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The 6 Best Water Shoes for Men of 2024

We tested men's water shoes from brands like Astral, NRS, Merrell, Xero and others to find the best models
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Best Water Shoes Men Review
Credit: Zach Lovell
By Zach Lovell, Dan Scott, and Jacob Clark  ⋅  Oct 31, 2024

The Best Men's Water Shoes for 2024


Do you like to play in and around water? We certainly do, though having the right footwear can make or break a day on the river, ocean, or lake. After researching over 70 of the best water shoes on the market, we purchased 15 pairs to test side-by-side. We wet our feet while paddling, swimming, and canyoneering throughout the Pacific Northwest, the Sierra Nevada, and the Rockies. We used each model for a variety of water sports for long days, ensuring our testing process was as rigorous as possible. We evaluated key performance metrics to see which shoe will keep your feet warm, comfortable, and happy, whatever the water temperature. Whether you're trying water sports for the first time or you're already a pro, we've got the top recommendations for your needs and budget to add to your footwear collection. See our in-depth testing by female reviewers in our women's water shoe review.

Editor's Note: We updated this article on Oct 31, 2024 to reflect results of our latest round of testing.

Related: Best Water Shoes for Women

Top 15 Water Shoes - Test Results

Displaying 1 - 15 (scroll right)
 
#13
water shoes men
Awards Editors' Choice Award
Best Overall
Top Pick Award
Most Versatile Option
Top Pick Award
Best for Paddling
Top Pick Award
Best for a Minimalist Design
 Top Pick Award
Best Option for Style
 Best Buy Award
Best Value in a Water Shoe
       
