Summertime is the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy some of nature’s finest offerings. One of the best things about summer is the chance to go on hikes, hikes that might take you through streams, creeks, and over boulders. If you’re looking for the perfect shoe to take on your next water hike, look no further than the best water hiking shoes. Water hiking shoes are designed specifically for hikers who will be encountering water crossings during their hike. They have extra traction and protection that regular hiking boots don’t offer so that you can feel confident crossing slippery surfaces or stepping on unstable rocks.
Getting your feet all soaked up is all fun until it starts to cause troubled feet. Hikers know the best and the worst of hiking in water for long hours. That is to say, having a comfortable pair of water hiking shoes is essential. Therefore, If you are planning to get the water hiking shoes, make sure to understand what type, material, design or construction is the best. Additionally, we also reviewed best hiking sandals, camp shoes, hiking boots and hiking socks to help you find the perfect gear at one place.
Quick Recommendations
- Best Overall Water Hiking Shoe: Merrell All Out Blaze Sieve
- Best Lightweight Option: Crocs Swiftwater Mesh Deck
- Best For The Budget: HIITAVE Barefoot Water Shoes
- Best Chaco’s for Water Hiking: Chaco Odyssey Sport Sandal
- Best For Beach Hiking: SIMARI Aqua Water Shoes
- Best Water Sandals For Hiking: KEEN Whisper Sandal
What are water hiking shoes?
Water hiking shoes are a type of footwear specifically designed for use in wet conditions. They typically feature a waterproof and breathable upper, along with a grippy outsole that provides good traction on wet and slippery surfaces. Water hiking shoes are often used by hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts for activities such as walking in the rain, wading through streams, or hiking in wet and muddy conditions. While they are not necessarily intended for use in deep water, they can provide good protection against wet weather and help to keep your feet dry and comfortable. Some water hiking shoes have draining holes in the sole, and some feature mesh construction with holes at the lace to let water out.
Features
- Keep feet dry and comfortable while camping
- Odor-resistant design prevents bad smells
- Quick-drying construction for easy on and off
- Slip-resistant sole for added safety
- have water draining capabilities
- Lightweight construction
When are water shoes used?
Water shoes and sandals are best suitable for outdoor water-based activities. For instance;
- Activities that involve feet to be wet for a longer time
- For hiking and trekking on slippery surfaces
- Around the beach and pools
- On wet and warm surfaces to prevent bacterial or fungal infections
You will find a wide range of water shoes in the market, but not every water shoe is the best and serve the purpose. There are certain factors to choose from for quality, durability, and ultimate performance.
Our Top Picks
We have chosen the best water shoes for hiking that are known to be the best when it comes to durability. Moreover, they are within everyone’s reach. We will cover best hiking water shoes for men and women article.
Best Overall Water Hiking Shoe
1. Merrell All Out Blaze Sieve
- Waterproof leather
- Vibram sole
- Vibram TC5+ outsole
- Hollowed lugs
Merrell All Out Blaze is a water hiking shoe that lasts through the most challenging conditions, from muddy to gravel terrain. Its waxed waterproof leather makes it light in weight, so when wet, it does not make you feel heavy on your feet. The full-grain leather upper and protective toe cap provides durability and support while hiking, and the Vibram outsole provides traction and stability on all types of terrain.
These water shoes were tested and tried in the most extreme environments and still performed. The superior grip on various surfaces made it easy to clean and quick to dry. It was also comfortable and versatile. The company didn’t cut corners when developing this product, which shows its quality.
The lugs also provide excellent cushioning and support, making them ideal for long hikes or extended periods of standing. In addition, the women’s range of colours are available.
Furthermore, Not only do they provide excellent support for your feet, but they also remain comfortable to wear on trails when wet. We also liked the grip they provided on wet and mossy rocks. However, they didn’t fare quite as well on sandy surfaces. Sand tended to get into the shoes and made them uncomfortable to wear. Nevertheless, we recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile water hiking shoe.
