Outdoors - Recreation and Sports

The Best Water Shoes to Keep You Safe and Stylish in 2024

We know that finding the right pair of shoes is important, so we've put together a buyer's guide of men's and women's water shoes to help you choose the footwear for your needs.

Deborah Clarke
Jul 8, 2022
18 min read
Seasonal - Summer
Two pair of water shoes on rocks in the lake.
Best Water Shoes Amazon | Original Photo by FavReviews | Lake Huron

Are you looking for a new pair of shoes to wear this summer?

Water shoes are perfect for the summertime. They're lightweight and versatile summer shoes, that can be worn on any surface – whether it's wet or dry. Plus, they come in a variety of fun and fashionable styles, so you can find the perfect pair to match your personality.

We know that finding the right pair of shoes is important, so we've put together a buyer's guide of men's and women's water shoes to help you choose the footwear for your needs.

We'll discuss some of the most popular brands and styles on the market today, and we'll provide tips on how to select the perfect pair for your activities.

Water shoes provide protection for your feet, so don't wait any longer – read on for the best water shoes of 2024!


Different Styles of Water Shoes | Aqua Shoes

When it comes to versatile footwear that can handle everything from beach strolls to water sports, hiking, hot sand, and rocky beaches, there are several styles of aqua shoes that stand out:

  1. Ultra-Lightweight Aqua Shoes: SIMARI Water Shoes are a top choice for their ultra-lightweight design that doesn't compromise on performance. They're waterproof and versatile, making them ideal for activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, as well as light to moderate trail running.
  2. Classic Mesh Water Shoes: Speedo Surf Knit Pro is a great example of this style. These shoes offer a balance of comfort and durability, which makes them suitable for various water and beach activities.
  3. Sneaker-Style Water Shoes: Crocs' water shoes are a popular choice due to their sneaker-like design that offers more protection. These are excellent for hiking and exploring rocky beaches.
  4. Closed-Toe Water Shoes: KEEN Water Shoes have a closed-toe design that provides additional protection against sharp rocks and shells. Plus, their secure fit helps prevent sand from getting inside. There are several closed-toe brand name water shoes for women for you to consider.
  5. Slip-On Aqua Socks: Brands like Vifuur offer quick-dry aqua socks that are easy to slip on and off. They're perfect for beach pool swim, river yoga, lake surf, and similar activities.

Each of these styles has its own strengths, so the best one for you will depend on your specific needs and activities.

Remember, the right pair of aqua shoes can significantly enhance your outdoor experience, providing comfort and protection wherever your adventures take you!


How We Choose The Best Water Shoes

You're looking for a good pair of water shoes to protect your feet, but you don't know where to start.

With so many on the market, it can be hard to figure out which ones are worth your money. And if you're like us, you don't want to waste time or money on a pair of shoes that won't last.

After reading thousands of reviews on Amazon, we've found the best water shoes for every activity. Whether you're swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, beachcombing, hiking along a rocky beach, or traveling to Hawaii (or some other exotic place for an adventure) we've got you covered.

We trust that you'll find your next favorite water shoe from the list we've researched for you below. All of these water shoes have been hand-picked by our editors and we won't recommend something we wouldn't use in our own family. Some may even be items that we already use! (You know how much we LOVE the lake.) We may receive a small compensation if you decide to buy something (that's how we keep the lights on). Some reviews have been edited for length and clarity.

Our picks are durable and comfortable and will keep your feet safe and protected. Have fun searching for your next fav product!


SIMARI BEACH WATER SHOES For Men or Women

BEST WATER SHOES FOR THE BEACH

Best Water Shoes for the Beach

SIMARI Water Shoes | Mens, Womens | 40 Styles and Colors

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Why These Are Our Fav

Looking for the perfect shoe to protect your feet while enjoying all your favorite beach activities? Look no further.

These unisex shoes are great for water sports, boat decks, kite surfing, swimming, kayaking, beach volleyball, and almost any family outing where you might encounter wet and slippery surfaces.

With a comfortable fit and robust construction, your feet will stay protected from the elements and slippery surfaces no matter what you're doing.

So don't let anything come between you and a good time at the beach - grab a pair of these beach shoes and enjoy the summer sun!

Fav Features

These are the best for the beach because have 8 holes in the rubber outsole to ensure good water drainage to keep your feet feeling cool whether on hot sand or when in the water. The rubber outsole is sturdy but flexible and can be worn on dry land as foot protection for all of your water sports and beach activities.

