While water shoes are not generally considered to be a part of snorkeling gear, there are many who will swear by these shoes for snorkeling. The reason being the protection and comfort that you get from the best water shoes for snorkeling. There is always the danger of hurting your foot on a sharp object when you’re walking into the ocean or on a rock. With a pair of good water shoes on your feet, you won’t have to worry too much about this aspect.
Many of the best mens water shoes for snorkeling are designed to fit into or attach fins onto them, which makes them a convenient option for scuba divers too. They’re also extremely versatile and can be used for a wide range of water-based activities. That’s why you’ll find many of the best water shoes for snorkeling also on our list of best water shoes for men and best water shoes for women.
How To Choose The Best Water Shoes For Snorkeling
Snorkeling is one of the more convenient water activities as all you need is your snorkel and something on your feet. Since you’re going to be spending quite a lot of time in the water, there are a few pointers that you need to keep in mind when choosing water shoes for snorkeling.
Fit
One of the most notable features of snorkeling shoes is the fit. Shoes that are snug and fit like a second skin are your best bet. You wouldn’t want your shoes falling off your feet the moment you dive into the water! If you’re going for neoprene shoes make sure they fit well as neoprene tends to expand in water. If you’re going to be using fins, you’ll need to make sure your shoes can slip into the fins easily.
Weight
No one wants to be bogged down by the weight of their shoes when snorkeling so lookout for shoes that are super lightweight. That’s one reason why many snorkelers prefer shoes with lighter, flexible soles. If you’re going to be spending more time on solid ground then you’ll probably want shoes that offer more protection.
Comfort
Shoes that are easy to put on or take off rank high on our listing. For one thing, no one enjoys struggling with laces or extra bells and whistles when it comes down to snorkeling. You want something that’s comfortable and convenient. Shoes that have a bungee lace-up or slip-on design work really well. Also, make sure that they’re smooth with a seam-free interior. While the kind of shoe you choose will largely depend on the all-round water activities that you’re going to be engaged in, water boots are more suited to colder waters.
Do You Need Water Shoes For Snorkeling?
Although water shoes are not generally a part of snorkeling gear, a good pair of water shoes will help protect your feet. Snorkeling shoes on which you can attach a pair of fins are a great option.
What Are The Best Water Shoes For Snorkeling?
The best water shoes for snorkeling are those that are super lightweight and can easily slip into fins. Water shoes that are designed for attaching fins onto them are an excellent option.
What Is The Basic Equipment For Snorkeling?
Quite obviously the most important part of your snorkeling equipment is a snorkel, a curved plastic tube for breathing underwater, combined with a mask to protect your nose and face. Diving fins are also extremely popular snorkeling gear as they make swimming easier. Add to this a pair of good snorkeling shoes and you have the whole deal.
UBFEN Mens Womens Water Shoes
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Sometimes the best water shoes for snorkeling are those that are multifunctional like the UBFEN Mens Womens Water Shoes. These shoes also stand out as one of the best water shoes for kids. You can take part in a number of water-based activities with these ultra-lightweight shoes on your feet such as snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and anything else near water. The smooth fabric on the uppers makes them feel like you’ve got socks on.
If traction is your concern you won’t have to worry about that with the new updated anti-skid outsole. Featuring convex dots, the soles provide excellent friction to ensure a good grip when walking on wet surfaces. They’re also easy to wear to the flexible twist and loop combined with the stretchy fabric.
Pros:
- Runs true to size
- Lightweight and flexible
- Easy to wear
Cons:
- Take a while to dry
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Seavenger Atlantis 3mm Neoprene Dive Booties
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If you’re looking for a stylish yet comfortable pair of dive booties the Seavenger Atlantis 3mm Neoprene Dive Booties stands out. What makes these boots one of the best water shoes for snorkeling is that you can comfortably wear them under fins. Your snorkeling fins will stay in place with the simple strap cleat and adjustable buckles.
The high top design comes with a durable YKK #10 zipper that’s designed to last. Blindstitched seams also strengthen the overall construction of these shoes by minimizing stretching and flushing. Made from 3mm neoprene, these shoes are designed for warmth and comfort. A vulcanized rubber sole outfitted with toe and heel guards ensure good protection for your feet. The soles also make it convenient for you to transition smoothly from the shore to the surf. Additionally, the anti-chafing seams give a snug, comfortable fit.
Pros:
- Comfortable and durable
- Blindstitched seams minimize stretching and entry of water
- Vulcanized rubber sole with toe and heel guards
- Anti-chafing seams
- Fits comfortably into snorkeling fins
- Look good
Cons:
- Can feel a bit tight around the calves
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Skyone Dive Boots Neoprene Wetsuit Booties
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Another impressive pair of snorkeling shoes is the Skyone Scuba Diving Booties. These shoes are designed for men and women and can be used for a number of water sports. The 3mm premium neoprene provides a flexible, comfortable fit that alleviates stress on your feet. They work well with dive fins so you won’t have to stress about getting your fins over these. The anti-slip outsole combined with warm thermal materials keeps your feet warm and well-protected.
