Water shoes are ideal for a large number of water-based activities. Whether you’re strolling along the beach, competing in water sports, or hiking in wet conditions, the best water shoes for women provide you with comfort and protection. Unlike in the past where many walked barefoot on scorching sand or on the deck of a boat, today you are spoiled for choice with the wide range of water shoes that are available.
Depending on your needs and personal style, you can choose what works for you. If you’re a sports enthusiast you may want to check out the best shoes for kayaking. Alternatively, you’ll also find some of the best water shoes among the best waterproof shoes for hiking.
How To Choose The Best Water Shoes For Women
Protection
While some water shoes have very thin soles, you’ll find many that are thick enough to protect your feet. It’s always best to be equipped for anything that lies in the watery depths. You’ll want something that’s durable and protective. In addition to keeping your feet safe from protruding objects, make sure that they also provide the right balance. Shoes with good traction prevent you from slipping on wet surfaces.
Versatility
We can’t emphasize enough just how important a pair of versatile water shoes are. If you’re going to be using your shoes in a number of terrains then it’s important that you have the shoes to match. Water shoes that are multifunctional sit right up there with us. While a pair of multifunctional shoes are a great option for their versatility, they will also help save you a few bucks.
Affordability
Water shoes for women come in a wide range of prices. However, it’s not always necessary to go overboard with the spending. A good idea would be to first weigh how often you’ll be using the shoes. If it’s only for a short beach holiday then it’s best to go for something with a lower price tag. For someone looking for water shoes that will stand up to the rigors of land adventures, you’ll probably need to fork out a few extra dollars. That being said, the more versatile the shoes, the more durable you can expect them to be.
Is it necessary to buy a pair of water shoes?
This would depend entirely on where and how often you’re going to use them. If all you want is a good pair of waterproof footwear for the beach you may not need water shoes. The advantages of owning the best water shoes for women are many. For one thing, they provide adequate protection for your feet. Good outsoles on these shoes will prevent injuries from sharp rocks and also prevent you from slipping. These shoes also dry quickly so you won’t have to endure the discomfort of soggy shoes.
Which water shoe is good for rafting or kayaking?
The best water shoes for kayaking or rafting are those that are flexible. These shoes tend to give you a more direct connection to the boat and you can also swim in them. In addition to this, you need to be sure that the shoes keep sand and tiny rocks out. For whitewater activities, however, you’ll need to look at the traction of the shoes.
Will my feet stay dry in water shoes?
No, your feet will get wet in water shoes but they won’t feel uncomfortable. Water shoes are water-resistant but not waterproof. The advantage of wearing water shoes in wet conditions is that they dry off quickly and also have drainage. Water will not collect inside your shoes because the best water shoes for women usually come with drainage holes at the bottom.
Zhuanglin Women’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes
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Featuring a breathable, durable air mesh upper and Solyte midsole, the Zhuanglin Women’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes are big on comfort. The midsole provides excellent bounce-back and durability. Combined with a Water Grip outsole, these shoes provide incredible traction in wet and slippery conditions. Additionally, the ComforDry sock liner provides optimum cushioning performance too. Water is prevented from accumulating in the shoe by drainage holes on the sole. These outlets are slightly raised so you don’t have to worry about stepping on sharp objects. Another great thing about these shoes is that they can be used for a number of water-based activities.
Pros:
- Breathable, durable mesh upper
- Solyte midsole
- Water Grip outsole
- Drainage hole
- Wide variety of colors to choose from
Cons:
- These shoes come in half sizes so you need to make sure you order the right size
Sea Star Beachwear Espadrille
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Sporting a classic espadrille design reimagined in a water-friendly neoprene flat, the Sea Star Beachwear Beachcomber Espadrille Flat is one of the more stylish water shoes for women. You can easily transition from the pool or beach to a more classy setting with these on your feet. The neoprene upper dries quickly so you won’t feel like you have wet shoes on.
With the soft, flexible neoprene upper and protective rubber deck sole, you can keep these shoes on your feet all day. It’s one of the best water shoes for women that you can take on your travels to a beach destination. You’re spoiled for choice with the wide range of colors and prints that are available.
Pros:
- Classy design
- Quick-drying neoprene upper
- Protective rubber deck sole
- Easy to pack
- Wide range of colors and prints
Cons:
- Tend to run small
- No arch support
Speedo Tidal Cruiser
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Another no-frills shoe that is great for beach days is the Speedo Tidal Cruiser. These water shoes protect your feet from hot sand and sharp rocks. They’re comfortable and also keep your feet relatively dry. The quick-drying ventilated mesh and water drainage feature keep your shoe light and dry. Putting these shoes on or taking them off is pretty simple with the neoprene collar and pull tabs. For additional comfort, you have a padded footbed and synthetic sole.