Pros
- Excellent grip
- Lightweight
- Quick to dry
- Looks good
- Durable
- Easy wearing on and off
Cons
- They are not efficient on the slick wood
Best Lightweight Option
2. Crocs Swiftwater Mesh Deck
- 100% textile
- Synthetic sole
- Croslite foam cushioning
- Textured lug
- Massage pods on footbeds
The Crocs Swiftwater Mesh Deck Sandals are another excellent water shoe. These sandals are lightweight and comfortable to wear in the water. In addition, the wider ports on the sides move water out of the sandals quickly, and they get dry in no time.
They have a minimal design to make them ultralight for backpacking. The straps are adjustable, so it’s easy to adjust and fit as you like. You can wear them daily because of their true-to-size comfortable fit and style. Moreover, the flexible material and toe coverage offer protection against rough walking and hiking experiences.
Furthermore, these are versatile water shoes you can wear during hiking or daily use. It has a good grip on wet surfaces and is more durable than any other water shoe. The toe area is roomy and comfortable, making it ideal for people who have wider feet.
The biggest advantage of this shoe is that it doesn’t cause blisters, even when wet. This makes it perfect for those active in water sports or activities. Overall, the Crocs Swiftwater Mesh Deck shoe is a great choice for anyone who needs a versatile and comfortable water shoe.
Pros
- Comfortable outsole
- Good adjustable fit for foot
- Snug and secure
- Good for most trails
- Non-slip design
- No sweaty feet issue
- Durable construction
Cons
- The footbed is a little hard in new models
- Not very attractive
Best For The Budget
3. HIITAVE Barefoot Water Shoes
- Zero heel lift
- Ultra-grip outsole
- Adjustable shock system
- Breathable
- Water draining sole
HIITAVE Barefoot Water Shoes are perfect for hiking, trail walking and water hikes. They offer excellent traction compared to some others on our list. This is another ultralight pair, so good for backpacking as well. Additionally, they breathe well, and you don’t feel any moisture inside the shoes.
These water shoes come with an adjustable shock lace system. Therefore, they are quick and simple to slip on while keeping a secure fit on the feet. Its flexible, breathable, and lightweight construction allow you to use them for various outdoor and water-related activities. The shoes also have a high-traction outsole that provides excellent grip on slippery or wet surfaces.
These toe shoes are made with quick-drying materials and an Integrated Drainage System that allows water and air to flow freely. Unlike traditional hiking boots, barefoot water shoes are designed to be worn in wet conditions and provide a good grip on slippery surfaces.
They are also surprisingly durable, comfortable, and a good option for moderate-difficulty hikes. However, they are not suitable for all kinds of trails, and you need the proper work boots otherwise. For example, hikers with wide feet or high arches may find them uncomfortable, and they will not provide adequate support on tough trails. Nonetheless, barefoot water shoes offer a great alternative to traditional hiking boots for those looking to save money or hike in wetter conditions.
Pros
- Adjustable straps
- Very lightweight
- They dry quickly
- Good tread and excellent traction
- Excellent for streams and rivers
- Budget friendly
Cons
- Sizing is a bit tricky
Best Chaco’s for Water Hiking
4. Chaco Odyssey Sport Sandal
- Rubber sole
- Low-top arch
- Adjustable Z-strap
- Top and back draining
- EVAThe shoelace midsole
- 5mm lug
- Polyester jacquard webbing
These water sandals have a breathable polyester jacquard mesh for upper webbing and non-marking rubber compound. That is to say; they have a non-marking grip. Moreover, for additional protection and a comfortable wearing experience, they comprise synthetic overlays. Hence, your toes are protected while hiking and other intense outdoor activities.
Similarly, Chaco women’s water sandals have 100% synthetic construction, breathable mesh webbing, and overlays for added protection. Chaco Odyssey women are quite expensive in comparison to other alternatives but worth the price.