These booties are also glued and blind stitched for superior strength and durability. Getting these on or off your feet is pretty simple with the soft neck which also prevents sand from entering. They’re available in a wide range of sizes to suit both men and women.
Pros:
- Available for men and women
- 3mm premium neoprene provides a flexible and comfortable fit
- Work well with dive fins
- Anti-slip outsole
- Glued and blind stitched
Cons:
- Sizing could be an issue as they don’t come in half sizes
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BPS 3mm Neoprene Watersports Dive Shoes
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Designed for a number of water activities, the BPS 3mm Neoprene Watersports Dive Shoes hit all the right notes for snorkeling. These sneaker-style water shoes are flexible and warm, making them ideal for a variety of activities. The slip-on/off design makes these a good fit for full-foot fins. They also look quite stylish with the classic black with a white accent.
The elastic and ultra-durable neoprene keeps the water out while providing optimum comfort. The locking lace and Velcro system ensure a secure, snug fit. Additionally, the reliable vulcanized rubber outsole keeps you steady on wet surfaces. Your feet are safe from cuts or scratches with the 3mm thick neoprene. The icing on the cake with these water shoes is that they come with a ‘Next-level’ guarantee for 12 months so you can rest assured about the quality.
Pros:
- Comfortable and flexible
- Stylish design
- Locking lace and Velcro system for a snug fit
- Protects feet from cuts and bruises
- Next-level 12-month guarantee
Cons:
- The sizing is a little off the mark
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Cressi Adult Neoprene Ibiza Boots
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Lightweight and durable, the Cressi Adult Neoprene Ibiza Boots are ideal for snorkeling or other water sports. Similar to the Cressi high boots, these shoes have a special design at the back of the heel for open heel fins for scuba diving. The fin straps will stay secure with this design. Apart from the convenience of attaching fins, these shoes are also incredibly comfortable. Made from Super Elastic Neoprene you can be sure these shoes will go down to the depths with a snug fit. A strong non-slip molding covers the entire sole which provides stability on smooth surfaces. The shoes are also incredibly easy to clean with water after use.
Pros:
- Lightweight and breathable
- Made from Super Elastic Neoprene
- Special design at the back of the heel to fit open heel fins
- Strong non-slip molding
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Not that easy to get fins on
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WateLves Water Shoes
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One of the more popular mens water shoes for snorkeling is the WateLves Water Shoes. Lightweight and comfortable with a professional anti-slip rubber outsole, these shoes tick all the right boxes. Made from breathable and smooth fabrics with a fine stretch on the uppers, these shoes are big on comfort. The toe feature on the front of the shoes gives them a unique, stylish look. Though there are no separate slots for your toes the thicker toe caps provide more cushioning. These shoes are not just great for snorkeling but will also do well as waterproof hiking shoes for men.
The professional anti-slip rubber outsole has a unique pattern that increases friction to provide incredible traction. You won’t have to worry about slipping on wet surfaces with these on your feet. It also has an insole for added comfort and seven holes at the bottom of each shoe to ensure proper water flow.
Pros:
- Breathable with quick-drying material
- Toe front for comfort and protection
- Anti-slip rubber outsole with a unique pattern
- Easy to wear and adjust with the pull locking mechanism
Cons:
- Sizing could be a problem
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Mares 2mm Neoprene Warm Water Non-Slip Rubber Sole Boot
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Snorkeling shoes generally have a snug fit to keep water out like the Mares 2mm Neoprene Boots. Since these are low ankle they’re easy to slip on or off. They also fit perfectly into fins with no gaps or need for squeezing that’s one reason why they stand out as one of the best mens water shoes for snorkeling. The 2mm neoprene makes these comfortable and water-resistant. They’re also glued and blind stitched for added security. Washing these shoes is easy as you can turn them inside out to dry.
When it comes to walking on rougher surfaces the vulcanized rubber sole and protective tall heel make it easy. The straps also remain in place for a secure fit. Another good thing about these shoes is that you can remove any water easily from the inside without the effort of taking them off. The only downside to these water shoes for snorkeling is they don’t dry fast.
Pros:
- Lightweight and durable
- Snug fit
- Easy to wash and wear
- Glued and blind stitched
Cons:
- Take a while to dry
- No arch support
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Barerun Barefoot Quick Dry Water Shoes
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Some of the best water shoes for snorkeling are the ones that are incredibly lightweight and breathable like the Barerun Barefoot Quick-Dry. You’ll feel like you’ve got a pair of socks on your feet with the smooth fine stretch on the uppers. These shoes will comfortably fit into your fins. However, if you prefer snorkeling without fins, the thick, anti-slip rubber soles will protect your feet from sharp objects.
These shoes are available in a wide range of colors and designs to suit your individual style. A great feature about these shoes is that they are easy to fold and store when you’re done using them. This means you never have to leave them behind. Getting these shoes on or taking them off is easy with the loop and flexible neckline.