Price $54.83 at REI
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$124.95 at Amazon
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$69.95 at REI
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$129.95 at REI
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$150.00 at REI$119.00 at Amazon
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$129.95 at Backcountry$45 List
$37.97 at Amazon
$57.95 at REI$71.73 at REI$61.83 at REI$35 List
$30.59 at Amazon
$30 List
$29.99 at Amazon
$50 List
$27.99 at Amazon
$37.49 at Amazon
Overall Score Sort Icon
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Pros High traction, flexible, snug fit, great drainage, stylishDurable construction, decent versatility, supportive yet flexibleTop notch warmth, protective outsole, decent traction on wet surfacesFeather-light construction, fantastic traction, excellent drainageExcellent drainage, durable, extremely sticky rubber, comfortableGreat style, top notch cushion, slip on design, decent warmthAnkle protection, look great, drain well, decent tractionSimple slip-on, comfortable, great value for the priceCrazy warm, comfortable, great traction on most surfacesDurable materials, protective outsole, top-tier drainageExcellent traction across many surfaces, comfy, great stability, dry fastSimple slip-on design, comfortable, affordableLightweight, dry fast, great priceLighter than a smartphone, fast drying, great sensitivity, great valueLightweight, wide fit, great price
Cons Not warm, not a durable upperSlower water drain, uncomfortable stitching for someLittle support on rough terrain, no drainage, slow dryingLittle support, thin sole, no insulationLaces are a bit too short, sheds dye from inner, not as warm as other bootiesNo tightening method, slower drainageA little pricey, not much cushioningNo fit adjustability, lack of drainage, little insulationHard to get off once wet, little support, poor drainageLess stylish than most, heavy, no adjustabilityNot a ton of ways to adjust, don't slip on as easily as other sandalsDon't add much warmth, not the greatest tractionAny moisture that comes up through the bottom, not that durableWater comes through the sole, very little support, not great for hiking or sharp rocksFootbed an acquired taste, not ideal for technical use, minimal fit adjustment
Bottom Line These water shoes are top-notch for their flexibility, traction, and around-town styleAn all-around solid choice for water-based activities, capable of near every adventure with an easy transition to townThese water shoes, paired with a wet suit or dry suit, are perfect for a long day on the river and in cold waterA minimally supportive water shoe with great drainage and traction that's perfect for a long day on the waterA comfortable, extremely sticky boot with thin, flexible solesA model that proves you can have both style and function in a water shoeA versatile shoe with added ankle support for those rocky, wet adventuresA simple, affordable slip-on great for relaxed days in the water and on boatsThese shoes check all the boxes for aquatic adventures off the shoreThis robust sandal offers excellent protection and water drainage, though it's not an aesthetic we'd recommend for social gatheringsThis classic model is a great option for a closed-toe sandal that can take you from water to trailsSimple, affordable slip-ons ready for in the water or on a boatIt is an inexpensive option with great sensitivity but is limited because of the holes in the soleThese shoes are light and an extremely good value. Just don't plan to walk farThis well-loved clog is excellent for hanging out on a boat or beach and is offered at an accessible price point
Rating Categories Astral Loyak AC Astral Brewer 2.0 NRS Paddle Wetshoe Xero Aqua X Sport Astral Hiyak Olukai Moku Pae Astral Rassler 2.0 Speedo Surf Knit Pro NRS Kicker Wetshoe Merrell Hydro Next... Keen Newport H2 Speedo Tidal Cruiser DLGJPA DOUSSPRT Crocs Classic
Comfort (25%)
8.6
8.0
7.5
7.5
7.0
8.4
8.0
7.7
7.1
6.9
7.0
8.0
7.0
7.0
6.0
Traction (25%)
9.1
7.0
8.3
9.0
10.0
8.0
7.0
7.0
8.0
8.5
8.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
5.0
Warmth (15%)
5.0
7.0
9.5
5.0
5.0
6.5
7.0
5.0
8.0
4.0
4.0
5.0
4.0
4.0
4.0
Versatility (15%)
8.5
8.7
4.0
7.0
5.0
5.5
7.0
7.0
4.0
5.1
6.0
3.0
5.0
5.0
7.0
Sensitivity (10%)
9.2
7.0
8.0
8.5
9.0
7.1
7.0
9.0
8.0
6.5
5.0
7.0
9.0
9.0
6.8
Quality of Construction (10%)
5.0
8.0
7.5
6.0
7.0
7.0
7.0
6.0
6.0
7.0
8.0
7.0
4.0
3.0
7.5
Specs Astral Loyak AC Astral Brewer 2.0 NRS Paddle Wetshoe Xero Aqua X Sport Astral Hiyak Olukai Moku Pae Astral Rassler 2.0 Speedo Surf Knit Pro NRS Kicker Wetshoe Merrell Hydro Next... Keen Newport H2 Speedo Tidal Cruiser DLGJPA DOUSSPRT Crocs Classic
Measured Weight (per pair, US size 10) 0.91 lbs 1.2 lbs 1.70 lbs 0.90 lbs 1.40 lbs 1.37 lbs 1.19 lbs 1.18 lbs 1.80 lbs 1.48 lbs 2.00 lbs 1.12 lbs 0.66 lbs 0.5 lbs 0.78 lbs
Drainage Features Front/back/side holes, top mesh Holes in sides of midsoles None Top mesh, toe guard drainage holes Front/back holes Mesh upper, no ports Front/back/side holes, top mesh Top mesh Thick neoprene upper Sandal construction, extensive holes Several side openings Mesh upper, no ports Top mesh and holes in sole Top mesh and holes in sole Sandal construction, extensive holes
Removeable Insole? Yes No No Yes Yes Yes No Yes No No No Yes Yes Yes No
Footwear Closure Laces Laces Zipper, velcro Lace-lock bungee system Laces with velcro keeper Slip-on Laces Slip-on Velcro Slip-on Lace-lock bungee system Slip-on Slip-on Slip-on Slip-on, optional heel strap
Upper Materials Ultrafine ripstop mesh, TPU reinforcements, water resistant laces Canvas, mesh 3 mm neoprene Synthetic mesh, PU Canvas, nylon Breathable mesh upper Canvas, mesh Mesh Neoprene BLOOM® performance foam Washable polyester webbing Neoprene collar and mesh Mesh Mesh Croslite™ compound
Midsole Removable, 45C closed cell EVA foam EVA 2 mm plastic shim None EVA EVA EVA EVA foam None BLOOM® performance foam EVA EVA EVA foam EVA foam Croslite™ compound
Outsole Rubber Rubber Rubber FeelTrue rubber Siped G.ss Rubber G-rubber S-Trac Rubber Rubber BLOOM® performance foam Non-marking rubber Rubber Rubber Rubber Croslite™ compound
Relative Fit Regular toebox, wider in midfoot and heel Regular toebox, medium volume midfoot and heel Wide toebox, and stretches to accomodate a wide variety of foot shapes Foot shaped foot bed, fits true-to-size Wide toebox, medium volume midfoot and heel Generally wider fit in every aspect Regular toebox, medium volume midfoot and heel Narrow fit Wide toebox, fits true-to-size, and stretchy. Medium width in toebox and midfoot, slightly wider heel Regular sandal Fit Narrow fit Regular sandal Fit Regular sandal Fit Wide fit


Best Overall


Astral Loyak AC


79
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 8.6
  • Traction 9.1
  • Warmth 5.0
  • Versatility 8.5
  • Sensitivity 9.2
  • Quality of Construction 5.0
Weight per pair: 1.1 lbs. | Drainage: Top mesh
REASONS TO BUY
Good grip on wet and dry surfaces
Excellent sensitivity
Nice fit
Drains efficiently
Looks great
REASONS TO AVOID
Doesn't hold warmth
Less durable upper

Don't be misled by the sleek design of the Astral Loyak AC; these shoes deliver high-level performance in several areas and have become a standout favorite. These top-notch water shoes provide a snug, sock-like feel, excellent drainage, and grippy soles. Our testing team found them just as effective while paddleboarding as when rappelling down a waterfall, making them a versatile choice for a range of water activities. Their slim, flat soles offer excellent ground feedback, promoting balance and adding to the fun of swimming, though they lack cushioning for extended hikes. The Loyak's stylish appearance makes them suitable both for the dock and casual outings, and wearing them with socks can keep your toes concealed for aesthetics.