Chaco Odyssey sandals are a great option for backpacking and outdoor activities. They are quick and easy to put on and take off, and the adjustable straps provide a secure fit. Also, they provide good protection to the toe and the side of your feet. The holes in the sides of the sandals allow your feet to breathe.
They come with excellent tread patterns. As a result, you get excellent traction while crossing rivers, streams and other wet conditions. They are also well-made and durable, making them a great value for the money. They are well made and sturdy and surely value for the money.
Pros
- Comes with toe protection
- Footbed offer nice support
- Good for summer water hiking
- Comfortable and supportive
- Able to withstand getting wet
- Can be worn with or without socks
Cons
- Some people find it hard to put on
Best Quick Dry Shoe
5. Merrell Choprock Shandal Water Shoes
- Woven mesh construction
- Elastic cord closure
- Lock lacing system
- Rear external sling
- Toe cap
- 5 mm lug depth
- Fit BASE removable insole
Merrell water hiking shoes are some of the best on the market for various reasons. Their quick-dry construction keeps feet comfortable even when wet. They provide a good grip on slick terrain during wet and rainy hiking and walking. Moreover, they have an integrated rubber toe bumper for full coverage and protection against debris. So they are good for rugged trails and hiking as well.
When hiking in water, you need a sandal to keep your feet secure and protected against rough terrain. The integrated webbing loops and hyper lock moulded TPU heel on these sandals make them ideal for hiking in water. In addition, the Hydramorph midsole channels help to evacuate water, and the kinetic fit-base removable EVA insole provides air ventilation.
We tried during the rainy weather on our backpacking trips, and their performance was excellent. They are a bit pricy but offer good value for the money. You can hike in most of the trail types in the sandals alone. We found them to provide good grip, and you don’t feel slippery even on slippery rocks. The material is waterproof and dries out quickly, even if cold weather. They are also stable on slippery rocks and mud. Overall, these are great shoes for hiking in very wet conditions.
Pros
- Offer flexible support
- Great for wet terrain
- Good traction
- Very durable
- Easy to wash and clean
Cons
- Feels a little stuffy from inside
- Bit pricy
Best For Beach Hiking
6. SIMARI Aqua Water Shoes
- 92% polyester
- Mesh upper
- Socks like snug
- Quick-drying
- Elastic shoelace
- Rubber sole
The SIMARI Aqua Water Shoe is another excellent choice for a lightweight and breathable water hiking shoe. First, the top is a stretchy mesh material, which feels pleasant against your skin. Secondly, these shoes ensure a breathable and quick-drying experience. Again, the design is made on ergonomic principles.
They provide good cushion performance, and you can choose from various colors. Each sole includes eight holes to enable proper drainage and keep feet cooler. The upper is made of mesh material and elastic, so it fits comfortably even with wide feet. The quality of the rubber sole is good, which easily protects the feet from the debris in the water and on the trail.
Additionally, you can adjust the fit using the elastic shoelace easily. Finally, quick drainage is provided by the sole holes to make them moisture-wicking shoes.
They kept sand and pebbles out of the shoes and had a good grip on wet, rocky areas. They did not slip and dried thoroughly in a few hours. They did not smell bad after drying, which was a huge bonus. They were also very comfortable and held up well. The traction was good, and they looked gorgeous. Overall, we highly recommend them to anyone looking for a good pair of water shoes.
Pros
- Secure snug fit
- Shoelace has draining holes
- Lightweight
- Looks beautiful
- Numbers of color to choose from
- Good feet protection
Cons
- Sizing is a bit tricky
- Go a size down for perfect fit
Best For River Hiking
7. Mishansha Water Shoe
- Spandex material
- Rubber sole
- Salt resistant upper
- Breathable Lycra
- Fast-drying
- Electric lace
- Drainage holes
Mishansha water shoes are made from ultra-light Lycra material and rubber soles. Therefore, you can wear it for long hours without hurting your feet. Moreover, its extra flexibility and comfortable wear prevent blisters.
