12 Best Water Shoes For Men Of 2022

Last Updated 21 Dec 2024 by Fiona Perisone

EDITOR'S PICKS

Best Overall
Teva Men's Omnium 2 Sport Sandals thumbnail

4.5/5

  • Durable and protective
  • Water drains quickly
  • Great arch support
  • Comfortable
Recommended
Best Land-To-Water
Birkenstock Men's Arizona EVA Sandals thumbnail

4/5

  • Ultra lightweight
  • Water resistant
  • Anatomically shaped footbed
Recommended
Best Sneaker-Style Water Shoes
Columbia Men's Okolona Water Shoes thumbnail

4/5

  • Solidly built
  • Lightweight and durable
  • Dry quickly

MORE PICKS TO CHOOSE FROM

Engineered to improve traction on slippery surfaces and protect your feet from sharp rocks, water shoes are an essential addition to your repertoire of water sports equipment. Their functional designs feature water-friendly materials and innovative drainage systems to keep your feet dry and comfortable in wet conditions. Perfect for kayaking, SUP, fishing, swimming, and so much more, a water shoe can be worn for many adventures!

To help you find the best pair for your preferred activities, we've rounded up twelve of the best men's water shoes below. From surfing-friendly aqua socks to treaded sneakers, we've got practical footwear options for every water enthusiast out there.

The 12 Best Men's Water Shoes for Every Outdoor Activity

Teva Men's Omnium 2 Sport Sandals

Best Overall

overall 

4.5/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Cost

Teva Men's Omnium 2 Sport Sandals

Features:

  • Water-ready and quick-drying synthetic upper
  • Extremely durable
  • Supplies great traction

No matter the outdoor adventure, these Men's Omnium 2 Sport Sandals from Teva are up for the task at a reasonable price. They're equipped with a quick-drying mesh upper, lightweight EVA foam midsole, and a Spider Rubber outsole designed for use in wet, slippery conditions. Sturdy hook-and-loop closures create a customizable fit for better comfort, while elastic gore makes it easy to slip them on and off without undoing the straps.

Made entirely from synthetic and plant-based materials, they're suitable for any type of wet-dry fun! Consider them the perfect water shoes for hiking, white water rafting, kayaking, and other high-intensity water sports that require superior traction for safety reasons. With that being said, there's nothing wrong with wearing them during a leisurely day on the boat or a long walk on the beach.

Material

EVA-foam, Nylon

Weight

15 ounces

Best For

water adventures, Day hikes

Pros:

  • Durable and protective enough for aggressive hiking
  • Water drains quickly
  • Comfortable
  • Great arch support
  • Fit to true size

Cons:

  • Some experience rubbing on the back of the feet and blistering at first

Birkenstock Men's Arizona EVA Sandals

Best Land-to-Water

overall 

4.5/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Cost

Birkenstock Men's Arizona EVA Sandals

Features:

  • Ultra lightweight
  • Water resistant
  • Anatomically shaped footbed

Birkenstock's Arizona EVA Sandals reimagine the German shoe company's iconic two-strap sandals in a lightweight, water-friendly material. They're versatile, comfortable, and stylish enough to wear on land and on the water. Needless to say, they'll be your new go-to sandals for the beach, pool, or lake, making them one of the best summer shoes.

The minimalist design is molded from a single piece of ethylene vinyl acetate (known as EVA for short) with an anatomically-shaped footbed, two adjustable straps, and a traction pattern on the sole. Lightweight and buoyant, they'll float on top of the water for easy retrieval should one slip off. Available in every color option one could ask for, they're a timeless addition to any man's footwear repertoire.

Material

Synthetic upper, lining and sole

Weight

N/A

Best For

beach, in the garden, or around the gym and after workouts.