The Astral Loyak AC isn't the most rugged option, with its primarily mesh upper showing wear in rough, rocky conditions. However, this may not be a major issue for many, depending on how they plan to use them. Like many shoes with solid drainage, they also don't provide much warmth. If you need a warmer option, consider the Astral Rassler, or if you'll be staying mostly in the water, the NRS Kicker Wetshoe offers extra warmth and great traction. Overall, the Loyak shines in both performance and adaptability, whether you're lounging at camp, traveling, or transitioning from water to land.

Read more: Astral Loyak review

The Astral Loyak AC became a favorite amongst our review team, blending style and performance seamlessly.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Best Value in a Water Shoe


Speedo Surf Knit Pro


70
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 7.7
  • Traction 7.0
  • Warmth 5.0
  • Versatility 7.0
  • Sensitivity 9.0
  • Quality of Construction 6.0
Weight per pair: 1.18 lbs. | Drainage: Top mesh
REASONS TO BUY
Great price
Flexible and sensitive
Comfortable
REASONS TO AVOID
Not adjustable
Minimal upper protection
Less stylish for some

The Speedo Surf Knit Pro offers some of the best value we've ever seen in a water shoe. This simple design strikes an excellent balance between comfort and real-world performance, also keeping the wallet strain minimal. They go on and off easily and don't require lacing up. They have much better trail and pavement performance than the other inexpensive models we tested, including the DLGJPA and the DOUSSPRT. Both of those models had holes in the bottom that kept the shoes light and draining fast, but they were not ideal for trails or walking. Also, when your shoes have holes in the bottom, they have limited utility, as a travel shoe or wearing around down even the smallest puddle or damp pavement gets your feet wet. The Surf Knit Pro does not allow water to soak up from the bottom but offers plenty of sensitivity if you want to feel the rocks or paddle boards underfoot.

The Surf Knit doesn't offer any adjustability, so the fit and sizing need to be spot-on, otherwise there could be excess rubbing. While this was a much better hiker than the other inexpensive slip-ons, it is not to be confused with a more burly water shoe like the Brewer or Loyak. This shoe is fine for short hikes but not ideal for big excursions. While it offers some protection, you can still feel sharp objects come up through the sole. For example, when walking across a log, we could very much feel a sharp twig come through the sole. It's a trade-off: you get a more barefoot feel when crossing a streambed, but you also have to be more aware of sharp rocks. In addition, this is not the type of shoe that most people would wear around town, so its versatility is limited. That said, it is inexpensive and did great at the beach and on our paddleboard excursions. It is our go-to inexpensive shoe for great sensitivity. For another budget option that's a cult classic, check out the Crocs Classic, though it's best for more casual use.

Read more: Speedo Surf Knit Pro review

You to can walk on water, sorta, with the Surf Knit Pro. These scrambled easily on granite in Lake Tahoe.
Credit: Chris McNamara

Most Versatile Option


Astral Brewer 2.0


76
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 8.0
  • Traction 7.0
  • Warmth 7.0
  • Versatility 8.7
  • Sensitivity 7.0
  • Quality of Construction 8.0
Weight per pair: 1.2 lb. | Drainage: Front/side holes, top mesh
REASONS TO BUY
Robust construction
Versatile
Excellent balance of support and flexibility
REASONS TO AVOID
Drains water very slowly
Stitching can cause rubbing

The Astral Brewer 2.0 is a shoe built to handle it all in the water and on land. This was a favorite we often reached for in our water-based pursuits, particularly when hiking through rugged terrain in and around bodies of water. It's comfortable and adjustable enough to accommodate nearly any additional insulation needed for different conditions, including neoprene socks. The sole is firm and protective, able to handle rougher terrain yet just sensitive enough to provide a good feel of the ground beneath you. For most, the aesthetic of the Brewer is also a positive, and can seamlessly be worn from the river to the dinner hangout.

The Astral Brewer 2.0 doesn't offer the best water draining. While the protective upper and outsole are appreciated for other attributes, they cause draining to happen very slowly, sometimes making for colder and heavier feet. While these shoes are great for most water activities you can throw at them, they aren't quite as warm as paddling booties with thick insulation, like the NRS Paddle Wetshoe. For a shoe with better drainage, check out the Astral Loyak AC. If you want one shoe that can do a little bit of everything, the Brewer 2.0 is ready to take on a variety of missions.