Pros:
- Lightweight and breathable
- Smooth fine upper feels like socks
- Anti-slip, thick rubber soles
- Wide range of colors
Cons:
- Does not do well on abrasive surfaces
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EVERNOVEL Water Shoes
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An outstanding pair of versatile water shoes is EVERNOVEL Water Shoes. These shoes are not exclusively for snorkeling but are suited to a number of water-based activities as well as walking. You can choose from a good range of colors to suit women, men, or children. What makes these shoes one of the best water shoes for snorkeling is the breathable fabric, comfort, and traction. The strong wicking performance of the durable fabric will allow your shoes to dry quickly.
Like most water shoes with this construction, these shoes can also be folded away and stored when you’re done using them. Though the lightweight construction makes you feel like you’re wearing socks, the anti-slip rubber sole and drainage make them versatile for various surfaces.
Pros:
- Breathable and durable
- Strong wicking fabric
- Anti-slip rubber sole
- Foldable
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons:
- Though the manufacturer advises sizing up most customers advise going down a size
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VIFUUR Water Sports Shoes
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If you’re looking for lightweight and flexible snorkeling shoes, one of the best water shoes for snorkeling is VIFUUR Water Sports Shoes. With over 49,000 ratings on Amazon, these shoes are extremely popular. They fit like a sock but the soft, flexible fabric is breathable and comfortable. You won’t have to worry about chafing with the smooth neck design of these shoes.
These versatile shoes can be worn for several water-based activities such as snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, or wakeboarding. With the anti-slip rubber sole on these shoes, your feet will be well-protected from sharp objects. What makes these shoes one of the best water shoes for snorkeling is that they’re available in various sizes to suit all ages.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight
- Dries quickly
- Anti-slip rubber sole that protects feet from sharp objects
- Versatile
- Wide range of interesting colors to choose from
Cons:
- The insoles are not attached to the shoe so they tend to move around
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Cressi Tall Neoprene Boots
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For those who prefer high top snorkeling shoes to low ankle shoes, the Cressi Tall Neoprene Boots will definitely hold your attention. Featuring a pull-on closure and super elastic neoprene, these boots are suited to a good range of water activities. They won’t only keep your feet warm but will provide excellent protection too. Whether you’re snorkeling, scuba diving, or canyoning, these shoes will hold up well to the rigors of these activities.
You can comfortably slip on open heel fins for Scuba Diving as the back of the heels has a special design for these. It also has a built-in sole for extra protection when walking on rocks or pebbles. The strong anti-skid rubber sole is excellent for wet surfaces. With the practical zip that goes from the sole to the ankle, getting these shoes on or off is easy. While these boots stand out as one of the best mens water shoes for snorkeling, women find them comfortable too.
Pros:
- Made from super elastic neoprene
- Keeps feet warm
- Suited for a wide range of water activities
- Easy to put on or take off with the practical zip
- Built-in sole for added protection
Cons:
- Not good for walking on the river bed
- A Velcro tab would be a good addition to keep the zipper in place
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Body Glove Men’s 3T Barefoot Max Water Shoe
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No one enjoys snorkeling with heavy footwear so if you’re looking for a truly natural feel in the water, try the Body Glove Men’s 3T Barefoot Max Water Shoes. With the three-toe design, you’ll not only feel like you’ve got nothing on your feet but you’ll also be extremely comfortable. In addition to this, the low-profile ultra-grip outsole provides maximum traction and stability on wet surfaces. Also, the integrated drainage system and quick-dry materials keep the shoes comfortably dry. Airflow increases due to the breathability of the shoe.
These flexible, lightweight shoes are not just one of the best mens water shoes for snorkeling, they’re also one of the best water shoes for kayaking or any water activity. The lower profile outsole makes it easier to wear in restrictive spaces. Getting these shoes on your feet is pretty simple with the adjustable shock lace system or hook and loop strap.
Pros:
- Quick-dry material with integrated drainage
- Easy to wear
- Three-toe design gives a barefoot feel and protects the toes
- Ultra-grip outsole
Cons:
- Sizing can be a problem for some feet
- Causes a bad odor
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Neo Sport Premium Neoprene Boots
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Crafted from durable neoprene and rubber material, the unisex Neo Sport Premium Boots sits high in the rankings of best shoes for snorkeling. You won’t have to worry about your feet getting too cold with these hi-top zipper boots. The advanced technology used in the design will ensure your feet stay warm. Water will not enter the boot either with the heavy-duty zipper and water entry barrier behind the zipper.
Depending on the kind of water you’ll be snorkeling in, the boots are available in three different levels of thickness. The shoes begin at 3mm for warm water, 5mm for moderate water, and 7mm for cold water. Another great feature about these boots is the rugged traction, puncture-resistant sole. The shoes will help you transition easily from the water to land with their durable, glued, and sewn construction.
Pros:
- Great for all weather conditions
- Durable
- Rugged traction and puncture-resistant sole
- Water entry barrier behind zipper
- Heavy-duty zipper
Cons:
- Not that great for rough terrain
- Sizing could be a problem
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