Crocs Men's Swiftwater Mesh Sandal
Merrell Men's All Out Blaze Sieve Water Shoe
Speedo Men's Surfwalker 3.0 Water Shoe
With a range of features that include water drainage, underfoot traction, and thermal protection, water shoes have come a long way to help us make the most of the ocean. But their uses don’t stop at the surf line, there are also water shoes designed to travel with you in the rare event that you find yourself waterlogged out on the trail. So, whether you’re into kayaking, boating, scuba diving or simply relaxing at the beach, there’s an aqua shoe designed to be your perfect water buddy. But before you splash out, we’ve put together a list of the best water shoes that offer both comfort and functionality.
The Best Water Shoes For Men
1
Crocs Swiftwater Mesh Water Shoe
The Croc’s Men’s Swiftwater Mesh Sandal has been manufactured for both function and style. It features a synthetic sole with a stretchable textile upper, which makes it the best choice for all occasions. Thanks to its hook and loop closure, wearing and taking off this unit is extremely easy and the comfort offered goes hand in hand with the excellent design of its outsole, as well as the use of patented Croslite for its footbed. Other standout features include its human made lining, which offers a pleasurable walking experience. With these shoes, you are guaranteed a great time no matter the activity you partake in since you will experience a level of comfort never encountered before. Our handy guide to the top hiking shoes features more great products like this.
Lightweight Croslite foam cushion for iconic comfort
Adjustable hook and loop closure for a secure fit
Fast-drying mesh uppers
Wraparound toe bumper for extra protection
Roomy, relaxed fit
- BrandCrocs
- ModelSwiftwater Sandal M
- Weight6 pounds
Extremely comfortable thanks to the Crocs foam cushioning
Protective toe bumper to shield from bangs and scrapes
Practical, tough and hard wearing
Sand can get caught in straps
Not the most stylish kid on the block
2
Speedo Men’s Surfwalker 3.0 Water Shoe
Air mesh insert panel promotes quick drying
Four-way stretch upper provides a secure fit
S-trac outsole offers no-slip grip
Sole bottom designed to disperse water
- BrandSpeedo
- ModelMens Surfwalker 3.0-M
- Weight1 pounds
Protects feet well from rocks and rough terrain
Fit means feet are kept snug and don’t move around, even when wet
Can also be used as a shower shoe
Can get weighed down a bit by heavy sand
3
Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Shoe
Breathable and lightweight
Neoprene collar for easy on and off, even when wet
FRESH antimicrobial agents reduce shoe odour
Comfort midsole to keep you connected with the ground
Bungee lacing for added security
- BrandMerrell
- ModelJ65243
- Weight2.54 pounds
Takes the transition from land to water in its stride
Lightweight and quick drying helps to protect against blisters
Great for general walking and travelling
Lacks a little in internal support, so distance could become an issue
4
ALEADER Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoe
The Aleader Aqua Men’s Water Shoes are an exceptional creation and the perfect addition to your footwear collection. These shoes are the best introduction to beginner outdoor enthusiasts as they are designed and manufactured to help you explore the world as we know it. This unit is made from fabric and comes with a rubber sole for extra comfort. It is incredibly durable thanks to the use of these lightweight materials that allow users to move freely for more extended periods.
To increase comfort and reduce foot rot or other infections, the design of these shoes by Aleader features uppers made of mesh for exceptional breathability. Love these? Check out our review of the best water shoes for hiking for our top picks.
All-purpose, quick drying water sports shoe
Fluid flow features for instant drainage
ComforDry sockliner for extra cushioning
Lateral contrast stitching support system offers secure fit
Machine washable
- BrandALEADER
- Model8859M
Extremely lightweight, quick-drying and versatile
Great grip makes the Aqua an ideal boat shoe
Instant water drainage
Large mesh holes are a bit of a sand and gravel magnet
Suited to short casual hikes rather than more challenging terrain
5
Neo Sport Premium Neoprene Wetsuit Boots
The Neo Sport Premium is a clean looking, multi-purpose neoprene water bootoffering impressive thermal protection when the surf temperature drops. Coming in three mm thicknesses to match your seasonal or year-round water activity, there’s no reason not to keep on enjoying the life aquatic!