Read more: Astral Brewer 2.0 review

The Astral Brewer offers a robust construction that's both durable and protective.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Best for Paddling


NRS Paddle Wetshoe


75
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 7.5
  • Traction 8.3
  • Warmth 9.5
  • Versatility 4.0
  • Sensitivity 8.0
  • Quality of Construction 7.5
Weight per pair: 1.9 lbs | Drainage: None
REASONS TO BUY
Unparalleled warmth
Protective outsole in water
Grips wet rock well
REASONS TO AVOID
Minimal support on land
Lacks drainage
Dries slowly

A top choice for paddling, the NRS Paddle Wetshoe features a highly stretchy and durable neoprene construction, ensuring an excellent fit and warmth, even on the coldest days. The sticky rubber sole provided stability as we navigated slick, wet rocks in the river, even while carrying a kayak. With a streamlined upper and great ankle flexibility, these are enjoyable to wear while swimming. Whether you're a whitewater paddler, stand-up paddleboarder, or cold-water surfer, these should definitely make your shortlist, as they are the top performers we've tested for technical and chilly water conditions.

While the NRS Paddle Wetshoe excels in flexibility and warmth, it does compromise on land performance. The thin, flexible soles lack adequate support for extensive walking, and the drainage that keeps them warm also leads to water retention when on land, resulting in damp, overheated feet. These booties excel at one primary function: keeping your feet warm in the water, and they do so remarkably well. If you're looking for a shoe that offers more versatility, consider the Astral Brewer 2.0 and the Astral Rassler; they may not be as warm, but they provide greater adaptability.

Read more: NRS Paddle Wetshoe review

The NRS Paddle boasts excellent warmth, though the neoprene design can be an acquired taste for skin feel.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Best Option for Style


Olukai Moku Pae


73
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 8.4
  • Traction 8.0
  • Warmth 6.5
  • Versatility 5.5
  • Sensitivity 7.1
  • Quality of Construction 7.0
Weight per pair: 0.9 lbs | Drainage: Front/back/side holes, top mesh
REASONS TO BUY
Great around-town aesthetic
Generously cushioned
Easy to slip on
Decent warmth
REASONS TO AVOID
No fit adjustability
Not the quickest draining

The Olukai Moku Pae offers a stylish and casual aesthetic that also performs well in and around water. Due to its looks, many may mistake this option for a street shoe, but don't be fooled; this option is plenty capable. We particularly loved the generous cushion for hikes, which also offered some protection from sharp rocks, roots, or sticks. While the slipper design is nice for sliding on or off, the Moku Pae doesn't offer any fit adjustability, so if the shoe is too wide or voluminous, you're out of luck. Options like the Astral Loyak AC offer a similarly stylish design but has traditional lacing to dial in the fit.

The Moku Pae offers a somewhat reinforced mesh upper, offering more warmth than several other options. With a generally wider shape, it's also easy to utilize a neoprene sock and may make the fit more precise. As with many of the warmer or more cushioned options, the drainage of this option isn't particularly fast, so options like the aforementioned Loyak AC or the Xero Aqua X Sport are worth considering if you need faster draining. At the end of the day, the Moku Pae offers fantastic style while still gifting performance where it counts.

Read more: Xero Aqua X Sport review

The Moku Pai offers a decent blend of function and fashion, though it doesn't have an adjustable fit.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Best for a Minimalist Design


Xero Aqua X Sport


74
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 7.5
  • Traction 9.0
  • Warmth 5.0
  • Versatility 7.0
  • Sensitivity 8.5
  • Quality of Construction 6.0
Weight per pair: 0.9 lbs | Drainage: Front/back/side holes, top mesh
REASONS TO BUY
Excellent traction
Lightweight
Good drainage
Versatile
REASONS TO AVOID
Stability
Warmth
Aesthetic

This option may appear to be standard minimalist footwear, but the Xero Aqua X Sport delivers exceptional performance both on land and in water. These water shoes feature excellent drainage and versatility, are lightweight, and provide outstanding traction. They are thin and lack built-in warmth when in water, but they can adapt to accommodate additional insulation. When out of the water, they perform well across various terrain, though their minimalist design offers less cushioning and stability, which may not suit everyone. We also greatly appreciated their fit adjustability, which utilizes a shock cord closure system.

The Xero Aqua X Sport will meet your needs on and off the water, giving the sensation of barely having anything on your feet. However, if you require more support or cushioning, a sturdier shoe like the Astral Brewer 2.0 might be a better fit, as it offers greater protection. An option such as the Astral Loyak AC provides more support than the Aqua while still maintaining a partially minimalist design for those who need a bit more sensitivity.

Read more: Xero Aqua X Sport review

The simple tightening system and no-frills construction makes this an excellent option for minimalists.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Compare Products

select up to 5 products to compare
Score Product Price
79
Astral Loyak AC
Best Overall
$110
Editors' Choice Award
76
Astral Brewer 2.0
Most Versatile Option
$125
Top Pick Award
75
NRS Paddle Wetshoe
Best for Paddling
$70
Top Pick Award
74
Xero Aqua X Sport
Best for a Minimalist Design
$130
Top Pick Award
74
Astral Hiyak
$150
73
Olukai Moku Pae
Best Option for Style
$120
Top Pick Award
73
Astral Rassler 2.0
$150
70
Speedo Surf Knit Pro
Best Value in a Water Shoe
$45
Best Buy Award
70
NRS Kicker Wetshoe
$58
66
Merrell Hydro Next Gen Moc
$90
66
Keen Newport H2
$130
61
Speedo Tidal Cruiser
$35
59
DLGJPA
$30
58
DOUSSPRT
$50
58
Crocs Classic
$50

water shoes men - we tested water shoes in all sorts of environments, from big rivers...
We tested water shoes in all sorts of environments, from big rivers to steep, narrow slot canyons, to find the best.
Credit: Dan Scott, Ellen Daugherty