Moreover, elastic straps and quick-drying material make it a perfect choice for hikers and athletes. Holes on the sole ensure complete water drainage. Hence, creating dry and healthy footwear.
Mishansha Water Shoes are suitable for hiking in water as they don’t let sand and debris in, despite having small holes for drainage. They’re ultralight and fit perfectly, using laces to keep them in place. They’re an excellent minimalist option for water hiking, and their price is reasonable considering the quality.
The quick drying material keeps your feet dry and comfortable. The soles of the shoes are very thin, but they are still sturdy enough to protect from sharp objects. The best part about Mishansha Water Shoes is that they are an affordable option on this list. However, one downside is that they can cause blisters if you wear them out of the water for extended periods. Also, the sole is a bit more colorful than some people might like, so they might not feel comfortable wearing them in public.
Pros
- Pull tap on heel allow easy wearing
- The elastic strap offers quick and easy closure
- Excellent flexibility
- Abrasion resistance
- Ultralight
Cons
- The lace-lock is flimsy
- Sole is more colorful
Best Of The Rest
8. Columbia Drainmaker Iv Water Shoe
- Rubber sole
- Low-top arch
- 2 strap sandal
- Techlite footbed and frame
- Synthetic upper
- Non-marking traction
- Midsole drainage system
Columbia Drainmaker Iv Water shoes feature Techlite innovation. That is to say, TechLite is one of the most innovative midsole solutions. For this reason, TechLite absorbs impact, and the midsole retracts back to the original shape during push-off. Therefore, the energy is recovered.
With TechLite, you can step into ultimate comfort and exceptional performance. In addition, Columbia Drainmaker Iv women’s shoes offer tread grip. As a result, they provide great grip and traction on every kind of surface. All the women’s and men’s water shoe collections by Columbia come in various colors.
When it comes to hiking in and around water, the Columbia Drainmaker IV Water Shoe is a great option to keep you safe and protected from debris. With good traction for slippery rocks and a design that won’t look ridiculous, the Drainmaker IV is versatile enough for lakes, rivers and hikes. They’re also easy to clean after water hiking, which helps keep your feet stink-free and protected.
However, they may not be suitable for those with wider feet, as they tend to run on the narrower side. Overall, the Columbia Drainmaker IV Water Shoe is an excellent option for those with medium to narrow-width feet who want a versatile and protective shoe for all their water adventures.
Pros
- Superior cushioning
- Impact-resistant
- Quick-dry shoes for hiking
Cons
- The heel is a little stiff
- Not for wide feet’s
9. ALEADER Mesh Slip On Water Shoes
- Breathable mesh fabric
- Rubber sole
- ComfyDry ShockLiner
- Sole holes for drainage
ALEADER Mesh Slip-on water shoes or walking shoes have a lightweight mesh construction with a midfoot webbing system. They are slip-on fit, which adds to the breathability and a supportive fit.
Moreover, the Aleader outsole comes with soft cushioning RB/EVA flex grooves, which expand flexibility for intense outdoor water activities. In addition, its rubber pods are strategically placed in the areas that play a role in enhanced traction.
These shoes keep your feet healthy with their excellent drainage system in the soles. Furthermore, hydrophobic engineered mesh upper dries quickly, offering breathability. Aleader women’s range comes in various colours to choose from.
These shoes are lightweight and comfortable, with a mesh upper that provides good ventilation. They also have drain holes to prevent rocks from becoming lodged in the shoe, and they dry off quickly. Also, the sole is soft and durable and provides good traction on stones. In addition, the ALEADER Mesh Slip-On Water Shoes have a perfect appearance and are available in various colors. Overall, these water shoes are an excellent pair of shoes for water hiking.
