Parents and kids both know the struggle of finding shoes that feel good on little feet. Made entirely of a bouncy, rubber-like plastic material with ventilating holes, Crocs differ from the traditional water shoe. While they do have a solid-grip sole, they are not designed for more technical activities like scrambling over rocks.
They would not be the ideal choice for a surfer or swimmer kid, since, due to their roomy fit, it would be too easy for a kid kicking through the waves to lose them. However, for all other waterside activities, they are perfect. Kids can run through the surf, catch a frisbee on the beach, and go out for ice cream later without skipping a beat. Crocs clogs also get bonus points for super easy clean up.
BARERUN barefoot quick-dry Water Shoes
When you have a sporty kid who loves to hit the waves, you need a shoe that can keep up.
As a kid-size version of the classic adult water shoe, these give kids the freedom to play and explore without hurting their feet.
They are stretchy, comfortable, and lightweight, but also provide a feeling of security as they remain firmly on at all times if correctly sized.
With no laces, they are easy for a kid to pull them on and off on their own, and their quick drying ability cuts down on the inevitable mess after a trip to the beach.
The extra-gripping soles allow your kid to walk more safely along slippery surfaces and look great doing it.
Which one should I get?!
The best shoe for you is the one that fits your needs. If you want top performance and durability, one of our options such as Speedo Surfwalkers or CIOR Water Skins may be for you. If you want excellent style along with great functionality, Aleader and Crocs have you covered. The great part about these options is they have something for anyone who wants to spend time in and near the water. What’s most important is that you get out there to make the most of your next trip to the beach.
FAQ
What is the most important element to consider when shopping for water shoes?
Comfort! It’s important to remember that water shoes, unlike regular shoes, don’t get “worn in” or change much as you wear them. If a shoe is uncomfortable in the store, it’s unlikely you’ll like it any better the more you wear it. The best shoe for you is the one that fits well and suits your needs.
How long should a pair of water shoes last?
-Depending on how much you wear them and what you use them for, a pair of water shoes should last several years. Because of their purpose and the material used to make them, they tend to hold up very well even with frequent use, and a good pair is a worthwhile investment.
How do I know if my water shoes fit me correctly?
When you pull the shoes on, they should feel snug but not too tight. You should be able to wiggle your toes without difficulty. Technical shoes should feel tighter, while those designed for more casual use might feel a little looser.
How do I clean water shoes?
Some are machine-washable, while others are not. Check the tag on your shoes for instruction. EXPERT TIP: Lay your water shoes in the sun to kill odor-causing bacteria.
