The Best Water Shoes For Women
If you're having a splash in the deep blue or venturing into uncharted wetlands, it's a good idea to give your feet an extra layer of protection. By donning a pair of water shoes during your aquatic adventures, you'll be able to prevent cuts and bruises underfoot. You might also be looking for a sporting solution that will keep you nimble while boating, and you won't find many shoes that offer comparable grip in wet conditions. In a competitive crunch, they could make all the difference. We've taken our pick between some of the finest water shoes on the market today to bring you a range of venerable options, so buckle up and get ready to dive in.
What to Look For
As with any aquatic gear, quick-drying materials are a top priority. While breathable materials will keep you cozy on land, it’s also important that your shoes are lightweight to keep you mobile in the water. If you’re venturing into unknown waters, you’ll also want a durable sole that can defend against sharp objects that might be nestled in riverbeds or shallow seas. DOUSSPRT’s aqua shoes marry a lightweight design with reliable underfoot protection, making them a great choice for sporting. If you want your feet to dry in record time, you might consider the sandals from Teva. The open-top design offers unparalleled breathability when compared with enclosed mesh shoes. Each aquatic environment presents unique challenges, but we’re sure that you’ll find an option below that’s up to the task.
DOUSSPRT Sports Aqua Shoes
These high-performance aqua shoes will help you put your best foot forward whether you’re on land or sea. A lightweight and breathable polyester mesh upper allows water to flow freely through these shoes, offering you unencumbered freedom as you swim. This material results in a shoe with extreme flexibility, so you can walk on uneven terrain without trouble. The porous mesh also lets the shoes drain quickly, so you’ll be dry in record time once you reach land.
Pros:
- If you want to color-coordinate your swimwear, this option won’t disappoint thanks to the many colorways that are offered.
- The elastic rubber shoelaces let you adjust the tightness of each shoe for a comfortable fit. Comfort aside, this will also help you avoid slipping while you’re walking in the water.
Cons:
- The drainage holes on these soles can allow small pebbles to enter the shoes.
Aleader Mesh Slip On Water Shoes
Ease of entry
Slip your feet into these easy-on water shoes and you’ll be ready for immediate aquatic action. This lightweight design is sure to keep you quick on your toes whether you’re braving land or sea. The Solyte midsole offers superb cushioning and durability, so you’ll be safe from harm’s way when clambering over rocks and other underwater surfaces. Plus, the patented ComforDry sock liner adds a layer of padding at each step. This results in a porous construction that will quickly drain water once you’re back to the surface.
Pros:
- An open hydrophobic mesh upper lets your feet breathe, so you won’t be left squelching in puddles when you get out of the water.
- The Water Grain outsole is engineered for optimal grip in wet, slippery conditions.
- Dual loops on the front and rear will save time if you need to get these shoes on in a hurry.
Cons:
- The flat soles don’t offer as much arch support as some other options.
DLGJPA Quick Drying Water Shoes
Tighten up
If you’ve been taking a dip in the deep all day, you’ll want to know that your shoes will be dry soon after you’re back to the shore. This hydrophobic design from DLGJPA will keep you nimble underwater thanks to a lightweight, porous design that works to shed any excess water as soon as you’re out of the drink. Some water shoes can suffer from becoming waterlogged in the sole area, but with a perforated undersole, that won’t be a concern.
Pros:
- Thanks to the huge variety of striking color options, you won’t be disappointed if you’re looking for a pair to match your swimwear.
- The stretch soles are durable and easy to compress, so it’s a cinch to squeeze into a compact swim bag.
Cons:
- These shoes can run large for some, so be sure to double-check the sizing chart before ordering.
Teva Quick Drying Sport Sandal
Less is more
When it comes to water shoes, a more minimalist design could offer you greater freedom in the water than traditional designs. These understated sandals from Teva strip things back to the essentials, with a spare buckle design leaving your feet exposed to the elements. Since these sandals have no mesh or concealed upper to hold moisture, your feet are sure to be dry in no time once you’re out of the water.
Pros:
- If you’re mindful of responsibly sourced materials, you’ll be glad to know that this quick-dry webbing is made entirely from recycled plastic.
- The sculpted EVA midsole offers more arch support than flat-soled options, making these sandals a little comfier on the ground.
Cons:
- The lack of half sizes might make it difficult for some to find a perfect fit.
Nortiv 8 Barefoot Water Shoes
Barely there
Barefoot shoes are all the rage these days, with their advocates promising increased comfort and an improved podiatric profile compared to traditional soles. Ultimately, we think it’s down to taste, but if the barefoot profile keeps your feet happy, you won’t find a better pair of water shoes than this option from Nortiv 8. This option keeps you grounded with a thin and durable rubber sole so that you can tread confidently.
Pros:
- The molded outsole holds every toe snugly in place for a comfortable, sock-like fit.
- The no-tie rubber shoelaces let you adjust the openings to size without needing to fuss with wet hands.
- Despite the thin profile of this option, your steps will be padded by the cushioned EVA.
Cons:
- The ankle opening can be a little less comfortable than some padded options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are water shoes suitable for gravel beaches?
Few things can irritate your feet like a pebble caught in the insole. Many of the water shoes we found are designed with perforations in the sole to increase breathability and drying speed. However, these holes can sometimes allow smaller stones to enter the shoe. If you’re looking for an option specifically suited to gravel beaches, you might want to choose a pair without perforated soles.
Can I wear my water shoes for hikes?
If you’re planning an amphibious expedition, you might be searching for an option that’s equally suited to land and sea. Most water shoes are also designed to accommodate short journeys on foot, but finding an increased level of comfort for longer hikes is usually a compromise. Increased padding in the sole will lead to less mobility while swimming, so you’ll have to weigh the benefits when choosing the right shoe for the job.
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