Pros
- Optimum cursing offers a comfortable wearing
- Cooler and drier shoe environment
- Vegan construction and design
- Durable
- no bad smell
Cons
- Does not dry quickly if fully wet
10. L-RUN Hiking Athletic Shoes
- Rubber sole
- Elastic band
- Drain sole holes
- Sweat absorption
- Breathable mesh upper
- Anti-slip sole
These shoes are breathable, sweat-absorbent, and comfortable and convenient to wear. Moreover, the price is highly affordable without compromising the quality and performance. For a flexible and comfortable wearing experience, these shoes offer soft and foldable construction material.
In addition, its drain holes in the sole ensure that the water completely drains out of the shoes for quick drying. Speaking of convenience, L-RUN men’s water hiking shoes have adjustable stripes that fit perfectly for the feet. That is to say; you can use them anywhere from wet surfaces to rough terrain without worrying about the protection.
These shoes are wider than most, which is a good option for those with wide feet. They also have excellent traction on slippery river rocks, so you won’t have to worry about slipping on wet or uneven ground. And if you have narrow feet, you can use the straps to adjust the fit. However, these shoes take longer to dry completely if they get wet.
Additionally, they don’t provide as much arch support as other hiking shoes on the market. But overall, the L-RUN Hiking Athletic Shoes are great for river hiking and passing from the streams.
Pros
- Double-layer fabric enhances shoe life
- Adjustable shoe straps
- Enhanced traction on every surface
- Good for the wide feet’s
- Roomy and comfortable
Cons
- Toes are not durable
- Not suitable for long hikes
Best Water Sandals For Hiking
11. KEEN Whisper Sandal
- 100% polyester
- Synthetic sole
- Cleanspot NXT odour control
- EVA midsole
- Non-marking rubber sole
The KEEN Whisper Sandal for water hiking is a great choice for those looking for a comfortable, lightweight, breathable shoe. The mesh upper allows water to drain quickly, while the EVA footbed provides cushioning and support. The toe protection prevents stubbing, and the EVA outsole offers traction and durability. The sandal is available in both men’s and women’s sizes and comes in various colors.
The KEEN Whisper Sandal is a versatile and comfortable shoe worn on any terrain. The sandal has a slip-on design that makes it easy to put on and take off, and the wide width ensures a comfortable fit. In addition, the nice color and the lack of heel elevation make walking easy on any surface. The sandal also has a secure fit, even on steep trails or in rushing water.
You can wear them all day without sore feet, and they are perfect for walking on uneven surfaces. We also love how durable they are – We’ve had them for several months now, and they still look brand new. They’ve even held up well in the water. Overall, the KEEN Whisper Sandal is an excellent hiking sandal in the water for any adventure. It will keep your feet comfortable all day long.
Pros
- Metatomical footbed eliminates discomfort
- Arch support give a natural contour to feet
- Machine washable
- Lightweight
- Suitable for extended period of hiking
- Stylish design
Cons
- None to be mentioned
Buying Guide: How To Choose Water Hiking Shoes
Besides the variety of water hiking shoes available in the market. You need to pay keen attention to features that contribute to the long life, comfortability, and functionality of water hiking shoes.
Let’s have a look at essential features for the best hiking and water shoes for ultimate performance.
Waterproof Vs Water Drainage
Water drainage is one of the most significant purposes of water shoes for hiking. People believe that water hiking shoes must be waterproof. However, the reality is quite the reverse.
You must know the difference between weatherproof and water drainage for water hiking shoes. That is to say;
Waterproof hiking shoes are meant to prevent water from entering the shoes. Whereas, water draining shoes for hiking are designed to let the water flow in and out of the shoes effectively.
Water draining shoes are the best for hiking in comparison to waterproof ones. Therefore, you must set your expectation accordingly. You cannot complain about the water getting in the shoes because the idea is to let the water flow back out of the shoe.
Many of the best hiking water shoes have mesh sides, which help in draining the dirt and debris out. In addition, certain shoes incorporate drainage openings or holes.