How We Test Men's Water Shoes


We spent over two months testing for this review in the super-wet Pacific Northwest and the Central Coast of California, paddling, river walking, running, hiking, and canyoneering to evaluate how these shoes measured up. We also waded up and down frigid, snowmelt streams in the Colorado Rockies. We often used a tried-and-true shoe testing method: we wore different shoes on each foot and constantly rotated shoes the same day, making it easy to figure out which foot was happier and which shoe was higher performing.

We performed more than 15 individual assessments on each shoe. During testing, the comfort and traction tests were the two most important metrics, each corresponding to 25% of the overall weighted score. Throughout testing, we kept in mind what paddlers, canyoneers, and water-loving folks like about their shoes, often asking friends for their thoughts on the variety of water shoes.

Our water shoe testing is divided across six different performance metrics:
  • Comfort tests (25% of total weighted score)
  • Traction tests (25% weighting)
  • Warmth tests (15% weighting)
  • Versatility tests (15% weighting)
  • Sensitivity tests (10% weighting)
  • Durability tests (10% weighting)

Why Trust GearLab


This review is led by testers Dan Scott, Jacob Clark and Zach Lovell. Jacob has spent a few years guiding in and around Santa Barbara oceans, canoeing on the Colorado River, and kayaking throughout CA glacial melt rivers. Zach is a water enthusiast with over a decade of product design and testing under his belt. He enjoys boating, kayaking, and surfing and has been around many bodies of water for most of his life.

Dan has spent years paddling and rafting rivers across the Western United States, from the Grand Canyon to the Main Salmon. With a passion for rivers, Dan has descended canyons worldwide, from Spain and Austria to Utah and the Pacific Northwest, with multiple first and solo descents in both high and low-flow canyons. Dan is also a Ph.D. river scientist who spends much of his time collecting data on and around rivers.

We like these shoe in whitewater, although they didn't keep our feet...
We like these shoe in whitewater, although they didn't keep our feet as warm as we'd like.
From oceans to rivers, lakes, and streams, we put these shoes to the test in multiple environments.

How to Pick the Best Water Shoes for You


It can be daunting to shop for a pair of quality water shoes with so many different types available on the market. Whether you're a white water boater or a beach hang enthusiast, keep reading to learn more about how to pick your first, or next, pair of water shoes.

water shoes men - there are many different types of water shoe available for purchase...
There are many different types of water shoe available for purchase, but rest assured there's a perfect pair out there for you and your needs.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Main Types of Water Shoes


While several options are hard to put into any one category, it's crucial to understand the various types of water shoes that exist. The best purchase for a shopper wanting footwear for the pool will likely be something entirely different from someone seeking water footwear for sea kayaking. As you size up your needs, versatility may be a crucial aspect if you realize you're wanting footwear for a variety of settings.

Neoprene Booties


For more technical and involved water recreation, neoprene water shoes or booties are most ideal for white water rafting and cold water environments, as neoprene offers excellent insulation. These are unlikely to offer as much support for lengthy on-land hikes, but you're likely to find unparalleled warmth and traction in the water. Many also utilize these for ocean sports in the chillier months.

water shoes men - neoprene booties are a very specific class of water shoe, as they...
Neoprene booties are a very specific class of water shoe, as they offer incredible warmth but are best to be only used in water, with limited on-land performance.
Credit: Carrie Mueller

All-Arounder Water Shoes


Many reviewers find their favorite class of water shoes are the all-rounders or do-it-all options. These commonly resemble some sort of on-land sneaker, often offering a classic lacing system for fit adjustability. These generally have some amount of midsole cushion with a traction-inspiring outsole to offer its wearer security across land hikes and water-based sports. We've used this kind of water shoe for everything from white water kayaking to stand-up paddle boarding to hanging around town.

water shoes men - these all-arounder options typically can handle more technical water...
These all-arounder options typically can handle more technical water recreation while also offering some on-land performance.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Casual Use Water Shoes


For more lounging, hanging out, and less technical recreation, casual use water footwear is a great category. While there are a variety of designs available, we commonly see looser fitting options that prioritize comfort over foot security, as these are often slip-ons. These are great for relaxing by the pool or ocean and are often at home on a casual boat ride. Some designs also offer excellent style, allowing these shoes to be worn out for social gatherings.

water shoes men - many casual-use water shoes are slip-ons, also offering a decent...
Many casual-use water shoes are slip-ons, also offering a decent aesthetic for around-town hangs.
Credit: Carrie Mueller

Sandal Water Shoes


Some options are closer to a sandal than a water shoe, with a sandal-esc design that simply has more upper material for added foot security. These have a range of technical capabilities, depending on the model. This type of footwear is best for sandal lovers who want a bit more foot protection.

water shoes men - these types of water shoes are a graduated sandal of sorts, offering...
These types of water shoes are a graduated sandal of sorts, offering great drainage.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Analysis and Test Results


We tested these shoes in various environments and activities, determining which shoes work best on and off the water and for multiple purposes. Below, we delve into the six key metrics we used to define water shoe performance. Think about how you use water shoes and which metrics are most important to you.