This is a tough boot which will keep your feet toasty and protected, with strong zips, high ankle cuff and traction sole which effectively keeps a grip on both wet and muddy surfaces. A web entry barrier stops water flowing into the boot via the zip, making this hard wearing and value for money water shoedeal for kayaking, board water sports and scuba diving. To fully enjoy and capture your water activities, check out our waterproof camera review for our top picks.
Available in 3mm, 5mm and 7mm thicknesses
Puncture-resistant sole
Web water entry barrier stops water flowing into the boot
Durable glued and sewn construction
Side zip entry
- BrandNeoSport
- Weight2.05 pounds
A well-made, durable and comfortable water boot at a good price
Great thermal properties with choice of three thicknesses
Ample protection when walking over wet and rocky terrain
Can be a little snug when dry, but will comfort stretch in the water
No built-in drainage
6
KEEN – Men’s EVOFIT ONE Water Sandal
The Evofit One has just enough technical spec to catch the eye of the keen hiker looking to get a double-whammy in their water sandal.
Super comfortable and made from moisture-wicking fabric, the Evofit ticks the boxes for a hardworking outdoor sandal, and has the support, protection and stability to make inroads when out hiking. It can then switch it up when the ground gives way to water, with a sure-footed grip on slippery surfaces or full immersion. They are a little pricey but if you are looking for a hardwearing, hiking/water shoehybrid, then the Evofit is a value-for-money contender. Don’t forget to get a good hiking watch and you are all set for your next adventure.
Quick dry KEEN EVOFIT engineered synthetic upper
Aquagrip rubber outsole maximizes traction
Removable, metatomical PU insoles with arch support
Cleansport NXT™ for natural odour control
Machine washable
- BrandKEEN
- Model1019150-Triple White-9.5-P
- Weight2.3 pounds
Superior grip sticks like glue when out on a slippery trail
Really comfortable and works as hard as you do
Good arch support for tougher terrain, on land and underwater
Can be a tad tight if you prefer to wear socks
7
Speedo Men’s Seaside Lace 5.0 Athletic Water Shoe
With its sturdy sneaker design and Speedo pedigree, this super-light lacedswim shoe has an impressive no slip grip to keep you safe and secure in and around the water. Great for swimming and navigating rocky waterlines, its quick dry system means you go from water to land with ease and with the Seaside’s almost tennis shoe looks, you can blend in with the (dry) crowd.
Add in its breathable mesh upper, bungee cord closure and heel tab for speedy removal, and you’ve got a mid-priced, quality beach shoe that’ll keep you protected in and out of the water all day long.
S-Trac outsole for a no-slip grip
Lightweight, quick-dry design
Breathable mesh upper enhances airflow
Bungee lacing system provides secure fit and lockdown
Heel tab for easy on-and-off
- BrandSpeedo
- ModelSeaside Lace 5.0-M
- Weight1 pounds
A super swim shoe that thinks it’s a conventional sneaker
Provides good protection on rocky waterlines and sea beds
Tough and comfortable enough to wear out of the water
Sole is on the thin side, meaning it can wear out quickly
8
Quiksilver Men’s Amphibian Plus Athletic Water Shoe
Is it a sneaker? Is it a water shoe? No, it’s the Amphibian Plus and when it comes to water sports, it likes to set its own rules! There is a cool, urban look to this water sport shoe that can take it from town or pool bar to open water in a splash. This is a multi-use water shoe that’s great for travelling as it is lightweight, versatile and comfortable. And it can step up when the situation takes you from dry to wet. The Amphibian Plus takes short or unchallenging hikes in its stride, making light work of wading in low level water and creeks thanks to its well-placed drainage ports.