Pros:

  • Super comfortable
  • Lightweight
  • Fit true to size
  • Versatile to wear with anything

Cons:

  • Not for people who like to drag their feet, as you can trip over the front from time to time

Columbia Men's Okolona Water Shoes

Best Sneaker-Style Water Shoes

overall 

4/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Cost

Columbia Men's Okolona Water Shoes

Features:

  • Vent midsole ports for draining water
  • Speed lacing system
  • Techlite™ midsole, superior cushion, high energy return
  • Omni-Grip™ non-marking traction rubber outsole

For waterside hikes, swap your usual hiking boots for a pair of water-friendly sneakers like these Okolona Men's Water Shoes from Colombia. They combine the support of athletic shoes with the breathability and traction of water sandals for all-day comfort in any setting. It's like if your running shoes come with drainage holes.

The versatile water shoes feature a breathable synthetic upper, speed lacing system, mesh ventilation panels, and bootie construction for a sock-like fit. A Techlite™ midsole provides excellent cushion and arch support while vent ports whisk water away. Equipped with Omni-Grip™ rubber outsoles, they'll stabilize your footing and protect the bottom of your feet from sharp rocks.

Material

Mesh, Techlite™ EVA, Omni-Grip™ Rubber

Weight

N/A

Best For

land or sea

Pros:

  • Solidly built and have a good grippy sole on them
  • Lightweight and durable
  • Dry quickly

Cons:

  • They can trap tons and tons of sand, dirt, rocks, debris, etc
  • Lack support

Chaco Men's Z/2 Classic Water Sandals

Best Sandal-Style Water Shoes

overall 

4.4/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Cost

Chaco Men's Z/2 Classic Water Sandals

Features:

  • Vegan-friendly construction
  • Toe loop for secure fit
  • Optimized for wet traction
  • 3.5mm lug depth

Dependable since 1989, Chaco's Classic Z-Sandals are undoubtedly some of the best water shoes on the market. Their upgraded Z/2 Water Sandals now feature an improved ChacoGrip™ rubber outsole and a podiatrist-certified LUVSEAT PU footbed. Intended to promote healthy foot alignment, they'll keep your arches supported and feet injury-free during long hikes and intense outdoor activities.

Adjustable webbed straps wrap around the heel, midsole, and big toe for a customizable fit that keeps your feet blister-free. Offered in two widths and countless color iterations, there's a pair of Chacos for every water enthusiast out there. Repairable through Chacos forward-thinking ReChaco program, they're the type of shoes you keep forever.

Material

Polyester, Rubber

Weight

N/A

Best For

N/A

Pros:

  • Durable, sturdy, and comfortable
  • Offer good support
  • Secure fit, but some may say its too tight

Cons:

  • Strap material is not as soft or pliable
  • Straps can be too long

Oakley Super Coil Sandal 2.0

Best Flip Flops

overall 

4.5/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Cost

Chaco Men's Z/2 Classic Water Sandals

Features:

  • Provides all-day comfort for warm-weather excursions
  • Quick-drying material
  • Tough rubber outsole

While most flip-flops fall short on traction and support, Oakley's Super Coil Sandals offer all-day comfort and protection. They're designed to traverse any terrain, from rocky riversides to splintery boardwalks. Wear them at the beach to protect your feet from the hot sand or at the pool to keep from slipping on wet concrete.
Equipped with deep flex grooves and a tough rubber outsole, they improve traction for added peace of mind on slick surfaces. A plush footbed and molded strap contour to your foot for a sturdy fit that won't cause rubs or blisters. Lightweight and flexible, they're the perfect sandals to toss in your suitcase before a beach vacation.

Material

100% Polyester

Weight

N/A

Best For

N/A

Pros:

  • Wide, comfortable straps
  • Moisture absorbing/anti-slip footbed
  • Dry fairly quick

Cons:

  • Can feel narrow

The North Face Men's Skeena Sport Sandals

MOST STYLISH

overall 

4.7/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Cost

The North Face Men's Skeena Sport Sandals

Features:

  • Translucent TPU webbing backed with foam for comfort
  • Molded-EVA midsole for cushioning and all-day comfort
  • Drop-in EVA footbed for instant step-in comfort and all-day support
  • 20% bio-based Surface Control™ rubber outsole pods for lightweight traction and versatility

The North Face's Skeena Sport Sandals strike the perfect balance between fashion and function. Intended to be worn both in the water and on land, they're the ideal water shoes to pack for a beach vacation or day trip to the lake. With four eye-catching color options to choose from, they'll please even the pickiest of shoe lovers.