What's the Best Value?


The value proposition depends greatly on the use of each shoe. For occasional use and great sensitivity on boards, it's hard to beat the Speedo Surf Knit Pro. For paddlers, a bootie-like shoe such as the NRS Kicker Wetshoe is a great option for half the price of others but lacks out-of-water performance, where others excel. For a little more, you can get a more versatile shoe like the Astral Brewer 2.0 or Xero Aqua X Sport. For canyoneers, the higher cost gets you durability and sticky rubber. In warmer climates, water shoes based on warmth are not as needed, and a sandal or minimalist option like the Keen Newport H2 is a good choice. While many semi-moderately priced shoes like the Astral Loyak will work for canyoneering, it's probably cheaper to get a burlier model in the long run, as it will likely last two to three times as long.

For more general water sports use, a higher price often buys comfort, effective drainage, and a leg up in durability, as exemplified by the Astral Brewer 2.0. For a fair bit less, you can snag a shoe like the Xero Aqua X Sport, which sacrifices some versatility and durability while still providing an excellent shoe in a lightweight package. You need to know how to use a water shoe to get the most out of it.

water shoes men - where traction is paramount for not just comfort but safety, picking...
Where traction is paramount for not just comfort but safety, picking the right shoe matters. Shown here is the Xero Aqua X Sport cruising up a slippery and sharp rock.
Credit: Jacob Clark

Comfort


Comfort is often the most essential aspect of a water shoe. You're subjecting your feet to harsh conditions in wet environments, and uncomfortable shoes only compound that harshness. Water shoes, in particular, call for comfort both on and off the water.


We spent long days walking over various surfaces, both in and out of the water, to see how well these shoes supported and protected our feet over rough terrain. The Astral Loyak AC was a favorite, offering excellent comfort, and our testers noted no hot spots or rubbing when wearing them.

water shoes men - the loyak ac is one of the most comfortable water shoes we tested...
The Loyak AC is one of the most comfortable water shoes we tested, providing adequate space to wear them with socks if desired.
Credit: Carrie Mueller

We preferred the protection and stability of burlier shoes like the Astral Brewer 2.0 for long walks over difficult and treacherous terrain. Bootie-style shoes like the NRS Paddle Wetshoe or NRS Kicker Wetshoe didn't support our feet, which over longer walks on difficult terrain proves uncomfortable quickly. With this in mind, the NRS Paddle Wetshoe is like a cozy glove, one of the most comfortable options for a long day in a boat.

water shoes men - booties like the nrs paddle wetshoe proved to be very comfortable in...
Booties like the NRS Paddle Wetshoe proved to be very comfortable in the water and on smoother terrain, but over rocks it quickly lost its edge.
Credit: Jacob Clark

Drainage is an important part of comfort. Soggy, water-soaked feet get uncomfortable quickly if a shoe doesn't drain well. While drainage negatively impacts warmth, managing moisture and avoiding immersion-related injuries on longer trips is essential. Shoes with lots of drainage, like the Merrell Hydro Next Gen Moc or a sandal like the Keen Newport H2, ejected water quickly once we stepped on land, then dried out fast. Generally speaking, we found a correlation between cushion and decreased drainage, with options like the Astral Brewer 2.0 and the Olukai Moku Pae gifting a nice cushy feel at the expense of slower water release.

water shoes men - while the olukai moku pae didn't drain as quickly, it did offer a...
While the Olukai Moku Pae didn't drain as quickly, it did offer a comfortable foot bed.
Credit: Carrie Mueller

Whether swimming quickly through water or jamming your feet between boulders while walking up a shallow creek, flowing water can do a number on you. While a sandal may look less protective, the Keen Newport H2 provided a good balance of all-around comfort and foot protection due to their stiffer uppers and thick, stiff soles.

water shoes men - the keen newport h2 sandals are great for in and out of the water...
The Keen Newport H2 sandals are great for in and out of the water, and the thick sole protects against sharp rocks.
Credit: Nick Bruckbauer

By far, the least protection came from the super light and inexpensive DLGJPA and DOUSSPRT. These shoes have holes in the soles that give little protection from sharp rocks and random objects. While the Speedo Surf Knit Pro had a little more protection, it wasn't much. The uppers felt comfortable next to skin, but they were a bit tight and might cause rubbing due to having no ability to secure the fit.

water shoes men - while these models were light and sensitive, they did not offer much...
While these models were light and sensitive, they did not offer much protection or warmth. From left to right: DLGJPA, Speed Surf Knit Pro, and DOUSSPRT.
Credit: Chris McNamara

Traction


Traction over any dry or wet terrain is often the determining factor between a safe, injury-free trip and an unfortunately eventful one. Shoes must grab onto the rocks and logs in whitewater settings without slipping. In canyons, gravity drags you down, or the shoe does its job and slows the descent.