Rubber pods on its outsole gives sufficient grip and traction and its quick to dry mesh lined upper allows your feet to breathe. A stylish all-rounder for water activities that don’t demand too much. For more great sneakers, check out our white sneakers review.
Cinch laces and one-piece mesh upper
Mesh liner for comfort and breathability
Cushion layer between foot bed lining and outsole
Lava™ anti-odor technology to keep your shoes smelling fresh
Hydrobound™ cushioning, custom Michelin™ compounds for traction
- BrandQuiksilver
- ModelAQYS700027-XBBG-8-A
- Weight12 ounces
A great urban/water hybrid shoe that’s one of the best looking on the market
Comfort and breathability make it a great travelling shoe
Well-designed outsole for effective drainage and traction
It’s style over substance means it may struggle with more demanding water sports
Limited foot support for longer hikes
9
adidas Outdoor Jawpaw 2 Water Shoe
If you’re looking for a no- nonsense ‘does what it says on the tin’ water shoe, then the Jawpaw is the one for you. Its clean look makes the Jawpaw a pleasure to wear while its simple design hides some nice tech spec you’d expect from adidas to deal with a range of on-the-go water sports.
Created for most water activities, the Jawpaw is also a good choice for beachcombing or walking around the pool as it offers good underfoot support and protection. Its climacool upper ventilates the whole foot, while its snug fit and perforated mid and outsole maximize water drainage. And, for excellent grip in slippy conditions, the Jawpaw’s tough ‘Stealth’ rubber sole steps up to the plate. All-in-all, this is a great performing, understated water sports shoe that takes the marine environment in its perfectly capable stride.
Breathable, quick-drying textile upper with synthetic overlays
Adidas drainage system for maximum water drainage
Climacool provides 360-degree cooling for the entire foot
Water specific outsole featuring stealth rubber for unbeatable grip
Slip-on style for comfort and easy on and off
- Brandadidas
- ModelCM7532-10
- Weight5.6 ounces
Easy to slip on…and stays on
Decent arch support which you don’t always get in water shoes
Superior grip for the most slippery of situations
Insoles are not fixed so can slip or come out when removing the shoe
A tad on the pricy side but great quality and hardwearing
10
Columbia Men’s Drainmaker III Water Shoe
Outdoor brand Columbia has come up trumps with the Drainmaker III, a good-looking hybrid shoe that wears like regular sneakers yet is equally good on land, boat or water. Yes, it is in mid to top price range, but you are gettinga well-made,hardwearingwater shoe that can cope with both rocky walking terrain and the open surf, all the while passing itself off as a good-looking hiking sneaker.
The lightweight, breathable design makes it ideal for warm weather adventures and this shoe has your back as you go from trail to river to ocean…and everything in between.
Combination open mesh and synthetic upper
TECHLITE™ midsole, superior cushion, high energy return
Air-flow and water drainable midsole ports
Omni-GRIP™ non-marking wet grip outsole with razor siping
- BrandColumbia
- ModelDRAINMAKER III-M
- Weight4 pounds
Great hiking/water sports hybrid makes it a versatile water shoe
Tough enough for super salty water
Impressive traction outsole grips in most environments
Can take some time to dry out completely
Large water drainage holes can get clogged
11
NIKE Aqua Sock 360 Mens Slippers
Here’s a slip-on water sock with Nike’s sporting credentials that give you a protected, almost barefoot feel when out and about on the water. Described as one of their most ‘simplistic’, this is a real compliment for Nike’s 360 reboot of the iconic Aqua Sock, originally launched back in the ‘80s.
Made from a two-layer mesh upper with foam heel and rubber outsole, the Aqua is an airy, scarily (in a good way) sock-like water sports shoe that gives you a natural amphibious feel without compromising on the necessary protection and support.