Pros:
- Synthetic sole
- Quick-drying ventilated mesh
- Neoprene collar and pull tabs for easy wearing
Cons:
- Sizing may be a problem
Mishansha Women’s Quick Dry Barefoot Water Shoes
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Mishansha Women’s Quick-Dry Barefoot Water Shoes are one of the most highly rated unisex water shoes on Amazon. Their functionality and comfort in extreme situations on land or water propel these shoes to the top of the rankings. The upper part of these shoes is made with salt-resistant fabric, making them ideal for the beach. Apart from this, they are breathable, ultra-lightweight, and fast draining.
Getting them on and off is easy with the pull tap at the heel. Elastic straps also help you to adjust the shoes to your convenience. If you’re worried about the traction that’s taken care of too with the anti-slip camo rubber sole. Several holes at the bottom allow drainage of water.
Pros:
- Soft insole for comfort
- Elastic straps help in adjusting the shoes
- Ultra-lightweight
- Wide variety of color options
Cons:
- Not very comfortable for people with broad feet
Chaco Odyssey Hiking Shoe
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Some of the best water shoes for women are those that also double up as hiking shoes. The Chaco Women’s Odyssey Sport Sandal is one such example. This all-terrain, closed-toe sport sandal helps you to easily transition from water to land. It provides you with great stability and protection. Featuring a contoured LUVSEAT PU footbed with an antimicrobial layer, the sandals provide odor-free comfort. Additionally, the ChacoGrip rubber outsole provides incredible traction for rivers, wet trails, and slippery surfaces.
The breathable mesh upper can be adjusted to your size with the ladder block buckle. Combined with polyester jacquard webbing synthetic overlays you can be sure of a better structure and toe protection.
Pros:
- All-terrain, versatile, closed-toe sandal
- ChacoGrip rubber outsole
- Antimicrobial layer
- LUVSEAT PU footbed
Cons:
- The sole seems a little thin
Body Glove Women’s 3t Barefoot Max Water Shoe
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For those of you who prefer a minimalist barefoot feel, the Body Glove Women’s 3t Barefoot Max Water Shoe, ticks this box. With the zero heel lift and low-profile ultra-grip outsole getting in and out of the water is a breeze. The patented 3T Barefoot series from Body Glove maximizes articulation of the toes while providing adequate protection. Wearing these shoes is also pretty easy with the adjustable shock lace system and hook and loop strap.
These shoes are perfect for kayaking, fishing, swimming, or any other water-based activity. Another thing you won’t have to worry about with these shoes is the drying capacity. The quick-dry materials and Integrated Drainage System allow free movement of air and water, making these, one of the best water shoes out there.
Pros:
- Quick-dry material with integrated drainage
- Designed for water
- Patented three-toe design maximizes articulation of the toes
- Ultra-grip sole
Cons:
- A little difficult to put on
JBU Mermaid III
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Get ready to immerse yourself in any wet adventure with the JBU Mermaid III water shoes. Made from quick-drying materials, these lightweight shoes fit snugly like socks. Don’t expect any bells and whistles on this pair though. However, if it’s a no-fuss pair of water shoes that you’re looking for these are your best bet. The over foot closure provides you with additional security to splash around. In addition to this, the rubber sole gives you a firm grip on wet surfaces.
Pros:
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Velcro flap adds to the fit
- Easy to wear
Cons:
- Not a good option for wide feet
Ryka Hydro Sport Water Shoe
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Make a splash in the Ryka Hydro Sport Water Shoe at your next water fitness class. These durable, waterproof shoes are the best water shoes for women who prefer a sturdy build. The compression-molded EVA midsole and sturdy rubber foam outsole up the ante in comfort and style. The traction that this shoe delivers makes it an excellent choice for pool and water activities.
Crafted from chlorine-friendly, breathable materials, these shoes are designed to last. Water drains away easily through the multi-port drainage system, keeping the shoes relatively dry.