The sandal-style men's water shoes are constructed using water-friendly materials that dry quickly and let your feet breathe. An anti-slip molded footbed and cushy EVA midsole offer all-day arch support, while Surface Control™ rubber outsoles improve traction on slick surfaces. The translucent straps across the top and heel boast a foam backing for added comfort and a fun pop of color.

Material

Foam, EVA, Rubber

Weight

N/A

Best For

rivers, lakes, beaches

Pros:

  • Lightweight
  • Very comfortable hiking shoes
  • Non-abrasive heel backing
  • Dry very quickly

Cons:

  • It can feel narrow for wide feet

Speedo Surfwalker Pro 3.0 Men's Water Shoes

Best on a Budget

overall 

4.5/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Cost

Speedo Surfwalker Pro 3.0 Men's Water Shoes

Features:

  • Updated speedo water shoe
  • S-trac outsole offers no-slip grip
  • Maximum breathability

Shopping on a tight budget? Stick with a trusted water sports brand that offers quality products at an affordable price. These Surfwalker Pro 3.0 Men's Water Shoes feature a versatile slip-on design that works for everything from windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding to a casual day at the pool.
The practical water shoes feature a 100% neoprene upper that's stretchy for easy entry and snug for a secure fit. Speedo's thoughtfully-designed S-Trac™ outsoles channel water away from the foot for superior slip resistance. Priced at less than $30, they're a must-have for summer.

Material

100% neoprene

Weight

8.8 ounces

Best For

swimming

Pros:

  • Affordable price point
  • Super comfortable
  • Sturdy sole
  • Breathable material

Cons:

  • A bit snug, but that's how water shoes should fit
  • Not great arch support
  • Not great for long walks

Merrell Men's Hydro Moc Shoes

Most Comfortable

overall 

4.4/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Cost

Merrell Men's Hydro Moc Shoes

Features:

  • 2mm lug depth
  • Single injected EVA
  • Articulated heel with strap

Few men's water shoes offer the comfort and support of Merrell's Hydro Moc Shoes. Constructed from single-density, injected EVA, the amphibious slip-ons transition easily from water to dry land. Wear them while swimming at the lake, kayaking at a nearby lake, or hiking to your favorite hidden, hot springs.

Equipped with contoured arches and articulated heels, they support your feet without weighing you down in the water. A single back strap ensures a secure fit when wet, while 2MM deep treading improves your footing on slippery rocks and wet docks. Simply rinse or wipe them clean when you're finished, and they're ready for your next watery adventure!

Material

100% Fabric or Textile, Rubber

Weight

N/A

Best For

N/A

Pros:

  • Comfortable
  • Easy to clean
  • Durable enough to last a couple of summer seasons
  • Offers good support

Cons:

  • Size runs large

Speedo Men's Surf Strider Water Shoes

Best for Water Aerobics

overall 

4/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Cost

Speedo Men's Surf Strider Water Shoes

Features:

  • Lightweight Design
  • Non Marking Sole
  • Removable sock liner
  • Pull loop and stretch foot pocket

Speedo's Surf Strider Men's Water Shoes are the perfect pool or water park choice. Wear them during water aerobics, trips down the water slide, or laps around the lazy river. Intended to be worn both in the water and on dry land, they'll keep your feet dry and comfortable during long days in watery settings.
Knit from the swimwear brand's innovative Surf Knit™; they dry quickly and hold their shape well when wet. Plus, they're equipped with pull tabs for easy entry and exit, ensuring they're suitable for water lovers with limited mobility. On the bottom, non-marking thermoplastic rubber outsoles improve your footing without weighing you down.

