13 Best Shoes for Paddleboarding

If you want to get into paddleboarding, having proper footwear is a must. The sea can get super cold, and many beaches are filled with sharp stones and shells. The best shoes for paddleboarding can keep your feet warm and dry, protect them from sharp objects, and help you grip the board. On sunny days, they can offer UV protection and prevent your feet from burning. While some people prefer to paddleboard barefoot, buying the best shoes for paddle boarding is an excellent idea if you often plan to head out on the water. The question is, which pair is the best for you? To help you answer this question, we’ve selected some of the best options on the market. Keep scrolling for our complete list!

Body Glove Men’s 3T Barefoot Hero Water Shoes

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For that barefoot-like experience, consider getting the Body Glove Men’s 3T Barefoot Hero Water Shoes. These best shoes for paddleboarding group your three smallest toes together, making it easier to slip them on and take them off.

As you can expect, their rubber soles are nothing but durable. They also have drainage holes for water drainage and increased airflow. Even better, they’re so tough that you can wear them every day! Plus, the convenient lacing system allows you to customize the fit.

Merrell Women’s Hydro Glove Water Shoes

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Have plenty of money, darling? Then you should get the Merrell Women’s Hydro Glove Water Shoes! They’re an outstanding option for stand-up paddleboarding. These sock-like shoes slip on easily, and the roomy toe box allows your feet to flex naturally!

On top of that, these shoes feature premium Vibram Wavegrip soles that provide unmatched grip on wet surfaces. Lastly, the breathable mesh uppers dry quickly, and the adjustable Velcro strap does a great job of fine-tuning the fit. By the way, you should also check out Merrell’s best shoes for whitewater rafting and canyoneering!

L-RUN Unisex Water Shoes

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Up next are the L-RUN Unisex Water Shoes. These best shoes for paddleboarding have stretchy polyester uppers that are fast-drying and form-fitting. Meanwhile, their highly breathable design will keep your feet comfortable and dry at all times, preventing skin irritation and fungal infections.

Moreover, the thick rubber soles are flexible yet durable enough for use on land when you’re hiking or camping out. Unlike some competing models, these best shoes for paddleboarding offer outstanding arch support, promoting comfort and longer use!

NING MENG Water Shoes

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The NING MENG Water Shoes are unisex paddleboarding shoes that offer the type of breathability and fast-drying design that you need. These water shoes for men and women have a flexible, lightweight design that promotes comfort by protecting your feet from dangerous terrain and keeping them as dry as possible.

Meanwhile, the anti-slip rubber soles provide top-of-the-line protection against sharp rocks, debris, and challenging terrain. Even better, you can wear these shoes both in the water and on dry land, so you won’t have to switch shoes when you hike back to your vehicle at the end of a long day on your board.

Body Glove Men’s Dynamo Ribcage Water Shoes

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Their versatility is so great about the Body Glove Men’s Dynamo Ribcage Water Shoes. You can wear these hybrid shoes on and off the water. Besides that, these best shoes for paddle boarding are also durable and offer a ton of protection for your feet. They’re a nice option for when you’re paddling around extremely rough surroundings.

Besides that, these shoes offer stretchy knit uppers that are unbelievably comfortable. Plus, there’s a molded TPU lace cradle for added durability and protection. Also, the outsoles provide reliable traction, and Body Glove’s IDS increases airflow for cooling, draining, and faster drying.

Teva Women’s Omnium Shoes

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There are many reasons why the Teva Women’s Omnium Shoes are on this list. These best shoes for paddleboarding feature non-marking rubber soles, quick-drying mesh lining, and closed-toe protection. They also have a molded EVA foam midsole, which is excellent for comfort.

Meanwhile, the shock-absorbing heel technology will further enhance comfort and cushioning. Thanks to their bungee lacing system, these shoes are relatively easy to wear and take off. Best of all, they boast drainage holes – keeping your feet dry all the time.

KEEN Women’s Newport H2 Water Shoes

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Another pair of the best shoes for paddleboarding on the market that you can opt for is KEEN Women’s Newport H2 Water Shoes. This footwear provides impressive traction and grip with its sturdy outsole design. Meanwhile, the secure lace capture system is sure to keep the shoes intact at all times.

What’s more, these shoes have an odor repellent feature, which the Aegis Microbe Shield provides. Apart from that, they also come with a washable polyester webbing that allows them to be dry quickly. Hence, your feet will remain dry and comfortable! Speaking of that, the EVA footbed provides excellent comfort and support.

SEEKWAY Water Shoes

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Cheap and high-quality, who can resist the SEEKWAY Water Shoes? These are another pair of best shoes for paddleboarding that you won’t regret buying. They’re lightweight and compressible, making them easy to carry around wherever you go. As with some of the best shoes for paddle boarding on this list, they’re also available in dozens of color options!