Pros:
- Durable
- Compression-molded EVA midsole for comfort
- Good traction
- Breathable
- Multi-port drainage
Cons:
- Takes a while to dry if fully submerged
Keen Whisper Sandals
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You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to picking out a pair of Keen Whisper Sandals due to the wide range of available colors. These sandals don’t just stand out as one of the best water shoes for women but are also one of the best closed-toe sandals for women. Besides being super lightweight they’re also quite sturdy. Don’t worry about slipping with these on your feet as the razor siping and multi-directional lugs help provide excellent grip.
As for comfort, the non-removable EVA footbed with added arch takes these sandals up a notch in that area. These machine-washable sandals also have the added advantage of Eco Anti-Odor. This pesticide-free, probiotic-based technology breaks down odor in sweat and reduces unpleasant smells.
Pros:
- EVA footbed with added arch for comfort
- Razor siping and multi-directional lugs provide excellent traction
- Machine washable
- Eco Anti-Odor
- Multi-functional
Cons:
- Inconsistent sizing
EVERNOVEL Water Shoes
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An outstanding pair of versatile water shoes is EVERNOVEL Water Shoes. These shoes are suitable for a number of water-based activities as well as walking. Available in a range of colors, these shoes can be worn by women, men, or children. What makes these shoes one of the best water shoes for women is the breathable fabric, comfort, and traction. The durable fabric has a strong wicking performance to ensure your shoes will dry quickly.
These shoes can also be folded away and stored when you’re done using them. The lightweight construction makes you feel like you’re wearing socks. However, the anti-slip rubber sole and drainage make them versatile for various surfaces. You’ll find a wide range of sizes to suit you although the manufacturer does advise sizing up.
Pros:
- Breathable and durable
- Strong wicking fabric
- Anti-slip rubber sole
- Foldable
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons:
- Though the manufacturer advises sizing up most customers advice to go down a size
Astral Loyak Sneakers
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One of the most attractive and versatile water shoes for women is the Astral Loyak Sneakers. These casual looking shoes pack quite a punch with incredible drainage and traction. The lightweight, flexible shoe does well on both land and water. With the Flex-Grip outsole that features high-friction, sticky rubber you won’t need to concern yourself with traction. Razor siping and maximum sole to surface ensure a firm grip. Drainage ports on the heel and toe prevent water from accumulating inside. These combined with the polygiene treated liner eliminate odor.
The low-cut, lightweight build of these shoes will make you feel like you’ve got nothing on. In addition to this, the low durometer construction conforms to the ground which is great for abrasion resistance. The hydrophobic, quick-dry canvas ensures that your shoes will dry quickly.
Pros:
- Versatile and attractive
- Incredible drainage and traction
- Flex-Grip outsole
- Polygiene treated liner eliminates odor
- Balanced feel
Cons:
- Opening is a bit narrow so this could pose a problem for people with wide feet
- Quite pricey
Columbia Women’s Drainmaker IV Water Shoe
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For someone looking for a multifunctional shoe that will work well in water or on hikes, the Columbia Women’s Drainmaker IV Water Shoe is one of the best water shoes for women in this segment. The stylish design resembles a running shoe and provides great comfort and stability. Featuring Columbia’s Omni-Grip technology, you can rest assured that you won’t slip on wet surfaces.
Adjustable laces on the shoes allow you to customize how you wear them. The signature Techlite footbed and frame also afford superior cushioning providing you with the comfort you need. Apart from all this, these shoes feature top quality materials in various colors and sizes.
Pros:
- Versatile and stylish
- Omni-grip technology provides excellent traction
- Adjustable laces
- Techlite footbed provides superior cushioning
Cons:
- Take a while to dry
- Tiny rocks tend to enter the shoes making it a tad uncomfortable
Aleader Women’s Mesh Slip On Water Shoes
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If you’re looking for a pair of highly durable water shoes, the Aleader Women’s Mesh Slip On Water Shoes is one of the best water shoes for women. With a stellar grip and great protection, you can’t go wrong with these shoes. Strategically placed rubber pods on the Water Grain outsoles provide incredible traction in wet and slippery conditions.
In the area of breathability, these shoes also hit the big notes with the durable air mesh upper. The lightweight Solyte midsole is comfortable with excellent bounce-back durability. It also absorbs almost 50 percent of the water which allows the shoes to dry faster. Additionally, the ComforDry sock liner provides optimum cushioning. A pull loop on at the back of the shoes makes them easy to wear.
Pros:
- Durable air mesh upper
- Stellar grip with rubber pods on the outsoles
- Breathable
- ComforDry sock liner for optimum cushioning
- Pull loop makes these shoes easy to wear
Cons:
- Sizing could be problem
