The 5 Best Water Shoes

Instead of walking uncomfortably over a surface that’s less than friendly to your feet or risking the danger of slipping on a wet surface, it’s best to just buy a pair of water shoes. They fit snug on the feet, are made of quick drying material and they’re super bendable so folding, or even rolling, them up in your bag isn’t a problem. And let’s not forget about the grip on the soles to help you stay standing. The options for different colors and styles are also pretty vast.

Vifuur Quick Dry Water Shoes

For your next vacation

Simple, yet sleek and functional is the name of the game with these water shoes.

Best Overall

Find on Amazon

This is the shoe you want to take with you to the pool or beach or for any water activity. The lycra and mesh make these quick dry shoes an easy option for your next vacation. The fit is also pretty perfect and conforms to the wearer’s feet. Even if you’re crossing some slippery, rugged terrain, the non-slip soles keep you standing firmly.

Pros:

Sizes for men, women and children
Breathable and lightweight
Foam arch support

Cons:

The insoles can move around

Body Glove Barefoot Cinch Water Shoe

No slipping or sliding

The toes may look a bit funny, but the grip these water shoes provides is no joke.

Best Grip

Find on Amazon

For some serious grip, the Body Glove water shoe doesn’t play around. Just look at the construction of the toes? They give the feel of being barefoot, but with the added protection and grip of a water shoe. The 3-toe pocket system allows toes to have more movement and traction, compared to all of your toes being crammed into a single space. With the flexible upper portion, slipping in and out of these shoes is a breeze.

Pros:

Adjustable laces
Durable

Cons:

Expensive compared to similar styles
Takes some time to dry

L-Run Water Shoes

For the athlete

Whether you’re kayaking, hiking or biking, the grip and quick dry material makes these shoes a winner.

Best for Activities

Find on Amazon

For the person who uses water shoes pretty frequently or who does a ton of outdoor activities, the L-Run water shoe should be added to your cart asap. Besides the usual of being breathable and quick drying, the durable sole makes them perfect for activities like climbing, diving, surfing and more. They’re basically a water sports lovers dream. The wear-resistant and anti-skid shoes should absolutely be packed in your bag for your next adventure.

Pros:

Available in more than two dozen colors
A tab at the ankle makes pulling them off easy
Easily foldable for travel

Cons:

The sizing can be off

Adidas Climacool Boat Sleek Water Shoe

The chicest of them all

Adidas gets major style points for creating a water shoe that’s actually cute.

Best Style

Find on Amazon

Some water shoes look like water shoes, meaning, they can be bulky, plastic-y and the fit can be totally off. Leave it to Adidas to defy all of those things. The Climacool water shoe looks close to a sneaker you’d wear on an everyday basis. But it’s actually a water shoe that has perforated neoprene mesh on top and a superior grip on the bottom. You can easily take this shoe from the rocky beaches to poolside to happy hour drinks.

Pros:

Convenient tab at the ankle
Secure laces

Cons:

Not great for narrow feet
Not great for intense activities or rugged terrains

WateLves Summer Barefoot Water Shoes

The price is right

You’ll want to buy these in a few colors or for everyone in the family.

Best Budget

Find on Amazon

At a wallet-friendly price, this pair of water shoes stands up well again more expensive options. These work great for a range of activities, from a fun day at the water park to more intense hiking. The built in shock absorption keeps the pressure off your feet. These should definitely be thrown in your carry-on bag for your next vacation and at such an affordable price, you can buy a pair to match every outfit.

Pros:

The ankle has a smooth design to prevent chafing
Quick dry time

Cons:

Toe area can be tight

Frequently Asked Questions

What are water shoes for?

Water shoes can be used for a variety of activities. They’re primarily used whenever your feet can get wet. That can include aquatic activities like kayaking and surfing or walking on rocky terrain that can be slippery.

How do you wash water shoes?

Though some water shoes may say they’re machine washable, it’s usually best to hand wash. Rinse with cold water and remove any debris or wipe down the exterior. Lather up with a bit of mild soap and let air dry.