Material

Polyester, Rubber

Weight

N/A

Best For

beach, lake, pool

Pros:

  • Affordable price point
  • Super comfortable
  • Well constructed
  • The mesh is fast drying
  • Great traction

Cons:

  • They can run large

Body Glove Men's Riverbreaker Aqua Socks

Best Water Socks

overall 

4.3/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Cost

Body Glove Men's Riverbreaker Aqua Socks

Features:

  • Rapid Dry With Drainage
  • Adjustable Fit
  • Durable and Grippy
  • Sport Water Shoes for Women

Sick of being weighed down by swampy sneakers? Switch to Body Glove's Riverbreaker Men's Aqua Socks. Their lightweight, next-to-nothing feel is perfect for surfing, paddle boarding, swimming, and other outdoor activities where you'd prefer to go barefoot.

The slip-on water shoes feature an integrated draining system for superior ventilation and a shorter drying time. Their grippy rubber outsole, snug-fitting mesh, and neoprene upper protect your feet from sharp rocks and improve your footing on wet surfaces. Adjustable drawstring closures ensure they don't slip off in the middle of your adventure. Priced at just $20, they're an affordable option that doesn't fall short on quality.

Material

Neoprene/Mesh, Rubber

Weight

N/A

Best For

kayaking, paddle boarding, or any on water activity

Pros:

  • Affordable price point
  • Very comfortable
  • Easy to put on and take off
  • Thick and protective sole and easy to walk in

Cons:

  • Size can run big

Cole Haan Men's 4.ZERØGRAND Regatta Boat Shoe

Best Boat Shoes

overall 

4.6/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Cost

Cole Haan Men's 4.ZERØGRAND Regatta Boat Shoe

Features:

  • Ultra-lightweight GRANDFØAM absorbs shock
  • Tidalflow™ Water Drainage System keeps your feet dry
  • Our Anchortrac™ Outsole is designed for maximum traction in both wet and dry environments
  • Labore et dolore magna

For a day on the boat, slip on Cole Haan's Men's 4.ZERØGRAND Regatta Boat Shoes. Designed with modern sailors in mind, the practical slip-on provides all-day comfort and superior performance both on and off the water. Plus, they're stylish enough to go straight from your sailboat to a lakeside restaurant or bar.

The supportive style boasts a breathable mesh upper made from recycled ocean plastic for a reduced environmental impact. A Tidalflow™ water drainage system channels water away from the foot while Anchortrac™ outsoles ensure excellent traction on slippery boat decks, docks, and poolsides. Offered in an array of versatile color options (including this effortlessly preppy blanc-de-blanc), they make an easy addition to any men's boating attire.

Material

Mesh, Nylon

Weight

N/A

Best For

land and water adventures

Pros:

  • Comfortable and fashionable
  • Fit true to size
  • Good thick sole that makes for a comfortable walk

Cons:

  • Can feel tight

Teva Men's Hurricane Xlt2 Sandals

Most Versatile

overall 

4.6/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Cost

Teva Men's Hurricane Xlt2 Sandals

Features:

  • Injection-molded strap ends
  • Quick-dry webbing
  • Nylon shank stabilizes and supports your foot on uneven terrain

Teva's best-selling Hurricane Sandals are versatile enough to tackle any outdoor adventure. The new-and-improved Xlt2 version updates the iconic silhouette with soft heel-strap padding and a new rubber sole for superior comfort, traction, and support. Constructed using Unifi recycled polyester straps, each pair saves four plastic bottles from ending up in a landfill.

With two strap widths and countless color combinations to choose from, finding the right pair has never been easier. Strap them on for a day hike, kayaking trip, or a long walk on the beach. Quick-drying and super durable, they're up for any adventure, no matter the terrain.

Material

Textile, EVA

Weight

11 ounces

Best For

day hikes, light hikes, beach, kayaking

Pros:

  • Comfortable for walking and hiking
  • Stay put on your feet
  • Have good grip
  • Lightweight

Cons:

  • Runs small

About the Author

Fiona is a veteran travel consultant, photographer and travel writer at planetrider.com. She has spent many years as a corporate travel consultant and decided to actually live the life rather than plan it for others!

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