With excellent all-around traction, the Xero Aqua X Sport navigates flat hard and soft surfaces well while leaving a solid connection to the ground.

We liked the ankle support of the Astral Rassler 2.0, and they do well on most surfaces. However, they don't have the same exceptional traction as the Astral Hiyak, Astral Loyak AC, or the Xero Aqua X Sport.

Hard Surfaces


Soft, sticky rubber is key on hard surfaces, like the logs and rocks you might encounter on river banks. The Astral Hiyak, with its G.ss rubber, sticks well to wet, slick rock. They stick better than any other shoes we tested. This stickiest rubber tends to be a bit less durable than harder, less sticky rubbers, but we find that uppers wear out faster than lugs wear down in wet environments.

water shoes men - on this slick rappel, our lead tester appreciated having super...
On this slick rappel, our lead tester appreciated having super sticky and protective shoes.
Credit: Dan Scott

The NRS Paddle, NRS Kicker Wetshoe, and Xero Aqua X Sport all stuck just as well to wet rock and logs. A more flexible sole allows feet to contour around obstacles so that you can maintain better balance.

water shoes men - quickly moving between soft sandy terrain and slimy ocean-polished...
Quickly moving between soft sandy terrain and slimy ocean-polished rocks, the NRS Kicker keeps you nice and upright.
Credit: Jacob Clark

Soft Surfaces


The Keen Newport H2 has deeper, aggressive lugs that dig in and bite muddy trails, better than most shoes we tested.

The majority of water shoes we tested don't have the lugs for biting into mud and soft surfaces. With rubbery soles, they excel more on flat surfaces. We recommend checking our best trail running shoe picks to protect your feet in different environments.

water shoes men - an aggressive lug pattern is ideal for muddy or soft slippery...
An aggressive lug pattern is ideal for muddy or soft slippery surfaces.
Credit: Jacob Clark

Warmth


Water absorbs massive amounts of heat from your body, and rarely is the water warmer than our own body. Water shoes either need to accommodate additional layers or, by themselves, need to be insulated and warm.


We loved shoes with built-in warmth for extremely cold days, such as the fleece-lined NRS Paddle Wetshoe. This bootie provides a lot of insulation with its thick neoprene construction but lacks drainage, which helps keep it warmer in even the coldest water.

water shoes men - the nrs paddle wetshoes kept our feet nice and toasty, even when the...
The NRS Paddle Wetshoes kept our feet nice and toasty, even when the air was chilly
Credit: Dan Scott

On the other hand, a more adjustable shoe with solid comfort and support can allow for additional insulation. We need these shoes to have larger toe boxes, adjustability throughout the whole shoe, and, ideally, a removable insole. With well-designed lacing systems and roomy fits, shoes like the Astral Brewer 2.0 were surprisingly comfortable with bare feet or triple-layered insulation. Options like the Olukai Moku Pai also boast decent warmth, and the wider shape will easily fit neoprene socks if needed.

water shoes men - simple lacing with a removable insole and wide tongue is rather...
Simple lacing with a removable insole and wide tongue is rather effective for providing the space needed to add further insulation.
Credit: Jacob Clark

By far, the least warmth came from the inexpensive light shoes with mesh uppers and holes in the soles. Depending on the shoe's shape, adding neoprene socks for insulation is an easy way to improve warmth, though the Speedo Surf Knit Pro has a narrower and lower volume fit that may be challenging to add insulation to. Models like the Crocs Classic are very chilly without added insulation, but their extremely loose fit makes a neoprene sock easily fit.

water shoes men - if only in bare feet, it's best to use chilly options like the crocs...
If only in bare feet, it's best to use chilly options like the Crocs Classic in warmer weather.
Credit: Carrie Mueller

Versatility


Shoes offer a higher value when you can use them for various activities. While super-specialized shoes can be excellent for specific adventures, we like a versatile shoe that keeps up regardless of the activity.