Quick Drying
Quick-drying is critical for water hiking shoes for various reasons. For instance;
- It does not make your shoes feel heavy.
- They offer better breathability.
- Insulation and comfort are considered priorities.
- Comfortable wearing and best drainage.
- Do not cause blisters.
- They also help from frostbite in winters.
That is to say, the fabric used to make the inner and upper sole plays an important role. Therefore, you must look for synthetic material like;
- Mesh
- Nylon
- Spandex
- Neoprene
Firstly, these materials allow as little water entry as possible. Secondly, they let the water flow out quicker than other materials.
Grip & Traction
The traction and grip in water hiking shoes are determined by the outsoles. Hence, you need to have the shoes with the best traction as they are designed to work in wet conditions specifically.
Rubber is the most used material in hiking shoes for outsoles because it grips well and allows fluid movement.
Besides the sole, you must consider details on the soles as well. For instance, the texture (thorny) and pattern of the lugs. The thorny pattern on lugs is the best suitable for wet terrain.
Weight
While hiking you will be walking through damp, muddy, and occasionally rocky terrain. Therefore, you must find light weight shoes for water hiking. However, it is advised not to go too light that they don’t provide any protection against the ground.
The ideal weight for water shoes for hiking must not weigh more than 14 ounces.
Construction Material
Water shoes made of synthetic materials like neoprene or polyester are durable and tough enough to survive the outdoors and damp situations.
Outer-sole; must have a rubber construction. Firstly, it is inherently sticky in nature. Secondly, rubber offers more agility.
Midsoles; made from EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) are best known to absorb shock and pressure during intense hiking or running. Therefore, it helps you in giving comfortable wear for long hours without causing injuries.
Shoe; along with soles, the fabric used to make the body of hiking shoes must be waterproof or water draining.
Season
Hiking water shoes are typically designed with filters or smaller openings to allow for better ventilation and a way to drain water. Therefore, they are best for use in the water.
That is to say, they don’t provide a lot of insulation for colder weather conditions. However, you can use them for moderate to hot temperatures in the spring and summer.
Functionality
It’s crucial to consider how the design of the water shoes makes them functional before making a purchase. Water shoes have sieves to rapidly drain water. However, they still cover your feet for the whole hike. Before making the purchase make sure to consider functionality. For instance;
- Breathability; can be achieved with mesh construction.
- Odor resistance; calls for better ventilation and quick-drying material.
- Antimicrobial treatment; prevents bacterial and fungal buildup.
FAQs
What Is The Best Way To Dry Water Hiking Shoes?
Water hiking shoes can be air-dried the best. However, if you are in a hurry, there are other quick fixes. For instance;
- Place bits of scrunched up newspaper inside the shoes to assist absorb the water. Keep changing the newspapers as they soak up until the shoe is completely dry.
- You can also fast dry them using a hairdryer.
When Should I Hike With Water Shoes?
Water hiking shoes are best worn during activities in which your feet are likely to get wet. you also must use them on slick, damp, and muddy areas whether hiking, camping, or other activities.
What Are The Advantages Of Hiking With A Water Shoe?
There are numerous advantages to wearing water shoes while hiking. For instance;
- They are designed to remove water from the shoes.
- Dry your damp feet quickly to avoid significant problems like bacterial or fungal growth.
- They offer excellent traction and grip on wet and muddy terrains.
- They’re light in weight and comfortable to walk for long hours.
- They are also quite breathable and odor-resistant.
Conclusion
While hunting for the best water or river hiking shoes, do not forget to look for the best construction and breathability. Moreover, quick and easy slip-on wearing saves a lot of time.
That is to say, personal preference significantly affect your purchase decision. For instance, if you are going to use them in heavy water or only looking for something for overall waterproofing. How often you will be wearing your shoes and if you prefer convenience or durability. All these factors collectively add to finding the best water hiking shoes at an affordable price.
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