Lightweight mesh upper
TPU heel clip and elastic collar
Rubber outsole with pods for flexibility and grip
Soft, minimal sole for all-day comfort
True to size fit
- BrandNIKE
Total sock-like feel but with enough support and protection
Snug comfort fit prevents sand getting in
Also great for walking on hot surfaces without burning your feet
A tad pricy but you are getting a water sports shoe that has stood the test of time
12
Vibram Men’s Signa Athletic Boating Shoe
No water shoes review would be complete without a Vibram, with its unique styling enough to rival the quirky Croc. From the company that’ssynonymous with barefoot running, the natural and naked feel of Vibram’s land shoes has now found a home in the aquatic realm.
Just like its land-based Vibram relatives, the Signa Athletic boating shoe has the distinct separate toe design, which on first glance has a rather Hobbit-like appeal. But don’t let that put you off, these are rather well thought out aqua shoes that allow you to feel the water around you while giving you just enough support and protection to keep you grounded.
3 mm rubber sole
Abrasion-resistant stretch polyester mesh upper
Vibram wave grip compound for slip-resistance on wet surfaces
Drainage holes, wave grip rubber outsole
Machine washable
- BrandVibram
- ModelSigna-M
- Weight2 pounds
Unique looking shoe that is totally at home in the water
Great fit, cut and design
Fantastic for feeling really connected to the natural environment
Separated toes can take a bit getting used to
Not suited to really rough terrain underfoot
Water Shoe Buying Guide & FAQ
How We Chose Our Selection of Water Shoes:
To take the hassle out of wading through all the water shoes out there, we took the plunge and used the following checklist to decide which water shoes would make our final wave:
- Overall quality and suitability of materials as well as extra features
- User reviews and first-hand experience
- Brand and reputation
- Value for money
Features To Look For In Water Shoes:
Size - A snug fit is essential when it comes to water shoes as they will give a little when wet. A snug fit also means your shoe will not slip or slide off when you are getting active in the water and reduces the chance of chaffing. Most manufacturers carry standard sizes and may also cater for wide or slim fittings so read reviews and check sizing charts before you buy. Also look at how the fastening system on the shoe works and whether any laces or bungee pull systems are sufficient enough to keep your wet shoes firmly on your feet.
Insole - Water shoes are not designed to be waterproof but to let some water in (and out). The inner sole of a water sports shoe should be flexible and provide cushioning and breathability as well as be easy draining and quick to dry. Some water shoes have fixed insoles, which can slow down drying but are more robust and stay put when you pull your wet shoe off at the end of the day.
Outsole - You may want your water shoe to fit like a sock, but it needs a rock-solid bottom to keep your feet protected against wet, rocky terrain. A thicker sole with grip points and water drainage is ideal for hiking across wet and rough ground, while you can get away with a more flexible, thinner outsole if you are spending your time solely in the water. Whatever the style of water sports shoes you choose, make sure they have a durable outsole with good grip and traction and have some method of draining away water.
Material - Water shoes are made of synthetic mesh or neoprene, depending on the type of activity they are used for. Mesh water shoes allow water ingress and are great for ventilation, so you could pick this material for hiking, boating, swimming, paddle sports and general beach or pool time. If cold is a concern or you need a boot that doesn’t let in (or out) too much water, then neoprene water shoes offer an extra level of thermal insulation protection. Choose neoprene water boots for scuba diving, open water swimming, surfing and board sports where toasty feet matter.
Comfort - A shoe that keeps you comfortable both wet and dry is essential so check out the materials, design and cushioning in the water shoe before you buy. Rubber outsole, heel and cuff padding, tabs for easy pull on and off all help to keep your feet happy in the water but it is also how your water shoe behaves on the quayside that counts when it comes to comfort. Lightweight, easy draining and quick drying water sports shoes prevent your feet becoming waterlogged and irritated and your shoe from weighing you down.