The fabric is a mesh upper that can be worn with bare feet. The elastic shoelace with locking mechanism makes them easy on/off and perfect fitting every time.


UBFEN WATER SHOES For Men or Women

BEST WATER SHOES FOR HIKING

Best Water Shoes for Hiking

UBFEN Barefoot Water Shoe | Mens, Womens | 29 Great Colors

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Why These Are Our Fav

Amphibious shoes? Sounds like something I need in my life! With these water shoes with mesh upper for water drainage, I can hike to my heart's content keeping my feet warm, and then take a dip in the water when I get too hot. Or go for a swim before hiking up a canyon. Or go kayaking and then trek through some rivers that could have sharp rocks and not worry because of the toe protection and rubber sole. The possibilities are endless! And with such great reviews for hiking, I know I can trust these shoes to get me where I need to go (and back again).

Fav Features

Here's something that's going to interest you... our fav feature is the updated rubber sole on these shoes! Not only does it have anti-skid features, but it also has drainage ports for optimum water drainage to keep water flowing through them. The holes are not large enough for stones to enter. And the best part? They're durable with toe protection, yet flexible and lightweight making them easy to wear. So, if you're looking for a solid water shoe with toe protection and a tough rubber sole for hiking, river crossings, and stability on wet beach rocks, you've found them!


SEEKWAY Water Shoe for Kayaking and Water Sports for Men and Women

BEST WATER SHOES FOR KAYAKING

Best Water Shoes for Kayaking

SEEKWAY Water Shoe for Water Sports | Mens, Womens | 42 Colors

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Why These Are Our Fav

Looking for a shoe to wear while kayaking? This is a great water shoe for kayaking. The breathable mesh upper provides great airflow and they look great.

Available in a variety of colors, you're sure to find a pair that matches your kayak perfectly. Plus, they're comfortable and the sole offers great protection against rocks and other potential hazards.

So if you're looking for the perfect water shoe for your next kayaking adventure, be sure to check these out.

Fav Features

These are the best for kayaking! They have flexible non-slip grippy rubber soles that grip almost any surface, making them perfect for getting in and out of the kayak.

Plus, they're easy to pack and lightweight, so you can take them with you on your next adventure.


VIFUUR Water Shoes for Snorkeling for Men and Women

BEST WATER SHOES FOR SNORKELING

Best Water Shoes for Snorkeling

VIFUUR Water Shoes Aqua Socks | Mens, Womens | 44 Colors Patterns

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Why These Are Our Fav

Looking for the perfect slip-on shoes to wear with your fins for snorkeling? Look no further!

These shoes, or aqua socks, are a great addition to your snorkeling gear and are easy to slip on and off. They also have a loop at the back if you want to slip them off once in the water.

Most buyers report that they are a comfortable fit inside their fins when snorkeling and that they would buy them again.

So if you're looking for a great water shoe or aqua sock to add to your snorkeling gear, don't hesitate - buy the VIFUUR for snorkeling today!

Fav Features

These are great shoes for snorkeling! They have flexible rubber soles that will protect your feet as you enter the water. They're easy to slip on or off, and they're made from lightweight material that's almost like a sock or a slipper.

Because of their lightweight design and thin soles, they're easy to pack. And they come in lots of great colors and patterns to choose from to suit any personality or style.

So if you're looking for slip-on water shoes or aqua socks for snorkeling, look no further than these!


SOBASO Water Shoes with thick sole perfect for all-terrain and all activities

BEST ADULT WATER SHOES FOR HAWAII

Best Adult Water Shoes for Hawaii

SOBASO All-Terrain Water Shoes | Mens, Womens | 12 Colors, Styles

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Why These Are Our Fav

Speaking of packing ... you asked about the best water shoes for Hawaii and we found them!

These full-coverage water shoes are perfect for any nature adventure you'll find in Hawaii, from hiking to swimming, to river crossings or island hopping. They're also great for any water sports, from fishing to diving.

So whether you're looking for a shoe to protect your feet from the hot sand or you want a shoe that can keep up with your active lifestyle, these are a perfect choice.

Today, more than ever, people are looking for water shoes that can do it all and these rugged water shoes fit the bill. So don't wait any longer, order a pair today and enjoy the endless possibilities of Hawaii.

Fav Features

As anyone who's ever been to Hawaii knows, the best way to enjoy the beach is to wear a good pair of shoes.

