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10 Best Water Shoes 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

KEEN Men's Newport H2 Closed Toe Water Sandals

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,448
Fit and Comfort
Drainage

Most important from
31937 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Sizing might be an overblown issue; both size 12 and 13 work fine, though the preference leans towards size 12 for a more solid fit.
Drainage
They dry out quickly after getting wet, making them great for water activities.

The KEEN Men's Newport H2 Closed Toe Water Sandals are designed for versatile use, whether you're on a boat, hiking a tropical trail, or relaxing by the water. Made from quick-dry, washable synthetic straps and lining, these shoes are built for active use in wet environments. The rubber sole provides excellent traction with multi-directional lugs and siping channels, which help maintain a grip on slippery surfaces. Additionally, the non-marking rubber outsoles ensure you won't leave marks on indoor flooring or boat decks.

The iconic toe bumper adds an extra layer of protection to your toes, reducing the risk of injury. The lace lock bungee capture system offers a secure yet easily adjustable fit, making these sandals easy to put on and take off. The KEEN Original fit includes generous space across the forefoot, allowing toes to spread out for increased comfort. While the non-removable footbed with added arch support is designed for all-day wear, it might be a drawback if you prefer to use custom insoles.

Weighing 2.4 pounds and measuring 10 x 15 x 6 inches, these sandals are relatively lightweight, although they may feel slightly bulky for those looking for an ultra-light option. One of the convenient features is that these sandals are machine washable, making maintenance simple. Simply use a small amount of detergent, wash on a gentle cycle, and air dry. These water sandals provide a good balance of comfort, support, and protection, making them a solid choice for various water-related activities.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,448
Fit and Comfort
Drainage

Most important from
31937 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Sizing might be an overblown issue; both size 12 and 13 work fine, though the preference leans towards size 12 for a more solid fit.
Drainage
They dry out quickly after getting wet, making them great for water activities.
#3

KEEN Men's Newport Closed Toe Comfortable Durable Leather Water Sandals

Rating
8.2
Material
Sole
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
6066 reviews

Material
Despite being leather, they handle water well and dry quickly, maintaining their fit and comfort.
Sole
The grip on these sandals is exceptional, making them ideal for walking on trails and steep, slippery surfaces.
Fit and Comfort
These sandals are incredibly comfortable for everyday wear, even when used as slip-ons without socks.
Weight
Although a bit on the heavier side, they serve as a reliable single pair of footwear for multiple outdoor activities.

The KEEN Men's Newport Closed Toe Water Sandals are made from premium leather sourced from environmentally responsible tanneries. These sandals are built to be durable and comfortable, with a quick-dry lining that makes them suitable for both in and out of the water use. The lace lock bungee capture system ensures a secure fit and makes them easy to put on and take off, which is handy for active users.

The sandals provide good support with an integrated footbed and arch support, making them comfortable for long periods of wear. The rubber sole is designed with lugs that have water-channeling grooves, offering superior grip on slippery or wet terrain, and the non-marking rubber ensures no imprints are left on surfaces like boats. Additionally, the iconic toe bumper provides extra protection to help prevent injuries. They are true to size with a generous space across the forefoot, which enhances comfort for your toes. However, the sandals weigh around 2 pounds, which might be on the heavier side for some users.

Caring for these sandals is easy, as they can be machine washed and dried away from heat. In terms of drawbacks, some users might find the weight a bit cumbersome, and while the leather material adds durability, it may require more maintenance compared to synthetic options. These sandals are an excellent choice for those who need a reliable, comfortable, and supportive water shoe for various water-related activities.

Rating
8.2
Material
Sole
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
6066 reviews

Material
Despite being leather, they handle water well and dry quickly, maintaining their fit and comfort.
Sole
The grip on these sandals is exceptional, making them ideal for walking on trails and steep, slippery surfaces.
Fit and Comfort
These sandals are incredibly comfortable for everyday wear, even when used as slip-ons without socks.
Weight
Although a bit on the heavier side, they serve as a reliable single pair of footwear for multiple outdoor activities.

Buying Guide for the Best Water Shoes

Choosing the right water shoes can make your time by the lake, river, or seaside much more comfortable and safe. Water shoes protect your feet from sharp rocks, slippery surfaces, and hot sand while allowing water to drain quickly so you don’t end up with heavy, soggy feet. The best pair for you depends on how you plan to use them, so think about your activities—casual beach walks, kayaking, river hiking, or maybe lounging by the pool. Understanding a few key features will help you pick the water shoes that suit your needs best.
MaterialMaterial is all about what the shoe is made from, and it’s essential because it affects comfort, durability, and how well the shoe dries out. Common water shoe materials include mesh, neoprene, and rubber. Lightweight mesh dries quickly and lets your feet breathe, making it good for warm weather and activities like swimming. Neoprene offers a snug fit and insulation, making it better for cooler waters or longer periods in the water. Rubber is usually used for the soles, providing protection and grip. Choose lightweight mesh for easy, warm-weather activities, go for neoprene if you need warmth and a more secure fit, and always ensure the sole is sturdy rubber for safety.
DrainageDrainage refers to how well water flows out of the shoe, preventing them from becoming heavy or uncomfortable. Good water shoes will have special holes or mesh sides that let water escape quickly. Shoes with lots of drainage are perfect for water sports and activities where your feet are frequently submerged. If you'll be transitioning between water and land or expect lots of splashing, look for shoes boasting extensive drainage. If you stay dry most of the time, limited drainage is less critical.
TractionTraction is about how well the soles grip slippery or uneven surfaces, and it’s crucial to prevent slips and falls on wet rocks, boat decks, or pool sides. Shoes with deep treads or patterns on the bottom offer the best grip. For activities like hiking on wet trails or exploring rocky beaches, prioritize strong traction, while for pool use or casual wading, moderate grip is usually enough.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort mean how the shoes feel when worn and how securely they stay on your feet. Water shoes should fit snugly to avoid slipping off in the water, but not be so tight they cause discomfort. Adjustable straps or elastic closures help create a secure fit, especially for active use. If you’re swimming or moving through strong currents, a tight, sock-like fit works best. For general comfort on the beach or in a boat, a slightly more relaxed fit is fine.
WeightWeight refers to how heavy the shoes feel, both dry and when wet. Lighter shoes are easier to wear for swimming and activities that need a full range of motion, while heavier shoes can offer more protection but may tire your feet faster. If you want something for fast-moving sports or long walks, look for ultra-lightweight models. For tasks where foot protection and stability are more important than speed, a bit of extra weight is acceptable.
ProtectionProtection means how well the shoe shields your feet from sharp objects, stings, or abrasions. Some shoes have reinforced toes or thicker soles, which are ideal if you’re walking on rocky riverbeds or tidepools. For gentle beach or pool use, minimal protection is enough, but for rough terrains with shells, rocks, or critters, pick shoes with thicker materials and toe bumpers.

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