Of course, the rubber outsoles offer excellent grip so that you can walk on slippery surfaces confidently. They’re also made to protect your feet from sharp debris. Even better, the uppers are made from breathable and quick-drying material. These shoes will comfortably snug on your feet with the right size without causing any chafe!

SIMARI Water Shoes

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Who says the best shoes for paddleboarding are boring? You’ll be spoilt for options as these SIMARI Water Shoes come in dozens of beautiful colors! If wearing black isn’t your thing, you can opt for pink, green, or other stunning colors. Even better, they’re made for both men and women!

Moreover, their rubber soles and unique design enhance stability and cushion your feet against sharp objects. Apart from being lightweight, the soles are also designed with drainage holes, allowing water to escape easily. Another feature that people love is the stretchable uppers and elastic lace that make wearing and taking the shoes off a piece of cake.

Body Glove Men’s 3T Barefoot Cinch Water Shoes

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The thinner the soles of your best shoes for paddleboarding, the easier it is to sense the board’s movements and control the board. Having dexterity in the toes will also give the feeling of paddle boarding while barefoot. If you agree with those statements, you’ll want to consider getting the Body Glove Men’s 3T Barefoot Cinch Water Shoes!

Perfect for summer paddleboarding, these shoes offer ideal protection while walking the board over rocky surfaces. Not to mention, they’re easy to put on. We also like the fact that they’re stretchy and fit snugly.

UBFEN Unisex Water Shoes

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Made for both men and women, we’re sure the UBFEN Unisex Water Shoes are going to be your new best friend. These best shoes for paddleboarding are lightweight and come with stretchy uppers and laces that snug on your feet perfectly. Meanwhile, their outsole design consists of convex dots that offer additional resistance and increased traction.

These budget-friendly shoes are thick enough to offer protection without sacrificing flexibility. They also have drainage holes that allow water to escape quickly. Are they comfortable? You bet! After all, they’ve been bought and used by more than 13,000 people on Amazon! Finally, did you know that these are also reliable snorkeling water shoes?

Vibram Women’s V-Aqua Water Shoes

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The Vibram Women’s V-Aqua Water Shoes should be your go-to option if you prioritize comfort. The best shoes for paddleboarding feature a light, thin, and snug fit design. We also love the silicone prints inside the shoes to help prevent internal slippage. That way, they won’t fall off your feet regardless of the situation.

Furthermore, these unique best shoes for paddle boarding also boast durable soles that offer superb grip, especially on wet terrains. They also help in improving foot stability and overall body balance. Another thing worth mentioning is the drainage perforations on the sole that allow water to get out from the shoes.

NRS Kinetic Water Shoes

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The best shoes for paddleboarding that manage to steal the number one spot are the NRS Kinetic Water Shoes. These neoprene water shoes are suitable for stand-up paddleboarding in winter as they have titanium that helps insulate your feet. They also feature textured rubber soles too that aid in foot protection.

Apart from that, these best shoes for paddle boarding have stretchy bands. They’re designed to fit nicely onto your feet so you can have an enjoyable wearing experience. We also appreciate the wide toe box, making them even more comfortable for those with wide feet.

How To Choose The Best Shoes for Paddleboarding

To make sure you choose the right pair of shoes, make sure to consider the following features!

Traction

Traction plays an essential role in preventing slipping and falling, especially on slippery surfaces. The best shoes for paddle boarding with good traction will give you a better grip and control of the board movement.

Fit

If you don’t wish your paddleboarding shoes to float away and out of your reach during harsh water conditions, you should find a pair of well-fitted shoes. Having well-fitted shoes enhances your overall paddleboarding experience since you don’t have to constantly clamp your feet onto the shoes if they’re too loose or risk having blisters and discomfort when they’re too tight. 

Breathability

Breathable shoes allow them to dry quickly, and you’re less likely to irritate your skin. Some features that contribute to breathability are having the right material like mesh and having ventilation holes in the soles. 

Drainage

Drainage holes are crucial in ensuring you have a comfortable experience. The best shoes for paddleboarding don’t have to be waterproof. Instead, they should be lightweight and have drainage holes to allow water to escape easily.

Do you paddle board with shoes?

Why not? While some prefer to go barefoot, paddleboarding with a pair of shoes is safer. They keep your feet warm and dry, protect them from sharp objects, and help you grip the board.

Are Tevas good for paddle boarding?

Yes! Tevas water shoes are generally suitable for paddleboarding as they have grippy soles, quick-dry materials, and closed-toe protection.

How do I keep my feet warm when paddle boarding?

One of the best solutions is wearing neoprene shoes, like the NRS Kinetic Water Shoes. Or, you can also try wearing thick socks.