Durability - Although you’ll want a lightweight water shoe, it also needs to be tough enough to weather a variety of wet and dry terrains and to last more than one summer. Watersports shoeswith a thicker sole will last longer but make sure you are still choosing the right shoe for your activity (e.g. when swimming, you don’t want a clog-like shoe weighing you down). Check for materials used and look at brand reviews to see which aqua shoes or water sandals are the most durable for your sport.
Breathability - Water shoesare often made with mesh material for breathability, helping to keep feet cool and quick drying when out of the water. Good ventilation – either though mesh material or drainage holes in the upper and midsole -also allows for good water flow in and out of the shoe when submerged and better drainage once out of the water.
Water Shoe FAQ
Q: What are water shoes?
A: A water shoe is a type of tough but light footwear used for activities where your feet are likely to get... well… wet !They’re typically made of mesh and/or neoprene with a rubber sole,so you can get grippy while protecting your feet.
Water sports shoes are specifically designed for water-based activities such as surfing, kayaking, scuba diving and paddle boarding as well as hanging out on the beach and surf line. They are made of lightweight material that allows water to flow out and a harder sole to cushion and protect your feet when walking or wading in wet and rocky environments. Hybrid walking/aqua shoes are also available, which are built strong enough for everyday hiking but can cope when the conditions get soggy or there are rivers and creeks to wade.
Q: Why get water shoes?
A: Your feet are your stability anchors so to keep active, you need to make sure they are protected and comfortable in any situation you put them in. With the added element of water, ordinary sports shoes or everyday sneakers simply won’t stand up in aquatic activities. At best you will get waterlogged and blistered, at worst you will slip and could get seriously hurt.
Protection and support, grip and traction, comfort and warmth, lightweight, quick draining and quick drying – these are all the specific features of a water sports shoe that will make your time in, on and under the water a total blast.
Q: What are the best activities you can do with water shoes?
A: There’s a water sports shoe for most types of water-related activities so do your research first to get the perfect match. Water shoes are essential to get the most out of a wide range of water-based sports, including boating, paddle sports, surfing/windsurfing, scuba diving, fishing, swimming, coasteering and hiking in wet terrain. Water shoes and beach shoes are also advisable when exploring the coastline and beaches and can offer extra protection around the swimming pool.
Q: Are water shoes slip resistant?
A: Good grip and surface traction are some of the key features you should look for in any water sports shoe as wet environments are unpredictable underfoot. It is the outsole of the shoe that will keep you fixed to the ground so check out the material it is made from and what features it has to keep your feet extra sticky. Look for a strong rubber sole with additional grips or ‘plugs’ that will create the right level of traction with the water on slippery rocks or surfaces, creek boulders, waterlogged boards and boat decks, even by the pool side (you don’t want to slip and spill your margarita!)
Q: Do you wear socks with water shoes?
A: Most water shoes and sandals are designed to be close fitting and warm enough to wear without socks, in fact the more scuba or surfer type shoes are almost sock-like themselves. But there are times – and types of water shoe – where you could consider teaming up with a pair of socks.
Some water sports shoes may not offer enough thermal protection to keep your toes warm,so you could look at getting a pair of neoprene socks to turn up the heat. Similarly, if you are looking for a water shoe as a hiking hybrid and plan to do some off-path, rough terrain walking or prolonged hiking, then a pair of socks can help prevent blisters and rubbing.
Q: How to wash water shoes?
A: By the nature of the synthetic materials they are made of, water environments they are made for, and the feet that go in them, water shoes do have the tendency to get a bit stinky if you don’t head it off at the pass. The secret is to rinse your water shoes in fresh, clean and luke-warm water after every use and dry them thoroughly. Then regularly give them a full wash treatment – warm, fresh water and either a wetsuit soap or mild shampoo will be enough – and scrub them inside and out before hanging out to dry. If they are still a little ripe, sprinkle the insides with some bicarb and leave overnight, before rinsing and drying thoroughly.
Sources:
- How to Clean Neoprene, Wiki How
-
List of surface water sports, Wikipedia