These shoes have a rugged sole that provides lots of grip, making them ideal for almost any surface. They're also easy to get on and off, thanks to their elastic shoelace design. And their upgraded upper fabric allows water and sand to flow out easily, promising quick drying and breathability.

Plus, they're lightweight water shoes and easy to pack. So if you're looking for a good water shoe for your next trip to Hawaii, look no further than these!


BELILENT WATER SHOES for Men or Women

BEST WATER SHOES FOR ROCKY BEACHES

Best Water Shoes for Rocky Beaches

BELILENT Water Shoes for Men, Women | 10 Colors and Styles

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Why These Are Our Fav

Looking for a versatile shoe that can take you from the beach to the mountains? Look no further than this water shoe for rocky beaches!

These shoes are perfect for vacations and rocky beaches, as they're more supportive than your typical water shoe with breathable mesh upper and sticky rubber sole. Wear them like a running shoe, they'll protect your feet as you walk over rocks at the beach, or as you come across river crossings or climb rocky stairs.

Whether you're strolling along the shore or exploring a new hiking trail with wet rocks, this water shoe for rocky beaches will provide solid foot protection and will keep you comfortable and stylish all day long.

So don't wait – order your pair today!

Fav Features

These are the best shoes for rocky beaches! They have a great fit with laces, they adjust easily and will stay snug on your feet. This shoe will stay on your heel and not slip making them great for muddy areas (or beach volleyball).

The non-slip rubber sole is good for muddy trails or mossy areas. Unique water drainage holes that act as drainage ports allow water to flow through making them quick dry. You'll love them!


VIFUUR Barefoot Water Shoes Socks Slip-on for Beach Swimming for Men or Women

BEST WATER SHOES FOR SWIMMING

Best Water Shoes for Swimming

VIFUUR Barefoot Water Shoes Aqua Socks | Men, Women | 44 Colors

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Why These Are Our Fav

Looking for a stylish and functional water shoe? Say hello to your new best friend: a water shoe or aqua sock for Swimming!

These shoes are perfect for all water activities, whether you're swimming laps in the pool, taking a leisurely walk on the beach, or even showering at the gym. They provide a secure fit with a thin rubber outer sole that provides foot safety, while their slip-on design makes them easy to put on and take off.

Plus, they come in a wide variety of super bright colors and patterns, so you're sure to find a pair that matches your personality perfectly. So ditch the boring old flip-flops and make a splash with this shoe for swimming!

Fav Features

These water shoes have taken the internet by storm! They have a thin rubber outer sole that makes them perfect for swimming, as well as breathable smooth fabrics and stretchy uppers that make them fit like a slipper or swim aqua sock.

They're also reasonably priced (over 100,000 sold!), making them a great option for anyone looking for the best shoes for swimming. Whether you're headed to the beach or the pool, this water shoe is sure to keep your feet comfortable and protected all day long with a secure fit.


Water Shoes FAQs

You're at the beach and you want to go for a swim, but you don't want to get your nice walking sandals wet.

Wear water shoes! They'll protect your feet from the hot sand and sharp shells, and they'll keep your toes warm in the chilly ocean water.

Water shoes are perfect for all sorts of activities, like swimming, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and sailing. And they come in a variety of styles so that you can find the perfect pair for your needs.

We've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about water shoes so you can get all of the information you need before making your purchase decision.

What are water shoes?

Water shoes are designed to protect your feet while you're in the water. They're usually made from quick-drying materials and have a grip sole to prevent slipping. Whether you're swimming, kayaking, or just splashing around, water shoes are a great way to keep your feet comfortable and safe.

What are the best water shoes?

We get this question a lot, and it's tough to answer because there are so many different types of water shoes for men and women out there.

The best water shoes are those with a secure fit well and have a good grip. When looking for a water shoe, it is important to find a pair that fits well. They should be snug but not too tight, and they should have a good grip so that you can walk anywhere safely.

We've done our research and here is a short list of our favorites based on how you will be using them. We found the best water shoes for:

* the beach (even for walking rocky beaches)

* kayaking

* hiking

* swimming

* even traveling to places like Hawaii

We are certain you will find the right water shoe for your needs from our top choices. We've selected these as water shoes for men and women because they're stylish, comfortable, durable, and lightweight so they are easy to pack.

What are the best water shoes for kayaking?

