The 10 Best Water Shoes, From Sporty Slip-Ons to Trek-Ready Stompers
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Summer fun in the sun actually isn’t, well, all that fun without the right gear. Your weekend getaway bag should have a few essentials to cover all the bases: Alwaye be extra-prepared and save yourself from any hassle—especially if you plan to explore an ocean or river. Which is why a pair of the best water shoes belongs in your carryall.
More durable than espadrilles, more suited for adventure than classic sandals, and more ready for a rocky shoreline than any other summer stomper, the best water shoes can take your next outdoor excursion from good to great. After all, it’s no fun trying to traverse a slippery, jagged water destination barefoot (although, to each their own). And if you can’t ditch your summer sneakers, there are some water shoes that are designed more like sporty slip-ons. During my own summers growing up in Michigan (Pure Michigan!), durable water shoes were a downright necessity.
The great news is that the options available boast even more technical features and more style than the pairs of my youth—and that’s enough to make me want to get back out in the water ASAP. If you feel the same, check out the best water shoes for your next outdoor excursion.
What to Consider Before Buying the Best Water Shoes:
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Water shoes are as technical as the best sneakers on the market these days—and with the specs to prove it. Here’s what to keep top of mind.
Style: The best water shoes vary in terms of style, but they tend to stick pretty closely to a straightforward design: Most styles these days lean toward the slip-on variety, all the better to slide into with ease on breezy, sunny days. There are also some water shoes that feature lace-up, sneaker-like construction. Note: The best designs almost always hit at or around the ankle, often with elastic for a snug fit.
Material: Unlike leather sandals or sneakers, water shoes are supremely lightweight and actually designed with, well, water-ready material in mind. That means the best water shoes are, in fact waterproof, commonly made with super-quick-drying mesh or mesh-nylon blends. Your new pair can also be made of rubber, perhaps with a super-grippy sole for traction, ideal for rocks and jagged surfaces. Some are also made with a neoprene collar at the ankle, or with a collapsible heel.
Drainage: Water-logged shoes defeat the purpose of wearing a pair in the water, so drainage is a crucial factor. Some rubber water shoes feature drainage holes along the upper of the shoe, while others are made of material such as ripstop mesh, which allows liquid to seep out naturally while keeping out debris. Less common are pairs that feature perforated footbeds.
The Best Water Shoes to Buy Now:
Most Reliable Water Shoes: Sperry SeaSock Water Shoes
Most Stylish Water Shoes: Vilebrequin Solid Waterproof Shoes
Best Hybrid Water Shoes: The North Face Flypack Hybrid Water Shoes
Best Rubber Water Shoes: Vans Slip-On Trek Water Shoes
Best Water Shoes for Day Hikes: Teva Outflow Universal Water Shoes
Best Water Shoes for Fishing: Orvis PRO Approach Water Shoes
Best Water Shoes for the Beach: Speedo Tidal Cruiser Water Shoes
Best Sneaker-Style Water Shoes: Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport Water Shoes
Best Loafer-Style Water Shoes: Swims Braided Lace Waterproof Loafer
Best Clog-Style Water Shoes: Merrell Hydro Moc Water-Friendly Clog
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