For water shoes, versatility means performance for various water sports and dry land. To perform well in both worlds, there must be a solid balance between drainage, comfort, and adjustability. With plenty of support and cushioning, the Astral Rassler 2.0 was a solid cross between water and land shoes, similar to the Xero Aqua X Sport. The Astral Brewer 2.0 was another favorite, with a thicker outsole allowing it to handle rougher terrain, whether in water or on land.

water shoes men - our lead tester went to extremes in a huge variety of water sports...
Our lead tester went to extremes in a huge variety of water sports to test these shoes and relay exactly what you're getting into with each pair.
Credit: Ellen Daugherty

Another consideration in the realm of versatility is style, since many shoppers may need to wear water shoes in more social settings. The Astral Loyak AC offers performance versatility but also has an aesthetic that allows it to be easily worn around town. Similarly, the Olukai Moku Pae belongs on the dock or at the brewery.

water shoes men - while style is subjective, we found the olukai moku pae to offer an...
While style is subjective, we found the Olukai Moku Pae to offer an excellent aesthetic in addition to its performance.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Sensitivity


Sensitivity is key when walking over rough terrain. Because water shoes often have to get over terrain like river cobbles, sandy beaches, and logs, it's key that they provide a good ground feel. Proprioception is key to whether the object is solid before it becomes fully weight-bearing. Sensitivity does have a downside, and that is comfort. High amounts of sensitivity, as when barefoot, is uncomfortable over the long term or in particularly sharp or rugged terrain.


During our testing, we walked over varied surfaces to evaluate how well we could feel the ground and react to uneven terrain. Neoprene booties like the NRS Paddle Wetshoe and NRS Kicker Wetshoe feature thin but stiff soles that provide an excellent ground feel — perfect for short jaunts over boulders to scout rapids or get to a put-in. Due to their low drag and uninhibited ankle flexion, these shoes and the minimal Xero Aqua X Sport also felt great while swimming. The Astral Loyak AC also felt great in environments and uses where sensitivity was crucial, with a design that offers a fairly minimal sole.

water shoes men - this fingerprint-like tread of the nrs kicker bends and wraps around...
This fingerprint-like tread of the NRS Kicker bends and wraps around the ground, so you feel everything beneath your foot with each step.
Credit: Jacob Clark

For more amphibious activities, where walking is as important as being in or on the water, we found that multiple shoes offered some sensitivity but provided more foot protection, unlike more flexible shoes. The Astral Brewer 2.0 has moderate stiffness but remains relatively low profile and has some cushion to protect from the ground without sacrificing too much sensitivity.

water shoes men - comfortable with enough cushion and traction for rocks, yet enough...
Comfortable with enough cushion and traction for rocks, yet enough sensitivity to feel the ground beneath you.
Credit: Jacob Clark

For some, cushion and minimal sensitivity are preferred for the rocky and undulating terrain in and near water. The thickest and stiffest soles tested include the Crocs Classic and the Merrell Hydro Next Gen Moc, though they don't offer much in the ways of fit adjustability.

water shoes men - the merrell hydro next gen moc has a very stiff outsole, which some...
The Merrell Hydro Next Gen Moc has a very stiff outsole, which some may prefer.
Credit: Zach Lovell


Quality of Construction


Swimming rapids, running along beaches, and canyoneering all do a number on your shoes and feet. Durable materials and smart construction keep your shoes going on long trips and, in the case of canyoneering, can be essential if you like shoes that last more than a day or two.


While we couldn't test these shoes to failure during our test period, we looked for materials and construction that indicated either durability or the lack thereof. The Keen Newport H2 scores well for durability, with solid stitching and plenty of reinforcements throughout the whole sandal. If superior durability and high performance aren't a big deal for you, shoes like the Astral Brewer 2.0, Astral Hiyak, and Astral Rassler 2.0 held up well to our testing.

water shoes men - rappel-assisted slides abrade shoe uppers, making tough materials a...
Rappel-assisted slides abrade shoe uppers, making tough materials a necessity for canyoneering shoes.
Credit: Ellen Daugherty

We were impressed by the reinforcements that made the NRS Paddle Wetshoe more than just a neoprene sock with an outsole. It held up quite well. The Astral Loyak AC has a mostly mesh upper, making it more fragile for users who log time in particularly abrasive environments.

water shoes men - while the loyak ac offers great foot security, the mesh upper isn't...
While the Loyak AC offers great foot security, the mesh upper isn't made to stand up to abrasive terrain.
Credit: Carrie Mueller

Conclusion


Water shoes make time spent on rivers, lakes, and wet places much more enjoyable. Happy feet equal a happy trip in our book! We bought and rigorously tested top models to see how well they protected our feet, performed in various environments, and held up to both demanding water sports and the lounging around that usually follows. Water shoes can make or break your experience when paddling or canyoneering. We hope this independent review can steer you toward a shoe that will fit your watery adventures' style and needs.

Are you an avid paddler or a water lover? Our list of the best water gear features top-ranking products, including our favorite kayaks, the best stand up paddle boards, and top PFDs. Don't forget about proper sun protection when out on the water. A pair of top-rated sunglasses can help improve visibility and prevent sun damage to the eyes, and a protective sun shirt can help keep the sun's rays off your skin.

water shoes men - with the right pair of water shoes, you can always put your best...
With the right pair of water shoes, you can always put your best foot forward.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Zach Lovell, Dan Scott, and Jacob Clark