There is no single definitive answer to this question. Some people might prefer shoes that provide more protection, while others might prefer shoes that are lighter and easier to move in.

Additionally, different kayakers might have different preferences based on the type of kayaking they do. For example, someone who primarily does white water kayaking might prefer a different type of shoe than someone who does mostly flat-water kayaking.

That said, our 'fav' as the most popular and affordable water shoes for kayaking for men and women from our research is SEEKWAY Water Shoes for Kayaking for Men and Women.

What are water shoes meant for?

There are a variety of different types of water shoes on the market, each designed for a different purpose. Some water shoes are meant for activities like kayaking or canoeing, where you need extra protection from sharp objects or rocks. Others are designed for swimming, with features like drainage holes to keep your feet waterlogged. And still others are made for beach activities like surfing or stand-up paddle boarding. Various materials used provide quick drying and maximum water drainage which differs from other shoes.

No matter what type of water shoe you're looking for, it's important to find one that fits well and provides the level of protection you need. And when it comes to style, there are plenty of options to choose from - so you can find a pair that matches your taste.

What are the best shoes for water aerobics?

Aqua shoes! They provide a snug fit and will help keep you stable in the water and protect your feet from getting cuts on the bottom.

Are Crocs water shoes?

Yes and No. Crocs are made of Croslite™ material, which is a closed-cell resin that allows water to bead off the surface. So they are technically water shoes. However, they are not meant to be worn for extended periods in water and are not as good at draining water as other water shoes would be. They may also be slippery in mossy water areas. We like the nautical look of Crocs Men's and Women's LiteRide Clog (navy, white, red).

You may be interested in our review "5 Best Crocs Water Shoes for the Entire Family"

Do you wear socks with water shoes?

No, I don't wear socks with water shoes. There are a few reasons for this. First, most water shoes are designed to be worn without socks to keep your feet cool and allow them to dry quickly.

Second, wearing socks with water shoes can lead to blisters and other foot problems because of the snug fit.

Finally, I find that it's more comfortable to wear water shoes without socks. Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule and you may find that you need or prefer to wear socks with your water shoes in certain situations. But in general, I would say no, don't wear socks with water shoes.

Can you wear water shoes at Great Wolf Lodge?

Yes, you can wear water shoes at Great Wolf Lodge. I would recommend wearing them to protect your feet, as you would at any resort. Great Wolf Lodge recommends water shoes, aqua socks, or sandals around the pool areas. While their resorts are considered casual, shirts and shoes are required everywhere in the resort outside of the pool area. Hope that helps!

Do you need water shoes in Hawaii?

You don't need water shoes in Hawaii, but they can come in handy. Many of the hiking trails on the islands are rocky, so shoes with good traction can save you from a slip-and-fall. They're also useful if you plan on swimming or snorkeling at any of the beaches, as the bottom of the ocean can be quite rough and covered in coral and shells.

Water shoes are available for sale at most convenience stores and pharmacies on the islands, or you can easily find them online here before your trip. Just make sure to get a pair (like our fav's SOBASO Water Shoes for men and women, with thick soles perfect for all-terrain and all activities) that's comfortable enough to wear all day long since you'll likely want to use them for more than just swimming!

Can you walk in water shoes?

Yes, you can walk in water shoes. Many people find them to be more comfortable than regular shoes when walking on wet surfaces. Water shoes are also often used for activities such as kayaking, rafting, and stand-up paddle boarding, as they provide good traction and support while being lightweight, quick-drying, and comfortable.

They usually have a sole that helps grip wet surfaces and provide traction. Some water shoes also have drainage holes in the bottom to help expel water quickly. If you're planning on spending time around water--whether at the pool, beach, or lake--you may want to consider investing in a pair of water shoes.

Best Water Shoes for You (Our Fav's)

Whether you’re looking for a good pair of water shoes to take on your next beach vacation or need something more heavy-duty for hiking and trekking, we’ve found the perfect pair of water shoes for you for summer fun!

And, since we’ve done all the hard work for you, finding the best water shoes available on Amazon, all you have to do is tap the button below each image to check prices and reviews of our fav's with both men's and women's sizes.

Happy shopping!

Thank you for stopping by Fav Reviews!

The FavReview Team.

PS - Would you like to learn about Our Fav: Top 7 Picks for Swimming Goggles with Nose Cover

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Finding the best Crocs can be tough, because there are so many choices now. Based on our research and customer reviews we can tell you they’ve come a long way since your first pair!

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