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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 by1,186
Fit and Comfort
Drainage

Most important from
31974 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 by1,186
Fit and Comfort
Drainage

Most important from
31974 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.
#2

KEEN Women's Newport H2 Closed Toe Water Sandals

The KEEN Women's Newport H2 Closed Toe Water Sandals are designed with active water use in mind, featuring quick-drying polyester webbing that makes them practical for wet environments. They have a secure lace lock bungee system which makes putting them on and taking them off easy, while also ensuring a snug fit. The sandals provide good support with an integrated footbed offering arch support and cushioning that bounces back with each step, making them comfortable for extended wear.

These shoes excel in traction with multi-directional lugs and water channel grooves that help maintain grip on slippery surfaces, which is important for water shoes. The rubber sole is non-marking, so it won’t leave scuffs on indoor floors or boats. The closed toe design features a sturdy bumper that protects your toes from bumps or sharp objects, adding safety during outdoor adventures.

The fit is tailored specifically for women, with a wider footbed than many water shoes, contributing to better comfort. The footbed is non-removable, which may be a consideration if you prefer custom insoles. The sandals are machine washable, making cleaning after outdoor use simple. These sandals are a solid choice for women looking for durable, comfortable, and protective footwear for water sports, beach outings, or casual summer adventures.

#3

DOUSSPRT Men's Water Shoes Quick Drying Sports Aqua Shoes AllBlack Size 8

Rating
8.8
Drainage
Traction
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
31263 reviews

Drainage
Dries quickly, making them perfect for transitions between water and land activities.
Traction
Offers good grip on various terrains, suitable for hiking as well as water sports.
Fit and Comfort
Fits true to size and provides a snug, secure fit that stays on during diving and cliff jumping.

The DOUSSPRT Men's Water Shoes are designed primarily with a breathable mesh fabric, which allows for good airflow and quick drying—important for comfort during water activities. The open mesh on both the upper and sole helps with drainage, meaning water won’t stay trapped inside, so your feet dry faster. The sole is made of rubber, which offers decent grip on wet surfaces and makes these shoes suitable for casual use. These shoes are lightweight, which adds to comfort during extended wear and makes them suitable for a variety of activities like beach outings, kayaking, and jogging.

The mesh upper contributes to flexibility and a snug fit, but because it’s fabric-based, protection against sharp objects or rough surfaces might be limited. The shoes are well-suited for general water sports and casual outdoor use where breathability, quick drying, and lightness are priorities, although they may not provide the highest level of sole protection or aggressive traction needed for more demanding environments.

Rating
8.8
Drainage
Traction
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
31263 reviews

Drainage
Dries quickly, making them perfect for transitions between water and land activities.
Traction
Offers good grip on various terrains, suitable for hiking as well as water sports.
Fit and Comfort
Fits true to size and provides a snug, secure fit that stays on during diving and cliff jumping.

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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